The Kalamazoo City Commission approved several routine and regular‑agenda items on Dec. 1, including public‑service contracts in the consent agenda, an Economic Initiative Fund loan to a downtown business, a fireworks permit for a country‑club New Year’s display, and a property sale to Kalamazoo County.

Key votes and motions

- Economic Initiative Fund loan to Winston's LLC (224 E. Michigan Ave.): The commission approved a $35,000 gap‑financing loan to help complete a $400,000 fit‑out for a bar. Bobby Boyd, economic development supervisor, said the project would add roughly 10 full‑time and 5 part‑time jobs. Motion to approve was made by Vice Mayor Duncan and supported by Commissioner Hoffman; roll call was recorded and the motion passed.

- Fireworks permit: The commission approved a permit for the Kalamazoo Country Club to hold a fireworks display at 1609 Weitz Road on Dec. 31. Commissioner Slavy urged targeted outreach to nearby residents and neighborhood associations because fireworks can impact people with PTSD and pets; after public comment the motion to approve (moved by Commissioner Wilson, supported by Commissioner Slaby) passed with Vice Mayor Duncan recorded as abstaining.

- Sale of 459 North Rose Street to Kalamazoo County: The commission approved a purchase agreement selling city property at 459 North Rose Street to Kalamazoo County for $200,000; the motion passed after roll call.

- Consent agenda: The commission approved 23 consent items including multiple construction contracts, professional services agreements and policy updates (contract awards and amounts were listed in the staff report) by unanimous roll call.

- Water rates ordinance: Staff presented a first reading of an ordinance changing drinking‑water rates effective Jan. 1, 2026; the ordinance was offered for first reading and will return for action on Dec. 15 following a public hearing scheduled for that meeting.

The commission recorded roll calls for each action and authorized the city manager to execute related documents as appropriate.

Votes at a glance (tallies from roll calls reported on record): consent agenda — unanimous yes; EDC loan — unanimous yes; fireworks permit — yes: 6, abstain: 1 (Vice Mayor Duncan); Arcadia Creek contract — unanimous yes; sale of property — unanimous yes. For items with recorded movers and supporters, those are noted in staff minutes.