Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners - January 20, 2026 Kalamazoo County Committee of the Whole

Updated about 9 hours ago

During the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole meeing, various significant agenda items were discussed. The board reviewed the progress of the TRI Share pilot program, highlighting its impact on employees and the potential for expansion to better support family-friendly employment practices. Additionally, a comprehensive presentation was delivered on the county's facility master plan, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in infrastructure to accommodate future growth and service delivery. Commissioners also considered a resolution to support Oshtemo Township's sanitary sewer project, which involved leveraging the county's bond capacity. These discussions reflect the board's commitment to enhancing community infrastructure and supporting workforce development.

Chapters

Roll Call (00:00:08)
The clerk conducted a roll call of commissioners, confirming the presence of all members.

The meeting began with a roll call conducted by the clerk. Commissioners Dlo, Gissler, Prom Heppler, Maser, Morales, Ray, Streps, Taylor, and Wheeler were confirmed present, totaling nine members present.
Public Comment Period (00:00:32)
Public comments included updates on the indoor sports facility and a resolution on infrastructure bonds.

The first public comment period allowed attendees to speak in person or by phone. Jane from Discover Kalamazoo updated the board on the indoor youth and amateur sports facility, clarifying press coverage. Anna Horner, Public Works Director for Omo Township, spoke about a resolution regarding public infrastructure bonds and praised the commission's support for infrastructure projects.
Accounts Payable and Payroll Disbursements Review (00:07:59)
Finance Director presented the accounts payable and payroll disbursements for review.

Finance Director Ryan Post presented the accounts payable claims list for review, which included total amounts and a request for commissioner questions. The director also discussed the alignment with year-end processes and the use of reserves or fund balance for initiatives.
Monthly Financial Report (00:09:18)
The financial report reviewed revenues, expenditures, and the use of fund balances.

The Finance Director continued with the monthly financial report, addressing questions about revenue shortfalls, the use of reserves, and specific budget items. There was a discussion about fund balances and how they are reported in terms of revenues and expenditures.
Public Comment Revisited (00:13:14)
Prosecutor commented on the facilities master plan proposal to move their office.

Following a technical issue with Zoom, the prosecutor delivered a public comment via phone. The prosecutor opposed the proposal in the facilities master plan to move their office out of the Pratt Justice Center, citing concerns about community service impacts and the significant investment already made in the current location.
Monthly Investment Report (00:19:29)
Chief Deputy Treasurer presented the investment portfolio performance and inflation data.

Chief Deputy Treasurer Tyler White presented the county's investment portfolio report, highlighting par and market values, realized gains and losses, and inflation trends. Commissioners commended the Treasurer's Office for their successful investment strategies.
Kalamazoo County Facilities Master Plan Presentation (00:25:53)
The facilities master plan was presented, outlining future projects and space needs.

County Administrator Dr. Catlin and Deputy Administrator Tara Cole presented the Facilities Master Plan, detailing the methodology, prioritization, and assessment of county facilities. The plan outlines projects such as a new administration building, emergency operations center, and expansions or renovations for various departments to accommodate growth and improve services.
Discussion on the Sheriff's Office and Jail Expansion (00:41:13)
The meeting discussed plans to expand the sheriff's office and jail, focusing on purchasing land, building new facilities, and addressing current inadequacies.

Participants outlined the need to acquire land and invest in a new emergency operation center and warm storage. They discussed the current low-lying location of the sheriff's office and the need for new administration and conference spaces. The expansion will include new bed capacity, classrooms for vocational training, and improved outdoor spaces. There were concerns about security and functionality, with plans for phased construction and additional studies.
Proposal for New Facilities and Budget Considerations (00:53:02)
The proposal includes new facilities such as a hazardous waste site and a training center, with discussion on budget constraints and priorities.

The proposal suggests constructing new facilities, including a household hazardous waste site and a police training center. Budget considerations were a major topic, with discussions on how to finance these projects and prioritize them. There was agreement that a new hazardous waste facility is a priority, and there was debate on whether a standalone emergency management center is necessary. The board discussed potential financing and the need to align spending with service delivery goals.
TRI Share and Care Share Programs Update (01:06:01)
The TRI Share and Care Share programs were reviewed, with updates on participation, budget implications, and future plans.

Director Brown provided updates on the TRI Share and Care Share programs. The programs aim to assist employees with childcare costs, and participation has exceeded initial expectations. There is currently a cap on the number of children served due to budget constraints, and the board is considering expanding the program. The state of Michigan's regulations on these programs were discussed, including restrictions on capping benefits. The board aims to ensure fiscal responsibility while supporting employees.
Discussion on Childcare Benefits for County Employees (01:14:06)
The board discussed the importance of providing childcare benefits as a recruitment tool and ensuring no cap on benefits for lower-level employees.

The discussion focused on enhancing childcare benefits for county employees to attract and retain talent. The board emphasized removing caps on benefits, especially for lower-income employees, to support them in balancing work and family life. They also discussed the financial implications and the need for strategic budget allocations.
Board Chair Committee Assignments (01:32:54)
The board chair confirmed committee assignments with minimal changes, noting a conflict requiring Commissioner Morales to step in.

The board chair reviewed the committee assignments, stating that most members would remain in their current roles. A conflict in the Open Data Advisory Board and County ID Advisory required Commissioner Morales to take over. The chair invited any requests for changes from commissioners.
Resolution for Oshtemo Charter Township Sanitary Sewer (01:35:00)
The board considered a resolution to leverage bond capacity for Oshtemo Township's sewer project, with support from the Board of Public Works.

The resolution, presented for first reading, would allow Oshtemo Township to leverage county bond capacity for sanitary sewer improvements. The Board of Public Works recommended approval. Discussion included financial backing and the potential for lower rates through state programs.
First Reading of Wear Red Day Proclamation (01:38:00)
The first reading of the Wear Red Day Proclamation was introduced, with further discussion planned for a future meeting.

The board introduced the Wear Red Day Proclamation, marking it for future consideration and discussion. No immediate action was taken at this meeting.
Closed Session for Collective Bargaining Agreements (01:39:04)
The board moved to closed session to discuss collective bargaining agreements with the Sheriff's Office and juvenile home employees.

The board entered a closed session to negotiate collective bargaining agreements involving the Sheriff's Office and juvenile home employees. Commissioner Wheeler made the motion, which was supported by Vice Chair Taylor.
Returning from Closed Session (01:39:59)
The board returned from closed session and approved the minutes from the first closed session before adjourning.

After returning from the closed session, the board approved the minutes of that session. Commissioner Wheeler made the motions to come out of closed session and to approve the minutes.
Adjournment of Committee of the Whole and Call to Order Regular Business Meeting (01:42:50)
The Committee of the Whole was adjourned, and the regular business meeting of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners was called to order.

The meeting transitioned from the Committee of the Whole to the regular business session. The board prepared to re-enter closed session to continue discussions on collective bargaining agreements, with Commissioner Wheeler making the motion.