1 00:01:20,365 --> 00:01:20,715 Sorry. 2 00:01:21,175 --> 00:01:24,435 I'm gonna call to order the Kalamazoo County Board 3 00:01:24,435 --> 00:01:27,635 of Commissioners regular business meeting 4 00:01:29,615 --> 00:01:30,755 for February 17th. 5 00:01:30,885 --> 00:01:32,915 Let's bring forth item number one, 6 00:01:33,385 --> 00:01:35,155 certain indication and reflection. 7 00:01:35,775 --> 00:01:37,355 We will hear from Commissioner G. 8 00:01:42,775 --> 00:01:43,835 Please pray with me. 9 00:01:44,955 --> 00:01:46,125 Lord, grant us the wisdom 10 00:01:46,225 --> 00:01:48,565 to govern amid the conflicting interests 11 00:01:48,565 --> 00:01:49,725 and issues of our times. 12 00:01:50,675 --> 00:01:52,405 Also, grant us a sense of the welfare 13 00:01:52,665 --> 00:01:54,245 and true needs of our citizens. 14 00:01:54,785 --> 00:01:57,205 And a keen thirst for justice and righteousness. 15 00:01:58,215 --> 00:02:01,285 Grant us confidence in what is good and fitting 16 00:02:01,865 --> 00:02:05,965 and the ability to together work in harmony 17 00:02:06,635 --> 00:02:08,605 even when there is honest disagreement. 18 00:02:09,215 --> 00:02:12,665 Finally, grant us the personal piece to do the job 19 00:02:12,695 --> 00:02:13,705 that needs to be done. 20 00:02:14,575 --> 00:02:15,575 Amen. 21 00:02:39,875 --> 00:02:41,175 All right, item three, clerk, 22 00:02:41,175 --> 00:02:42,415 will you please call the role 23 00:02:44,315 --> 00:02:45,635 Commissioner Duluth? 24 00:02:46,085 --> 00:02:47,735 Here. Commissioner Gz. 25 00:02:48,245 --> 00:02:52,295 Here, Vice Chair Pro. Tem Heppler. Commissioner Maser. 26 00:02:52,365 --> 00:02:56,295 Here. Commissioner Morales Present. Commissioner Ray. 27 00:02:56,295 --> 00:02:58,135 Present Chair. Res 28 00:02:58,625 --> 00:02:59,625 Chair. 29 00:02:59,755 --> 00:03:01,165 Vice Chair Taylor Here. 30 00:03:01,775 --> 00:03:03,255 Commissioner Wheeler here. 31 00:03:03,665 --> 00:03:06,395 Eight present. Thank you. 32 00:03:06,415 --> 00:03:09,595 And I did hear from Vice Chair Pro Tem. He is doing fine. 33 00:03:10,255 --> 00:03:13,515 And just out of town this evening. Is he out? What? 34 00:03:13,615 --> 00:03:16,195 He is not. He's out of the community. He's not in town. 35 00:03:16,415 --> 00:03:19,715 Oh, he go back. Oh. Alright. 36 00:03:20,025 --> 00:03:22,315 Item four is for proclamations. We have none this evening. 37 00:03:23,745 --> 00:03:26,275 Item five, we're in receipt of communications. 38 00:03:27,605 --> 00:03:31,425 So we have item 20 26, 286 St. 39 00:03:31,425 --> 00:03:35,225 Joseph County, resolution number 1 0 7 2 20 26. 40 00:03:35,625 --> 00:03:39,105 Opposing any legislation preempting local control 41 00:03:39,165 --> 00:03:41,825 for the construction of data centers 42 00:03:41,965 --> 00:03:43,705 or battery storage facilities. 43 00:03:45,405 --> 00:03:50,095 Item 20 26 2 67 KVCC correspondence 44 00:03:50,095 --> 00:03:52,215 regarding tech trades renovation 45 00:03:52,715 --> 00:03:57,175 and expansion contribution 20 26 2 69 46 00:03:58,055 --> 00:04:02,775 Kalkaska County resolution in support of house bills 51 52 47 00:04:03,595 --> 00:04:04,895 and 51 53. 48 00:04:06,045 --> 00:04:10,455 Item 20 26 2 73 Discover Kalamazoo's quarter 49 00:04:10,645 --> 00:04:13,175 4 20 25 Quarterly report. 50 00:04:14,395 --> 00:04:19,135 20 26 2 91 Public notice of public hearing 51 00:04:19,715 --> 00:04:21,655 for the Michigan Public Service Commission 52 00:04:22,285 --> 00:04:24,215 that will hold a hearing to consider 53 00:04:24,925 --> 00:04:29,535 Indiana Michigan Power Company's October 6th, 2025. 54 00:04:29,645 --> 00:04:32,855 Amended application item 55 00:04:32,975 --> 00:04:35,535 26 3 0 2. 56 00:04:35,635 --> 00:04:39,535 Letter from Shiloh announcing their closure 57 00:04:40,325 --> 00:04:43,735 effective March 31st of 26. 58 00:04:45,445 --> 00:04:48,415 Item 26, 3 0 3 Notice of hearing for customers. 59 00:04:49,165 --> 00:04:52,815 Case number U2 2 0 0 6 60 00:04:53,485 --> 00:04:58,365 Comcast Corporation and item 20 26 3 12. 61 00:04:59,325 --> 00:05:02,365 A letter of support in the investment in early childhood 62 00:05:02,825 --> 00:05:04,965 health from the YWCA. 63 00:05:06,695 --> 00:05:08,615 Item six. I'd entertain approval of our minutes. 64 00:05:14,015 --> 00:05:16,715 Motion made by Commissioner Morales is supported 65 00:05:16,735 --> 00:05:20,795 by Commissioner Wheeler for approval of the February 3rd, 66 00:05:20,795 --> 00:05:23,395 26th committee of the whole in regular meeting minutes. 67 00:05:24,575 --> 00:05:25,675 Any further discussion? 68 00:05:27,015 --> 00:05:30,875 All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? 69 00:05:31,895 --> 00:05:34,665 That motion carries. We'll go to item seven. 70 00:05:35,335 --> 00:05:36,585 It's approval of the agenda. 71 00:05:36,585 --> 00:05:38,025 Commissioner Wheeler, you have a motion. 72 00:05:38,675 --> 00:05:41,905 Thank you Chair. I move that we add a consideration 73 00:05:41,965 --> 00:05:44,705 of the MOU between Western Michigan University 74 00:05:44,765 --> 00:05:46,865 and the county concerning the asylum like 75 00:05:47,105 --> 00:05:48,225 preserve to new business. 76 00:05:51,765 --> 00:05:54,545 Motion is made by Commissioner Wheeler, supported 77 00:05:55,045 --> 00:05:56,145 by Vice Chair Taylor. 78 00:05:56,725 --> 00:06:00,935 Any further discussion? Seeing none. 79 00:06:00,955 --> 00:06:03,735 All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. 80 00:06:04,315 --> 00:06:07,365 Any opposed? That motion carries. 81 00:06:08,255 --> 00:06:10,365 Right now I'd entertain a motion for approval 82 00:06:10,365 --> 00:06:12,125 of the agenda as amended. So 83 00:06:12,125 --> 00:06:13,125 Moved. 84 00:06:13,125 --> 00:06:16,845 Support motion made by Vice Chair Taylor, supported 85 00:06:16,845 --> 00:06:19,485 by Commissioner Wheeler approval of the agenda. 86 00:06:19,545 --> 00:06:20,565 Any further discussion? 87 00:06:21,715 --> 00:06:25,825 Those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Aye. Any opposed? 88 00:06:26,615 --> 00:06:27,665 That motion carries. 89 00:06:28,655 --> 00:06:31,305 Item eight, opportunity for presentations. We have none. 90 00:06:31,695 --> 00:06:35,305 Item nine for public hearings. We have none For item 10. 91 00:06:36,325 --> 00:06:39,305 Public comment. Public comment can be made in person 92 00:06:39,485 --> 00:06:44,345 or by phone at (855) 925-2801. 93 00:06:45,195 --> 00:06:47,625 Enter meeting code 1 0 7 4 8 94 00:06:48,445 --> 00:06:50,145 and press star three to join the queue. 95 00:06:51,095 --> 00:06:53,545 Wish to speak during both public comment periods. 96 00:06:54,205 --> 00:06:56,785 You must press star three again anytime 97 00:06:57,635 --> 00:06:59,705 after the first public comment period is ended. 98 00:07:01,025 --> 00:07:03,395 This is your first opportunity to address the board for up 99 00:07:03,395 --> 00:07:05,355 to three minutes in a professional 100 00:07:05,355 --> 00:07:06,995 and respectful manner on any topic. 101 00:07:07,745 --> 00:07:09,075 Once recognized, please share 102 00:07:09,075 --> 00:07:10,115 your name and where you're from. 103 00:07:11,435 --> 00:07:13,615 Do we have anyone wishing to make a public comment? 104 00:07:18,395 --> 00:07:21,335 Seeing none. Administrator. All right. 105 00:07:21,335 --> 00:07:23,655 We have no one online. All right. 106 00:07:23,655 --> 00:07:25,335 With that we will close our public comment. 107 00:07:26,305 --> 00:07:27,575 Let's go to item 11. 108 00:07:28,275 --> 00:07:31,135 The our consent agenda Entertain a motion. 109 00:07:40,065 --> 00:07:44,905 I move that we except or pass all consent agenda items 110 00:07:45,085 --> 00:07:46,545 and vote on 'em at one time 111 00:07:46,605 --> 00:07:48,945 and be considered A consent agenda by the board. 112 00:07:51,765 --> 00:07:54,225 Motion is made by Vice Chair Taylor, supported 113 00:07:54,225 --> 00:07:55,465 by Commissioner Ulu. 114 00:07:56,405 --> 00:08:00,365 Any further discussion? Right. 115 00:08:01,445 --> 00:08:02,645 Clerk, will you please call the role 116 00:08:05,005 --> 00:08:06,495 Vice chair ProAm Heppler. 117 00:08:06,735 --> 00:08:10,905 Commissioner Maser? Yes. Commissioner Morales? Yes. 118 00:08:11,185 --> 00:08:13,945 Commissioner Ray? Yes. Chair STRs? 119 00:08:14,685 --> 00:08:18,665 Yes. Vice-Chair Taylor? Yes. Commissioner Wheeler? Yes. 120 00:08:18,825 --> 00:08:23,025 Commissioner Dlo? Yes. Commissioner Giesler? Yes. A yes. 121 00:08:24,825 --> 00:08:29,465 All that motion carries and we'll move on to item 12. 122 00:08:29,465 --> 00:08:32,105 Unfinished business and general orders. We have none. 123 00:08:33,095 --> 00:08:35,505 Item 13, new business non-consent. 124 00:08:36,395 --> 00:08:38,065 First is a discussion on the board 125 00:08:38,065 --> 00:08:40,585 of commissioners regular board meeting time. 126 00:08:42,255 --> 00:08:44,905 Alright, so I ask this to come back 127 00:08:45,245 --> 00:08:47,255 for some discussion. 128 00:08:47,275 --> 00:08:49,895 We are hitting semi frequent 129 00:08:51,345 --> 00:08:54,935 times when our committee of the whole session is running 130 00:08:56,255 --> 00:08:59,325 right into our regular meeting where we have 131 00:08:59,325 --> 00:09:00,605 to convene recess. 132 00:09:03,145 --> 00:09:04,325 And so we, you know, 133 00:09:04,325 --> 00:09:06,485 it does seem like we need a little bit more space, 134 00:09:07,945 --> 00:09:10,845 but I wanna open up to some suggestions from the board. 135 00:09:11,825 --> 00:09:15,525 One is moving the regular business time back. 136 00:09:15,995 --> 00:09:19,085 Another is moving the start of the cow forward. 137 00:09:20,155 --> 00:09:22,005 Both could accomplish the same thing, 138 00:09:22,065 --> 00:09:25,925 but it's also about the availability of the board. 139 00:09:26,605 --> 00:09:28,605 I think it is good for us to have an opportunity 140 00:09:28,605 --> 00:09:32,405 to have a break and for the community to sort of know what 141 00:09:32,405 --> 00:09:35,405 to expect about when our meetings convene. 142 00:09:35,665 --> 00:09:37,485 So I'd open up to any comments. 143 00:09:39,785 --> 00:09:42,865 Commissioner ler and then Commissioner Deli. 144 00:09:43,785 --> 00:09:48,025 Thank you Chair. I haven't kept records myself, 145 00:09:48,205 --> 00:09:52,985 but how many times did we run long in the cow 146 00:09:53,565 --> 00:09:56,625 to the point where it was a problem getting, you know, 147 00:09:56,675 --> 00:09:59,025 going again in the regular board? 148 00:09:59,765 --> 00:10:01,945 Or how many times have we been like, 149 00:10:01,945 --> 00:10:03,305 tonight was almost perfect. 150 00:10:03,845 --> 00:10:06,305 We know 20, 22 minutes between meetings 151 00:10:06,305 --> 00:10:09,985 and we were done even including a, a special session. 152 00:10:10,845 --> 00:10:14,625 So I I I don't think it's a problem yet. 153 00:10:14,785 --> 00:10:17,985 I, we have definitely had some times when, you know, 154 00:10:18,005 --> 00:10:21,345 we were going way over on the four o'clock, 155 00:10:21,525 --> 00:10:25,985 but I, I'm, I'm willing to keep track or have Dina go back 156 00:10:26,085 --> 00:10:28,025 and tell us what it was. 157 00:10:28,875 --> 00:10:30,025 Maybe I'm all wet, 158 00:10:30,085 --> 00:10:34,305 but you know, I I kinda like the, the breaks 159 00:10:34,455 --> 00:10:37,225 that we get now, they're usually minimal. 160 00:10:37,705 --> 00:10:39,905 Occasionally they're large, you know, we've had some where, 161 00:10:40,865 --> 00:10:45,745 I don't know, we, we get an hour or more between meetings 162 00:10:45,845 --> 00:10:47,505 and, you know, what are you gonna do? 163 00:10:48,925 --> 00:10:50,225 And we don't have a McDonald's 164 00:10:50,225 --> 00:10:51,745 to run across the street too anymore. 165 00:10:52,885 --> 00:10:54,825 If I, I won't chime in there. 166 00:10:54,825 --> 00:10:56,385 You I Commissioner OU and then, 167 00:10:57,285 --> 00:11:00,025 No, I initially brought this up, I think it was last year 168 00:11:00,025 --> 00:11:03,295 and I thought it would be preferred by the board 169 00:11:03,295 --> 00:11:04,615 and the staff actually 170 00:11:04,885 --> 00:11:07,215 that we started earlier so we could get out earlier. 171 00:11:09,585 --> 00:11:10,705 I don't have a problem with, 172 00:11:10,945 --> 00:11:12,745 I like Commissioner Gissler said, 173 00:11:12,785 --> 00:11:16,335 I think there's more times than not we have just the amount, 174 00:11:16,395 --> 00:11:18,735 amount of time or even a little extra time in 175 00:11:18,735 --> 00:11:20,375 between meetings and I don't think it's been an issue 176 00:11:20,375 --> 00:11:24,815 running over too often, but if you wanna start earlier 177 00:11:25,035 --> 00:11:29,155 or I'm retired now, so it's kind of up 178 00:11:29,155 --> 00:11:30,795 to the working class on the board here 179 00:11:30,795 --> 00:11:32,675 to decide if they wanna start earlier or not. 180 00:11:32,675 --> 00:11:35,835 He's really old. Yeah, I'm so, 181 00:11:36,215 --> 00:11:37,795 but I'm open to discussion. 182 00:11:37,915 --> 00:11:39,235 I, and I just have a, I asked some 183 00:11:39,235 --> 00:11:41,955 of the board members earlier and maybe administration 184 00:11:42,015 --> 00:11:44,355 or council can, what is the problem 185 00:11:44,535 --> 00:11:46,875 or why don't we just have one meeting? 186 00:11:47,315 --> 00:11:49,475 I know other municipalities 187 00:11:49,615 --> 00:11:52,875 and jurisdictions have one meeting as opposed to two when 188 00:11:52,875 --> 00:11:53,875 They used to have two. 189 00:11:53,875 --> 00:11:57,325 And is there a, is it a, is it in the statute, 190 00:11:57,505 --> 00:11:59,725 the bylaws is there, what's the main purpose? 191 00:12:00,955 --> 00:12:02,765 Yeah, it's just a matter of our bylaws 192 00:12:02,765 --> 00:12:04,405 and they, those are really up to the board 193 00:12:04,505 --> 00:12:06,525 to amend and create. 194 00:12:06,785 --> 00:12:09,205 So, you know, as we all know, it's the, 195 00:12:09,205 --> 00:12:13,445 just the typical practice we discuss at a cow at one session 196 00:12:13,545 --> 00:12:17,405 and then normally move the item at the regular business 197 00:12:17,985 --> 00:12:21,645 in the second meeting or, or the next meeting in two weeks. 198 00:12:21,665 --> 00:12:22,725 But we don't always do that. 199 00:12:22,725 --> 00:12:26,845 There's times that we expedite items, 200 00:12:27,855 --> 00:12:29,645 items can be moved from the floor at any 201 00:12:29,645 --> 00:12:30,765 of the meetings anyway. 202 00:12:32,785 --> 00:12:36,645 So it, I mean we could refine it for board practice. 203 00:12:37,465 --> 00:12:40,245 One of the things, well let me, I have Commissioner Maer 204 00:12:40,245 --> 00:12:41,445 and then we'll hear from other 205 00:12:42,645 --> 00:12:45,055 Well I agree with the comments that have been made so far 206 00:12:45,055 --> 00:12:48,695 that I'd, I'd prefer to keep the same and not change it. 207 00:12:51,225 --> 00:12:52,585 Commissioner and vice chair Taylor, 208 00:12:53,925 --> 00:12:55,145 If we need to change it, 209 00:12:55,265 --> 00:12:57,105 I think we should change it on the, the front end. 210 00:12:57,495 --> 00:13:00,865 I've said this a lot of times I don't care that much, 211 00:13:01,815 --> 00:13:04,185 whether it's six 30 or seven o'clock 212 00:13:04,545 --> 00:13:05,825 provided we have the times to do it 213 00:13:05,885 --> 00:13:07,345 and to, to not, 214 00:13:07,485 --> 00:13:09,825 to not be the most popular person in the room 215 00:13:10,455 --> 00:13:11,505 instead of one meeting. 216 00:13:11,665 --> 00:13:13,025 I think we should have a lot more, 217 00:13:13,885 --> 00:13:16,305 we should probably have a standing finance committee, 218 00:13:16,465 --> 00:13:18,105 a standing buildings and grounds committee, 219 00:13:18,305 --> 00:13:20,545 a standing HR committee. 220 00:13:20,845 --> 00:13:22,705 So three and four commissioners can work 221 00:13:22,705 --> 00:13:25,665 with administration on specific particular topics 222 00:13:26,165 --> 00:13:27,585 and get more in depth 223 00:13:28,165 --> 00:13:31,665 and then have, you know, a once a meeting or once a month 224 00:13:31,685 --> 00:13:35,465 or maybe once a twice a month, regular, regular session. 225 00:13:36,125 --> 00:13:37,265 But I would like 226 00:13:37,265 --> 00:13:39,465 to personally like maybe only have committee 227 00:13:39,465 --> 00:13:40,745 of the whole one time a month 228 00:13:41,045 --> 00:13:42,705 and then have a lot more standing committees, 229 00:13:43,025 --> 00:13:44,985 whether it be finance, ARPA or anything else. 230 00:13:45,085 --> 00:13:47,745 And allows commissioners to kind of focus in on 231 00:13:47,745 --> 00:13:49,225 what their individual strengths are. 232 00:13:49,685 --> 00:13:51,465 But that's a big structural change 233 00:13:51,645 --> 00:13:53,425 and I don't think that's gonna be decided 234 00:13:53,485 --> 00:13:55,545 or done right now here at this point. 235 00:13:55,725 --> 00:13:58,105 But those, that's my 2 cents on it. 236 00:13:58,225 --> 00:14:00,145 I think as we move towards, 237 00:14:00,205 --> 00:14:03,145 and we have in the last three years moved towards more 238 00:14:03,145 --> 00:14:04,465 professional board and we start 239 00:14:04,665 --> 00:14:07,625 to assimilate more towards maybe what Washtenaw County 240 00:14:07,645 --> 00:14:10,105 or Wayne County or some of the bigger counties are doing. 241 00:14:10,575 --> 00:14:13,145 They're, they're more of a professionalized sort 242 00:14:13,145 --> 00:14:15,385 of aspect in that where commissioners 243 00:14:16,045 --> 00:14:17,795 while still have the committee of the whole 244 00:14:17,795 --> 00:14:18,955 and still have the regular session, 245 00:14:19,425 --> 00:14:22,395 they're subcommittees are way more granular 246 00:14:22,415 --> 00:14:26,635 and way more focused on individual like specific topics. 247 00:14:27,215 --> 00:14:30,475 So three or four commissioners would be really ingrained 248 00:14:30,695 --> 00:14:33,155 and really know their stuff on this topic. 249 00:14:33,355 --> 00:14:34,995 A different three or four commissioners would really 250 00:14:34,995 --> 00:14:36,155 know their stuff on this topic. 251 00:14:36,495 --> 00:14:38,395 And then you develop that trust when you get to 252 00:14:38,395 --> 00:14:41,875 that committee of the whole, the general like Tammy, 253 00:14:41,975 --> 00:14:44,435 you sat on that committee, what do you think about that? 254 00:14:44,535 --> 00:14:47,315 And I would, I would garner her feedback on something 255 00:14:47,315 --> 00:14:49,595 that maybe I particularly didn't know or vice versa. 256 00:14:51,095 --> 00:14:53,855 I, I'd, I'd like to see us move into that process 257 00:14:54,195 --> 00:14:56,415 but that's gonna take at least a year to try 258 00:14:56,415 --> 00:14:57,655 to formalize and everything else. 259 00:14:57,835 --> 00:14:59,695 But just throwing the bug up in the air. 260 00:15:01,095 --> 00:15:03,985 It's Interesting. Commissioner Morales, I think we need 261 00:15:03,985 --> 00:15:05,825 to take into considerate, I'm not opposed to that 262 00:15:05,885 --> 00:15:09,145 but take into consideration the rest 263 00:15:09,145 --> 00:15:10,345 of the committees that we're on. 264 00:15:10,365 --> 00:15:13,265 And for us folks it becomes an equity issue 265 00:15:13,265 --> 00:15:14,345 with the jobs that we have. 266 00:15:14,725 --> 00:15:18,385 So historically it's been designed for business owners 267 00:15:18,485 --> 00:15:21,145 to be able to take whatever time off they need 268 00:15:21,205 --> 00:15:22,345 to come to these meetings. 269 00:15:22,405 --> 00:15:25,625 But, and I'll speak for myself, you know, I have to take 270 00:15:26,295 --> 00:15:30,585 that PTO and you know, that other time to be able to come 271 00:15:30,645 --> 00:15:33,945 and unless a lot of those things will be offered online 272 00:15:35,985 --> 00:15:37,405 for somebody like myself in 273 00:15:37,405 --> 00:15:40,525 that working world would still have to make adjustments. 274 00:15:42,045 --> 00:15:45,655 I don't think going backwards for community whole, 275 00:15:45,655 --> 00:15:47,775 it's already a struggle for those at work. 276 00:15:47,845 --> 00:15:50,735 Nine to five or eight to five to get here at four. 277 00:15:50,835 --> 00:15:52,895 If anything I would say push it to five, 278 00:15:52,905 --> 00:15:55,895 which I'm probably not gonna get support on 279 00:15:58,405 --> 00:16:01,095 then you know, we could use less time and 280 00:16:01,475 --> 00:16:03,215 and also the community 281 00:16:03,215 --> 00:16:07,415 as they're on their ride their way home would be more prone 282 00:16:07,415 --> 00:16:08,495 to maybe stop by. 283 00:16:09,095 --> 00:16:11,775 A lot of folks aren't off work at four and 284 00:16:11,975 --> 00:16:15,695 although they can zoom in not quite with our 285 00:16:16,275 --> 00:16:18,655 ill technology that we have been struggling with, 286 00:16:18,795 --> 00:16:21,535 but it could afford other folks an opportunity to be more, 287 00:16:21,535 --> 00:16:24,815 to be more engaged as they drop their kids off to practice 288 00:16:25,395 --> 00:16:28,735 before five and maybe come and sit in at a meeting. 289 00:16:30,345 --> 00:16:33,855 Right now it for me it, it pushes a little bit going 290 00:16:34,005 --> 00:16:36,855 because we all have some tough topics that we do talk about 291 00:16:37,565 --> 00:16:40,735 that go past the, the six 30 today was okay 292 00:16:40,835 --> 00:16:43,015 but it still felt like only 20 minutes 293 00:16:43,685 --> 00:16:45,255 like my colleague couldn't get home 294 00:16:45,355 --> 00:16:47,535 to let her speak for herself. 295 00:16:47,855 --> 00:16:50,615 But for those that still have kids at home that are, 296 00:16:50,675 --> 00:16:53,175 you know, may have be nursing 297 00:16:53,435 --> 00:16:56,135 or you know, in between, it still makes it a little tough. 298 00:16:56,235 --> 00:16:57,135 So anyway, 299 00:17:00,205 --> 00:17:01,325 commissioner Ray, 300 00:17:01,765 --> 00:17:05,165 I guess I'll comment but I'm gonna say I agree 301 00:17:05,165 --> 00:17:06,845 with Commissioner Ulu, 302 00:17:06,845 --> 00:17:08,605 commissioner ler and Commissioner Mazer. 303 00:17:09,205 --> 00:17:11,725 I think that the six 30 time is a good time for us to start. 304 00:17:12,805 --> 00:17:15,085 I have noticed that we've had a lot more presentations 305 00:17:15,475 --> 00:17:17,605 that we don't actually have the presentations in our packet, 306 00:17:18,475 --> 00:17:19,805 just throwing that out there, being petty. 307 00:17:20,265 --> 00:17:25,165 But I believe we put presentations on a 308 00:17:25,165 --> 00:17:28,925 regular meeting agenda in case we had too many for the cow 309 00:17:28,945 --> 00:17:31,645 and I think we should start utilizing that space instead 310 00:17:31,645 --> 00:17:33,165 of having so many presentations 311 00:17:33,625 --> 00:17:34,805 at the committee of the whole meeting. 312 00:17:35,485 --> 00:17:38,245 Creating these long, drawing our meetings 313 00:17:39,435 --> 00:17:40,605 with lots of talking. 314 00:17:42,765 --> 00:17:44,465 So six 30 is fine 315 00:17:44,465 --> 00:17:48,555 for me. Thank you chair. 316 00:17:49,165 --> 00:17:51,245 Yeah with the pushing it on the front end, 317 00:17:51,245 --> 00:17:52,725 that's really hard for me it was my job. 318 00:17:52,965 --> 00:17:54,805 I mean I work 48 hour shifts 319 00:17:54,905 --> 00:17:58,365 and so having to take six hours off on a consistent six, 320 00:17:58,365 --> 00:18:01,485 seven hours off on a consistent basis creates a hardship. 321 00:18:01,485 --> 00:18:02,485 Especially considering 322 00:18:02,485 --> 00:18:04,965 that my workplace isn't appropriately staffed. 323 00:18:04,965 --> 00:18:05,965 So 324 00:18:07,585 --> 00:18:11,635 Yeah, I appreciate the, the feedback from commissioners 325 00:18:11,735 --> 00:18:14,315 and the idea of considering earlier 326 00:18:15,655 --> 00:18:17,635 wasn't one I necessarily was advocating for 327 00:18:17,655 --> 00:18:19,315 but one staff had proposed 328 00:18:19,315 --> 00:18:23,075 because I know they like to get home from from meetings. 329 00:18:23,655 --> 00:18:27,875 One thing certainly we can utilize the presentation slot 330 00:18:29,265 --> 00:18:30,875 that exists in the regular meeting. 331 00:18:30,975 --> 00:18:35,515 We added it there because we were hitting so many committee 332 00:18:35,515 --> 00:18:39,275 of the holes that were running up to our ending. 333 00:18:40,095 --> 00:18:42,115 And in my view, I know long meetings can be 334 00:18:43,585 --> 00:18:45,075 long and that's a lot of work. 335 00:18:46,075 --> 00:18:48,515 It helps when you have a break in a long meeting so 336 00:18:48,515 --> 00:18:50,595 that you could eat some food or process 337 00:18:50,705 --> 00:18:52,715 information that you've heard. 338 00:18:53,015 --> 00:18:56,955 But I do also see a value to having presentations. 339 00:18:56,955 --> 00:18:59,595 They inform community, they inform board members, 340 00:19:00,105 --> 00:19:02,995 they help us make decisions going forward. 341 00:19:03,815 --> 00:19:07,115 So I do see a value to having them. 342 00:19:08,225 --> 00:19:10,195 It's just a matter of trying to manage that time. 343 00:19:10,665 --> 00:19:14,115 Sometimes it's hard to tell, you know, we identify a target 344 00:19:14,175 --> 00:19:15,235 for the time in the cow. 345 00:19:15,815 --> 00:19:17,715 We spent a lot more than 10 minutes on that 346 00:19:18,555 --> 00:19:20,395 corridor study discussion. 347 00:19:20,695 --> 00:19:24,115 But it was a valuable, that's a valuable discussion to have. 348 00:19:24,295 --> 00:19:27,515 So it's a, an art not a science. 349 00:19:27,525 --> 00:19:29,555 We'll do our best to be mindful 350 00:19:29,655 --> 00:19:31,715 so we get a space we can leave things 351 00:19:31,735 --> 00:19:33,435 as our commissioner. Ray. 352 00:19:33,885 --> 00:19:35,555 Thank you chair. I just wanna clarify, 353 00:19:35,915 --> 00:19:37,395 I also see value in the presentations. 354 00:19:38,935 --> 00:19:43,195 My comment is more towards we don't need five at once in 355 00:19:43,215 --> 00:19:45,715 one, in one meeting We can separate 'em, we can do three 356 00:19:45,735 --> 00:19:47,555 and two or something like that. 357 00:19:47,555 --> 00:19:50,675 That's all. I appreciate all the presentations. 358 00:19:53,325 --> 00:19:55,125 Absolutely. And that's understood and we appreciate 359 00:19:55,125 --> 00:19:56,365 everybody's participation in that. 360 00:19:59,035 --> 00:20:00,165 Yeah counsel, thank you. 361 00:20:01,205 --> 00:20:03,885 Just thing for the body's consideration in terms 362 00:20:03,885 --> 00:20:05,405 of keeping both the cow 363 00:20:05,465 --> 00:20:08,405 and the regular meeting separate is 364 00:20:08,405 --> 00:20:10,285 that it does make it easier for record keeping, 365 00:20:10,285 --> 00:20:13,085 especially when we have to search for requested records 366 00:20:13,705 --> 00:20:15,205 in regards to FOIA requests. 367 00:20:15,265 --> 00:20:16,765 So we know that 'cause we, you have 368 00:20:16,765 --> 00:20:18,405 to be very specific in your request. 369 00:20:18,665 --> 00:20:20,845 So if you make at the regular meetings then we can get it 370 00:20:20,845 --> 00:20:22,525 quicker because we don't have to look 371 00:20:22,525 --> 00:20:24,325 through all the Kyle minutes 372 00:20:24,585 --> 00:20:26,005 to find what you're looking for. 373 00:20:26,145 --> 00:20:28,445 So I'd just like the body to consider that. Thank you. 374 00:20:28,895 --> 00:20:32,005 Thank you counsel. Alright, anything further? 375 00:20:32,835 --> 00:20:34,115 Commissioner Kisler? 376 00:20:35,755 --> 00:20:39,005 Yeah, I, I have a one thing to say 377 00:20:39,105 --> 00:20:41,125 and I, I'll back it up with another one. 378 00:20:42,595 --> 00:20:46,725 Your idea John of becoming more wash 379 00:20:46,745 --> 00:20:50,905 and all like, okay but I'm ready to sit tight 380 00:20:51,005 --> 00:20:54,185 and say I know we work our leadership like dogs 381 00:20:55,045 --> 00:20:57,105 but you guys always come through for us 382 00:20:57,845 --> 00:21:01,905 and that makes me a little leery of putting a lot 383 00:21:01,905 --> 00:21:04,505 of subcommittees and and things like that together. 384 00:21:05,565 --> 00:21:06,945 And if you'll recall John, 385 00:21:07,145 --> 00:21:10,705 'cause you were here then 17, there were 17 members 386 00:21:10,765 --> 00:21:12,025 of this board at one point. 387 00:21:12,125 --> 00:21:13,785 Boy we hardly could fit around here. 388 00:21:14,525 --> 00:21:17,625 And Jack Urban was constantly, 389 00:21:18,195 --> 00:21:21,785 bless his heart trying to come up with another subcommittee 390 00:21:21,925 --> 00:21:23,585 or another meeting or something. 391 00:21:23,905 --> 00:21:26,345 I thought Holy smoke give it a break. 392 00:21:27,125 --> 00:21:29,385 So I'm not, I'm not saying you're following in his 393 00:21:29,625 --> 00:21:31,825 footsteps, you know, kind of that way. 394 00:21:32,195 --> 00:21:33,195 Thank you. 395 00:21:33,905 --> 00:21:36,885 All right. Vice chair I, I'd like the record to to show 396 00:21:36,885 --> 00:21:39,965 that I referring to instead of Washtenaw County, 397 00:21:39,965 --> 00:21:44,045 let's be more like Kent County for Commissioner G's benefit. 398 00:21:44,665 --> 00:21:46,565 So they also do sort of a, 399 00:21:46,725 --> 00:21:48,365 a standing committee structure as well. 400 00:21:50,255 --> 00:21:52,265 Alright colleagues, I appreciate the discussion. 401 00:21:52,325 --> 00:21:55,585 We will leave items as is it looks like is the 402 00:21:56,655 --> 00:21:58,265 overall consensus at this time. 403 00:21:58,265 --> 00:21:59,545 Let's go to the next item. 404 00:22:00,845 --> 00:22:03,745 That's item 20 26 2 79. 405 00:22:04,455 --> 00:22:06,505 Request for approval of establishing the 406 00:22:07,095 --> 00:22:09,905 four 40 North Church Street parking 407 00:22:09,965 --> 00:22:11,785 garage. Ad hoc committee 408 00:22:12,475 --> 00:22:14,295 Board are so moved. 409 00:22:14,685 --> 00:22:18,175 Support motion is made by Vice Chair Taylor, supported 410 00:22:18,675 --> 00:22:20,855 by Commissioner Wheeler's. 411 00:22:21,015 --> 00:22:22,055 There further discussion. 412 00:22:23,755 --> 00:22:27,135 So yes, commissioner Gissler. 413 00:22:27,135 --> 00:22:28,895 Thank you Chair. Could you indicate 414 00:22:28,955 --> 00:22:31,855 for me other than a street address, just what that is. 415 00:22:33,705 --> 00:22:36,655 Thank you. So that's the parking garage that will be 416 00:22:36,655 --> 00:22:40,095 to the north end of the parcel across the street. 417 00:22:40,105 --> 00:22:42,575 We're building the new administration building if 418 00:22:42,575 --> 00:22:44,415 It would've been behind the McDonald's. 419 00:22:44,635 --> 00:22:45,775 That's correct. So, 420 00:22:46,395 --> 00:22:48,535 and this will be public art that's gonna go across 421 00:22:48,535 --> 00:22:51,455 that whole north face of the parking structure. 422 00:22:51,635 --> 00:22:55,375 So that's five stories high and the entire block long 423 00:22:56,115 --> 00:23:00,175 and again consists of two large painted murals in the 424 00:23:00,945 --> 00:23:05,535 lower level and then 38 fabric panels 425 00:23:05,535 --> 00:23:07,615 that go on the actually east, north 426 00:23:07,635 --> 00:23:08,855 and west side of the building. 427 00:23:09,995 --> 00:23:12,295 And there'll be printed with a graphic design 428 00:23:12,295 --> 00:23:14,495 that comes forward from the artist as well. It 429 00:23:14,495 --> 00:23:17,655 Was church and a church address that got me. 430 00:23:17,775 --> 00:23:20,855 I thought well I had that yes on Rose. Yes. 431 00:23:20,965 --> 00:23:23,655 Well Church is the next one over. Yeah. Okay. Thank you. 432 00:23:24,105 --> 00:23:28,275 Thank you. Counsel 433 00:23:28,345 --> 00:23:29,595 does this need to be read aloud? 434 00:23:30,845 --> 00:23:32,495 That is at the discretion of the board, 435 00:23:33,925 --> 00:23:37,625 So no, we don't have to read that aloud. 436 00:23:37,805 --> 00:23:40,745 We do, we talked in brief about the 437 00:23:44,755 --> 00:23:46,135 blanks in the resolution. 438 00:23:46,355 --> 00:23:48,735 So I think we've identified four commissioners 439 00:23:50,055 --> 00:23:51,455 that will be participating 440 00:23:52,355 --> 00:23:54,135 and then I believe that we have four 441 00:23:57,375 --> 00:23:59,995 spaces for representatives from community. 442 00:24:01,175 --> 00:24:03,155 Is that all in alignment with commissioners? 443 00:24:05,565 --> 00:24:09,815 Okay, so with those identified within the resolution, 444 00:24:09,915 --> 00:24:12,415 we have a motion and a second. 445 00:24:12,555 --> 00:24:14,415 Any other discussion? Vice 446 00:24:14,415 --> 00:24:15,535 Chair, just really quick. 447 00:24:15,735 --> 00:24:16,975 I agree completely. 448 00:24:17,095 --> 00:24:18,735 I think we made a good choice of commissioners. 449 00:24:18,795 --> 00:24:20,335 I'm just gonna throw my, my sense 450 00:24:20,355 --> 00:24:22,535 and make sure, please make sure it's a local artist. 451 00:24:23,335 --> 00:24:24,735 Somebody from from from the city 452 00:24:24,895 --> 00:24:26,335 of Kalamazoo or Kalamazoo County. 453 00:24:27,155 --> 00:24:29,015 I'd hate to that bid get award 454 00:24:29,035 --> 00:24:30,935 to somebody from Grand Rapids. 455 00:24:34,685 --> 00:24:38,025 Yes Counsel, I just, could you just say state 456 00:24:38,025 --> 00:24:41,305 for the records, the names of the commissioners that were 457 00:24:41,365 --> 00:24:44,065 and the other community representatives if you know that, 458 00:24:44,255 --> 00:24:46,785 knowing that it is the published resolution 459 00:24:46,785 --> 00:24:48,945 that we'll control once we have those names, 460 00:24:49,045 --> 00:24:51,025 but they should be included in the record here. 461 00:24:52,805 --> 00:24:54,995 Thank you. Counsel, if we need 462 00:24:54,995 --> 00:24:59,035 to solidify another community member's name as yet, 463 00:24:59,915 --> 00:25:01,635 should we state them here at this time 464 00:25:01,735 --> 00:25:05,235 or what would be the best to bring that to resolution? 465 00:25:15,005 --> 00:25:16,845 Madam Chair, we can't bring that resolution back 466 00:25:16,845 --> 00:25:18,445 for amendment to add that meeting 467 00:25:18,445 --> 00:25:19,445 Because we have time before the 468 00:25:19,445 --> 00:25:20,965 first Yes, the first meeting. 469 00:25:22,065 --> 00:25:24,485 But so for matter of the record, 470 00:25:24,625 --> 00:25:28,365 the commissioners will be Commissioner Ray Wheeler Morales 471 00:25:29,745 --> 00:25:33,325 and Streps and then we'll identify the community members 472 00:25:34,305 --> 00:25:35,765 at future meeting through resolution. 473 00:25:36,035 --> 00:25:38,645 Okay. Alright. 474 00:25:38,745 --> 00:25:41,525 And okay with that Commissioner Ler 475 00:25:42,315 --> 00:25:43,315 Have something? 476 00:25:43,425 --> 00:25:48,045 Yes. Could I ask, do we have a list of, of citizens 477 00:25:48,385 --> 00:25:52,005 that's already been appointed or will be appointed 478 00:25:52,865 --> 00:25:55,325 and are any of those represented 479 00:25:56,705 --> 00:25:59,005 in out county townships? 480 00:26:00,385 --> 00:26:01,535 Thank you for that question. 481 00:26:01,795 --> 00:26:04,775 So we don't have all of them solidified yet. 482 00:26:04,835 --> 00:26:09,495 So primarily we have several voices that help to represent 483 00:26:10,035 --> 00:26:11,295 the North side community. 484 00:26:11,295 --> 00:26:12,935 It's a very large public art project 485 00:26:13,445 --> 00:26:15,735 that they will all see every day while they're moving 486 00:26:16,195 --> 00:26:18,335 around the neighborhood because it's quite large. 487 00:26:19,555 --> 00:26:21,295 But we're open to other suggestions. 488 00:26:21,515 --> 00:26:24,415 So there is not anybody from the rural community. 489 00:26:25,275 --> 00:26:29,135 We have directed through the request for proposal 490 00:26:29,355 --> 00:26:30,855 that's gone out to the artists, 491 00:26:32,765 --> 00:26:35,615 that the art really be inclusive and encompassing 492 00:26:35,715 --> 00:26:39,215 and that it include a nod to the north side community 493 00:26:39,235 --> 00:26:42,855 but that it also focuses on the Kalamazoo County broadly 494 00:26:43,825 --> 00:26:46,645 and that the artwork 'cause of its location to like the, 495 00:26:46,785 --> 00:26:50,165 the rail tracks encourages people 496 00:26:51,865 --> 00:26:54,285 to, to stop and visit Kalamazoo, to be 497 00:26:54,305 --> 00:26:55,805 to explore our community as well. 498 00:26:56,425 --> 00:27:00,085 Can I continue? I would like to find some way of, 499 00:27:00,085 --> 00:27:03,125 at least, I don't know if he would be willing to or not, 500 00:27:03,505 --> 00:27:05,765 but Joel Amos of Climax Township 501 00:27:06,305 --> 00:27:09,005 is a full bodied participant in a lot of things. 502 00:27:09,275 --> 00:27:11,085 He's a community minded guy. 503 00:27:11,185 --> 00:27:12,405 He represents farming, 504 00:27:12,855 --> 00:27:15,045 which is a big deal in Kalamazoo County. 505 00:27:15,505 --> 00:27:16,765 And he's also been a member. 506 00:27:16,925 --> 00:27:18,885 I don't know if he still is of the Arts council. 507 00:27:19,585 --> 00:27:21,845 So I would like to throw Joel Sure. 508 00:27:22,305 --> 00:27:23,325 Amos's name in 509 00:27:23,385 --> 00:27:25,205 and he may be sending me a text right 510 00:27:25,205 --> 00:27:26,245 now saying, what are you doing? 511 00:27:26,825 --> 00:27:28,005 I'd be happy to reach out with him 512 00:27:28,005 --> 00:27:29,445 and see if he, he can participate. 513 00:27:29,445 --> 00:27:32,805 Thank you for that. Okay. Anything further? 514 00:27:34,225 --> 00:27:38,125 All those in favor signify by saying aye. Aye. Any opposed? 515 00:27:38,875 --> 00:27:42,165 That motion carries. Okay. 516 00:27:46,135 --> 00:27:47,795 Oh, I'm sorry. That should be a roll call. 517 00:27:47,795 --> 00:27:48,995 Clerk, will you please call the rule 518 00:27:52,475 --> 00:27:53,755 Commissioner Maser? 519 00:27:54,095 --> 00:27:56,325 Yes. Commissioner Morales. 520 00:27:57,355 --> 00:28:01,665 I would yield to council. Yes. 521 00:28:03,005 --> 00:28:06,245 Commissioner Ray? Yes. Chair Streps? 522 00:28:06,865 --> 00:28:11,755 Yes. Vice Chair Taylor? Yes. Commissioner Wheeler? Yes. 523 00:28:11,875 --> 00:28:16,035 Commissioner Delo? Yes. Commissioner ler? Yes. 524 00:28:16,505 --> 00:28:18,675 Vice Chair Pro Tem Heffler A? Yes. 525 00:28:20,035 --> 00:28:23,745 Thank you. Now that motion officially carries Yes counsel. 526 00:28:24,285 --> 00:28:25,905 And I'm sorry, just a point of clarification, 527 00:28:25,905 --> 00:28:27,705 it does not need to come back now that 528 00:28:28,685 --> 00:28:30,145 you could just simply appoint the members 529 00:28:30,215 --> 00:28:31,665 that the committee members, 530 00:28:31,805 --> 00:28:34,625 but I did need the commission members on the 531 00:28:34,625 --> 00:28:36,305 record so you're okay. Thank you. 532 00:28:36,495 --> 00:28:38,625 Good, thank you very much. Council for the clarification. 533 00:28:39,155 --> 00:28:41,145 Let's go to item 20 26 3 11. 534 00:28:41,895 --> 00:28:43,345 This is a request for approval 535 00:28:43,405 --> 00:28:44,945 to authorize county administrator 536 00:28:45,725 --> 00:28:49,825 to approve change orders within budget at the landing place 537 00:28:49,825 --> 00:28:53,985 and in the amount not to exceed $150,000 per occurrence 538 00:28:54,575 --> 00:28:56,865 with required written reporting to the Board 539 00:28:56,865 --> 00:29:01,605 of Commissioners Motions made by Commissioner Ray, 540 00:29:01,605 --> 00:29:03,125 supported by Commissioner Wheeler. 541 00:29:03,305 --> 00:29:07,595 Is there any further discussion? I'm seeing none. 542 00:29:08,005 --> 00:29:09,315 Clerk, will you please call the role 543 00:29:11,215 --> 00:29:12,535 Commissioner Morales? 544 00:29:13,915 --> 00:29:17,725 Yes. Commissioner Ray? Yes. Chair Scrubs? 545 00:29:17,945 --> 00:29:21,915 Yes. Vice Chair Taylor? Yes. Commissioner Wheeler? Yes. 546 00:29:22,355 --> 00:29:26,115 Commissioner Delo? Yes. Commissioner Gissler? Yes. 547 00:29:26,455 --> 00:29:30,395 Placed Chair Pro Heppler. Commissioner Maser? Yes. A yes. 548 00:29:31,415 --> 00:29:35,805 Thank you. That motion carries right now we will go on 549 00:29:35,805 --> 00:29:38,975 to our second opportunity for public comment. I'm sorry 550 00:29:39,585 --> 00:29:40,735 Madam Chair. I'm sorry 551 00:29:40,735 --> 00:29:42,285 There was a new business added. 552 00:29:43,675 --> 00:29:47,895 Yes ma'am. Thank you. Good, we'll take 553 00:29:47,895 --> 00:29:48,935 that motion. 554 00:29:48,935 --> 00:29:49,935 Commissioner Wheeler. 555 00:29:50,815 --> 00:29:54,095 Thank you Chair. I move that the county enter into an MOU 556 00:29:54,095 --> 00:29:55,455 with Western Michigan University 557 00:29:55,455 --> 00:29:57,175 concerning the Asylum Lake Preserve 558 00:29:57,875 --> 00:30:00,095 and that the county administrator is authorized 559 00:30:00,095 --> 00:30:02,335 to execute the MLU on the county's behalf. 560 00:30:04,295 --> 00:30:06,115 Motion is made by Commissioner Wheeler 561 00:30:06,175 --> 00:30:07,755 and supported by Vice Chair Taylor. 562 00:30:08,615 --> 00:30:11,715 Any further discussion? Vice chair. 563 00:30:12,345 --> 00:30:15,715 Just for the broader community. This is the first step. 564 00:30:15,825 --> 00:30:18,795 This is not that we are taking ownership of this. 565 00:30:18,895 --> 00:30:20,755 We are allowing our administrative team 566 00:30:21,215 --> 00:30:23,555 and our corporate council to go into negotiations 567 00:30:23,555 --> 00:30:27,315 with Western and see if there is a viable O option here. 568 00:30:27,915 --> 00:30:31,275 This is not that we are moving ahead 100, you know, 569 00:30:31,355 --> 00:30:33,435 a hundred miles an hour, but it's that we're, 570 00:30:33,435 --> 00:30:37,075 we're looking into it and it's a unique opportunity 571 00:30:37,345 --> 00:30:39,195 that we might have a win-win here 572 00:30:39,295 --> 00:30:41,155 and I trust our administrative team 573 00:30:41,155 --> 00:30:43,155 and our corporate council to come back 574 00:30:43,155 --> 00:30:44,235 with some options for us. 575 00:30:46,485 --> 00:30:50,095 Thank you. Vice chair. I'll second that as well. 576 00:30:50,355 --> 00:30:53,255 I'm excited about exploring this potential opportunity 577 00:30:53,915 --> 00:30:56,375 but in order for us to move forward, I mean we are really, 578 00:30:57,115 --> 00:30:59,375 as Vice Chair said, looking for a win-win. 579 00:30:59,885 --> 00:31:01,935 This is an important piece of property. 580 00:31:01,995 --> 00:31:04,695 It means a lot to our community. 581 00:31:05,195 --> 00:31:07,775 It would mean a lot to Kalamazoo County 582 00:31:07,795 --> 00:31:09,375 to help in the stewardship of it, 583 00:31:10,055 --> 00:31:12,175 but we wanna do that in a way that is mindful 584 00:31:12,235 --> 00:31:15,535 to capacity community partners, et cetera. 585 00:31:16,035 --> 00:31:17,415 So we look forward to exploring it 586 00:31:17,415 --> 00:31:19,295 and seeing what comes forth from that work. 587 00:31:20,225 --> 00:31:23,185 Right. Anything further? Alright, 588 00:31:23,315 --> 00:31:24,585 clerk, will you please call a roll 589 00:31:25,385 --> 00:31:26,465 Commissioner Ray? 590 00:31:27,955 --> 00:31:30,015 No. Chair STRs? 591 00:31:30,635 --> 00:31:32,895 Yes. Vice Chair Taylor? 592 00:31:33,715 --> 00:31:35,745 Yes. Commissioner Wheeler? 593 00:31:36,365 --> 00:31:38,565 Yes. Commissioner Delo? 594 00:31:38,865 --> 00:31:41,085 Yes. Commissioner Gissler? 595 00:31:41,465 --> 00:31:45,845 Yes. Vice Chair Protime. Heppler. Commissioner Maser? 596 00:31:45,985 --> 00:31:48,055 Yes. Commissioner Morales? 597 00:31:48,235 --> 00:31:49,935 Yes. Seven. Yes. 598 00:31:50,995 --> 00:31:52,015 Motion carries. 599 00:31:52,835 --> 00:31:55,575 All right, we'll move now to officers reports 600 00:31:55,595 --> 00:32:00,015 of the officers bodies Administrator and controller. Chair. 601 00:32:00,425 --> 00:32:02,055 Chair. Point Of order. Thank you so much. 602 00:32:02,075 --> 00:32:04,855 Public comment. I'm so tired. 603 00:32:04,995 --> 00:32:07,655 I'm just trying to keep it moving aren't I? Thank you. 604 00:32:08,775 --> 00:32:10,945 This is that second opportunity for public comment. 605 00:32:12,205 --> 00:32:14,785 You may address the board in chambers 606 00:32:15,205 --> 00:32:17,665 or you may call at the number shared previously. 607 00:32:17,725 --> 00:32:20,025 And press star three to join the queue. 608 00:32:20,805 --> 00:32:22,105 Do we have any members of the public 609 00:32:22,105 --> 00:32:23,425 wishing to make public comment? 610 00:32:25,695 --> 00:32:29,745 Welcome. Hello everyone. 611 00:32:31,675 --> 00:32:33,225 Chair STRs, vice chair 612 00:32:33,765 --> 00:32:36,145 and Board of Commissioners Administrator corporate counsel. 613 00:32:36,365 --> 00:32:38,745 My name's Gwendolyn ******, I'm the CEO founder 614 00:32:38,745 --> 00:32:39,805 of Through Navigation, 615 00:32:40,155 --> 00:32:42,725 currently operating the Hope Family Respite. 616 00:32:43,265 --> 00:32:46,405 And as promised, this is not a presentation 617 00:32:46,985 --> 00:32:51,725 but it is a just a brief, a brief high overview of 618 00:32:51,725 --> 00:32:52,725 where we are, what we're 619 00:32:52,725 --> 00:32:53,885 doing and how well things are going. 620 00:32:55,655 --> 00:32:59,365 Since January we have been at 100% occupancy. 621 00:33:00,185 --> 00:33:03,965 We have been working very well within the structure 622 00:33:04,035 --> 00:33:05,285 that was already laid out 623 00:33:05,895 --> 00:33:08,805 based on the winter emergency shelter RFP. 624 00:33:10,305 --> 00:33:11,845 We have located 625 00:33:11,945 --> 00:33:14,365 and found homes for two of the families 626 00:33:14,365 --> 00:33:17,325 that are gonna be moving into Sugarloaf on Friday. 627 00:33:17,825 --> 00:33:21,845 So that is, you know, one family with three chil 628 00:33:21,845 --> 00:33:25,085 or two children, one family that's a household of five. 629 00:33:25,345 --> 00:33:28,645 So we are really super excited about transitioning them out. 630 00:33:29,625 --> 00:33:31,765 Had a couple of hiccups that will be 631 00:33:32,705 --> 00:33:34,525 really indicated in the report 632 00:33:34,875 --> 00:33:38,525 that the first report is due on Friday the 20th. 633 00:33:38,525 --> 00:33:41,605 But I did want to come personally as I promised 634 00:33:42,505 --> 00:33:45,405 and just if there's anyone that has any questions 635 00:33:45,425 --> 00:33:49,845 or any more information that I can provide as far as 636 00:33:49,845 --> 00:33:52,925 how things are going, I'm happy to do that now. 637 00:33:53,415 --> 00:33:56,285 Again, opening the invitation for anyone that's interested. 638 00:33:56,485 --> 00:33:58,285 I know Commissioner Mazer, 639 00:33:59,085 --> 00:34:00,485 I know you're interested in coming out. 640 00:34:00,485 --> 00:34:01,925 You're always welcome to do so. 641 00:34:01,945 --> 00:34:06,115 We are running 24 7, 7 days a week. 642 00:34:06,375 --> 00:34:08,675 So anytime that you wanna stop by let me know. 643 00:34:08,675 --> 00:34:10,995 I'll let our staff know that someone's gonna stop by. 644 00:34:12,105 --> 00:34:15,115 Typically most families are out taking care of business so 645 00:34:15,655 --> 00:34:18,035 you don't have to worry about imposing on them. 646 00:34:19,885 --> 00:34:22,355 We've gotten so much community support from 647 00:34:22,875 --> 00:34:25,515 everyone in the community as far as meals 648 00:34:25,775 --> 00:34:29,155 and donations of clothing and hats and all of the things. 649 00:34:29,975 --> 00:34:31,675 We do have a a wishlist 650 00:34:32,255 --> 00:34:34,155 and people have definitely been going on that wishlist 651 00:34:34,175 --> 00:34:36,315 and really taking care of some very, you know, 652 00:34:36,715 --> 00:34:38,475 specific needs of the families that we have. 653 00:34:39,945 --> 00:34:42,515 Outside of that, if there aren't any questions, 654 00:34:42,555 --> 00:34:44,435 I just wanted to come personally and 655 00:34:44,455 --> 00:34:47,835 and tell you that this is good use of, of your money. 656 00:34:48,255 --> 00:34:50,955 The families that we're keeping off the street are really 657 00:34:50,955 --> 00:34:53,755 working hard to resolve their housing emergency 658 00:34:53,775 --> 00:34:56,395 and I'm super excited that we were able to fill that gap. 659 00:34:56,655 --> 00:34:57,655 So thank you so much. 660 00:34:59,295 --> 00:35:04,065 Thank you. Anyone else wishing to make public comment. 661 00:35:08,665 --> 00:35:10,155 Alright, seeing none now 662 00:35:10,155 --> 00:35:11,355 I'm gonna close that public comment. 663 00:35:12,615 --> 00:35:15,235 Now I'm gonna move to reports 664 00:35:15,235 --> 00:35:17,755 of the officer's body administrator and controller. 665 00:35:19,495 --> 00:35:21,515 You know, the audio was making me say things 666 00:35:22,715 --> 00:35:24,115 multiple times earlier and I just wanted 667 00:35:24,115 --> 00:35:25,555 to keep it going on my own. 668 00:35:27,145 --> 00:35:30,795 Alright, so I wanna thank the administrative team 669 00:35:31,875 --> 00:35:35,715 today we had an opportunity to travel to meet 670 00:35:35,715 --> 00:35:37,885 with a nacee ban 671 00:35:37,885 --> 00:35:41,365 of the AWA tribe. 672 00:35:41,535 --> 00:35:44,925 Today this is our second initial 673 00:35:45,975 --> 00:35:48,445 touch base with the local tribes. 674 00:35:49,545 --> 00:35:51,405 Not too long ago we met with the gun lake tribe 675 00:35:52,185 --> 00:35:56,245 and those are I think, interesting conversations 676 00:35:56,305 --> 00:35:59,005 as we learn about their approach to governance. 677 00:35:59,495 --> 00:36:02,645 Share the priorities that both of our, our, 678 00:36:02,945 --> 00:36:05,325 our governmental bodies are working on 679 00:36:05,325 --> 00:36:06,565 and ways that we can learn from 680 00:36:06,625 --> 00:36:08,885 and collaborate with one another. 681 00:36:09,855 --> 00:36:12,785 Obviously, you know, they face many of the same challenges 682 00:36:12,785 --> 00:36:16,545 that we do as a government from escalating healthcare costs 683 00:36:16,725 --> 00:36:21,625 to developing affordable housing to protecting the rights 684 00:36:22,165 --> 00:36:23,625 of their tribal citizens 685 00:36:25,525 --> 00:36:27,825 and certainly paramount to them is the protection 686 00:36:29,205 --> 00:36:30,505 of land, air, and water. 687 00:36:30,645 --> 00:36:34,705 And so I'm hopeful we'll continue to deepen those dialogues 688 00:36:34,705 --> 00:36:36,465 and have exciting ways 689 00:36:36,465 --> 00:36:39,345 that we can collaborate together as we should. 690 00:36:40,985 --> 00:36:42,785 Recognizing, you know, ancestral homelands 691 00:36:43,665 --> 00:36:47,665 for the tribal peoples here and and across the state. 692 00:36:51,205 --> 00:36:55,005 Michigan Transformation Collective was here earlier when we 693 00:36:55,005 --> 00:36:59,605 had discussion on the potential childcare millage 694 00:37:00,265 --> 00:37:03,725 and I appreciate them dialoguing with me earlier 695 00:37:03,945 --> 00:37:08,085 to help us really get a deeper analysis 696 00:37:08,085 --> 00:37:12,205 of the overall cost to really fund 697 00:37:13,005 --> 00:37:16,765 a fully funded childcare system in the county. 698 00:37:17,345 --> 00:37:21,285 And I think we'll be probably shocked with the, the cost 699 00:37:21,355 --> 00:37:23,565 that that would actually entail. 700 00:37:23,745 --> 00:37:26,765 And I think it's important for us to understand 701 00:37:27,465 --> 00:37:29,445 the system issues to really just see 702 00:37:29,445 --> 00:37:31,645 how big the hole is that exists. 703 00:37:32,945 --> 00:37:36,325 We talk about how families who are housing burdened 704 00:37:37,065 --> 00:37:40,525 and paying exorbitant rents, these folks are also paying 705 00:37:41,295 --> 00:37:42,845 exorbitant childcare costs 706 00:37:43,545 --> 00:37:44,885 or are without childcare 707 00:37:45,495 --> 00:37:47,445 where they could get into meaningful work 708 00:37:48,585 --> 00:37:49,805 and stabilize their housing. 709 00:37:51,025 --> 00:37:53,125 So they're all sort of in a intersectional 710 00:37:56,545 --> 00:37:58,495 inter intersectional issues together. 711 00:38:02,875 --> 00:38:06,045 With that, I appreciate everybody's time and work tonight 712 00:38:06,665 --> 00:38:08,725 and I'll take it to vice chair. 713 00:38:10,225 --> 00:38:12,295 Thank you chair. I'll be real probably 714 00:38:12,545 --> 00:38:15,295 brief get on tangents. 715 00:38:15,955 --> 00:38:19,975 The discover Kalamazoo Q4 2025 quarterly report 716 00:38:20,775 --> 00:38:23,615 that's in our packets is mildly concerning. 717 00:38:24,675 --> 00:38:27,895 The revenue and expenditures are off 718 00:38:27,955 --> 00:38:30,255 by about eight point half, 8.2%. 719 00:38:31,635 --> 00:38:33,215 We need to look at that next year. 720 00:38:33,345 --> 00:38:35,645 We've gotta make sure that we don't have 721 00:38:36,075 --> 00:38:37,685 that happening again and again. 722 00:38:37,685 --> 00:38:41,485 They do not have a large surplus to draw down on it. 723 00:38:41,705 --> 00:38:46,165 So when they have structural deficits it only lasts so long 724 00:38:46,225 --> 00:38:49,365 before there has to be dramatic cuts on their expenditure 725 00:38:49,365 --> 00:38:51,925 side or they're gonna have to be looking for new revenue 726 00:38:52,745 --> 00:38:55,085 and we can't be in the business of 727 00:38:55,635 --> 00:38:56,805 providing that new revenue. 728 00:38:57,045 --> 00:38:58,085 I don't think we're in a position 729 00:38:58,085 --> 00:38:59,605 that at the county to do that. 730 00:39:00,225 --> 00:39:01,725 So as we go through 731 00:39:01,725 --> 00:39:04,405 and the audits come back for next year, I think we need 732 00:39:04,405 --> 00:39:07,445 to take a real good look at what are their expectations 733 00:39:07,445 --> 00:39:09,125 of Q4 on the revenue side 734 00:39:10,025 --> 00:39:12,725 and make sure that they align with their expenditure side. 735 00:39:12,985 --> 00:39:15,845 And I appreciate administration putting this report in our 736 00:39:16,315 --> 00:39:20,805 file because I read everything so that 737 00:39:20,835 --> 00:39:22,725 that is, you know, mildly concerning. 738 00:39:22,725 --> 00:39:25,045 It's sort of a yellow flag that we need to be on top of 739 00:39:26,665 --> 00:39:29,205 the secondly, I forgot what I was gonna say second. 740 00:39:29,305 --> 00:39:31,365 So I will just pass Bo 741 00:39:31,365 --> 00:39:33,525 and Gigi if you're still up it's time to Beth 742 00:39:34,915 --> 00:39:36,845 Vice chair pro tem is not here this evening. 743 00:39:37,025 --> 00:39:38,605 So on to administrator. 744 00:39:39,755 --> 00:39:41,405 Alright, thank you Chair. 745 00:39:41,635 --> 00:39:44,685 Vice Chair Commissioners if you would entertain me 746 00:39:44,685 --> 00:39:47,405 for a moment because vice chair mentioned the discovery 747 00:39:47,435 --> 00:39:51,365 Kalamazoo report, chief Deputy Treasurer Tyler White was 748 00:39:51,635 --> 00:39:53,685 reviewing that and has some commentary 749 00:39:53,705 --> 00:39:54,725 to share if you wouldn't mind 750 00:39:54,725 --> 00:39:56,365 and then I can move to my report. Yeah, I letter 751 00:39:56,415 --> 00:39:57,415 Chief. 752 00:39:57,415 --> 00:39:58,295 Thank you. 753 00:40:07,585 --> 00:40:10,415 Thank you. So like Dr. 754 00:40:10,515 --> 00:40:13,335 Katlin and mentioned, I started looking through some 755 00:40:13,335 --> 00:40:14,855 of the numbers that they were reporting 756 00:40:14,955 --> 00:40:18,695 and I don't necessarily agree with what they were stating 757 00:40:20,165 --> 00:40:23,495 just in actual payouts from 2025 758 00:40:24,035 --> 00:40:26,535 and this is backing out December, 2025. 759 00:40:26,935 --> 00:40:30,935 Assuming that they're operating on, you know, hey 760 00:40:30,935 --> 00:40:32,615 what we're reporting is when we get the money, 761 00:40:32,635 --> 00:40:36,735 not necessarily when we as the county invoice it following 762 00:40:36,735 --> 00:40:39,695 that we've paid them just shy of $2.6 million. 763 00:40:40,595 --> 00:40:45,455 So the values that they're showing actual omitted 2,000,387, 764 00:40:46,615 --> 00:40:48,695 I don't necessarily see where that's coming from 765 00:40:49,715 --> 00:40:53,015 and I just want to, you know, preface that yes we 766 00:40:53,725 --> 00:40:56,815 have made payments to them exceeding 767 00:40:56,815 --> 00:40:59,815 what they're showing there is a difference 768 00:41:00,095 --> 00:41:04,625 between their budget and what we've given of 102,000. 769 00:41:04,665 --> 00:41:06,905 I don't know what was underlying their budget assumptions 770 00:41:07,685 --> 00:41:10,945 but, and we've also paid them more than we did last year. 771 00:41:12,125 --> 00:41:16,455 The board board actually authorized an advance from the 772 00:41:16,455 --> 00:41:20,855 delinquent tax revolving fund for some of those hotels 773 00:41:20,855 --> 00:41:23,655 that are, one of which is in bankruptcy. 774 00:41:23,755 --> 00:41:26,815 Others one has been sold, ownership is transferred, 775 00:41:26,995 --> 00:41:30,815 but they're unpaid accommodation taxes were billed 776 00:41:30,935 --> 00:41:33,485 as delinquent special assessments on the property taxes. 777 00:41:34,055 --> 00:41:35,565 We're going to get those tax dollars 778 00:41:36,265 --> 00:41:38,005 and then pass that along. 779 00:41:38,115 --> 00:41:40,165 This board authorized giving that money early. 780 00:41:41,185 --> 00:41:44,245 So we have paid them their, 781 00:41:46,495 --> 00:41:49,015 I would need to ask them what the, what the numbers are. 782 00:41:50,695 --> 00:41:52,385 Vice chair. Yeah. 783 00:41:52,565 --> 00:41:56,665 Is some of that due to the K-C-E-A-D money 784 00:41:57,195 --> 00:42:00,025 going directly to discover Kalamazoo as opposed 785 00:42:00,045 --> 00:42:02,065 to a separate K-C-E-A-D account? 786 00:42:03,045 --> 00:42:04,185 No sir. So the numbers 787 00:42:04,215 --> 00:42:07,305 that I'm showing are solely accommodation tax values. 788 00:42:07,645 --> 00:42:11,465 All the K-C-E-C-A-D values are completely separate from 789 00:42:11,545 --> 00:42:12,705 this and tracked separately. 790 00:42:12,725 --> 00:42:15,225 So we do have more collections from 791 00:42:15,225 --> 00:42:16,905 that 4% that's being held. 792 00:42:17,565 --> 00:42:18,865 But all the payouts 793 00:42:18,865 --> 00:42:22,545 to them reimbursing those expenses aren't included in the 794 00:42:22,845 --> 00:42:26,825 2 million 593 800 that I'm showing from payouts 795 00:42:26,825 --> 00:42:30,785 of accommodation tax December, 2024 through November 796 00:42:31,325 --> 00:42:35,025 of 2025, all of which are one month lags. 797 00:42:37,025 --> 00:42:39,045 So none of that is factored 798 00:42:39,045 --> 00:42:40,045 In there. 799 00:42:40,045 --> 00:42:42,885 So the, the k the youth sports complex money is not 800 00:42:42,885 --> 00:42:44,685 co-mingled with the Discover Kalamazoo money. 801 00:42:45,435 --> 00:42:47,005 Okay. So that's good to know. 802 00:42:47,795 --> 00:42:51,645 Then also the, the one of the assumptions 803 00:42:51,645 --> 00:42:53,805 that was made on that spreadsheet 804 00:42:53,825 --> 00:42:58,325 for the Q4 quarterly report was remittance 805 00:42:58,325 --> 00:43:01,045 of unpaid that almost as if they were going 806 00:43:01,045 --> 00:43:03,605 to get it eventually because it was late or something. 807 00:43:04,245 --> 00:43:05,605 Eventually you do get it 808 00:43:05,985 --> 00:43:08,565 but that's sort of kind of requiring the county 809 00:43:08,665 --> 00:43:10,125 to always be that front. 810 00:43:10,315 --> 00:43:11,315 Correct. 811 00:43:12,545 --> 00:43:13,645 It requires two things. 812 00:43:13,945 --> 00:43:16,725 One, all of those assumptions, this is 813 00:43:16,725 --> 00:43:19,325 what they expect is uncollected. 814 00:43:19,555 --> 00:43:20,565 That one assumes 815 00:43:20,565 --> 00:43:23,005 that these hotels are actually reporting it, which 816 00:43:24,315 --> 00:43:27,405 they should be according to the county ordinance. 817 00:43:28,545 --> 00:43:31,565 And if they are but then not paying, we can put 818 00:43:31,565 --> 00:43:33,085 that onto the property taxes 819 00:43:33,305 --> 00:43:34,805 as a delinquent special assessment. 820 00:43:35,345 --> 00:43:38,845 If they don't, we can't throw estimates onto somebody's tax 821 00:43:38,845 --> 00:43:40,365 bill saying, well we calculated this, 822 00:43:40,365 --> 00:43:42,005 we believe you had this in revenue. 823 00:43:43,305 --> 00:43:45,605 As much as I wish I had the capacity myself 824 00:43:45,625 --> 00:43:48,165 to audit every hotel in short term rental in the 825 00:43:48,165 --> 00:43:49,645 county, I don't. 826 00:43:50,185 --> 00:43:54,285 So real values there requires actual reporting following 827 00:43:54,285 --> 00:43:55,365 that half of the ordinance 828 00:43:55,665 --> 00:43:57,565 but then not paying it following 829 00:43:57,585 --> 00:43:58,685 the other half of the ordinance. 830 00:43:58,685 --> 00:44:02,085 There's only a few hotels that actually fall in that bucket. 831 00:44:03,515 --> 00:44:05,835 And sorry chair just just 832 00:44:05,835 --> 00:44:07,115 to follow up because I think I'm there. 833 00:44:08,015 --> 00:44:11,915 So without a large fund balance from Discover Kalamazoo 834 00:44:11,975 --> 00:44:15,315 to absorb that sort of cost because if they don't pay 835 00:44:15,315 --> 00:44:17,795 and it eventually gets put on their par property tax rolls 836 00:44:17,795 --> 00:44:19,915 and it eventually it goes through, that's a two 837 00:44:19,975 --> 00:44:23,595 and a half year, three year sort of lag on the payments 838 00:44:23,595 --> 00:44:26,875 to when they receive the money, they're not going to be able 839 00:44:26,895 --> 00:44:30,115 to sustain that loss of revenue for three years. Correct. 840 00:44:31,035 --> 00:44:33,245 Yeah. So if they're not getting paid 841 00:44:33,245 --> 00:44:35,005 through the delinquent tax revolving fund, 842 00:44:35,005 --> 00:44:38,285 which this board gave the authority to do, so we do 843 00:44:38,285 --> 00:44:39,285 that every year. 844 00:44:40,785 --> 00:44:44,325 So if somebody isn't paying, we will turn around 845 00:44:44,325 --> 00:44:45,765 and say okay, this is going to be assessed 846 00:44:45,765 --> 00:44:48,325 as a delinquent special assessment 847 00:44:48,825 --> 00:44:51,485 and added to the current winner tax bill. 848 00:44:51,905 --> 00:44:55,805 So that will get paid, but it may be an entire year 849 00:44:56,345 --> 00:44:59,645 before they actually get that, that balance. 850 00:45:00,105 --> 00:45:02,645 So it won't be a three year lag 851 00:45:03,225 --> 00:45:06,645 but it will be, you know, nine months, you know, 852 00:45:06,645 --> 00:45:07,765 maybe a year. 853 00:45:08,665 --> 00:45:12,125 And in the event that a hotel say they don't pay any 854 00:45:12,125 --> 00:45:15,125 of their taxes and they foreclose, if that 855 00:45:15,685 --> 00:45:17,485 property forecloses and it doesn't sell 856 00:45:17,505 --> 00:45:19,805 for the minimum amount of taxes we eat the loss. 857 00:45:22,245 --> 00:45:25,735 Okay. That's definitely something to, to keep our eye on 858 00:45:27,915 --> 00:45:31,095 And look and the additional accommodation ca tax we have 859 00:45:31,095 --> 00:45:33,695 about, you know, looking at the bond projections 860 00:45:33,695 --> 00:45:36,615 that we reviewed, it's really about 8% of that revenue 861 00:45:37,445 --> 00:45:39,095 went unco collected through the first cycle. 862 00:45:39,795 --> 00:45:42,535 So that may even out a bit more over time because it's new. 863 00:45:42,675 --> 00:45:46,095 But you know, as we, you know, 864 00:45:46,215 --> 00:45:49,935 articulating the bond projections that we wanna see them, 865 00:45:50,235 --> 00:45:53,015 you know, budget accordingly 866 00:45:53,175 --> 00:45:54,855 'cause they, there are gonna be revenues 867 00:45:54,855 --> 00:45:55,855 that are not collectible 868 00:45:57,115 --> 00:45:59,695 and so they've got a conservatively plan for 869 00:45:59,695 --> 00:46:01,875 that. Go ahead administrator. 870 00:46:02,025 --> 00:46:03,595 Well thank you very much chair 871 00:46:03,735 --> 00:46:05,395 and vice chair for the question 872 00:46:05,395 --> 00:46:08,515 and entertaining, you know, sort of that, that analysis 873 00:46:08,575 --> 00:46:12,595 and we'll follow up with, with director or CEO gosh and, 874 00:46:13,175 --> 00:46:15,515 and report back on our findings too. 875 00:46:15,615 --> 00:46:18,835 So no problem on that, just have, I actually have, 876 00:46:18,855 --> 00:46:20,235 it looks like a few updates to share. 877 00:46:20,235 --> 00:46:23,355 So just three. So one, I wanted to inform the board 878 00:46:23,385 --> 00:46:26,675 that next week I will be attending the annual convening 879 00:46:26,675 --> 00:46:29,715 of reia, which is the Racial Equity Builders Dialogue in 880 00:46:29,715 --> 00:46:30,795 Puerto Rico as part 881 00:46:30,795 --> 00:46:33,075 of the Kalamazoo Community Foundation delegation. 882 00:46:34,215 --> 00:46:37,475 So I, you know, if it's this hot as it is in this boardroom, 883 00:46:37,595 --> 00:46:40,755 I, I don't know if I'll really get to enjoy it, but, 884 00:46:40,935 --> 00:46:43,475 but a part of the K Community Foundation delegation, 885 00:46:43,495 --> 00:46:47,515 we also have director DEI, director Darnell going as well. 886 00:46:47,625 --> 00:46:48,795 They, they'll be attending. 887 00:46:49,055 --> 00:46:52,115 So Reya brings together cross section cross sector leaders 888 00:46:52,165 --> 00:46:53,715 focus on advancing racial equity 889 00:46:53,715 --> 00:46:55,435 through systems change policy innovation, 890 00:46:56,115 --> 00:46:58,795 economic mobility strategies and collaborative leadership. 891 00:46:58,895 --> 00:47:01,235 So sort of the purpose for attending is 892 00:47:01,235 --> 00:47:02,955 to strengthen partnerships with philanthropic 893 00:47:03,295 --> 00:47:04,835 and economic development stakeholders. 894 00:47:05,165 --> 00:47:08,475 We'll be identifying replicable best practices related to e 895 00:47:09,455 --> 00:47:11,835 rather equitable procurement, wealth building 896 00:47:11,855 --> 00:47:13,435 and inclusive economic development. 897 00:47:13,565 --> 00:47:16,315 We'll also be aligning national equity strategies 898 00:47:16,315 --> 00:47:18,115 with Kalamazoo County's strategic priorities 899 00:47:18,115 --> 00:47:19,195 and DEI framework. 900 00:47:19,255 --> 00:47:21,795 And then lastly, deepening regional collaboration, 901 00:47:22,675 --> 00:47:25,035 collaboration through partner participation 902 00:47:25,105 --> 00:47:26,875 with the KCCF delegation. 903 00:47:27,295 --> 00:47:28,555 And so we're looking forward to that 904 00:47:28,655 --> 00:47:30,845 and bringing a lot of that knowledge back. 905 00:47:32,275 --> 00:47:34,765 Next I wanted to just give an update on the architect 906 00:47:34,765 --> 00:47:37,445 and engineering interviews for the administration building. 907 00:47:38,345 --> 00:47:41,565 So a team of internal cross sec cross-functional 908 00:47:42,165 --> 00:47:43,645 team members will convene in early March. 909 00:47:43,645 --> 00:47:45,325 So we're looking at, I believe it's March 2nd, third, 910 00:47:45,345 --> 00:47:50,125 and fourth to interview four firms for the building, 911 00:47:50,465 --> 00:47:51,365 the administration, building 912 00:47:51,365 --> 00:47:52,765 architect and engineering project. 913 00:47:53,345 --> 00:47:56,485 So 10 proposals were received for, we whittled that 914 00:47:57,155 --> 00:47:58,245 that pull down to four 915 00:47:58,505 --> 00:48:00,685 and that interviews will occur again early March. 916 00:48:00,745 --> 00:48:02,445 So our timeline is very tentative. 917 00:48:02,505 --> 00:48:04,685 We hope if we can get through those interviews 918 00:48:05,075 --> 00:48:08,525 that we can bring something back at least even possibly a 919 00:48:08,525 --> 00:48:11,245 tentative recommendation to the board on March 17th. 920 00:48:11,305 --> 00:48:13,045 But that's barring any complications 921 00:48:13,045 --> 00:48:14,285 with scheduling that sort of thing. 922 00:48:14,345 --> 00:48:16,845 If anything, something forward 923 00:48:16,845 --> 00:48:20,685 to the board no later than April 7th at the, the committee 924 00:48:20,685 --> 00:48:22,445 of the whole and then regular meeting subsequently 925 00:48:22,465 --> 00:48:23,765 to approve an agreement. 926 00:48:24,265 --> 00:48:26,965 So we know that this project remains foundational 927 00:48:26,965 --> 00:48:29,605 and modernizing county facilities enhancing service delivery 928 00:48:29,665 --> 00:48:33,045 and then ensuring long-term operational sustainability. 929 00:48:33,105 --> 00:48:34,805 So we're looking forward to that. 930 00:48:35,105 --> 00:48:37,725 And then lastly, just to make everyone aware, 931 00:48:38,125 --> 00:48:40,685 there is a freezing rain advisory that was published 932 00:48:40,685 --> 00:48:42,605 by the National Weather Service earlier today. 933 00:48:43,425 --> 00:48:45,445 We have freezing rain potential 934 00:48:45,445 --> 00:48:46,845 for freezing rain conditions 935 00:48:46,845 --> 00:48:48,445 overnight into Wednesday morning. 936 00:48:49,225 --> 00:48:52,005 And so tho the freezing rain, likely north of us 10 937 00:48:52,105 --> 00:48:55,685 and east of 1 31 between 12:00 AM and 9:00 AM Wednesday. 938 00:48:56,305 --> 00:49:00,205 And so be careful as you are driving 939 00:49:00,205 --> 00:49:03,165 because they anticipate icy roads, slippery conditions, 940 00:49:03,715 --> 00:49:05,365 that sort of thing, and travel disruption. 941 00:49:05,365 --> 00:49:07,285 So just be careful as you're traversing 942 00:49:07,735 --> 00:49:08,925 roads tomorrow morning. 943 00:49:08,945 --> 00:49:10,525 And that's all I have this evening. Thank you. 944 00:49:11,255 --> 00:49:12,405 Thank you administrator. 945 00:49:13,395 --> 00:49:15,245 Alright, we'll take it to members' time. 946 00:49:15,245 --> 00:49:17,445 Commissioner Ray, would you like to go first? 947 00:49:21,325 --> 00:49:22,325 Sure, 948 00:49:23,405 --> 00:49:24,415 Yeah, I don't have much. 949 00:49:24,445 --> 00:49:27,015 Just wanna say Happy Black History Month 950 00:49:27,395 --> 00:49:31,295 and then acknowledge Reverend Jesse Jackson 951 00:49:31,595 --> 00:49:33,535 and, and passing today. 952 00:49:34,155 --> 00:49:36,375 I'm just gonna lift him up. And that's it, 953 00:49:39,125 --> 00:49:40,145 Mr. Wheeler. Thank 954 00:49:40,145 --> 00:49:41,145 You Chair. 955 00:49:41,145 --> 00:49:43,065 I don't have much either. I just wanna make everybody aware 956 00:49:43,065 --> 00:49:45,745 that there is a critical blood shortage right now 957 00:49:46,045 --> 00:49:48,185 and the Texas Township Fire Department 958 00:49:48,845 --> 00:49:53,305 is hosting a blood drive on February 26th from nine 30 959 00:49:53,365 --> 00:49:55,225 to 2:00 PM with Verity. 960 00:49:55,825 --> 00:49:57,745 They do ask that you make an appointment. So far. 961 00:49:57,745 --> 00:49:59,825 We have 10 appointments, we're looking for 20. 962 00:50:00,325 --> 00:50:03,665 I'm gonna be giving blood For those of you who are 963 00:50:04,645 --> 00:50:06,545 in the industry that I'm in, whether it's firefighting 964 00:50:06,725 --> 00:50:09,825 or even police, one of the best ways 965 00:50:09,925 --> 00:50:12,025 to get forever chemicals like PFAS out 966 00:50:12,025 --> 00:50:14,065 of your blood system is by donating blood. 967 00:50:14,245 --> 00:50:18,985 So a benefit for you and for others who need blood. 968 00:50:19,165 --> 00:50:21,305 So just wanted to uplift that. 969 00:50:21,645 --> 00:50:22,665 And I think that's all I have. 970 00:50:23,695 --> 00:50:25,055 Commissioner Morales. 971 00:50:25,465 --> 00:50:28,365 Thank you Commissioner Ray took my remarks. 972 00:50:28,915 --> 00:50:33,065 Have a good night. Commissioner Mazer. 973 00:50:35,955 --> 00:50:37,235 Commissioner ler. 974 00:50:39,555 --> 00:50:44,385 Thank you Chair. A few things first, 975 00:50:45,085 --> 00:50:46,185 aren't these things amazing? 976 00:50:46,785 --> 00:50:50,185 I sent Joel Amos a text and told him what I'd done 977 00:50:50,725 --> 00:50:53,865 and he said, okay, so, you know, 978 00:50:54,545 --> 00:50:57,585 consider at least one rural candidate as a possibility. 979 00:50:58,685 --> 00:51:00,305 The only other thing I have is 980 00:51:01,255 --> 00:51:04,785 I'll only mention the next two upcoming KCRG meetings 981 00:51:05,445 --> 00:51:07,785 on March 9th, the second Monday 982 00:51:07,845 --> 00:51:10,785 of the month at eight 30 at Mark's Diner on 983 00:51:10,785 --> 00:51:12,425 Romance in Portage. 984 00:51:12,735 --> 00:51:16,105 Jeff Sorenson, the supervisor of 985 00:51:16,765 --> 00:51:18,785 Cooper Township, is gonna talk. 986 00:51:18,845 --> 00:51:21,425 We haven't had a supervisor talk to my group 987 00:51:21,485 --> 00:51:24,545 and describe what the devil a supervisor does 988 00:51:25,235 --> 00:51:28,385 since Pat White talked like eight years 989 00:51:28,485 --> 00:51:29,785 ago, way before COVID. 990 00:51:30,685 --> 00:51:32,985 So that'll be an interesting thing. 991 00:51:33,725 --> 00:51:36,385 And on April 13th, the following month, 992 00:51:36,475 --> 00:51:37,985 we're gonna have data center 993 00:51:38,245 --> 00:51:41,625 and battery energy storage systems discussed 994 00:51:41,685 --> 00:51:45,905 by Derek NFS from Consumer's Energy. 995 00:51:47,165 --> 00:51:48,865 So everybody's welcome. 996 00:51:49,325 --> 00:51:52,545 Sit in, you know, bring things to throw if you want. 997 00:51:55,375 --> 00:51:58,505 Well, we'll have a, we'll have a decent crowd. Thank you. 998 00:51:59,155 --> 00:52:00,825 Thank you Commissioner. Commissioner Delo. 999 00:52:01,735 --> 00:52:03,905 Well just to ae Commissioner Gissler, I think 1000 00:52:04,765 --> 00:52:06,825 on all the panels on the parking ramp, 1001 00:52:06,845 --> 00:52:09,025 we should have at least requirement 1002 00:52:09,025 --> 00:52:11,825 of one cow being drawn on them On one of the panels. 1003 00:52:11,965 --> 00:52:15,505 Cow. Cow. He has to have a cow. Something rural. 1004 00:52:16,465 --> 00:52:19,235 Yeah, on there. Joel works on a big dairy farm. 1005 00:52:20,455 --> 00:52:22,515 But more serious note, I just wanna 1006 00:52:23,115 --> 00:52:24,875 actually thank the leadership of this board 1007 00:52:24,875 --> 00:52:27,195 because every meeting I realized 1008 00:52:27,575 --> 00:52:29,755 how much you guys do without us. 1009 00:52:30,215 --> 00:52:31,915 And I, I know you're spending a lot of time 1010 00:52:31,915 --> 00:52:34,755 and effort, that's why you're in a leadership role 1011 00:52:34,755 --> 00:52:35,875 and I really appreciate it. 1012 00:52:35,875 --> 00:52:37,635 And you helped make Kalamazoo a better place 1013 00:52:37,635 --> 00:52:39,155 to live, work, and play. 1014 00:52:39,255 --> 00:52:40,255 Oh, 1015 00:52:42,345 --> 00:52:43,515 He'd be so proud of you. 1016 00:52:43,585 --> 00:52:47,275 Look at that. Thank you everyone. 1017 00:52:47,275 --> 00:52:49,515 With that, our agenda, we're adjourned.