Kalamazoo Township - Board of Trustees - April 28, 2025 Board Meeting

Updated about 11 hours ago

The Board considered the approval of contracts related to the design and construction of the Eastwood Fire Station and the Kalamazoo Township Community Campus. The board emphasized the importance of local labor in these projects and discussed the steps being taken to ensure local workforce participation. The board also highlighted public safety efforts and community engagement activities. Updates on infrastructure improvements and community events were shared, and the board acknowledged the work of public safety officers. The meeting concluded with public comments and expressions of gratitude towards the board and staff for their efforts in various community projects.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:02:42)
The meeting of the Kalama Township Board is convened after resolving technical difficulties.

The Kalama Township Board meeting is called to order after addressing several technical issues with microphones and audio equipment.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:02:51)
The board members and attendees recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States.

Board members and attendees stand to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, affirming their loyalty and respect to the flag and the United States of America.
Roll Call (00:03:13)
Roll call of board members is conducted, ensuring a quorum is present for the meeting.

The roll call of board members is conducted: Trustee Kennedy, Treasurer Miller, Trustee Glass, Supervisor Combs, Trustee Leonard, Clerk Mackey, and Trustee Sherwood are all present.
Public Comment Period (00:03:31)
The first public comment period is opened, but no comments are made in person or via Zoom.

The first of two public comment periods is announced. Attendees are invited to step to the podium and make a public comment, introducing themselves and stating their residence. There are no comments in person or on Zoom.
Consent Agenda Approval (00:03:49)
The consent agenda is adopted without opposition, containing routine items for approval.

Clerk Mackey moves for the adoption of the consent agenda as recommended by the superintendent and supervisor. The motion is supported, and upon vote, the consent agenda is approved without opposition.
New Business - Contract Approvals (00:04:10)
Discussion and approval of contracts for design, construction, and financial advising for township projects.

New business items A through E involve contracts related to the design, construction, and financial advising for the Eastwood fire station and the Kalama Township community campus. The superintendent provides details on the contracts, which include AIA contracts for architecture and construction management, and a financial advisor for bonding.
New Business - Communications and Outreach Committee (00:16:40)
The board considers adopting a formal structure for the Communications and Outreach Committee.

The board discusses and moves to adopt the Communications and Outreach Committee structure. The committee aims to enhance communication and outreach efforts and will include board members and resident positions.
New Business - Property Sales Authorization (00:19:42)
The board adopts a resolution to authorize the superintendent to sell township properties no longer needed.

A resolution is proposed and adopted to authorize the superintendent to handle the sale of township properties that are deemed no longer necessary for public purposes. The resolution outlines the superintendent's responsibilities in this process.
Board Member Reports (00:22:31)
Board members present individual reports, discussing various community events and board activities.

Board members provide updates and reports on recent activities and events, including community meetings, public safety events, and local initiatives. Various topics are covered, from public engagement efforts to upcoming community events.
Trustee Remarks (00:32:26)
Trustee Glass and other board members express appreciation for community events and public safety efforts.

Trustee Glass shares thoughts on community events, mental health advocacy, and expresses gratitude for public safety officers, especially the fire department. The importance of kindness and community support is emphasized.
Southwest Michigan Disability Network Visit (00:34:17)
Representatives from the Southwest Michigan Disability Network conducted a walkthrough to assess accessibility.

Board members discuss a recent visit from the Southwest Michigan Disability Network, highlighting improvements and areas for further accessibility enhancements in township buildings, including signage and structural adjustments.
Road Projects Update (00:36:36)
The road commission has started local road projects, with resources available for residents to track progress.

Discussion about the commencement of local road projects in Kalamazoo Township. Residents are encouraged to check the road commission's website for updates on construction activities. Resources and contact options for queries are provided.
Township Newsletter (00:37:45)
The township's spring newsletter is ready to be distributed, containing useful information for residents.

The spring newsletter from the Township is about to be distributed, containing updates and useful information for residents, including a list of upcoming road repairs and other community news.
No Mow May Discussion (00:39:01)
Board members discuss the pros and cons of participating in No Mow May for environmental and aesthetic reasons.

A discussion on the No Mow May initiative, where the board clarifies that the township does not participate. Trustee Sherwood explains the potential negative impact on pollinators and suggests planting native flowers instead.
Superintendent's Report (00:42:22)
Superintendent provides updates on the newsletter, road repairs, and future township developments.

The superintendent reports on the distribution of the township newsletter, details about planned road repairs, and upcoming signage for new township developments, emphasizing ongoing improvements and employee appreciation.
Public Comments (00:44:18)
Public comments include appreciation for local construction projects and advice on reporting road issues.

Public comments are made by a construction manager thanking the board for opportunities and a resident providing information on how to report road issues to the road commission effectively.

Kalamazoo Charter Township (14 Episodes)

Updated about 11 hours ago

Gavel to gavel coverage of meetings of the Kalamazoo Charter Township Board of Trustees.