Kalamazoo City Commission - Committee of the Whole - April 6, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting
Director of Public Services James Baker presents a review of Kalamazoo Water Maintenance Systems focusing on Flood mitigation and stormwater management. Residents express concerns about severe flooding impacting homes and infrastructure, particularly around Cobb, Woodward, and Patterson streets. Residents also discuss traffic safety near Howard Street and West Engine Park. Director Baker provides an in-depth presentation on the city’s stormwater system, detailing the challenges of managing urban flooding, riverine flooding, and groundwater issues. He explains the complexities of the stormwater infrastructure, its maintenance needs, and the city’s efforts to implement solutions such as green infrastructure and improved drainage systems. The meeting also highlights the need for regional cooperation and continued investment in stormwater management to address flooding and its impacts on residents.
00:00 Introduction
00:02:41 Call to Order
00:02:53 Roll Call
00:03:16 Motion to Excuse Commissioner Hoffman
00:04:12 Public Comments
00:08:39 Work Session on Localized Flooding
00:33:46 Introduction and Overview of Flooding Challenges
00:34:08 Collaborative Projects with Residents and County
00:35:01 Specific Flooding Projects and Solutions
00:36:03 Historical Flooding Plan and Scrapped Project
00:36:27 EPA’s Role and Current Efforts on Contamination Cleanup
00:38:02 Flood Mitigation Alternatives and Hazard Mitigation Plan
00:39:01 Challenges and Opportunities for Community Cooperation
00:41:02 Storm Sewer Capacity and Infrastructure Improvements
00:41:59 Community Engagement and Reporting Mechanisms
00:43:32 Communication with Dam Operators and Flood Forecasting
01:06:48 Discussion on High Flow Events and Stormwater Management
01:10:44 Commissioner Comments
01:12:20 Adjournment
