A panel appointed to consider how the City of Kalamazoo could bring in more revenue held its final meeting Monday night, but it still has some work ahead of it. Members decided Monday night to include individual panelists' comments in the group's final report. They have a few days to submit their thoughts.
Facilitator Tim Fallon says including individual comments allows the commission to hear all the ideas members find useful.
“The panel is aware that even when they didn’t agree, people had strong feelings and so they wanted the opportunity for those opinions and viewpoints to be on the record in the report,” he says.
Kalamazoo has balanced its budget for 2016, but expects to face a widening gap in its finances in the future. The panel’s suggestions include encouraging development, seeking regional cooperation on some services and asking the Kalamazoo County to increase its law enforcement millage.
Kalamazoo City Manager Jim Ritsema says the panel’s work “gives the commission a good starting point” as it tries to close Kalamazoo’s budget gap.
“We knew all along that there was no silver bullet out there. And anything that we do is more than likely going to involve more public process, and ultimately decision-making based on recommendations,” he says.
Members expect to present their findings at the City Commission’s regular meeting January 4.
