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Kalamazoo City Commission
Kalamazoo City Transit Authority Proposal
Kalamazoo City Commission
Two-Year Term — Elect 7
Q1 Citizens and elected officials often cite the need for improved intergovernmental cooperation. What progress has been made and where would you target other specific areas as opportunities for our local governments to work together in order to improve services and/or save costs?
[70 word limit]
Q2 Describe the three most important steps that should be taken in Kalamazoo to meet the commitments made through the Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, which is intended to combat global warming? [70 word limit]
Q3 How would you ensure that city residents have confidence in the public safety department?
[70 word limit]
Q4 What are the two most important quality of life issues in Kalamazoo? How should the Commission address them? [70 word limit]
Q5 Which of your strengths or talents especially qualify you to be a City Commissioner?
[70 word limit]
David Anderson
Age 56. 513 Stuart Ave. Director of Housing and Facilities, Kalamazoo Community Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Bachelor’s degree, accountancy, WMU; graduate, Kalamazoo Central H.S. Kalamazoo City Commission, 2 yrs. Chair, Kalamazoo County Public Housing Commission, 6 yrs. Member and chair, LIFT Foundation, 8 yrs. Former chair, City of Kalamazoo Housing Board of Appeals and president, West Douglas (Fairmont) Neighborhood Association.
1. One example of intergovernmental cooperation is the unique agreement between the City and County of Kalamazoo that responded to the housing needs of homeless persons and also leveraged $500,000 from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. Another is the regional sustainability policy I’m working to develop with the City of Portage, WMU, Kalamazoo County, KVCC and Kalamazoo College to improve energy conservation and share best practices across the region.
2. I support a regional sustainability policy to reduce energy-related expenditures; guide decisions on building, fleet management and energy auditing; and establish standards for good stewardship of public dollars. Transitioning Metro buses to the use of B-5 bio-diesel and fast-tracking LEED-certified development in the city are conservation-focused efforts I also advocate. Instituting walker- and bike-friendly policies in Kalamazoo will reduce energy consumption and improve quality of life as well.
3. Respect and professionalism in every citizen encounter with public safety must be the standard for Kalamazoo. In addition to moving forward with the City Manager and Chief’s Public Safety Work Plan, we need to develop a relationship-based policing model that brings officers and community people together around common issues, such as the recent meeting that connected hundreds of Westwood residents with public safety in the city and township.
4. Public safety, schools and infrastructure are critical elements of Kalamazoo’s quality of life. People need to feel safe in their homes and neighborhoods, so we must aggressively pursue fair and even-handed enforcement of ordinances. Perceptions about school quality directly affect housing choices and businesses, so the city must collaborate with KPS around school improvement. And Kalamazoo sidewalks, streets and water systems reflect on the city’s fiscal vitality and operations.
5. I believe that Kalamazoo is a place of tremendous potential. But to build on our resources and strengths, the city needs leaders who can address immediate challenges and at the same time keep a big-picture focus on the kind of community we all want to live in—one that is safe, fair, prosperous and vibrant. I hold that vision and will continue to work to make it a reality.
Tammy Barnard
Age 43. 1205 Lake St. Executive Director, Edison Neighborhood Association. Graduate, Parchment H.S. Certifications include community development, fundraising, grant writing, Spanish, leadership, Dale Carnegie. Life-long Kalamazoo resident with a commitment to neighborhoods. Involved in organizing to remove Déjà Vu, and keep PCBs out of the city. Board member: Habitat for Humanity, Building Blocks, others. Former member, LISC Americorps, Goodwill Board, Edison Weed & Seed Steering, Hispanic American Council Board, others.
1. The police dispatch station is a wonderful example of intergovernmental cooperation. I believe there are opportunities within every department of the City to partner with others to cut costs and increase efficiencies (everything from buying office supplies and automotive parts to sharing equipment and services). Sharing our collective experiences, resources and best practices, can avoid costly mistakes, get the job done accurately, and let everyone share in the great success.
2. (a) Create bike/pedestrian-friendly trails and sidewalks to encourage people to walk/bike, with convenient bike racks throughout the city with free bike parking. (b) Promote local business development. Use local foods, goods and services to reduce vehicle emissions and support local commerce. (c) Encourage “green build” housing and businesses, with LEED neighborhood designs. Increase programs such as McKinney/Balkema’s Recycle for Warmth program that helps families with weatherization needs, while reducing fuel use and costs.
3. I do not believe City residents have lost confidence in KDPS. I am a strong advocate for bringing back the original Neighborhood Liaison Officer (NLO) program. It was a crucial component in connecting the community with public safety. We should continue to seek and promote other programs that are proactive, such as block watch groups, neighborhood clean-up projects and resident crime/safety/protection education.
4. (a) Youth: Our youth need positive activities/opportunities, training and skills that will give them decent jobs, and positive role models that boost their self-esteem to deter them from bad elements. (b) Poverty: All human beings should have the basic necessities—decent housing, food, clothing and medical attention. The Commission needs to partner with other organizations, foundations and municipalities to create the tools to aggressively address these issues and solve these problems.
5. I am blessed with great organizing skills and strong positive can–do attitude. I am able to find resources and partners needed to create positive change. I’ve worked with many businesses, organizations and commissioners over the years and have strong connections to underutilized and valuable human resources. Will work to facilitate creative and conventional solutions to problems and strengthen our City’s “think outside the box” attitude to make City strong, vibrant, attractive place . . . .
Don Cooney
Age 70. 1221 Vassar Dr. Associate Professor, School of Social Work, WMU. Assistant Director, Lewis Walker Institute for Race and Ethnic Relations. B.A., Mary Immaculate College, Northampton, PA; M.Div., Mary Immaculate Seminary; M.A., Fordham U; Ph.D., Bryn Mawr. Commissioner, 10 yrs. Social justice activist, 42 yrs; community work in New York and Philadelphia, 13 yrs; university teaching on social policy, race relations, community development, 30 yrs. Founding board member: Kalamazoo Communities in Schools, Poverty Reduction Initiative. Board member, Community Action Agency.
1. Perhaps the best example is how city, state and federal government worked together to stop dumping of PCBs in the Edison neighborhood; City and County collaborated on Housing Trust Fund and establishment of Transit Authority. Areas where cooperation is much needed are poverty reduction, youth development, shelter for the homeless, KVET and criminal justice, advocacy with federal government for resources essential to the community.
2. We should (a) make sure that all future building and building repair done by the City adhere to the requirements; (b) work with National League of Cities for best practices around implementation in other cites and funding sources; (c) enlist local expertise for city-wide forum to raise consciousness about importance and implementation strategies.
3. (a) Work with Public Safety to advance cultural competence of personnel so they continually improve in providing services that are appropriate and effective for all. (b) Improve communication and interaction between public safety and all members of community. Informal activities such as block parties have been very effective. (c) Make clear that public safety is the responsibility of the whole community, develop a real partnership. (d) Assure a fair, open response to citizen complaints.
4. Most important issues, safety and poverty, are not unrelated. (a) Strive to insure all have access to what they need for a fully human life. Youth need to know the community cares deeply for them and works to make a bright future possible for them. (b) Imitate best national practices. Efficiently use City resources, maximize existing community resources, especially our people; seek new resources to keep people safe and dramatically reduce poverty.
5. I have the experience of more than 40 years working in communities, especially very diverse communities. Ten years experience on City Commission. Constantly research and teach about issues critical to the city: economic development, poverty, race and ethnic relations, community organizing. Excellent education. Have had the opportunity to work with excellent community organizers. Extensive experience in bringing people together, advocating, strategic planning.
Aaron Davis
Age 39. 2408 S. Rose St. GreenLeaf Hospitality and Gull Lake Country Club. Graduate, Superior Operating & Engineering. Business owner in downtown Kalamazoo, several yrs; Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport; management team experience, GreenLeaf Hospitality and GLCC.
1. I would try to help curb the misuse of city property and supplies. Use man hours; cut the out-source practice.
2. (a) Alternative fuels. (b) Green Earth plan and practices. (c) Research and development.
3. Diversity training. Have multicultural teams of public safety officers patrolling together in the same vehicle.
4. Develop water reclaim system that produces better drinking water.
5. Strong, out-going personality and business management experience.
Bobby Hopewell
Age 43. 525 Stuart Ave. Director of Hospitality Services, Borgess Medical Center. B.S., public service administration/EMS administration; Michigan Licensed Paramedic.. Kalamazoo City Commission, 2003–present; Vice Mayor, 2005–present. Planning Commission, 6 yrs; chairperson, 2 yrs. Zoning Board of Appeals, 4 yrs; chairperson, Charter Review Committee. Current board member: Douglass Community Association, Kalamazoo Communities in Schools and Pretty Lake Camp. www.bobbyhopewell.com
1. We have seen substantial progress in some areas of intergovernmental cooperation over the last couple of years. The creation of a countywide transportation authority and a countywide housing authority are great examples of this, as is the public safety support agreement between Kalamazoo and Portage. I will continue to advocate for a countywide 911 dispatch, as well as joint purchasing, shared information technology support and a joint law enforcement training center.
2. Three steps required to meet our commitments under the agreement are as follows: (a) evaluate present emissions; (b) set reduction targets; and (c) create an action plan. Some action steps under this plan include continued bio-diesel research with WMU scientists for use of this fuel in City vehicles and buses, implementation of the Non-motorized Transportation Plan, and preservation of open space by supporting downtown and neighborhood residential redevelopment efforts.
3. We will work with our employees to ensure integrity and accountability in public safety operations. We will implement the Public Safety Enhancement Work Plan for improved training of our officers and our citizen review board. We will return to a community/neighborhood policing approach. We will uphold the Community Partnering Agreement which will better enable us to work with citizens to provide the best Public Safety Department possible.
4. First, we must continue to build strong, secure and vibrant neighborhoods through quality public safety efforts, as well as improve housing and job opportunities. Second, we must create meaningful educational and employment opportunities for our youth by encouraging more internship programs with local businesses. We must strive with our educational and community partners to make sure that all of our youth take full advantage of the Kalamazoo Promise.
5. I have a history of service and leadership in Kalamazoo. I grew up in a single parent home in Kalamazoo. I have worked for profit and not-for-profit health care companies, I am a small business owner, and have served on numerous boards and commissions. This experience has provided me with the skills and insights needed to address the challenges before us. I help build consensus and move groups to action.
Angela Jackson
Did not respond in time for publication.
Sean McCann
Age 36. 614 Axtell St. Director of Development, American Red Cross of Southwest Michigan. B.A., WMU. Four-term Kalamazoo City Commissioner, 1999–present. Currently serving as Commission liaison to the Economic Development Council, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Audit Committee and Convention & Visitors Bureau. Member, Rotary Club of Kalamazoo, Irish-American Club of Kalamazoo, several community boards and committees. Former executive director, Vine Neighborhood Association. Website: www.seanamccann.com. Blog: www.seanamccann.blogspot.com. Email: mccanns@kalamazoocity.org. Phone: (269) 349-0654
1. Our recent success toward implementing countywide transit represents an excellent step, but needs continued support to be fully realized. Another good example of cooperation is countywide first-responder agreements for fire fighting, although there remains room for improvement. Other cooperation is feasible by fusing administrative functions among governments (potentially saving tax dollars). Countywide land-use planning would help control sprawl. An inclusionary housing compact would enhance countywide housing affordability.
2. (a) Reduce energy consumption by expanding countywide transit, increasing alternative fuel usage in buses, synchronizing traffic signals to reduce vehicle idling and expanding bike paths. (b) Conserve resources through strengthening curbside recycling, practicing healthy urban forestry and pursuing land-use planning that preserves open space and reduces sprawl. (c) Operate and build smarter by supporting green building practices, purchasing energy-efficient equipment and vehicles, and broadening internal recycling practices.
3. We recently developed a Public Safety Improvement Plan, which I will ensure is implemented. I did not support issuing a “D” grade to the entire department—this action discounts the good work of the vast majority of our officers. Most people have confidence in most of the work being done. However, we must strengthen connections to all parts of the community, and place a renewed emphasis on community policing.
4. (a) Building and maintaining strong, vibrant neighborhoods. Improve neighborhood vitality by empowering citizens and neighborhood associations as first responders to issues. (b) Retaining and creating jobs in Kalamazoo. Do everything in our power to support the Kalamazoo Promise. Preserve and expand the city’s local bid preference policy—a program that helps keep Kalamazoo dollars in Kalamazoo and doesn’t cost taxpayers one dime more. Continue brownfield redevelopment to create jobs.
5. For the past eight years, I’ve served as a Kalamazoo City Commissioner, during which time I have demonstrated a commitment to studying city policies and issues carefully, remaining accessible and being responsive. I have extensive experience guiding neighborhood revitalization efforts and strengthening our downtown. Above all, I am dedicated to our community and am a champion for all our neighborhoods and improving the quality of life for all our citizens.
Hannah J. McKinney
Age 52. 1425 Grand Ave. Professor, Kalamazoo College, specialties in public finance and urban policy. Ph.D., U of Pennsylvania. Mayor, one term; vice mayor, four terms; consultant, National League of Cities on city hall development policies. Led Kalamazoo’s comprehensive planning process; helped create the county transit authority; created Recycling for Warmth, to make homes for low-income homeowners more energy efficient; awarded Public Servant of the Year 2007 for creating a new relationship with Portage officials.
1. Progress made in transit, police and fire training facility; local governments now have ability to work on specific issues. In future need more joint economic development activities; countywide GIS (Geographic Information Systems) zoning and future land use mapping; county land bank for delinquent properties; meet-and-greets with industrial site locators; cooperative planning between jurisdictions for West Main and other areas of county; drug enforcement and road patrol.
2. Pass a Green Building Policy encouraging LEED certification in retrofits in city buildings and new buildings; strongly encourage LEED and energy star standards for city funds recipients; change street lights to energy efficient ones—traffic signals are energy efficient; set policy of decreasing use of energy by city government; make Recycling for Warmth larger to include more homes. Taking best practices of other cities seriously. See http://usmayors.org/uscm/best_practices/EandEBP07.pdf
3. Continue to work on community policing strategies. Community policing is 30 years old—officers interact more with neighbors; problem solving as well as crime solving. Recruit more Kalamazoo residents. Continue implementing manager’s work plan for public safety, particularly cultivating philosophy and culture, producing organizational environment of credibility, approachability and inclusion and enhance the linkages between the organization and the community.
4. Lack of jobs in area and fully implementing A+ Neighborhoods neighborhood revitalization program. City officials need to partner with all groups involved in workforce and economic development. Pro-jobs attitude needed. A+ Neighborhoods needs more commission attention, small grant opportunities, more resident workshops on how to transform neighborhoods. Need to figure out how to use the Promise to bring jobs to city and residents to neighborhoods.
5. Professional experience in urban economics. I know what policies work in other cities; I know how state and local policies affect city policies; I am a team and consensus builder. I know how to be a commissioner; I know how much work it takes and I do the work willingly. I represent the entire city. More information, www.hannahmckinney.com.
Barbara Hamilton Miller
Age 54. 2523 Winchell. Incumbent, Kalamazoo City Commission. Community volunteer. B.S., EMU, 1975. Trustee, Kalamazoo School Board, 8 yrs; served as treasurer, vice president and president. Board member, Communities in Schools, 9 yrs. Trustee, First United Methodist. Worked on many Kalamazoo Public School bond issues, raising funds for new buildings and upgrading our current facilities. Collaborated and won the award, 100 Best Communities for Young People. www.barbmiller.com
1. (a) A county and city housing initiative to get homeless off the streets and lead productive lives was put together. Portage is considering this issue too. (b) A joint purchasing process works to keep costs down. We bid on common items and get lower prices because of the quantities. (c) Passage of the transit millage was great teamwork too. (d) Any and all ways to condense and consolidate should be considered.
2. (a) Each city department needs to make a stronger commitment to recycle paper, plastic and glass on a regular basis. (b) Educate employees and residents about the importance of recycling, using public transportation and looking at ways to become “green.” (c) Bio-solids from the waste-water plant can be used for fertilizer and sold to a local paper company.
3. Most residents support and appreciate the work that the Public Safety Department is doing. Officers need to get into the schools and neighborhoods where they can interact in a non-threatening way. Developing trusting relationships helps too. The city manager’s plan for public safety improvements from community work done in May needs to be regularly evaluated and revised, if necessary.
4. The city was victorious in keeping more PCBs out, but the PCBs still there need to be sealed off or hauled away. We must stay vigilant and continue to put pressure on the EPA to finalize plans for the Alcott site. Poverty continues to plague our city. Local organizations need city support and encouragement to do all they can to keep our families together and our kids productive and safe.
5. I have the time and dedication to spend my term working with schools, county and other groups to move this city forward. I am passionate about the Kalamazoo Promise and want to spread the word about what a great city Kalamazoo is. I am organized and willing to work with city staff and agencies to help us all succeed. I especially enjoy working on grants for city projects.
Stephanie L. Moore
Age 35. 414 W. Paterson St. National Recruiter and Trainer, ACORN Political. Pursing political science degree, KVCC; graduate, Kalamazoo Public Schools. Seasoned organizer handling and managing multiple projects and deadlines; project manager, 10 yrs. Executive director, Fannie Lou Hamer Project, 5 yrs. Actively involved in social issues and concerns of Kalamazoo as a community organizer, building future community leaders and advocating on behalf of underserved, 12 yrs. www.kalamazooneedsmoore.com
1. (a) Progress has been made with the mayors of Kalamazoo and Portage, and the Township, discussing ways to jointly utilize the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The county, WMU and the city working toward universal public transportation. Continue to partner providing affordable housing and employment that will benefit the city and outlying areas. (b) Facilitate collaboration among service organizations to better educate community on agency resources and make information readily available and accessible to citizens.
2. First, the city should lead by example. Through environmental responsibility, the city can reduce emissions in city vehicles by using E-85 bio-diesel and other renewable energies, as well as constructing green roofs, windmills and energy-saving lighting in city facilities. Second, team with governmental agencies and citizens on energy conservation to show financial and environmental benefits. Third, educate children on the importance of preserving their community for their future.
3. The Youth Leadership Academy is the perfect example of building a bridge with public safety and the city youth. This relationship needs to be more than a summer program, but continuous, even after-school type program where public safety officers interact with young people. There needs to be clear guidelines for arrest procedures which aren’t left up to subjective biases. Lastly, change procedures for citizens involved in citizen review board process.
4. (a) Employment opportunities for low-income residents and people who lost jobs in plant shutdown. Bring more businesses willing to offer on-the-job training for employees and partner with the state to offer incentives to employers. Assist with expungement. (b) Creating a safe environment for youth and adults. Implement a city-wide strategic planning process including citizens, young people, business, clergy, foundations, civic groups, schools and neighborhood associations to address this issue.
5. I have over ten years experience of being a policy driver at the state and federal level. I have a keen awareness and care about all neighborhood and community issues. I’m committed to being an agent for accountability and responsibility from citizen and government. I bring a can–do spirit with the ability to be a bridge builder. I engage residents to mobilize on issues that affect our community.
Brian Shaff
Age 31. 1442 W. Main. Auto Body Repair Tech, Petersen Body Shop. Graduate, Plainwell H.S., 1994; Associate’s degree, Wyoming Technical Institute, Laramie, 1995. Being a mechanic for past 13 yrs has taught me value of hard work. Growing up Christian has taught me the value of living an honest and respectable life. Being a mental health advocate for the last four years has shown me that those with disabilities can make a difference for positive change in the community.
1. I believe a lot of progress has been made since the last election in regards to the City of Kalamazoo’s relationship with Portage. To continue moving forward, I would like to see continued cooperation with Portage, our surrounding townships and the county, when it comes to emergency services training.
2. (a) Keep Michigan Ave., Kalamazoo Ave., Park St., and Westnedge Ave. as one-way streets, two-way will cause congestion. (b) When finances allow, gradually replace the Metro Transit fleet with new hybrid buses. (c) Reduce the city-owned vehicle fleet and/or buy smaller more economical vehicles.
3. Bottom line is they need to be accountable for their decisions. There has been too many excuses for missing items and broken equipment. Also, the officer involved in disputes rarely speaks for themselves. The city commission should take a zero tolerance stand on these issues. I support our Public Safety Department and I hope the next chief (after Weston’s retirement) can help rebuild the community’s trust.
4. We need to invest more in people through mentoring, counseling and seminars as a way to lower our crime rate. Also, we as a city need to do more to pursue new business to open here. There is plenty of vacant land and buildings that can be used for anything from retail, manufacturing, offices and more. This will help the unemployment as well as the city’s tax base.
5. I do not have an impressive community service resume and I’m not affiliated with any political parties. I’m just a regular guy who has a gift of communication that gets to the point and tackles problems where they begin. I have a vision for a stronger city where you would want to live and work. It’s about community and respecting each other as a way of life.