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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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