City of Kalamazoo - January 20, 2026 Historic District Commission

Updated 1 day ago

In the Kalamazoo Historic District Commission meeting, the commission reviews several agenda items, including the approval of a new deck for an elderly couple's home to improve accessibility. The deck will be a freestanding structure, designed to address safety concerns due to steep terrain. Furthermore, a significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to discussing the demolition of a deteriorating garage structure that poses a safety hazard, with photographs and historical context provided. The commission ultimately decides to approve the demolition. The meeting also includes a discussion on Imagine Kalamazoo community engagement opportunities.

Chapters

Adoption of the Formal Agenda (00:00:03)
The formal agenda for the meeting was successfully adopted with all members voting in favor and none opposed.

A motion was made to adopt the formal agenda for the meeting. The motion was seconded and put to a vote. All members present voted in favor of adopting the agenda, with no opposition.
Disclaimer Reading (00:00:15)
A disclaimer was read by Luis as part of the meeting's formalities.

Luis was asked to read the disclaimer as part of the meeting's formal proceedings. This is a standard procedure to ensure all attendees are aware of the meeting's guidelines and any legal notices.
Kalamazoo Historic District Commission Responsibilities (00:00:52)
The responsibilities of the Kalamazoo Historic District Commission were outlined regarding regulation and preservation of historic resources.

The Kalamazoo Historic District Commission is empowered to regulate work on both historic and non-historic resources in the historic districts of Kalamazoo. The commission's responsibilities include overseeing changes to structures, the movement of buildings, and ensuring adherence to local historic district laws.
Public Hearing: Deck Construction Proposal (00:02:37)
A proposal for building a deck for an elderly couple was discussed, focusing on safety improvements.

AJ Zinc from Property Revolution presented a proposal to construct a U-shaped deck with two stairwells behind a customer's home. The deck aims to improve safety for an elderly couple, as the existing steep hill has been hazardous. The deck will not be attached to the house, but freestanding, and will include handrails on the stairs.
Motion to Approve Certificate of Appropriateness (00:05:30)
The commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for the deck construction as it complies with guidelines.

Following the discussion about the deck construction proposal, a motion was made to approve a certificate of appropriateness for the work as it complies with the Secretary of the Interior's standards. A roll call vote was conducted, and the motion was passed unanimously.
Coordinator's Report and Schedule Approval (00:07:07)
The coordinator's report was presented, and the meeting schedule for the year was formally approved.

The coordinator presented a brief report, highlighting the need to approve the meeting schedule as a formality. The schedule remains unchanged, with meetings set for the third Tuesday of each month. A motion was made and seconded to approve the schedule, and it passed with unanimous consent.
Discussion on Community Engagement and Information Sharing (00:09:08)
Discussion on improving community engagement and sharing information about city meetings and events.

The commission discussed ways to improve public engagement and information distribution regarding city meetings and neighborhood activities. Suggestions included using mailing lists, city websites, and local media to keep residents informed about various public meetings and opportunities for involvement.
Review of Application for Demolition of Garage (00:13:15)
A detailed review and discussion of an application to demolish an unsafe garage, concluding with approval to proceed.

The commission reviewed an application by Community Homeworks to demolish a garage that was deemed unsafe. The garage was not part of the original structure and posed a safety hazard. After reviewing historical records and the condition of the garage, the commission voted to approve the demolition.
Adjournment (00:25:55)
The meeting was officially adjourned after all agenda items were addressed.

Following the completion of all agenda items, the meeting was adjourned. The commission members thanked each other for their participation and concluded the session.

City of Kalamazoo (85 Episodes)

Updated 1 day ago

Gavel to Gavel coverage of City of Kalamazoo government meetings and other local city information.