Kalamazoo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Kalamazoo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Recycling and food scrap programs
The city submitted an EGLE organics infrastructure grant to expand the composting program to more neighborhoods — with backdoor pickup for mobility-limited residents and secured dumpster enclosures for multifamily buildings.
Urban deer management
A resident's letter about deer control sparked discussion — members noted culling just makes populations bounce back, so exclusion strategies deserve a look.
Endangered bat habitat and tree removal
Nine dead trees flagged as potential habitat for Indiana and northern long-eared bats were removed before bat season. A proposal to require nine replacement trees was rejected in favor of woodland preservation and bat boxes, which members said provide faster habitat value.
Oak wilt risk management
Board members flagged that clearing during the April–June season risks spreading oak wilt, which surged in Kalamazoo last year. Stumps need to be ground, pulled, or painted to stop the disease, and the applicant agreed to remove stumps.
Air quality monitor placement gap analysis
A new analysis identifies which census tracts — kids, seniors, Black residents, and lower-income areas — should get priority air monitors. Nearly all of Kalamazoo showed up as vulnerable on the map.