Kalamazoo County public meetings in 2022

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on several municipal contracts, grant acceptances, and ordinances. The body is also discussing the recruitment of a City Attorney and the Charter Amendment Process.

• Contract with Solenis LLC for Zetag 8816 Polymer in the amount of $1,955,355.28
• Ordinance to adopt the 2021 edition of the International Fire Code
• Grant of $250,000 to W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research for the High Impact Fund
• Purchase of two Ford F-600 truck chassis from Gorno Ford for $116,650
• Liquor license application for Kzoo Tacos, LLC at 215 E Michigan Ave

The City Commission approved several high-value contracts for city vehicles, software, and wastewater treatment. The board also authorized contract negotiations for a new City Attorney and moved forward with updating the International Fire Code.

• Approved $1,955,355.28 contract with Solenis LLC for Zetag 8816 Polymer (6-0)
• Authorized contract negotiations with City Attorney candidate James Porter (6-0)
• Adopted 2021 edition of the International Fire Code (6-0)
• Approved $220,752 agreement with Fleet Efficiency for GPS tracking (6-0)
• Approved $289,948.75 contract extension with Alexander Chemical Corporation (6-0)
• Approved $280,040.50 change order with Ferguson Waterworks for iron pipe (6-0)
• Approved $143,100 agreement with Environmental Systems Research Institute, Inc. (6-0)
• Approved $116,650 purchase of two Ford F-600 truck chassis (6-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the session is a work session regarding the Year 5 Review of Imagine Kalamazoo 2025.

• Imagine Kalamazoo 2025 Year 5 Review

The City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole to receive a presentation on the five-year progress of the IK 2025 plan. No substantive legislative decisions or policy changes were voted upon during the meeting.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Hoffman and Juarez (voice vote)

Downtown Economic Growth Authority Board

The Downtown Economic Growth Authority Board is meeting to approve a budget recommendation for the City Commission. The board will also consider a professional services agreement for auditing and set its 2023 meeting calendar.

• Professional Services Agreement for auditing services with Maner Costerisan
• Budget recommendation to the City Commission
• 2023 DEGA Board Meeting Calendar

The Board approved a budget recommendation of $797,200 for the City Commission. Other actions included approving an auditing services agreement with Maner Costerisan and the 2023 DDA Board meeting calendar.

• Approved budget recommendation to the City Commission for $797,200
• Approved professional services agreement for auditing services with Maner Costerisan
• Approved 2023 DDA Board meeting calendar
• Accepted November Financial Report
• Approved October 17, 2022 minutes with correction to 'DKRRA'

Downtown Development Authority Board

The Downtown Development Authority Board will consider a budget recommendation for the City Commission and a liquor license application. The board will also review a professional services agreement for auditing.

• Professional Services Agreement for auditing services with Maner Costerisan
• Liquor license application for Kzoo Tacos, LLC at 215 E Michigan Ave
• Budget recommendation to the City Commission
• 2023 DDA Board Meeting Calendar

The Board approved the 2023 budget recommendation for the City Commission and a liquor license application for Kzoo Tacos LLC. It also approved a one-year auditing contract with Maner Costerisan and the 2023 meeting calendar.

• Approved budget recommendation to the City Commission
• Recommended approval of Development District Liquor License for Kzoo Tacos LLC at 215 E Michigan Ave (7-0)
• Approved one-year professional services agreement for auditing with Maner Costerisan
• Approved 2023 DDA Board meeting calendar
• Accepted financial report as presented
• Approved October 17, 2022 minutes

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors Finance Committee is meeting to approve previous minutes and a quarterly investment report. The committee will also review the description of the Audit Subcommittee.

• Approval of October 10, 2022, Minutes
• Approval of FFE Investment Subcommittee Report - Q3 2022
• Review of Audit Subcommittee Description

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from the October 10, 2022, meeting. The committee reviewed the 2022 3rd quarter investment report and the 2018 description of the Audit Subcommittee.

• Approved October 10, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a work session to review the proposed FY2023 Budget. The meeting also includes a closed session for attorney-client privileged communication.

• Review of the Proposed FY2023 Budget
• Closed session for attorney-client privileged communication

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors is meeting to approve previous minutes and set the agenda for a future meeting. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items.

• Approval of October 10, 2022, minutes
• Approval of Board Meeting Agenda for February 27, 2023

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors Audit Subcommittee is meeting to discuss financial oversight. The primary focus of the meeting is the organization's annual reporting, independent audit, and tax filing.

• Annual Reporting, Independent Audit, and Tax Filing

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a use variance request for 100 Monroe Street. The applicant seeks to authorize a small wine making operation in a residentially zoned area.

• ZBA #22-10-33: Use variance request for 100 Monroe Street (Henderson Castle) for wine making in a carriage house and wine cave

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to discuss funding for water and wastewater systems, housing grants, and park improvements. The body will also consider a new fire code ordinance and a budget hearing date for Fiscal Year 2023.

• Notice of Intent for Water Supply System Revenue Bonds up to $15,000,000
• Notice of Intent for Wastewater System Revenue Bonds up to $6,250,000
• $1,000,000 grant to Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services for 14 single-family homes
• SPARK grant application for approximately $815,000 for Emerald Park improvements
• First reading of an ordinance to adopt the 2021 International Fire Code

The City Commission voted unanimously to extend a conditional offer of employment to James Porter for the City Attorney position. The board also approved a $1 million grant for low-income housing rehabilitation and authorized several million dollars in utility revenue bonds.

• Approved conditional offer of employment to James Porter for City Attorney (Unanimous)
• Approved $1M ARPA grant to Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services for 14 homes (Unanimous)
• Approved $285,000 agreement with Upjohn Institute for Community Data System (Unanimous)
• Approved Notice of Intent for Water Supply System Revenue Bonds up to $15M (Unanimous)
• Approved Notice of Intent for Wastewater System Revenue Bonds up to $6.25M (Unanimous)
• Passed first reading of ordinance to adopt 2021 International Fire Code (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 regular meeting schedule and Jan 3 budget public hearing (Unanimous)
• Approved SPARK grant application for $815,000 for Emerald Park improvements (Unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a work session to discuss the FY 2023 Budget Overview. The remainder of the meeting consists of procedural items and public comment.

• FY 2023 Budget Overview work session

CFO Steve Vicenzi presented the 2023 Proposed Budget, detailing public safety spending, ARPA fund usage, and pension status. No formal votes were taken on the budget; further discussions are scheduled for December 12 and potentially January 3.

• Excused the absence of Commissioner Juarez (voice vote passed)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to conduct interviews for the position of City Attorney. Three candidates are scheduled for interviews throughout the day.

• Interview of candidate James Porter at 9:00 a.m.
• Interview of candidate William Kim at 10:30 a.m.
• Interview of candidate Julianne Pastula at 1:00 p.m.

The City Commission interviewed three candidates for the City Attorney position. No appointment was made during the meeting; the Commission postponed the final decision until December 5.

• Excused the absence of Commissioner Hoffman (voice vote passed)
• Postponed consideration of City Attorney candidates until December 5 (by consensus)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two rezoning requests for properties on Alvan Road and Westnedge Court. The body will also review the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan submitted by Community Planning & Economic Development.

• Public hearing for 3650 Alvan Road: request to rezone 1.6 acres from Commercial-Community (CC) to Manufacturing-Limited (M-1)
• Public hearing for 435, 436 and 439 Westnedge Court: request to rezone lots to Residential-Multi Dwelling District (RM-36)
• Review of the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan

The commission recommended three rezoning requests and the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan for City Commission approval. The rezoning actions include a request for a potential marihuana grow facility and the correction of overlapping residential districts. The 2023 CIP includes projects for street conversions, bridge reconstruction, and lead service line replacements.

• Recommended approval to rezone 1.6 acres of 3650 Alvan Road from CC to M-1 (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval to rezone 435, 436, and 439 Westnedge Court to RM-36 (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (Unanimous)
• Approved September 1, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved November 3, 2022 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved December 1, 2022 agenda (Unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to consider a recommendation to interview three finalists for the City Attorney position. The agenda includes scheduling a public meet and greet and a special commission meeting for interviews.

• Interviews for City Attorney finalists: William Kim, Julianne Pastula, and James Porter
• Public meet and greet session scheduled for November 30, 2022
• Special City Commission meeting scheduled for December 1, 2022

The City Commission approved the recruitment subcommittee's recommendation to interview three finalists for the City Attorney position. The commission scheduled a public meet-and-greet and a special meeting for formal interviews.

• Approved scheduling interviews with finalists William Kim, Julianne Pastula, and James Porter (7-0)
• Approved public meet-and-greet for candidates on November 30, 2022, at 4:00 pm (7-0)
• Approved special City Commission meeting for interviews on December 1, 2022, at 8:30 am (7-0)
• Approved motion to enter closed session to consider attorney-client privileged material (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to review a consent agenda containing three contracts and lease agreements. The body will decide on funding for professional services and a property lease for public safety.

• Contract with Zhang Financial LLC for investment consulting services: $558,000
• Contract with Morgan Composting for compost site removal and maintenance: $136,500
• Lease agreement with S&K Properties for 248 North Kalamazoo Mall for Department of Public Safety: $55,800

The City Commission unanimously approved a consent agenda containing three service contracts. The commission also received updates on the City Attorney search and leaf pick-up services.

• Approved $136,500 contract with Morgan Composting for site removal and maintenance (Unanimous)
• Approved $558,000 three-year agreement with Zhang Financial LLC for investment consulting (Unanimous)
• Approved $55,800 lease for 248 North Kalamazoo Mall for Department of Public Safety (Unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the work session is to discuss funding recommendations for ARPA for 2023 and beyond.

• Work session on ARPA Funding Recommendations - 2023 and Beyond

The City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole to receive a staff presentation on proposed 2023 ARPA funding recommendations. No formal votes were taken on the funding proposals; the items were discussed as part of the preparation for the proposed budget.

• Excused absences of Vice Mayor Cooney and Commissioner Decker (voice vote)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to vote on several service contracts and a property tax payment agreement. The body will also discuss a gun violence prevention strategy and a resolution regarding an Urban Bird Treaty Area.

• Supplemental change order for Hotop water main replacement with SWT Excavating, Inc. for $131,199.22
• 3-year contract with Mission North for downtown parking and mobility services for $184,434
• Contract supplemental with Kalamazoo Oil, Inc. for fuel for $150,563.02
• Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) resolution for 1211 S. Westnedge Avenue
• $34,700 grant from The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Reed Court floodplain and stormwater planning

The City Commission approved a resolution supporting the designation of greater Kalamazoo County as an Urban Bird Treaty Area. The body also passed a consent agenda including multiple infrastructure and service contracts and appointed Steve Brown as Executive Director of the Foundation for Excellence.

• Approved Resolution 22-59 supporting Kalamazoo County as an Urban Bird Treaty Area (6-0)
• Approved appointment of Steve Brown as Executive Director of the Foundation for Excellence (6-0)
• Approved $131,199.22 supplemental change order for Hotop water main replacement (6-0)
• Approved 3-year $184,434 contract with Mission North for parking and mobility services (6-0)
• Approved $150,563.02 contract supplemental with Kalamazoo Oil, Inc. for fuel (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 22-58 for Payment in Lieu of Taxes for 1211 S. Westnedge Avenue (5-0, Mayor Anderson abstained)
• Approved DDA Parking Agreement with MA KZOO THEATER LLC for discounted ramp rates (6-0)
• Approved $34,700 grant from National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for Reed Court project (6-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The primary focus of the meeting is a work session regarding Part 1 of Project Planning 2024.

• Work session: Project Planning 2024 - Part 1

The City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole to receive a presentation on the IK Road Map 2023 to 2025. No substantive policy decisions or legislative actions were taken during the meeting.

• Motion to excuse Commissioner Juarez's absence failed for lack of support

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to review a proposal from the Historic Preservation Commission. The primary item is the potential designation of Kalamazoo City Hall as a single resource local historic district.

• Review of proposed historic district designation for Kalamazoo City Hall at 241 W. South Street

The Planning Commission met without a quorum, meaning no formal actions were taken and no minutes or agendas were approved. The commission held a discussion regarding the proposed designation of Kalamazoo City Hall as a single resource local historic district.

Election Commission

The City of Kalamazoo Election Commission is meeting to conduct a public accuracy test of the program and voting equipment for the November 8, 2022 election. The body will also review and approve previous meeting minutes.

• Public Accuracy Test for the November 8, 2022 election

The Election Commission conducted public accuracy tests on tabulators and programs for the November 8, 2022 Statewide General Election. The commission certified the results and sealed the test materials in an approved ballot container.

• Certified accuracy test results for tabulators in Precincts 8, 17, and 27

Election Commission

The City Election Commission is meeting to discuss a demand from the Michigan Republican Party and Republican National Committee. The body will also review minutes from the October 17, 2022, meeting.

• Consideration of a demand from the Michigan Republican Party and Republican National Committee regarding the appointment of election inspectors

The Election Commission voted to deny six demands from the Michigan Republican Party and Republican National Committee regarding the appointment and recruitment of election inspectors for the November 2022 general election. The commission maintained that the City Clerk's Office had made sufficient efforts to recruit Republican workers.

• Denied demand to appoint specific individuals from a provided list (0-3)
• Denied demand to reallocate five Republican inspectors to the Absent Voter Counting Board (0-3)
• Denied demand to appoint at least 15 Republicans as chairpersons and 10 as assistant chairpersons (0-3)
• Denied demand to take affirmative actions to recruit additional Republican inspectors (0-3)
• Denied demand to assist prospective Republican inspectors rather than turning them away (0-3)
• Denied demand to cease accepting prospective Democrat election inspectors (0-3)
• Approved minutes from October 17, 2022 (voice vote)

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors is meeting to appoint a new Executive Director and approve the draft 2023 budget. The board will also review updates to its bylaws and agreements with the City of Kalamazoo.

• Appointment of FFE Manager Steve Brown to Executive Director
• Recommendation of Draft 2023 FFE-City Budget to the City Commission
• Approval of updated Investment Consulting Agreement for FFE Endowment
• Approval of Draft Support Service and Grant Agreements with the City of Kalamazoo
• Approval of updates to FFE Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding three separate variance requests. These include requests for land development, a public safety training facility, and a small business operation.

• ZBA #22-09-29: Variance request for 3625 W. Michigan Avenue to encroach into a protected slope and remove 71.7% of woodland
• ZBA #22-10-32: Use variance request for 301 Nazareth Rd to allow an explosives training facility and disposal range
• ZBA #22-10-33: Use variance request for 100 Monroe Street to allow a small wine making operation

City Commission

The City Commission is holding public hearings on the Kalamazoo College Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement and the removal of the Wellhead Protection Overlay from the zoning ordinance. The body is also voting on several infrastructure contracts and budget amendments.

• Ordinance to approve the updated Kalamazoo College Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement
• Contract extension with Everside Health LLC for city employee healthcare clinic staffing: $1,583,969
• Net budget increase of $603,699 across General, Cemeteries, Solid Waste, and Cost Recovery funds
• Grant agreement with Kalamazoo Eastside Neighborhood Association for property rehabilitation: $275,000
• Resolution to vacate Cooley Street between Eleanor and Water Streets

The City Commission approved an ordinance updating the Kalamazoo College Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement with conditions, and also approved an ordinance removing the Wellhead Protection Overlay from the zoning code. The commission unanimously approved a consent agenda including multiple contracts and grants, and passed a resolution vacating Cooley Street between Eleanor and Water Streets. A two-year contract extension for the employee healthcare clinic was approved for $1,583,969.

• Approved Kalamazoo College Institutional Campus Master Plan update with conditions (6-0)
• Approved ordinance removing Wellhead Protection Overlay from zoning code (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $100K traffic maintenance contract, $103,647.50 hydrant project, $106,810 materials testing extension, $110,200 ferric chloride purchase, $138,350 road gravel contract, $174,910 signal improvements, Life EMS ambulance renewal, $603,699 budget amendments, and multiple grants
• Approved $325,000 change order for traffic control rental and placement (7-0)
• Approved $493,308 contract extension for liquid phosphate purchase (7-0)
• Approved $1,583,969 two-year contract extension for employee healthcare clinic with Everside Health (7-0)
• Approved resolution vacating Cooley Street between Eleanor and Water Streets (7-0)
• Approved ordinance replacing Weights and Measures chapter with Wellhead Protection Ordinance (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a work session featuring presentations from the Foundation for Excellence. The body will discuss the organization's 5th anniversary of infrastructure and neighborhoods work and review the FY2022 draft budget.

• Presentation on Infrastructure and Neighborhoods (Foundation for Excellence 5th Anniversary)
• Presentation of the Foundation for Excellence FY2022 Draft Budget

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole on October 17, 2022. No votes were taken on any item; the meeting consisted of presentations and discussion only. The Foundation for Excellence (FFE) proposed a $23.8 million disbursement to the City for FY2023, including $14 million for tax reduction and $4.5 million for budget stabilization, with a 40% decrease in aspirational project funding from $8.6 million to $5.4 million.

• Excused absence of Commissioner Juarez (voice vote, passed)
• Heard presentation on FFE Infrastructure and Neighborhoods (no action taken)
• Heard presentation on Convert Kalamazoo Avenue two-way street conversion (no action taken)
• Heard presentation on FY2023 Proposed FFE Budget (no action taken)

Election Commission

The City Election Commission is meeting to finalize administrative preparations for the November 8, 2022 election. The body will appoint election inspectors and establish the location and hours for the Absent Voter Counting Board.

• Resolution to establish receiving boards for the City of Kalamazoo
• Appointment of election inspectors for 27 voting precincts, the absent voting counting board, and the receiving board
• Setting the Absent Voter Counting Board location at Kalamazoo City Hall, 241 W. South Street, starting at 7:00 a.m. on November 8, 2022

The Kalamazoo City Election Commission approved election inspectors for the November 8, 2022 election, including boards for 27 precincts, the absent voter counting board, and the receiving board. The commission also set the absent voter counting board to operate at City Hall starting at 7:00 a.m. on Election Day. Minutes from three prior meetings were approved, and a resolution establishing receiving boards was adopted with minor spelling corrections.

• Approved minutes from July 21, October 5, and October 14, 2022 (voice vote, unanimous)
• Adopted resolution establishing receiving boards in the City of Kalamazoo, with spelling corrections (voice vote, unanimous)
• Appointed election inspectors for 27 precincts, absent voter counting board, and receiving board for Nov. 8 election (voice vote, unanimous)
• Set absent voter counting board location at Kalamazoo City Hall, 241 W. South Street, starting 7:00 a.m. on Nov. 8, 2022 (voice vote, unanimous)

Election Commission

The City Election Commission is meeting to discuss and act upon the appointment of election inspectors. These inspectors will perform absent voter ballot pre-processing activities at Kalamazoo City Hall on November 6, 2022.

• Appointment of election inspectors for absent voter ballot pre-processing on November 6, 2022

The Kalamazoo City Election Commission unanimously approved the appointment of 12 election inspectors (six Republicans and six Democrats) to pre-process absentee ballots on Sunday, November 6, 2022, ahead of the November 8 General Election. The appointment was required under a recent state law change allowing pre-processing. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved appointment of 12 election inspectors for absentee ballot pre-processing on Nov. 6, 2022 (unanimous voice vote)

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Executive Committee is meeting to recommend several draft agreements and personnel documents for full Board approval. These items include service and grant agreements with the City of Kalamazoo and the Executive Director's contract and position description.

• Draft Support Service Agreement with the City of Kalamazoo
• Draft Grant Agreement with the City of Kalamazoo
• Draft Executive Director Position Description
• Draft Executive Director Contract
• Amended 2022 and 2023 meeting schedules

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Executive Committee voted unanimously to recommend Manager Brown's appointment as Executive Director to the full Board. The committee also approved recommending a Support Service Agreement, a grant agreement for Aspirational funding, a position description for the Executive Director, and an Employment Agreement for the Executive Director to the Board. Additionally, the committee amended the 2022 meeting schedule and approved the agenda for the October 24, 2022 Board meeting.

• Approved by unanimous voice vote: recommend the draft Support Service Agreement between FFE and City to the Board.
• Approved by unanimous voice vote: recommend the draft grant agreement between FFE and City for Aspirational funding to the Board.
• Approved by unanimous voice vote: recommend the draft position description for Executive Director to the Board.
• Approved by unanimous voice vote: recommend the draft Employment Agreement for the Executive Director to the Board.
• Approved by unanimous voice vote: recommend Manager Brown's appointment as Executive Director to the Board.
• Approved: motion to amend the 2022 schedule to include the Nominating Committee's first meeting on December 12, 2022, and to recommend the 2023 schedule to the Board.
• Approved: motion to approve the agenda for the October 24, 2022 Board meeting with the addition of a twelfth item recommending Manager Brown's appointment as Executive Director.

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors is meeting to discuss financial and scheduling matters. The body will consider the draft 2023 FFE-City Budget and an updated investment consulting agreement for the endowment.

• Updated Investment Consulting Agreement for FFE Endowment
• Draft 2023 FFE-City Budget
• 2023 Schedule of meetings

The KFFE Finance Committee approved the updated 2023 FFE-City Budget for recommendation to the City Commission, including a reduction in investment consulting fees from $185,000 to $180,000 and a name change from Merion Capital to Zhang Financial. They also approved an updated Investment Consulting Agreement with Zhang Financial of Portage, Michigan, at the same cost as the prior contract, and approved amendments to the 2022 schedule to add an Audit Subcommittee meeting on December 12, 2022. All motions were approved by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved the draft minutes of the August 29, 2022, meeting by unanimous voice vote.
• Approved the updated Investment Consulting Agreement with Zhang Financial of Portage, Michigan, at the same cost as the prior contract by unanimous voice vote.
• Approved amendments to the 2022 schedule to include an Audit Subcommittee meeting at 2:30 pm on December 12, 2022, by unanimous voice vote.
• Approved the updated Draft 2023 FFE-City Budget for recommendation to the City Commission, including correction of Marion (Merion) to Zhang and reduction of investment consulting fees from $185,000 to $180,000, by unanimous voice vote.

Election Commission

The City Election Commission is meeting to appoint individuals to boards of election inspectors for 27 voting precincts, the absent voting counting board, and the receiving board. The agenda includes a proposed motion to postpone this action until a date certain.

• Appointment of election inspectors for 27 voting precincts
• Appointment of absent voting counting board
• Appointment of receiving board for November 8, 2022 election

The Kalamazoo City Election Commission postponed the appointment of election inspectors for the November 8, 2022 election until October 17, 2022, to allow the City Clerk's Office more time to finalize the list. The motion passed unanimously by voice vote. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Postponed appointment of election inspectors for Nov 8, 2022 election to Oct 17, 2022 (unanimous voice vote)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The session includes a presentation on Affordable Housing and the Housing Development Fund regarding the Foundation for Excellence 5th Anniversary.

• Presentation on Affordable Housing and the Housing Development Fund

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on the Housing Development Fund from CPED Director Antonio Mitchell and LISC Kalamazoo Executive Director Zac Bauer. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were taken during the meeting; it was purely informational and discussion-based.

• No decisions made; meeting was a Committee of the Whole with a presentation only

City Commission

The City Commission is holding public hearings on tax exemptions for industrial and property rehabilitation projects. The body is also reviewing several city contracts and proposed zoning ordinance changes.

• Tax exemption request from Zoetis, LLC for property on E. Kilgore Road valued at $57,567,482
• PA 146 exemption application for 215 EM Partners, LLC at 215 E. Michigan Avenue
• Consulting contract with Electric Housing, Inc. for residential zoning standards for $105,000
• Contract extension with SNR Technologies for Powdered Activated Carbon for $908,000
• Proposed ordinance for the Kalamazoo College Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement

The City Commission approved a PA 146 Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 215 E. Michigan Avenue, allowing a private developer to redevelop a vacant building into restaurant and office space. The Commission also approved a 12-year PA 198 Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate for Zoetis LLC on E. Kilgore Road, valued at $57,567,482. Both resolutions passed unanimously with no opposing votes.

• Approved Resolution 22-55: PA 146 Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 215 E. Michigan Avenue (unanimous).
• Approved Resolution 22-56: PA 198 Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate for Zoetis LLC on E. Kilgore Road for 12 years, valued at $57,567,482 (unanimous).
• Approved consent agenda including $105,000 for zoning standards consulting, $114,348.25 for odor suppressant chemicals, $120,000 trash removal contract, $908,000 carbon contract, and HUD plan amendments (unanimous).
• Set first reading and public hearing for October 17, 2022 on ordinance approving updated Kalamazoo College Institutional Campus Master Plan (unanimous).
• Set first reading and public hearing for October 17, 2022 on ordinance removing Wellhead Protection Overlay from Zoning Code (unanimous).
• Set first reading for ordinance replacing Weights and Measures chapter with Wellhead Protection Ordinance provisions (unanimous).
• Moved to closed session to discuss labor negotiations (unanimous).
• Excused absence of Commissioner Esteven Juarez (voice vote passed).

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to vote on ordinances that would increase drinking water and wastewater system revenues. The body is also reviewing several infrastructure contracts and tax exemption requests.

• Ordinances to increase drinking water and wastewater service rates
• Contract with Ferguson Waterworks for $6,080,160.17 for water main purchase
• Contract with Corby Energy Services, Inc. for $955,150 for sanitary sewer rehabilitation
• Proposed PA 198 Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption for Zoetis, LLC on E. Kilgore Road
• Agreement to provide Can-Do Kalamazoo $100,000 annually for three years for a business incubator

The Kalamazoo City Commission approved ordinances increasing water rates (effective Jan 1, 2023) and wastewater rates (effective Oct 1, 2022) by unanimous 6-0 votes. The Commission also created an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District at 215 E. Michigan Avenue for Treystar, and approved a consent agenda including multiple contracts and resolutions.

• Approved water rate increase ordinance (6-0)
• Approved wastewater rate increase ordinance (6-0)
• Created Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District at 215 E. Michigan Avenue (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $6.08M water main purchase, $955K sewer lining contract, $170K tree planting, and $300K Can-Do Kalamazoo incubator agreement (6-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The session includes a presentation regarding the Economic Development & Business Development Fund and the Foundation for Excellence 5th Anniversary.

• Presentation on Economic Development & Business Development Fund

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on economic development from CPED and United Way. No formal decisions, votes, or resolutions were made; the meeting was informational only. Commissioners excused two absent members and heard public comments on water safety and police-community trust.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Decker and Juarez (voice vote, passed)

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors will meet to review the 2023 draft budget and a development proposal. The board is also considering updates to its bylaws and articles of incorporation.

• Approval of Legal Services Agreement
• Creation of Nominating Committee
• Draft FFE Development Proposal
• Proposed updates to FFE Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
• 2023 Draft Budget Review

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board approved creating an Executive Director position and retained Miller-Johnson as legal counsel. A proposed bylaw amendment was ruled a nullity due to a notice error and will be reconsidered in October. The Board also found no conflict of interest in a $5,000 contract with Director Harrison.

• Approved creating Executive Director position and directing staff to present job description and hiring proposal (unanimous)
• Retained Miller-Johnson law firm as FFE Legal Counsel (unanimous)
• Created a Nominating Committee to vet board candidates (unanimous; no members appointed)
• Appointed Directors Carel, Balkema, and Bostrum to Audit Subcommittee until April 2023
• Approved adding agenda item to address conflict of interest (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 25, 2022 annual meeting (unanimous)
• Ruled proposed bylaw amendments a nullity due to notice error; to be taken up October 24, 2022
• Found no conflict of interest in $5,000 contract between Director Harrison and City of Kalamazoo (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider four variance requests. These requests involve building setbacks, fence height and opacity, woodland removal, and short-term rental use.

• ZBA #22-09-27: Dimensional variance for front build-to requirement at 315 E. Frank Street
• ZBA #22-09-28: Fence height and opacity variances at 1521 Palmer Avenue
• ZBA #22-09-29: Slope encroachment and 71.7% woodland removal at 3625 W. Michigan Avenue
• ZBA #22-09-30: Use variance for short-term rental at 1801 Oakland Drive

City Commission

The City Commission is reviewing ordinances to increase drinking water and wastewater system revenues. The body is also considering several professional service contracts and redevelopment agreements.

• Proposed ordinances to increase drinking water and wastewater service rates
• $1,000,000 grant for the Rivers Edge Brownfield Redevelopment Project
• $149,575 agreement with Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. for water rate consultant services
• $140,000 agreement with Jones and Henry Engineers, Ltd for John Street sanitary sewer siphon improvements
• Payment in Lieu of Taxes for the Kal-Recovery Housing project on Portage Street

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved first readings of ordinances to increase water rates (effective Jan 1, 2023) and wastewater rates (effective Oct 1, 2022). The Commission also set a public hearing for an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District at 215 E. Michigan Ave. The consent agenda, including multiple contracts and agreements, was approved unanimously.

• Approved first reading of ordinance to increase water rates effective Jan 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of ordinance to increase wastewater rates effective Oct 1, 2022 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District at 215 E. Michigan Ave (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $140,000 sewer design contract, $149,575 water rate consultant contract, $210,000 claims adjusting contract, and other items (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Retirement System Investment Policy Statement (unanimous)
• Postponed discussion of vacant houses to September 19 agenda

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the work session is the search process for a City Attorney via the Michigan Municipal League.

• Work session regarding the City Attorney search process with the Michigan Municipal League

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole to discuss the recruitment and hiring process for the City Attorney position, facilitated by an executive recruiter from the Michigan Municipal League. No formal decisions were made; the discussion focused on desired qualifications, community challenges, and a proposed timeline for advertising and candidate review.

• Excused absences of Vice Mayor Cooney and Commissioner Juarez (voice vote passed)
• No substantive decisions made; discussion only on City Attorney search process

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request from Kalamazoo College. The body will discuss amending the Zoning District Map and approving an updated Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement.

• Public hearing PC #2022.09: Kalamazoo College request to amend Ordinance Section 50-1.2 (Zoning District Map)
• Approval of updated Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement for Kalamazoo College

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Commission of an amended zoning map and updated Institutional Campus Master Plan for Kalamazoo College. The plan includes conditions on stadium lighting and equipment storage, and outlines three phases of campus improvements over the next decade.

• Recommended approval of amended Ordinance Section 50-1.02 Zoning District Map (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of updated Institutional Campus Master Plan Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved August 4, 2022 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved September 1, 2022 agenda as presented (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The primary focus of the meeting is a work session regarding utility rates for 2022-2023.

• Work session on 2022-2023 Utility Rates

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole to discuss proposed FY2023 water and wastewater rate increases. No formal vote was taken; the Utility Policy Committee recommended approval, and the ordinances will be presented for first reading on September 6 with final adoption scheduled for September 19. The meeting was informational, with presentations and commissioner discussion only.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Hoffman and Juarez (voice vote passed)
• Discussed FY2023 proposed utility rate increases (no vote taken)
• Noted rate ordinances for first reading on September 6 and final adoption on September 19

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors is meeting to discuss organizational updates and legal services. The body will consider changes to its governing documents and a development proposal.

• Approval of Legal Services Agreement
• Proposed updates to FFE Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws
• Draft FFE Development Proposal
• Creation of Nominating Committee

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Executive Committee unanimously approved forwarding three items to the full board: a legal services agreement with Miller Johnson, creation of a Nominating Committee, and hiring an Executive Director and Development Coordinator. The committee also approved minutes from the previous meeting. No substantive decisions were finalized; all actions were agenda-setting motions.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Approved adding legal services agreement with Miller Johnson to next board agenda (unanimous)
• Approved adding creation of a Nominating Committee to next board agenda (unanimous)
• Approved adding hiring of Executive Director and Development Coordinator to next board agenda after organizational chart update (unanimous)
• Approved adding memo on FFE Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation changes to next board agenda (unanimous)
• Approved adding separate item to change budget approval date from October 31 to December 31 in Bylaws (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for September 12, 2022 board meeting (unanimous)

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors is meeting to review financial documents and planning. The body will discuss the 2023 draft budget and the 2021 independent audit and tax filing.

• 2021 Independent Audit and Tax Filing
• Formation of Audit Subcommittee
• 2022 Q1 and Q2 Endowment Reports
• 2023 Draft Budget Review

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Finance Committee unanimously approved the 2021 independent audit and IRS Form 990, created a new Audit Subcommittee, approved Q1 and Q2 investment reports, and approved a draft FY2023 budget that highlights $4.251 million in unallocated grant funds and recommends using ARPA resources to reduce endowment disbursals.

• Approved April 25, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 independent audit and directed CFO to sign and file IRS Form 990 (unanimous)
• Created Audit Subcommittee of 3 or 5 directors with one-year terms (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Q1 and Q2 FFE Investment Subcommittee reports (unanimous)
• Approved draft FY2023 City FFE budget for inclusion in board report (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on the issuance of General Obligation Limited Tax Bonds and budget appropriation increases totaling $1,429,256. The body is also reviewing several service contracts for the Water Reclamation Plant and tax incentives for a senior housing project.

• Issuance of General Obligation Limited Tax Bonds not to exceed $14,955,000 for FY 2022 capital projects
• Budget appropriation increases of $1,102,756 (ARPA Fund), $139,500 (General Fund), and $187,000 (Capital Improvement Fund)
• Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) for the Zion Place Senior Housing project
• Professional services agreement with Jones & Henry Engineers, LTD for $126,600
• Contract with Alexander Chemical Corporation for $287,787.50

The Kalamazoo City Commission approved a resolution authorizing up to $14,955,000 in General Obligation Limited Tax Bonds for FY 2022 capital projects, passed 5-0. They also approved mid-year budget amendments totaling $1,429,256, including ARPA, General Fund, and Capital Improvement Fund increases. The consent agenda, including contracts and appointments, was approved 5-0. The meeting ended with a closed session for attorney-client matters.

• Approved $14.955M GO bond issuance for FY 2022 capital projects (5-0)
• Approved $1.43M mid-year budget amendments (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $126,600 biosolids study contract, $210,000 Republic Services extension, $287,787.50 chemical contract, PILOTs for Zion Place Senior Housing, WMU fireworks, and appointments (5-0)
• Excused absences of Commissioners Hess and Juarez (voice vote)
• Adopted meeting agenda as presented (unanimous consent)
• Proclaimed September as National Recovery Month
• Went into closed session for attorney-client material (5-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The session includes presentations regarding Shared Prosperity Kalamazoo (SPK) and downtown planning for public space.

• Presentation: Shared Prosperity Kalamazoo (SPK)
• Presentation: Downtown Planning for Public Space

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and heard two presentations: one from Shared Prosperity Kalamazoo on poverty reduction efforts, and another from University of Notre Dame professors on downtown streetscape planning. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Hess and Juarez (voice vote passed)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding two variance requests. The board will determine if specific zoning requirements for corner lot parking and retailer separation distances can be waived.

• ZBA #22-08-25: Use variance request for a temporary parking lot at 235 Cooley Street and 455 Eleanor Street
• ZBA #22-08-26: Dimensional variance request for a marihuana retailer at 4114 Stadium Drive to allow a 943-foot separation from another retailer

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding the vacation of a segment of Cooley Street and a zoning ordinance amendment. The body will also review the City Planner's report and the 2022 Site Plan Review Spreadsheet.

• Public hearing on vacating Cooley Street between Eleanor Street and W. Water Street
• Public hearing on removing the Wellhead Protection Overlay from Chapter 3 of the Zoning Ordinance

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the vacation of Cooley Street between Eleanor Street and W. Water Street, with conditions for utility and stormwater easements. They also unanimously recommended removing the Wellhead Protection Overlay from the Zoning Ordinance, moving those regulations to Chapter 39. Both recommendations will go to the City Commission for final action.

• Recommended approval of Cooley Street vacation (unanimous)
• Recommended removal of Wellhead Protection Overlay from Zoning Ordinance (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will consider updates to the city code regarding medical and adult-use marijuana businesses and a revised social equity policy. The body is also reviewing several high-value utility contracts and housing grants.

• Contract with Feyen-Zylstra for water and wastewater utility network upgrades for $3,010,629.86
• Cost increase of $917,866.47 for the Lake Street Water Main Reconstruction Project
• Housing Development Fund grant of $500,000 for the acquisition of Knight’s Inn at 1211 South Westnedge Avenue
• Ordinance to revise Chapter 20B of the City Code regarding marijuana business licensing
• Professional service agreement with Jones & Henry Engineers for the 33rd Street Transmission Main Project for $250,000

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously adopted an updated Public Participation Policy, revised Chapter 20B of the City Code regulating medical and adult-use marijuana businesses, and approved amendments to the Marihuana Social Equity Policy. The Commission also approved a $3.01M contract for water/wastewater remote station upgrades, a $500K housing grant for The Lodge House project, and contracts for hazardous tree removal and neighborhood tree maintenance.

• Adopted updated Public Participation Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2052 amending Chapter 20B – Marihuana Commercial Businesses (unanimous)
• Approved amended Marihuana Social Equity Policy (unanimous)
• Approved $3,010,629.86 contract with Feyen-Zylstra for remote station upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved $500,000 Housing Development Fund grant for Knight's Inn acquisition for The Lodge House (unanimous; Mayor Anderson abstained)
• Approved $100,000 contract supplemental with Treeworks, Inc. for hazardous tree removal (unanimous)
• Approved $198,485 contract with Treeworks, Inc. for neighborhood tree maintenance (unanimous)
• Approved $250,000 agreement with Jones & Henry Engineers for 33rd Street Transmission Main Project (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the session is a presentation regarding the Commercial Zoning Review Project.

• Presentation on the Commercial Zoning Review Project

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation from City Planner Christina Anderson on the Commercial Zoning Review Project. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only, with discussion of proposed changes to commercial zoning districts and design guidelines. The meeting adjourned without any votes or resolutions.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Juarez and Praedel (motion by Hess, seconded by Decker)
• Received presentation on Commercial Zoning Review Project (no action taken)

City Commission

The City Commission is voting on several service contracts, housing grants, and a Tax Increment Financing plan for the Northside Cultural Business District. The body is also reviewing ordinances regarding general crimes and the regulation of marijuana businesses.

• Contract with Lounsbury Excavating for the 33rd Street Transmission Main Project for $5,876,791.50
• Tax Increment Financing & Development Plan for the Northside Cultural Business District Authority
• Grant of $200,000 to Milestone Senior Services for elderly home repairs
• Housing Development Fund grant of $156,000 to Community Homeworks
• First reading of an ordinance to revise Chapter 20B regarding medical and adult-use marijuana businesses

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 22 of the City Code to eliminate rarely enforced or unconstitutional offenses and convert some violations from criminal to civil infractions. The Commission also unanimously approved a first reading of an ordinance revising Chapter 20B to regulate medical and adult-use marijuana businesses. All consent agenda items, including contracts, resolutions, and grants, were approved unanimously, with one abstention on a housing grant.

• Adopted Ordinance 2051 amending Chapter 22 (General Crimes and Offenses) unanimously
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending Chapter 20B (marijuana businesses) unanimously
• Approved consent agenda unanimously, including $5.88M contract for 33rd Street Transmission Main Project
• Approved $200,000 grant to Milestone Senior Services for home repairs
• Approved $156,000 Housing Development Fund grant to Community Homeworks (Commissioner Praedel abstained)
• Approved $442,832 change order for Water Reclamation Plant electrical upgrade
• Adopted resolution for Northside Cultural Business District Authority TIF plan
• Adopted resolution granting PILOT for Kalamazoo Creamery at 1101 Portage Street

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the session is a work session regarding public safety updates on gun violence and public outreach efforts.

• Public Safety Update on Gun Violence and Public Outreach Efforts

The City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation from the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety on gun violence and community outreach efforts. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only, with discussion of programs like Pastors on Patrol, the Citizen's Academy, and community policing strategies.

• No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings to consider five variance requests. These requests involve changes to permitted land use, building setbacks, parking capacities, and sign dimensions.

• ZBA #22-05-15: Use variance for 'Light Equipment Repair' at 1014 Mills Street
• ZBA #22-07-21: Dimensional variance for a 27-foot setback at 315 E. Frank Street
• ZBA #22-07-22: Dimensional variance for 32 parking spaces at 3650 Alvan Road
• ZBA #22-07-23: Dimensional variance for 75 parking spaces at 333 E. Alcott Street
• ZBA #22-07-24: Dimensional variances for a 128 square foot sign at 3110 Oakland Drive

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a special use permit for the Tree of Life School. The body will also discuss updates to the Public Participation Policy.

• Public hearing for special use permit to expand Tree of Life School facilities onto 1510 and 1518 Bryant Street
• Discussion and action on updating the Public Participation Policy

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for Tree of Life School to expand onto 1510 and 1518 Bryant Street, adding recreational facilities and a garden. The commission also unanimously recommended approval of an updated Public Participation Policy to the City Commission. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved special use permit for 1510 and 1518 Bryant Street (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Public Participation Policy update to City Commission (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on several municipal contracts, a property sale, and the allocation of ARPA funds for community violence prevention. The body will also consider a resolution supporting the federal Medicare for All Act of 2021.

• Allocation of $550,000 in ARPA State and Local Fiscal Relief funds to United Way of South Central Michigan
• Contract with Santiago Services, LLC for nuisance trash and debris removal for $453,000
• Purchase of play equipment from Gametime/Sinclair Recreation for $215,000
• Sale of 3408 Hoover Street to Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services for $500
• Contract extension with Carus LLC for phosphoric acid for $472,500

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved allocating $550,000 of $1,000,000 in ARPA funds to the United Way of South Central Michigan for grants to non-profits addressing gun violence. The Commission also unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included a $215,000 playground equipment purchase, a $453,000 trash removal contract, and a $500 sale of a city property. Additionally, the Commission passed the first reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 22 (General Crimes and Offenses) and adopted a resolution supporting the federal Medicare for All Act.

• Approved $550,000 ARPA allocation to United Way for gun violence prevention grants (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $215,000 playground equipment purchase (unanimous)
• Approved $453,000 contract with Santiago Services for trash removal (unanimous)
• Approved $500 sale of 3408 Hoover Street to Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of ordinance amending Chapter 22 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 22-35 supporting Medicare for All Act (unanimous)
• Approved closed session to consider exempt matters (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The primary focus of the meeting is a work session presentation regarding the Cannabis Equity Initiative.

• Presentation on Cannabis Equity Initiative

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on proposed marijuana ordinance and policy amendments, including social equity program recommendations. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with commissioners asking questions and requesting additional data. Commissioner Juarez's absence was excused.

• Excused Commissioner Juarez's absence (voice vote, passed)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to conduct public hearings regarding two special use permit requests. The body will review proposals for a transitional residence and a rooming/boarding house.

• Public hearing for a transitional residence special use permit at 116 Fellows Avenue (P.C. #2022.02)
• Public hearing for a rooming / boarding house special use permit at 1506 and 1508 E. Michigan Avenue (P.C. #2022.04)

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on several infrastructure contracts, affordable housing loans, and a budget amendment for the Police Athletic League. The body is also considering a Community Sustainability Plan and an ordinance to allow fishing at Milham Park and Blanche Hull Preserve.

• Housing Development Fund loans of $400,000 for 315 East Frank Street and $750,000 for 530 S. Rose Street
• $500,000 budget amendment for the Kalamazoo Police Athletic League using American Rescue Plan Act funds
• Contract with Ferguson Waterworks for miscellaneous water inventory in the amount of $796,338.73
• Sole source purchase with Dean Boiler for $181,423 to upgrade a snowmelt system boiler
• Resolution to levy a tax rate of 1.9638 mills for the Downtown Development Authority

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously adopted the Community Sustainability Plan, approved a $500,000 budget amendment for the Police Athletic League from ARPA funds, and authorized up to $18 million in Capital Improvement Bonds. It also approved the purchase of 827 & 833 Walter Street for $10,700 (6-0, one abstention) and passed several consent agenda items, including housing loans and appointments. The commission discussed gun violence and authorized the Gun Violence Prevention Subcommittee to continue meeting.

• Adopted Community Sustainability Plan (unanimous)
• Approved $500,000 budget amendment for Police Athletic League from ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Adopted Notice of Intent for $18M Capital Improvement Bonds (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 827 & 833 Walter Street for $10,700 (6-0, one abstention)
• Approved consent agenda including $400,000 housing loan for 315 E. Frank St. and $750,000 for 530 S. Rose St. (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance permitting fishing at Milham Park and Blanche Hull Preserve (unanimous)
• Authorized Gun Violence Prevention Subcommittee to continue meeting (discussion, no formal vote)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a work session to receive updates on American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. The meeting also includes an update on the city budget process.

• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding update
• City budget process update

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) budget process and an update on the FY2023 budget timeline. No formal votes or final decisions were taken; the meeting was informational. Commissioners discussed ARPA spending priorities, including housing, infrastructure, and community safety, and heard public comments on various topics.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Decker and Juarez (voice vote, passed)
• No substantive decisions made; ARPA and budget items were presented for discussion only

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three variance requests. These include parking adjustments for a senior living facility and land use changes for a residential property and a development site.

• ZBA #22-06-17: Request for 17 additional off-street parking spaces for a 70-unit senior living facility at 724 and 730 N. Burdick St and surrounding parcels
• ZBA #22-06-18: Request for a use variance to allow a duplex at 331 Ingleside Terrace and two dimensional variances for steps and a porch
• ZBA #22-06-19: Request for variances at 3919 and 3921 Oakland Dr and other parcels to allow encroachment on a protected slope and a 17.5% increase in woodland removal

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on several high-value infrastructure and service contracts, including waste disposal and water reclamation plant improvements. The body is also reviewing a draft Community Sustainability Plan and voting on zoning and park ordinances.

• Contract with Waste Management for belt press solids disposal in the amount of $8,924,018
• Construction contract supplemental with Davis Construction, Inc. for $1,805,988.99
• Contract supplemental with SWT Excavating, Inc. for the Random Material Inventory Project for $1,719,566.15
• Agreement with Kalamazoo Youth Development Network for $1,000,000
• Ordinance to amend Chapter 50: Zoning of the Kalamazoo City Code

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved a $1,000,000 agreement with the Kalamazoo Youth Development Network (KYDNet) to manage summertime youth development programs under federal recovery funds. The Commission also adopted the consent agenda, which included contracts for waste management, water reclamation, and other services, and approved a zoning ordinance amendment. A request to increase the LIFT Foundation loan for the Knights Inn renovation by $175,000 was approved 6-0 with Mayor Anderson abstaining.

• Approved $1M KYDNet youth development contract (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $8.9M Waste Management contract (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 2049 amending Chapter 50 Zoning Code (unanimous)
• Approved $178,000 Milham Park playground contract with Balkema Construction (unanimous)
• Approved Social District permit for Factory Coffee LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $175,000 LIFT Foundation loan increase for Knights Inn (6-0, Anderson abstained)
• Approved Michigan Municipal League to conduct City Attorney search (unanimous)
• Postponed purchase of 827 & 833 Walter Street to June 21 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to receive a presentation on the Community Sustainability Plan. The body will also discuss an update to the Public Participation Plan.

• Community Sustainability Plan presentation (P.C. #2002.05)
• Public Participation Plan update

The Planning Commission received presentations on the Community Sustainability Plan (CSP) and the Public Participation Plan (PPP) update but took no formal votes on either. The CSP is scheduled for adoption at the City Commission meeting on June 21, and the PPP will return to the Planning Commission in July for approval. The meeting was otherwise procedural, approving the agenda and prior minutes.

• Approved June 2, 2022 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 7, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will vote on several professional service agreements and a zoning ordinance amendment. The body is also reviewing a settlement regarding ADA compliance at a Transit Center and a development plan for the Northside Cultural Business District Authority.

• Design of Kalamazoo Avenue two-way conversion with Wightman and Associates for $955,035
• City-wide stormwater condition assessment with Prein & Newhof for $287,000
• Ready mixed concrete contract extension with Consumers Concrete Corporation for $463,150
• Housing Development Fund loan of $60,000 to Sweets4Homeless, LLC for 4 units at 913 S. Westnedge
• Ordinance to amend 'Chapter 50: Zoning' of the Kalamazoo City Code

The City Commission unanimously approved a $955,035 professional services agreement with Wightman and Associates for design work on the Kalamazoo Avenue two-way street conversion. The commission also unanimously authorized a settlement agreement with the U.S. Attorney's Office to resolve ADA compliance issues at the Kalamazoo Transportation Center, approved a liquor license recommendation for Factory Coffee, and passed the consent agenda. A proposed zoning ordinance amendment regarding marihuana businesses was postponed after commissioners requested more time and a presentation.

• Approved $955,035 design contract for Kalamazoo Avenue two-way conversion (unanimous)
• Authorized ADA settlement agreement for Kalamazoo Transportation Center (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recommending liquor license for Factory Coffee at 205 W. Lovell St. (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $287,000 stormwater assessment and $463,150 concrete contract (unanimous)
• Approved $60,000 housing loan to Sweets4Homeless, LLC for 4 units at 913 S. Westnedge (unanimous)
• Approved fireworks permits for Kalamazoo Country Club and Kalamazoo Growlers (unanimous)
• Authorized access agreement with Bronson Methodist Hospital for 1107 S. Burdick St. (unanimous)
• Postponed zoning ordinance amendment on marihuana businesses; requested presentation

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary scheduled item is a work session regarding the Allied Landfill Remediation update.

• Work session on Allied Landfill Remediation update

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on the Allied Landfill remediation project. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational only. The project is expected to be completed by end of 2024, funded by a trust from responsible parties, with no City funds used.

• Excused Commissioner Hess's absence (voice vote, passed)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to review a variance request for a temporary sales use. The board will determine if a food trailer can operate in a specific parking lot for six months.

• ZBA #22-05-15: Variance request for Teresa’s Kitchen Food Trailer at 1620 Bloomfield Avenue

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to conduct public hearings regarding special use permits for two properties. The body will also receive a presentation on the Community Sustainability Plan.

• Public hearing for special use permit for a transitional residence at 116 Fellows Avenue
• Public hearing for special use permit for a rooming / boarding house at 1506 and 1508 E. Michigan Avenue
• Community Sustainability Plan presentation

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The agenda focuses on presentations regarding government relations and community partnerships.

• Presentation by Western Michigan University on Government Relations and Community Partnerships
• Presentation by Kalamazoo Defender

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received informational presentations from Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Defender. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational only.

• No formal decisions were made; meeting was informational only

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the Program Year 2022 Action Plan for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The body is also considering several infrastructure contracts for road resurfacing and bridge rehabilitation.

• Public hearing for the Program Year 2022 HUD Action Plan
• Contract for Paterson, Lake, and Walnut Street bridge rehabilitation in the amount of $3,473,470.66
• Contract for Kilgore Road resurfacing from Oakland Drive to Westnedge Avenue for $769,753.10
• Contract for Rose Street resurfacing in the amount of $518,000
• First reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 50: Zoning of the City Code

The Kalamazoo City Commission adopted the Program Year 2022 Action Plan for HUD grants, authorizing the Director of Community Planning and Economic Development to sign grant documents and act as Certifying Officer. The motion passed 6-0 with one abstention due to a conflict of interest. The commission also approved a consent agenda with multiple contracts and grants, and gave first reading to a zoning ordinance amendment.

• Adopted PY2022 HUD Action Plan (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved consent agenda with contracts and grants (unanimous)
• Approved $170,000 sign installation contract with Rathco Safety Supply
• Approved $390,000 engineering services agreement with OHM Advisors
• Approved $518,000 Rose Street resurfacing contract with Peters Construction
• Approved $769,753.10 Kilgore Road resurfacing contract with Rieth-Riley
• Approved $3,473,470.66 MDOT bridge rehabilitation contract
• Gave first reading to zoning ordinance amendment

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the annual financial compliance and the draft 2021 Q4 endowment report. The board will also consider the approval of minutes from December 20, 2021, and January 31, 2022.

• Annual Financial Compliance Review
• 2021 Q4 Endowment Report (Draft)
• Approval of December 20, 2021 minutes
• Approval of January 31, 2022 minutes

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Finance Committee approved the annual independent financial compliance review items and voted to include the 2021 Q4 Investment Subcommittee report in its report to the Board of Directors. The committee also approved the minutes from its December 20, 2021, and January 31, 2022, meetings. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved minutes of Dec 20, 2021 and Jan 31, 2022 meetings (unanimous)
• Approved annual independent financial compliance review items (unanimous)
• Approved including 2021 Q4 Investment Subcommittee report in report to Board (unanimous)

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is meeting to review the annual officer nomination slate and approve the meeting agenda. The session also includes the approval of minutes from January 31, 2022.

• Annual Officer Nomination Slate
• Approval of January 31, 2022 minutes

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Executive Committee met on April 25, 2022, and approved several items for inclusion in the next Board meeting agenda, including updated public comment rules, a status quo officer slate, and the meeting agenda itself. The committee also approved the minutes of the previous meeting. No substantive decisions were made beyond these procedural approvals.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved updated public comment rules for hybrid meetings, including 3-minute comment limit (unanimous)
• Approved status quo officer slate for next Board meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for April 25 Board meeting (unanimous)

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors will meet to conduct annual organizational business. The body is scheduled to appoint directors, elect officers, and nominate committee members.

• Annual Director Appointments
• Annual Election of Officers
• Annual Committee Nominations
• Approval of February 15, 2022 minutes

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board approved new board members, officers, and committee members, and adopted updated public comment rules with a 3-minute speaker limit. All votes were unanimous. The board also approved the February 15, 2022 meeting minutes.

• Approved February 15, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted updated public comment rules with 3-minute speaker limit (unanimous)
• Accepted appointments/reappointments of directors Balkema, Bostrom, Salas, Hoffman, Harrison, Calderon-Huezo, Lonberg (unanimous)
• Appointed officers: President Calderon-Huezo, Vice President Ritsema, Treasurer Carrel, Secretary Miller (unanimous)
• Appointed Executive and Finance Committee members for one-year term (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The session includes a presentation on real estate and economic development financing and processes.

• Presentation on Real Estate and Economic Development Financing and Processes

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on economic development tools and processes, including brownfield redevelopment and TIF districts. Staff previewed a proposed Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) with Graphic Packaging International, which would include a community engagement liaison, job fairs, and a $60,000 annual community investment grant fund. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Received presentation on economic development tools and processes (no vote)
• Heard preview of proposed Community Benefits Agreement with Graphic Packaging International (no vote)

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on several water system improvements, including a $5 million bond ordinance and a State of Michigan loan application. The body is also reviewing a $1 million ARPA funding allocation for the Youth Development Fund and a Community Benefits Agreement with Graphic Packaging International, LLC.

• Ordinance for Water Supply System Revenue Bonds, Series 2022B not to exceed $5,000,000
• Budget amendment to allocate $1 million of ARPA funding for Youth Development Fund Phase 1
• Contract with Anlaan Corporation for 2022 Sidewalk Improvement Program for $1,152,771
• Purchase order with Balkema Excavating, Inc. for 2022 New Water Service Installation Project for $1,049,063.30
• Contract with Ferguson Water Works for Neptune Water Meters for $627,318.59

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved a $1 million ARPA budget amendment for Phase I of the Youth Development Fund, which includes a Police Athletic League and expanded summer programming. The commission also adopted a water system improvements project plan, authorized $5 million in water supply system revenue bonds, and approved a $1.15 million sidewalk improvement contract. The proposed Community Benefits Agreement with Graphic Packaging International received no motion and died for lack of a motion.

• Approved $1M ARPA budget amendment for Youth Development Fund Phase I (unanimous)
• Adopted final Project Plan for water system improvements (unanimous)
• Authorized $5M Water Supply System Revenue Bonds, Series 2022B (unanimous)
• Approved $1,152,771 contract with Anlaan Corp for 2022 Sidewalk Improvement Program (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,049,063 water service installation and $627,318 water meters (unanimous)
• Approved reappointments to Community Development Act Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Community Benefits Agreement with Graphic Packaging died for lack of a motion

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on five variance requests. These include proposals for a marihuana processor and lounge, a mobile home park redevelopment, and various business signs and daycare operations.

• ZBA #22-03-08: Use variance for mobile home park redevelopment at 3400 Stadium Drive
• ZBA #22-03-09: Dimensional variance for a 32 square foot sign at 3433 Oakland Drive
• ZBA #22-04-11: Dimensional variance for a 9 square foot sign at 437 Stone Street
• ZBA #22-04-12: Use and location variances for a group daycare at 667 Carr Street
• ZBA #22-04-13: Use and distance variances for a marihuana processor, retailer, and lounge at 231 E. Ransom Street

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a special use permit for a transitional residence and proposed text amendments to the Chapter 50 Zoning Code. The body will also review minutes from the March 3, 2022 meeting.

• Public hearing for special use permit for a transitional residence at 116 Fellows Avenue (P.C. #2022.02)
• Public hearing for City Staff proposed text amendments to Chapter 50 Zoning Code (PC # 2022.03)

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of text amendments to Chapter 50 of the Zoning Code, which include changes to bed-and-breakfast definitions, parking requirements, ground-floor residential uses in the CC district, and marihuana facility regulations. The public hearing for a special use permit at 116 Fellows Avenue was adjourned to the May meeting at the applicant's request. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended approval of Chapter 50 Zoning Code text amendments (unanimous)
• Adjourned special use permit hearing for 116 Fellows Avenue to May meeting (unanimous)
• Approved April 7, 2022 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 3, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The agenda focuses on a presentation regarding Cradle Kalamazoo and an update on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

• Cradle Kalamazoo presentation
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion update

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received two presentations: one from Cradle Kalamazoo on infant mortality and social determinants of health, and another on the City's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) assessment. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with commissioners discussing potential actions and next steps. The DEI assessment report is available on the City's website, and MPHI is contracted for another month of listening sessions.

• Received presentation from Cradle Kalamazoo on infant mortality (no action taken)
• Received presentation on DEI assessment from MPHI (no action taken)
• Noted DEI assessment report available on City website
• Noted MPHI contracted for another month of listening sessions

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to vote on a consent agenda featuring multiple infrastructure projects and service contracts. Key items include water service replacements and the purchase of city equipment. The body will also set salaries for city appointees.

• Two contracts with Five Star Energy Services for Northside #1 Non-Copper Water Service Replacement totaling $4,611,517
• Contract with Balkema Excavating, Inc. for Angling Road Culvert Replacement for $814,500.90
• Contract with Best Way Disposal, Inc. for residential brush collection for $395,010
• Purchase of an Elgin Pelican Street Sweeper for $238,981
• Resolution setting salaries for the City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, and Internal Auditor

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved a consent agenda and two regular agenda items for the Northside #1 Non-Copper Water Service Replacement Project, totaling $4.6 million. The consent agenda included contracts for street sweeping, brush collection, and other services. Commissioner Praedel abstained from one consent item due to a conflict of interest.

• Approved consent agenda unanimously, including $146,000 traffic signal supplies change order
• Approved $125,000 change order with Jones & Henry Engineers for odor control project rebidding
• Approved $151,404 three-year contract with iParametrics for COVID-19 recovery funds consulting
• Approved $216,975 one-year contract extension with Alexander Chemical for liquid chlorine
• Approved $238,981 purchase of Elgin Pelican Street Sweeper
• Approved $264,350 agreement with Prein & Newhof for water system improvements
• Approved $395,010 three-year contract with Best Way Disposal for brush collection
• Approved $1,466,072 supplemental and $3,145,445 contract with Five Star Energy Services for Northside water service replacement (both unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The primary focus of the meeting is a work session regarding the Foundation for Excellence 2022 Look Ahead.

• Work session: Foundation for Excellence 2022 Look Ahead

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and heard a presentation on the Foundation for Excellence's 2022 year look ahead, including plans for endowment funding in 2023. No formal decisions were made; the only action was excusing Commissioner Decker's absence. The meeting also reviewed the upcoming strategic calendar.

• Excused Commissioner Decker's absence (voice vote)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to vote on a consent agenda featuring 20 items. These include various professional services agreements, equipment purchases, and board appointments.

• Contract with Rieth-Riley Construction Co., Inc. for $719,035.79 for Miller Road (Emerald to Sprinkle) improvements
• Three-year contract with Monoform, LLC for sanitary sewer manhole rehabilitation totaling $929,580
• Contract extension with Rieth-Riley Construction Co., Inc for asphalt paving materials for $1,188,100
• Purchase of seven Public Safety fleet vehicles from Gorno Ford for $247,863
• Lease agreement with Timberline Farms, LLC for 22 acres of City-owned property at G Avenue and North 6th Street

The Kalamazoo City Commission approved the consent agenda, which included numerous contracts and purchases, and made appointments to the Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors. The consent agenda passed unanimously, with one abstention on a specific item. The FFE board appointments passed 5-0 with one abstention.

• Approved consent agenda with contracts and purchases (unanimous)
• Approved FFE Board appointments and nominations (5-0, Juarez abstained)
• Excused Commissioner Decker's absence (voice vote)
• Adopted meeting agenda with change to move Item G-18 to Regular Agenda (unanimous consent)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three variance requests. These include a request to redevelop a mobile home park and dimensional variances for a garage and a freestanding sign.

• ZBA #22-03-07: Dimensional variance for a 5-foot rear yard setback for a detached garage at 2609 and 2621 Amherst Avenue
• ZBA #22-03-08: Use variance to authorize redevelopment of a mobile home park at 3400 Stadium Drive
• ZBA #22-03-09: Dimensional variance for a 6-foot high, 32 square foot freestanding sign at 3433 Oakland Drive

City Commission

The City Commission is reviewing several service contracts for public safety and landfill sites. The body is also discussing affordable housing funding and updates to city codes and public meeting mask rules.

• Contract with NTH Consultants for Allied Paper Landfill site for $225,000
• Contract with Allied Mechanical Services, Inc. for Station 11 Filter Upgrades Project for $627,400
• Grant agreements with Kalamazoo Neighborhood Housing Services for $750,000
• Proposed ordinance amending Chapter 30 of the City Code regarding Soil Erosion and Sediment Control
• Resolution to make face masks optional at public meetings of the City

The Kalamazoo City Commission voted 6-1 to make face masks optional at public meetings, with Commissioner Praedel dissenting. They also approved a consent agenda including contracts for the Allied Paper Landfill, Public Safety Station 2, and other projects, and adopted resolutions for a liquor license, a DNR grant application, and a PILOT for the Rose St. Senior housing project. The commission released the draft PY2022 Action Plan for public comment and scheduled a public hearing for the Northside Cultural Business District Authority's TIF plan.

• Approved consent agenda with contracts for Allied Paper Landfill ($225,000), Station 2 ($439,700), Station 11 filter upgrades ($627,400), and others (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 30 to comply with state law (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution making face masks optional at public meetings (6-1)
• Approved release of draft PY2022 Action Plan for 30-day public comment (6-0, Praedel abstained)
• Adopted resolution scheduling public hearing for NCBDA Development and TIF Plan (unanimous)
• Approved PILOT for Rose St. Senior project at 530 S. Rose Street (unanimous)
• Authorized Mayor to sign letters of support for Morrow Dam legislation (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will vote to elect a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. The body will also consider amendments to its bylaws and a vote to delegate Site Plan Review to the Site Plan Review Committee.

• Vote on Commission Officers (Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary)
• PC #2022.01: Bylaw Amendments
• Annual vote to delegate Site Plan Review to the Site Plan Review Committee

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to delegate site plan review to the Site Plan Review Committee for the year, and re-elected its officers. It also adopted amendments to its bylaws, including changing 'Citizens Comments' to 'Public Comment' and removing the specified speaking time limit, plus consolidating the public comment periods. No public hearings were held.

• Delegated site plan review to the Site Plan Review Committee (unanimous)
• Re-elected Gregory Milliken as Chair, Sakhi Vyas as Vice Chair, and Brian Pittelko as Secretary (unanimous)
• Adopted bylaw amendments changing 'Citizens Comments' to 'Public Comment' and removing the four-minute speaking limit (unanimous)
• Adopted bylaw amendment to consolidate public comment periods, striking one of two sections (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the work session is a presentation regarding a community report on deer management.

• Presentation of a Community Report on Deer Management by an Ad Hoc, Community-Led Committee

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on the report 'Addressing the Urban Deer Population in Kalamazoo: Comprehensive Deer Management Program – Report and Recommendations' from Peter Kushner, Chair of the Neighborhood Association Ad Hoc Committee. No formal decisions were made; the City Administration said it would have staff digest the report and present recommendations and next steps. Staff noted several steps could be taken without Commission approval, including creating an educational website, educating residents on fence rules, assisting with reporting feeding violations, and removing deer carcasses. Commissioner Hess requested an update in six months.

• Excused Commissioner Juarez's absence by voice vote
• Received the deer management report and recommendations from the Neighborhood Association Ad Hoc Committee
• Took no action on the deer management report; staff will digest it and present recommendations
• Noted staff can proceed with educational website, fence rule education, feeding violation reporting, and carcass removal without Commission approval
• Commissioner Hess requested a six-month update on deer management

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on ordinances to change drinking water and wastewater rates. The body is also considering the issuance of several revenue and refunding bonds totaling over $140 million. Other items include various service contracts and board appointments.

• Water Supply System Revenue Bonds not to exceed $34,000,000
• Wastewater Supply System Revenue Bonds not to exceed $28,000,000
• 2022 Refunding Bonds (Limited Tax General Obligation) in the amount of $79,600,000
• Sole source purchase with Ferguson Water Works for Neptune Water Meters for $700,000
• Cost Share Agreement with City of Portage for $190,915.12 for water main replacement on Lovers Lane

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved ordinances raising water and wastewater rates, with the wastewater ordinance amended to allow industrial users to opt out of the SHARES program. It also authorized the issuance of up to $34 million in water revenue bonds, $28 million in wastewater revenue bonds, and $79.6 million in refunding bonds, plus a $6.5 million OPEB refunding bond resolution. The consent agenda, including a $190,915.12 cost-share agreement with Portage for water main replacement on Lovers Lane, was approved unanimously. A first reading was held for a soil erosion ordinance update to comply with state law.

• Adopted water rate ordinance (unanimous)
• Adopted wastewater rate ordinance with SHARES opt-out (unanimous)
• Approved $34M water revenue bonds (unanimous)
• Approved $28M wastewater revenue bonds (unanimous)
• Approved $79.6M refunding bonds (unanimous)
• Approved $6.5M OPEB refunding bonds (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $190,915.12 Portage cost-share (unanimous)
• Held first reading of soil erosion ordinance (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a work session to discuss the body's priorities. No other substantive items are listed for decision or discussion.

• Discussion regarding City Commission priorities

The Kalamazoo City Commission met in a special Committee of the Whole retreat on February 19, 2022, to discuss priorities including affordable housing, gun violence, and youth development. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion and planning. Commissioners agreed on five main priorities—Economic Impact/Economy, Infrastructure, Housing, Youth, and Safety—and decided to make them a standing agenda item. They also agreed to hold monthly or every-other-month listening sessions in the community to improve communication with residents.

• Agreed to make the five priorities (Economic Impact/Economy, Infrastructure, Housing, Youth, Safety) a standing item for discussion on City Commission meeting agendas.
• Agreed that City Commissioners would hold monthly or every-other-month listening sessions in the community to engage residents.
• Directed Deputy City Manager Lam to coordinate with Commissioners Decker and Praedel on the listening sessions and communication.
• Agreed that Economic Development staff would coordinate Commissioner involvement in business-related ribbon cutting events.
• Staff to develop strategic plans for each priority, including low-cost, high-impact strategies.
• No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a discussion and planning session.

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Board of Directors is meeting to review reports from the Finance, Executive, and staff committees. The agenda includes a transition back to in-person meetings.

• Return to in-person meetings
• Approval of December 20, 2021 minutes
• Finance Committee Report
• Executive Committee Report
• Staff Reports

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Board discussed endowment spending, with consensus to have the Finance Committee research the issue and provide a recommendation. A draft annual grant agreement between the FFE and City was shared for feedback, with finalization planned for the April Annual Meeting. The board also noted plans for the FFE's 5th anniversary in October 2022, website updates, logo trademarking, and filling board vacancies. No public comments were received, and the meeting adjourned at 3:32 pm.

• Approved minutes of the December 20, 2021 board meeting by unanimous voice vote.
• Reached consensus to have the Finance Committee research endowment spending and provide a recommendation to the full board.
• Discussed a draft annual Grant Agreement between FFE and City, with feedback requested before finalizing at the April Annual Meeting.
• Noted plans for FFE's 5th anniversary presentations at City Commission Committee of the Whole meetings in October 2022.
• Reported that recommendations will be forthcoming to fill existing board vacancies, anticipated by the April Annual Meeting.
• Acknowledged that the agreement with the national fund-raising organization expired in December and was not renewed.
• Consensus that stakeholder-area experience is crucial for evaluating applicants for board vacancies.
• Adjourned the meeting at 3:32 pm.

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Finance Committee is meeting to review endowment projections and approve previous meeting minutes. The agenda also includes a discussion on returning to in-person meetings.

• Staff report on endowment projections
• Approval of December 20, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approval of January 31, 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion on return to in-person meetings

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on four variance requests. These include requests to divide lots for housing, install a school sign, and allow specific residential uses.

• ZBA #22-01-01: Request for 2,635 square foot lot area variance at 114 and 120 Burr Oak Street to divide two lots into three
• ZBA #22-02-04: Request for a 62 square foot freestanding sign at 1000 W. Kilgore Road
• ZBA #22-02-05: Use variance for a Bed and Breakfast at 121 Fellows Avenue
• ZBA #22-02-06: Renewal of use variance for 60 residential units on ground floors at Lake Street and E. Stockbridge Avenue

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting for a Committee of the Whole session. The primary focus of the work session is a presentation regarding affordable housing.

• Presentation on Affordable Housing

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on affordable housing from the W.E. Upjohn Institute and partners. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the discussion was informational, with plans to continue at a retreat on February 19. Commissioners requested the housing survey be provided in Spanish and considered reparations for BIPOC in housing strategies.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at this Committee of the Whole meeting
• Commissioner Decker requested housing survey be provided in Spanish
• Commissioner Hoffman requested reparations for BIPOC be considered in housing strategies
• City Manager announced affordable housing discussion to continue at February 19 retreat

City Commission

The City Commission is reviewing several infrastructure contracts and professional service agreements. The body is also considering ordinances to change drinking water and wastewater rates.

• Contract with Michigan Department of Transportation for Stadium Drive Project: $2,854,723.70
• Farmers' Market Improvement Project change order: $170,351.00
• Grant for Tiny Houses of Hope project: $100,000.00
• Ordinances to change drinking water and wastewater rates
• Tasting room permits for Saugatuck Brewing Company at 200 East Michigan Avenue

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously approved a $100,000 grant agreement with the Northside Association for Community Development for the Tiny Houses of Hope project, which will provide three tiny homes for marginalized individuals. The commission also approved a collective bargaining agreement with the Kalamazoo Public Safety Officers Association after a closed session. All consent agenda items, including contracts and grants, were approved unanimously.

• Approved $100,000 grant for Tiny Houses of Hope project (unanimous)
• Approved collective bargaining agreement with Kalamazoo Public Safety Officers Association (unanimous)
• Approved $170,351 change order for Farmers' Market Improvement Project (unanimous)
• Approved $2,854,723.70 MDOT contract for Stadium Drive Project (unanimous)
• Approved $388,500 agreement with OHM Advisors for Westnedge Avenue improvements (unanimous)
• Approved $259,900 contract extension with Premier Lawn and Snow for cemetery maintenance (unanimous)
• Approved $105,000 agreement with Prein & Newhof for Big Rock Water Main Extension (unanimous)
• Approved $102,750 contract extension with PVS Technologies for ferric chloride (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to review bylaw amendments regarding public comment. The body will also review the 2021 Site Plan Review Project List.

• PC #2022.1: Bylaw Amendments regarding public comment
• Review of 2021 Site Plan Review Project List

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Finance Committee met on January 31, 2022, but a quorum was not present. No business was conducted, and the meeting was adjourned after one minute. No decisions were made.

Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors

The Foundation for Excellence Board of Directors is meeting to discuss returning to in-person meetings. The board will also review a draft annual memorandum of understanding between the City and the FFE.

• Return to in-person meetings
• Draft annual memorandum of understanding between City and FFE
• Approval of February 15, 2022 Board Agenda

The Kalamazoo Foundation for Excellence Executive Committee met on January 31, 2022, and approved the previous meeting's minutes and the agenda for the February 15 board meeting, both by unanimous voice vote. No other formal decisions were made; staff presented a draft memorandum of understanding for the 2023 annual grant for review only, and staff was asked to research virtual or proxy voting options.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for February 15 board meeting (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting. The primary focus of the work session is a presentation regarding proposed utility rates for 2022.

• Presentation on Proposed 2022 Utility Rates

The Kalamazoo City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole and received a presentation on proposed 2022 utility rates for water and wastewater. No formal decisions or votes were taken during this meeting; it was informational only. The presentation covered planned system upgrades, including lead service line replacement funded by a $5 million EGLE grant, and discussed rate-setting processes and customer assistance programs.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at this Committee of the Whole meeting

City Commission

The City Commission is deciding on the 2022 annual appropriation, including mill levies and budget administration policies. The body is also considering several professional service agreements, tax payments in lieu of taxes, and updated fee schedules for city departments.

• Professional services agreement with Jones & Henry Engineers, LTD for $967,000.00
• Payment in Lieu of Taxes for Kalamazoo Creamery Limited Dividend Housing Association at 1101 Portage Street
• FY 2022 budgets for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, DDA, EDC, and DEGA
• 2022 fee schedules for the Municipal Golf Association, Cemetery, and Parks and Recreation
• Utility easement agreement for water service at 935 East Vine Street

The Kalamazoo City Commission unanimously adopted the FY2022 budget, including component unit budgets and fee schedules, after adding $600,000 for affordable housing and removing an emergency management vehicle. The commission also approved the consent agenda, which included a $967,000 engineering services agreement and a resolution allowing Roca to operate in a social district. No items were denied or tabled.

• Adopted FY2022 budget resolution and fee schedules (unanimous)
• Approved $967,000 engineering services agreement with Jones & Henry Engineers (consent agenda)
• Approved resolution allowing Roca to operate in Social District and Commons Area (consent agenda)
• Approved utility easement agreement for 933 East Vine Street (consent agenda)
• Approved reappointments to Historic District Commission and Northside Cultural Business District Authority (consent agenda)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on three dimensional and use variance requests. The board will also discuss amendments to its Rules of Procedure regarding public comment.

• ZBA #22-01-01: Variance for 114 and 120 Burr Oak Street to divide two lots into three
• ZBA #22-01-03: Use and signage variance for TestHere.com mobile COVID-19 site at 3406 Stadium Drive
• ZBA #22-01-02: Impervious cover variance for mixed use project at 1616 E. Main Street/629 and 637 Edwin Avenue
• ZBA #22-01-04: Amendments to Rules of Procedure for public comment

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss changes to its bylaws regarding public comment. The body will also review the 2021 Site Plan Review Project List.

• PC # 2022.1: Bylaw Amendments regarding public comment
• Review of 2021 Site Plan Review Project List

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a public hearing to receive comments on the Fiscal Year 2022 Proposed Budget. The body is also voting on several infrastructure contracts and service agreements via a consent agenda.

• Contract with Davis Construction, Inc. for Kalamazoo Water Reclamation Plant’s Tertiary Disc Filtration Process Facility for $13,711,233
• Contract with Davis Construction Inc. for Stadium Drive Culvert replacement for $609,587.28
• Professional services agreement with Abonmarche Consultants, Inc. for Ransom Street Utility Upgrade & ROW Improvements design for $469,755.66
• Fuel contract extension with Kalamazoo Oil Inc. not to exceed $750,000
• Two-year contract extension with Eagle Claims Management for excess workers' compensation insurance for $418,141

The Kalamazoo City Commission voted unanimously to create a Youth Development Subcommittee, appointing Vice Mayor Don Cooney, Commissioner Jeanne Hess, and Commissioner Esteven Juarez as members. The subcommittee will explore significant investments in youth programs, with initial recommendations expected by spring. The Commission also approved the consent agenda, including several contracts and agreements, and heard public comments on the proposed FY2022 budget.

• Created Youth Development Subcommittee and appointed Cooney, Hess, Juarez (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $13.7M water reclamation plant contract (6-0)
• Approved $609,587.28 contract with Davis Construction for Stadium Drive culvert replacement
• Approved $469,755.66 agreement with Abonmarche for Ransom Street utility upgrade design
• Approved $418,141 two-year contract extension with Eagle Claims Management
• Approved $750,000 fuel contract extension with Kalamazoo Oil Inc.
• Approved easement to Consumers Energy at 2740 N. 6th Street
• Approved minutes of December 6, 2021 meeting