Kalamazoo City Commission - August 17, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated about 19 hours ago

The commission deliberates on a significant moratorium affecting data centers, battery energy storage systems, cryptocurrency mining centers, and AI data centers. This moratorium aims to halt the processing of related applications for one year, giving the city time to develop necessary regulations. Concerns about environmental and community impacts, such as noise and energy usage, are voiced by residents. The commission also addresses amendments to the marijuana social equity policy, focusing on expungement workshops and community benefits. Commissioners express a commitment to ensuring thoughtful and inclusive city planning while considering the economic and environmental implications of technological developments.

Chapters

Welcome (00:00:30)
The meeting began with a welcome and casual remarks.

The meeting started with a warm welcome to everyone present.
Call to Order (00:04:08)
The Kalamazoo City Commission meeting was officially called to order by the Mayor.

The Mayor officially called the meeting of the Kalamazoo City Commission to order, marking the official start of the proceedings for the evening.
Roll Call (00:04:18)
Roll call was conducted by Clerk Borling, confirming the presence of all commissioners.

Clerk Borling conducted the roll call. Commissioners Hess, Hoffman, Praedel, Slaby, Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson were all confirmed present.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:04:31)
Pastor John Simpson from Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pastor John Simpson was invited to lead the invocation, praying for unity and wisdom for the city's leaders. Attendees were asked to stand for the invocation and to remain standing for the Pledge of Allegiance, which followed the prayer.
Adoption of Agenda (00:06:16)
The formal agenda was adopted with no changes requested by the commissioners.

The commissioners were asked if there were any items on the consent agenda they wished to move to the regular agenda. Seeing none, the agenda was adopted as presented.
Communications (00:06:35)
Manager Hankins announced a waterline replacement project causing limited utility access next week.

Communications Manager Hankins noted an upcoming project for waterline replacement inside the building, which would result in limited access to water utilities. He advised conducting business with the city remotely if possible.
Public Comments (00:07:00)
Public comments addressed surveillance concerns, homelessness, housing, and community issues.

During the public comments section, multiple speakers expressed concerns over surveillance cameras, the treatment of homeless individuals, housing challenges, and the need for transparency and community support. Issues raised included the use of Flock cameras, the recent eviction of homeless camps, and difficulties faced by tenants in condemned apartments.
Public Comments on Homelessness and Service Dogs (00:38:37)
A speaker criticizes the city for not allowing service dogs at missions, affecting homeless veterans.

The speaker expresses frustration over the city's policy of not allowing service dogs at missions, which impacts homeless veterans who rely on these animals for support. The speaker accuses the city officials of lying about addressing this concern and mentions the presence of surveillance cameras. The speaker also references discussions with a commissioner from Maryland about similar issues.
Community Policing and Targeting of Unhoused (00:41:37)
Chris Glasser calls for the disbandment of the community policing unit that targets the unhoused.

Chris Glasser, a former police explorer, argues that the community policing unit should be disbanded as long as it targets the unhoused. Glasser recounts an encounter with an officer dispersing unhoused individuals without a complaint, questioning the effectiveness of such actions in building trust and community.
Flock Cameras and Surveillance Concerns (00:44:42)
Tristan from We the People Action Fund argues against flock cameras, citing privacy and ICE concerns.

Tristan, representing We the People Action Fund, discusses the negative implications of flock cameras, such as the invasion of privacy and their potential use by ICE to intimidate communities. Tristan calls for the city to listen to the people and research the effectiveness of such surveillance technologies.
Opposition to Flock Cameras and ICE (00:48:52)
Ilio Perch speaks against flock cameras and ICE, highlighting their impact on immigrant communities.

Ilio Perch, a lifelong resident of Kalamazoo, criticizes the use of flock cameras, citing their role in enabling ICE to target immigrant communities. Perch emphasizes the fear these technologies instill in people, particularly during election periods, and urges the city commission to take action against them.
Concerns about Flock Cameras and Privacy (00:53:39)
Nate questions the effectiveness of flock cameras and raises privacy issues.

Nate, a resident of Kalamazoo's west side, challenges the effectiveness of flock cameras in preventing crimes like theft and kidnapping. Nate highlights the issue of wage theft by companies, contrasting it with the surveillance of ordinary citizens. Nate questions whether the city commission would accept such invasive surveillance in their homes.
Criticism of Flock Cameras and Police Surveillance (00:58:56)
Andy Argo questions the benevolence of police surveillance and the ethical concerns of flock cameras.

Andy Argo, from the Vine neighborhood, challenges the presumption of benevolence in police actions, arguing that constant surveillance by flock cameras raises ethical concerns. Argo warns of the potential misuse of surveillance data by law enforcement and other agencies, and questions the alignment of such actions with the city's best interests.
Impact of Surveillance on Privacy and Freedom (01:01:05)
Chloe Davis speaks on the invasion of privacy by flock cameras and the societal implications.

Chloe Davis, from the Edison neighborhood, expresses concern over the personal impact of flock cameras on privacy and freedom. Davis shares personal experiences of being unaware of the surveillance until pointed out, and criticizes the city for prioritizing surveillance over addressing community needs, emphasizing the societal implications of such actions.
Call to Action for Addressing Homelessness (01:03:42)
Charles urges the city to focus on helping the homeless rather than criticizing efforts.

Charles, a formerly unhoused individual, urges the city to focus on actionable solutions for homelessness, rather than criticism. Charles shares personal experiences and stories of violence faced by the unhoused, calling for better support and resources, including housing solutions like pods to provide safety and dignity.
Advocacy for Disabled and Homeless Individuals (01:05:38)
Mama Rhonda advocates for the rights of disabled individuals and the need for supportive housing.

Mama Rhonda, a community advocate, speaks on behalf of disabled individuals who face barriers in accessing shelter due to restrictions on service animals. She calls for state funding to create supportive housing and rehabilitation programs, sharing personal experiences and emphasizing the role of community in addressing these issues.
Decolonization and Support for Unhoused (01:10:01)
A speaker calls for decolonizing Kalamazoo and providing immediate support for the unhoused.

The speaker, identifying as a descendant of Black and Anishinabe ancestors, calls for a decolonization of Kalamazoo and emphasizes the need for immediate support for the unhoused, including public restrooms and safe shelters. The speaker highlights the trauma caused by police sweeps and the lack of aftercare, urging community action.
Public Comments on Homelessness and Mental Health (01:12:06)
Community members express concern about homelessness and the lack of mental health services, urging the city to provide emergency shelters and support.

Speakers addressed the commission about the challenges faced by homeless individuals, highlighting the need for emergency shelters and mental health services. They criticized the city's handling of encampment sweeps and the lack of proper facilities for those in need.
Discussion on Security Measures and Surveillance Cameras (01:14:06)
Residents voice concerns over the use of surveillance cameras, questioning their effectiveness in reducing crime and expressing privacy worries.

Multiple speakers raised issues regarding the installation of surveillance cameras in their neighborhoods. They argued that the cameras do not effectively reduce crime and infringe on privacy, creating a feeling of being constantly watched. Some questioned the cost and necessity of these security measures.
Concerns Over Data Centers and Environmental Impact (01:27:00)
Speakers oppose the establishment of data centers, citing their high energy consumption and environmental impact, and urge for a moratorium.

Residents spoke against the construction of data centers, which they claim consume massive amounts of energy and contribute to pollution. They urged the commission to enact a moratorium on data centers, highlighting the potential environmental damage and minimal local benefits.
Criticism of City Priorities and Development Projects (01:30:00)
Community members criticize the city's focus on development projects like arenas over addressing urgent housing and social issues.

Speakers expressed frustration with the city's allocation of resources towards development projects such as arenas, which they argue do not address the pressing needs of affordable housing and social welfare. They called for a reevaluation of the city's priorities to better serve the community.
Public Comments on Flock Camera Contracts and Usage (01:34:00)
Residents question the transparency and accountability of contracts for Flock surveillance cameras, urging for public disclosure and oversight.

Several community members questioned the city's contracts for Flock surveillance cameras, seeking transparency and accountability. They highlighted concerns over the lack of public disclosure regarding the contracts' details and the need for elected officials to vote on such agreements.
Call for City Action on Housing and Public Spaces (01:38:00)
Speakers urge the city to open public spaces for unhoused individuals and decriminalize homelessness, advocating for humane policies.

Community members called on the city to open public spaces such as parks for unhoused individuals and to stop criminalizing homelessness. They criticized the city's handling of encampment sweeps and demanded more humane and effective policies to address the housing crisis.
Public Comments on Unhoused Community (01:45:46)
Speakers expressed concerns about the treatment of unhoused community members, lack of resources, and need for better winter planning and transportation.

Multiple community members shared their concerns about the treatment of unhoused people in Kalamazoo, particularly in the context of winter approaching. Issues such as the lack of warming centers, transportation to services, and the need for safe shelter options were highlighted. Speakers questioned the city's plans and asked for more humane and effective solutions.
Public Comments on Flock Cameras (01:54:25)
Community members criticized the use of Flock cameras, citing privacy concerns and potential for misuse and abuse by law enforcement.

Several residents spoke out against the use of Flock cameras, which are part of a mass surveillance system. They raised concerns about privacy, potential for errors and misuse, and the lack of oversight. Speakers urged the city to reconsider the implementation of these systems, citing civil liberties and the potential for legal issues.
Public Comments on Data Centers and Community Investment (02:00:01)
Discussion on the proposed moratorium on data centers, community concerns, and potential alternative uses of resources for community benefit.

Community members discussed the issue of data centers in Kalamazoo, with some supporting a moratorium to evaluate their impact. Suggestions were made to repurpose resources for community projects, such as housing for the unhoused. Concerns about transparency and community involvement in decision-making were also raised.
Public Comments on City Management and Social Issues (02:09:00)
Residents voiced concerns about city priorities, the treatment of unhoused individuals, and social justice issues.

Speakers addressed various social issues facing the city, including the treatment of unhoused individuals and the prioritization of city resources. They called for more compassionate and effective solutions, criticized systemic issues, and urged the city to focus on long-term solutions for housing and social equity.
Public Comments on Police Accountability and Surveillance (02:17:03)
Concerns about police accountability, misuse of surveillance technology, and potential legal implications were raised.

A speaker highlighted issues related to police accountability and the use of surveillance technologies like Flock cameras. They emphasized the importance of upholding civil liberties, warned of potential lawsuits, and called for the removal of such systems to protect citizens' rights.
Data Center Moratorium and Flock ALPR Systems (02:19:12)
Public comments focused on the moratorium for data centers and the lack of transparency and scrutiny for Flock ALPR systems.

Multiple speakers addressed the commissioners, expressing concerns about the deployment of Flock ALPR cameras in Kalamazoo without public hearings or independent research. They urged the commissioners to extend the moratorium on data centers to include these surveillance systems, citing privacy and transparency issues.
Public Comment on Homelessness and Housing (02:23:02)
Citizens criticized the commission for their handling of homelessness, citing lack of support and inhumane treatment during homeless sweeps.

Speakers expressed outrage over the handling of recent sweeps of homeless encampments, criticizing the lack of planning and support provided by the city. They highlighted the community's efforts to support the homeless and condemned the city's actions as inhumane and inadequate. Concerns about eviction notices and the lack of housing support were prominent.
Concerns about Surveillance and Public Safety (02:36:39)
Speakers called for transparency and accountability regarding the city's use of surveillance technology, including AI-powered drones and Flock cameras.

Speakers criticized the lack of transparency in the implementation of surveillance technologies, such as ALPR systems and AI-powered drones, in Kalamazoo. They argued that these initiatives were executed without public oversight and demanded that the commission take action to ensure community involvement and consent. They also raised issues about the lack of response during public comment periods.
Consent Agenda Items (02:56:28)
Approval of various contracts and agreements including odor monitoring, purchase of equipment, and school resource officer services.

The consent agenda included several items for approval, such as a contract with Enviro Suite for odor monitoring, the purchase of an aerial bucket truck, a memorandum of agreement for school resource officers, and the purchase of radios from Motorola. All items were approved by the commission.
Regular Agenda Item H1: Radio Readiness Funds (02:58:34)
Acceptance of funds and budget amendment for radio readiness from the Kalamazoo Consolidated Dispatch Authority.

The commission discussed and approved the acceptance of radio readiness funds from the Kalamazoo Consolidated Dispatch Authority, along with a related budget amendment. There was no staff report, but staff were available for questions, and no public comments were made on this item.
Regular Agenda Item H2: Filter Media Replacement (03:00:06)
Approval of a contract for the replacement of filter media at the central treatment plant.

The commission approved a contract for the replacement of filter media at the central treatment plant. There were no questions from the commissioners, and no public comments were made on this item.
Regular Agenda Item H3: Water Supply System Revenue Bonds (03:01:36)
Adoption of ordinance authorizing the issuance of water supply system revenue bonds.

The commission adopted an ordinance authorizing the issuance of water supply system revenue bonds and a notice of sale resolution. This was a follow-up to a previous meeting where a notice of intent was discussed. Commissioner Praedel highlighted the significance of the decision.
Regular Agenda Item H4: General Obligation Bonds (03:03:16)
Adoption of a resolution for the issuance of general obligation limited tax bonds for capital improvements.

The commission adopted a resolution authorizing the issuance of general obligation limited tax bonds for capital improvements, including facility upgrades, park improvements, tech improvements, and heavy equipment needs. Commissioner Praedel noted the background of prior discussions and the importance of these improvements.
Roll Call and Approval of Previous Motion (03:04:47)
The commission voted on the motion presented earlier, with all members voting in favor, thus passing the motion.

Commissioners conducted a roll call vote on the motion discussed previously. All present commissioners voted 'yes', leading to the motion's approval.
Amendment to Subrecipient Agreement with Michigan DOT (03:05:04)
Discussion on resolution to amend agreement with Michigan DOT for engineering activities related to stormwater management improvements in Arcadia Creek corridor.

City manager Hankins presented the resolution to amend the subrecipient agreement with Michigan DOT, focusing on stormwater management improvements in the Arcadia Creek corridor. Commissioner Praedel asked for clarification on the amendment's nature, which was provided by Baker. The amendment is a phase two engineering design step, advancing the project closer to construction.
Public Comment on Amendment to Subrecipient Agreement (03:09:19)
The floor was opened for public comments on the amendment to the subrecipient agreement; no comments were made.

After the discussion on the amendment to the agreement with Michigan DOT, the floor was opened for public comments. No members of the public came forward to comment on this item.
Resolution on Moratorium for Data Centers and Related Facilities (03:09:48)
Resolution proposed to establish a one-year moratorium on data centers, battery energy storage systems, cryptocurrency, and AI data centers to develop regulations.

City manager Hankins introduced a resolution to establish a one-year moratorium on the acceptance and processing of applications for data centers, battery energy storage systems, cryptocurrency mining centers, and AI data centers. City attorney explained the need for the moratorium due to recent increases in proposed facilities, potential impacts on noise, water usage, pollution, and energy consumption. This time would allow the city to research and develop necessary regulations.
Public Comment on Resolution for Moratorium (03:16:02)
Numerous community members commented on the proposed moratorium, expressing concerns about environmental impacts and supporting the resolution.

Several community members spoke in favor of the moratorium, emphasizing concerns about noise, environmental impacts, and energy consumption associated with data centers. Some residents suggested extending the moratorium to include other technologies like ALPRs. Representatives from Harbor Farms requested reconsideration of their specific site for exemption from the moratorium, citing its industrial location and unique conditions. Residents and neighborhood association representatives expressed support for the moratorium, urging the commission to prioritize community concerns.
Public Comments on Data Center Moratorium (03:36:40)
Citizens express concerns about the environmental and community impacts of data centers, urging a moratorium to study the issues further.

Numerous members of the public voiced their concerns about the potential negative impacts of data centers on their communities, specifically regarding environmental and health risks. They highlighted issues such as noise, pollution, and the strain on local resources. Many speakers advocated for a moratorium on new data center developments to allow time for comprehensive study and regulation development. They emphasized the need for transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes.
Discussion on Data Center Moratorium Resolution (03:47:49)
Commissioners discuss the implications of a proposed moratorium on data centers, considering environmental impacts and community concerns.

The city commissioners engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the proposed moratorium on data centers and related facilities. They considered the potential environmental impacts, community concerns, and the need for proactive regulation to manage the growth of such facilities. The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing public health and safety and ensuring that any development aligns with the community's long-term vision. Commissioners debated the need for clear regulations and the role of the moratorium in providing time to develop these.
Amendment to Moratorium Resolution (03:48:07)
A correction to the moratorium resolution text is proposed and voted on, addressing a reference error in the document.

During the meeting, a speaker pointed out an error in the moratorium resolution text, where a section reference was incorrect. The city attorney recommended a correction to change 'section one, paragraph three' to 'section two, paragraph three.' The commissioners voted on this amendment to correct the text, ensuring the resolution was accurate and legally sound.
Vote on Moratorium Resolution with Amendment (03:50:50)
Commissioners vote on the amended resolution for a moratorium on data centers, deciding to adopt the resolution with the correction included.

Following the discussion and amendment to correct the section reference in the resolution, the city commissioners proceeded to vote on the adoption of the moratorium resolution. The resolution aims to temporarily halt new data center developments to allow the city time to study potential impacts and establish regulations. The amendment was included in the resolution, and the commissioners voted to adopt it, reflecting their commitment to addressing community concerns and ensuring responsible development.
Discussion on Cannabis Facility Visit and Industry Challenges (04:08:09)
Commissioner Hess discusses her visit to Harbor Farms and the challenges faced by cannabis facilities due to state regulations and profitability issues.

Commissioner Hess explains her visit to Harbor Farms and the lack of profitability in cannabis grow facilities due to state regulations. She emphasizes the importance of being informed and intentional about educating themselves about these facilities. She mentions the public is invited to visit the facility and learn about its safety. She expresses her intention to vote for a certain measure because of her concern for community health and safety.
Clarification on Facility Usage and Ownership (04:09:47)
Commissioner Slaby clarifies misconceptions about Harbor Farms' intentions and the implications of their pending sale, emphasizing the need for thorough research.

Commissioner Slaby appreciates Harbor Farms' transparency but clarifies they are not proposing a data center; they plan to sell the facility. She stresses there are no assurances about future ownership and usage. She underscores the need for research, mentioning University of Michigan's studies on water usage in cooling systems. She supports a moratorium to allow time for informed decision-making.
Energy Discussion and Public Participation (04:12:28)
Commissioners discuss public participation in meetings and the broader implications of technology and energy use, highlighting the need for national conversation.

Commissioners exchange views on public participation, focusing on previous discussions about data centers and energy consumption. A broad discussion ensues, touching on national implications of technology, AI, and energy use. The role of the public in shaping these discussions and remaining informed is emphasized. The conversation reflects a desire for more structured dialogue and public engagement at a national level.
Motion to Adopt Resolution on Social Equity Policy (04:18:10)
Commissioners adopt a resolution amending the marijuana social equity policy to improve community impact and address previous limitations.

Commissioners discuss and adopt an amended marijuana social equity policy aimed at better utilizing tax revenue for community benefits. The new policy includes provisions for expungement workshops and other community-focused initiatives. Commissioners express support for the changes, recognizing previous policy limitations and appreciating the efforts to address them.
Discussion on Call-In Public Comments (04:22:30)
Commissioners debate the logistics and fairness of reintroducing call-in options for public comments, considering time limits and meeting efficiency.

Vice Mayor Duncan introduces a discussion on reintroducing call-in options for public comments during meetings. Commissioners deliberate on logistics, including time limits, meeting structure, and the potential impact on participation. They consider reducing comment time to accommodate more speakers and discuss the best placement for public comments in the agenda. The debate reflects a balance between facilitating public engagement and ensuring meeting efficiency.
Discussion on COVID Strategy and Public Call-Ins (04:39:26)
The commission discussed the logistics of handling public call-ins based on past COVID-19 measures, aiming to streamline future meetings.

The commission considered how to handle public call-ins, referencing previous COVID-19 measures where people could call in during the public comment period. They discussed different strategies to streamline the process and asked staff to prepare proposals for the next meeting to enhance efficiency.
Proposal for Public Comment and Call-In Policy (04:41:00)
Commissioners debated the best approach for call-ins and public comments, considering the need for structured options in future meetings.

The commission explored whether to allow call-ins during public comment periods and how to organize agenda items for better engagement. They discussed setting clear guidelines for staff and commissioners to follow, aiming for a more structured and efficient meeting process.
Voting on Public Comment Procedures (04:44:00)
Commissioners agreed to formalize the public comment procedure, including call-in options, to be embedded in the rules of procedure.

The commission decided to vote on formalizing the public comment and call-in procedures to be included in the rules of procedure, ensuring clarity and consistency in how public comments are managed.
Motion to Direct City Attorney on Legal Preparations (04:45:00)
A motion was proposed to instruct the city attorney to prepare legal backing for voting on the new procedures in the next meeting.

Commissioners discussed giving direction to the city attorney to prepare the necessary legal framework to support a vote on the new public comment and call-in procedures at the next city commission meeting.
Amendment to Motion Regarding Surveillance Technology Contracts (04:47:00)
An amendment was proposed to require city commission approval for any surveillance technology contract renewals to enhance oversight.

Commissioners debated an amendment to require city commission approval for renewing or modifying contracts involving surveillance technology, like automatic license plate readers. The aim was to prevent automatic renewals without commission oversight and ensure transparency and accountability.
Public Comments on Surveillance Technology Amendment (05:07:09)
Community members expressed concerns regarding surveillance technology and supported the proposed amendment for better oversight.

Public comments were made regarding the proposed amendment on surveillance technology contracts. Community members expressed their concerns about privacy and the need for commission oversight to ensure public trust and transparency.
Commissioner Comments (05:09:11)
Commissioners shared updates and acknowledgments, including community engagement and support for the unhoused.

Commissioners provided updates and acknowledged community efforts, such as those by Urban Alliance and support for the unhoused. They emphasized the importance of community engagement and collaboration to address local issues effectively.
Discussion on Homelessness and Encampments (05:10:09)
Commissioners discussed the challenges of homelessness and the need for proactive solutions, including establishing safe places for the homeless and addressing ordinance conflicts.

Commissioner Wilson emphasized the need for a shift from reactive to proactive solutions to homelessness, highlighting the cycle of encampments being built and displaced. Commissioner Slaby discussed the need for a homelessness task force to address gaps in support services, arguing for coordinated efforts to provide dignified solutions for the homeless.
Questions Concerning Flock Safety and Data Usage (05:11:02)
Commissioner Slaby raised questions about Flock's data relationships and responsibilities, focusing on privacy and security issues related to cloud data storage.

Commissioner Slaby outlined questions to Flock about their financial and technical relationships with entities like Palantir, the rights of AWS to Flock's data, and the environmental impact of their cloud infrastructure. The commissioner expressed concerns over investing in Flock given these unanswered questions and potential ethical implications.
Support for Public Safety Initiatives (05:22:26)
Commissioner Hess expressed support for the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, emphasizing their commitment to justice and community safety.

Commissioner Hess discussed the importance of public safety and the oversight in place for using surveillance tools like Flock. The commissioner highlighted the training and accountability measures in place to ensure the privacy and rights of the community are respected while supporting victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
Community Engagement and Initiatives (05:24:03)
Vice Mayor Duncan and Mayor Anderson highlighted community-led initiatives and the importance of grassroots efforts in community building.

Vice Mayor Duncan spoke about forming a Tri-City committee to address homelessness by learning from neighboring cities and collaborating with experts. Mayor Anderson praised the community efforts of New Jerusalem Church of God in Christ for their back-to-school program, emphasizing the role of local initiatives in building a strong community.

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