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Organizers deliver 3,000+ signatures and press Kalamazoo commission for renters' rights
Summary
Tenant organizers told the commission they gathered more than 3,000 signatures for two proposed ordinances that would protect tenant organizing and limit unjust evictions; commissioners were asked to coordinate next steps and to consider the draft language ahead of a planned February meeting.
Organizers for a local renters' campaign presented two proposed ordinances and a stack of petition signatures during public comment at the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting on Feb. 2, 2026.
Tristan, speaking for We the People Action Fund, said volunteers collected ‘‘over 3,000 signatures’’ and handed the commission draft ordinances to protect tenants who organize and to define just-cause eviction standards. ‘‘The vice mayor has already promised to take the lead in coordinating this process,’’ Tristan said, urging the commission to review the language and move toward implementation.
Multiple residents who described themselves as renters and tenant organizers told commissioners they experience delayed repairs, harassment and fear of retaliation that makes them reluctant to report problems. Alex, a volunteer and neighbor of Village Park Apartments, described a recent incident in which roughly 40% of a building lacked hot water for six days and said tenants were denied even a modest rent reduction. ‘‘That’s why I signed up with this measure,’’ Alex said.
Organizers framed the ordinances as consistent with similar protections enacted elsewhere — citing examples such as Ann Arbor, Detroit and Washington, D.C. — and said their language was reviewed by local attorneys. Tristan also named local officials and advocates who support the effort, including Vice Mayor Drew Duncan and additional community leaders.
Why it matters: Speakers said the proposals aim to reduce harassment and retaliation and to give tenants a defined right to organize and to renew leases without arbitrary eviction. Organizers asked the commission to coordinate timeline and staff review so the measure can move to the next steps, including meetings with commissioners and formal introduction if appropriate.
What commissioners said: No vote or formal action on the ordinances occurred at the meeting. Commissioners acknowledged receipt of the materials; commissioners who later spoke in the meeting thanked public speakers and noted the city’s array of housing and nonprofit services.
Next steps: Tristan asked to meet with commissioners before February to ‘‘get this ball rolling’’ and the vice mayor indicated willingness to coordinate. The petitioners and organizers may pursue ballot or ordinance paths depending on further legal and staff review.
Sources: Public comments from Tristan (We the People Action Fund), Alex (resident), Andrew Argo (organizer) and others at the Feb. 2, 2026 Kalamazoo City Commission meeting.
