October 7, 2026 Civil Rights Board

The City of Kalamazoo Civil Rights Board met on October 7, 2026. The board adopted the agenda as amended and approved minutes from its August 5 regular meeting and September 2 special meeting. After discussion of the nomination subcommittee’s reorganization and concerns about the interview process, the board voted to advance Riella Burrell’s nomination to the City Commission agenda for mayoral appointment. The board also discussed a new vacancy and encouraged applications, including from previous applicants; no decision was made on the application process for that opening.

The education and ordinance review subcommittees reported they are waiting for direction on proposed Chapter 18 and 18A changes. Members discussed the review process, a potential conflict-of-interest provision, and legal review of the draft; the proposed changes remain pending and were not adopted. Staff reported that a unified board communications approach is being worked on, with an update expected around January 2027. No procurement activity, contract actions, or spending decisions were identified.