Battle Creek residents voice concerns over city tax notifications and water safety

Concerns over water safety and city income tax notification dominated the Battle Creek City Commission meeting on April 8, 2025, as residents voiced urgent issues affecting their health and finances.

A resident, who identified himself as a concerned father, raised alarms about the city’s water quality, citing personal health issues that make him particularly sensitive to contaminants. He expressed frustration over what he described as "over chlorination" of the water supply, urging the city to investigate the cause and provide clear guidance for residents with health concerns. "I have to be very careful with myself in regard to what I take in," he stated, emphasizing the need for a remedy for those unable to safely consume the water.

Another resident, Joe Bridal, highlighted a lack of communication regarding the city’s income tax, which he discovered his daughter owed after moving to Battle Creek. He criticized the city for failing to notify new residents about the 1% income tax, which led to unexpected financial burdens. "There was never any notification... nothing that the city of Battle Creek assessed a 1% income tax," he lamented, calling for improved communication to prevent similar situations for future residents.

Damon Brown, president of RISE Corp, also addressed the commission, seeking reimbursement for funds he claimed were improperly allocated during the distribution of ARPA funds. He reported that his organization was instructed to use food assistance funds to cover administrative costs, which he argued was against the agreement made with city officials. "We followed those instructions... we’re looking to be reimbursed for our money," he concluded, stressing the importance of financial accountability.

The discussions underscored significant community concerns regarding public health and fiscal transparency, prompting calls for the city to take immediate action to address these pressing issues. As residents await responses from city officials, the implications of these discussions could lead to changes in policy and communication strategies moving forward.