Why Pride Still Matters
From June 6-7th, non-profit OutFront Kalamazoo, which primarily serves the LGBTQ+ community and their allies in Southwest Michigan, hosted Kalamazoo Pride 2025. This event served as a fundraiser to support OutFront’s year-round programming and services. We spoke with Kalamazoo Pride…
Connecting Communities: Naturalizing the Kalamazoo River, Battle Creek Unlimited
Battle Creek Unlimited is an economic development non-profit that has aquired 10 acres along the Kalamazoo River that runs through downtown. For decades, this area has been a highly industrial one, with the banks of the river reflecting that. A…
Civic Snapshot: June 24-25, 2025 Oshtemo Township Board of Trustees and Budget Meetings.
The board begins its budget meetings with a review of departmental achievements, goals, and vision for the future development of the township. In the first of two meetings the board reviewed presentations from the Assessing and Building Departments as well…
Civic Snapshot: June 25, 2025 Comstock Township Downtown Development Authority
The DDA considered their exclusion in recent township board decisions, the use of fund balances to cover budget shortfalls, and the impact of CIP fund allocations on DDA projects. Public comments included complaints about board member behavior affecting community members…
Civic Snapshot: June 24, 2025 City of Kalamazoo Natural Features Protection Review Board
Members discussed the redevelopment project at a former brownfield site on Belfort Street. The project involves constructing housing for individuals recovering from substance use disorders, with considerations for stormwater management, protected trees, and native landscaping. The board evaluated the environmental…
Connecting Communities: Monoform Cinema at the Dormouse Theatre
Monoform Cinema is a group that is bringing a curated, non-commercial film experience to Kalamazoo. The team (Gabe Ybarra, Jaycie McGruder, Steve Remenapp, and Carman Goodrich) remember the days when the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema was operating and people could go…
Civic Snapshot: June 24, 2025 Oshtemo Township Zoning Board of Appeals
The board deliberated on setback and sidewalk variances requested for a property located on Venture Park Drive. The applicant requested a setback variance for an office building addition and a variance to waive the requirement for a sidewalk installation. The…
Civic Snapshot: June 23, 2025 Kalamazoo Township Board of Trustees
The board approves a one-time pay adjustment for township employees, highlighting their dedication and service. The board also schedules a joint meeting with the Kalamazoo County Road Commission to discuss community concerns and future collaboration. Additionally, updates on park improvements…
Civic Snapshot: June 23, 2025 Kalamazoo Public Schools Board of Education
The Board reviewed Summer School Programs and approved the Middle School Pilot program. Superintendent Slade reported on the successful school year and upcoming summer school program details. Dr. Justice presented recommendations for new middle school pilot courses, emphasizing their teacher-driven…
Civic Snapshot: June 23, 2025 City of Kalamazoo Special City Commission Meeting
Commissioners reviewed proposals from executive search firms to assist in hiring a new city manager. The meeting featured presentations from three firms: SGRC, PSR, and Ralph Tellis. Community members provided feedback, with significant support for Ralph Tellis due to their…
