City of Kalamazoo - January 27, 2026 Natural Features Protection Review Board Meeting
The Board reviews variance requests concerning slope and setback standards for five parcels located on West Cork Street. The parcels are part of a larger group owned by Statewide Rentals, LLC. The applicant, Jeremy Cole, presented plans to develop duplex housing on these parcels and requested relief from the NFP slope standards, citing the impossibility of construction without limited slope relief. The board discussed various aspects of the proposed development, including the potential impact on natural features such as slopes and woodlands, and the logistics of access and parking. Board members also considered the applicant’s previous attempts to negotiate a land trade with the city to preserve the natural features. After a thorough discussion, the board voted on each parcel’s variance request, ultimately deciding not to recommend the variance to the Zoning Board of Appeals, citing concerns over the protection of natural features and the need for more detailed plans. The meeting highlighted the board’s commitment to balancing development needs with environmental protection.
