KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Both the City of Kalamazoo and the County Board are wrestling with ways to end real acts of discrimination that are having a tangible impact on the lives of local residents.
On Tuesday evening Kalamazoo County Commissioners began talks on the creation of an Equity Advisory Board to tackle the impact of racism and address the disturbing death rate of minority infants in the county.
Board Chair Julie Rogers says they debated over what the size and make-up of the panel should be. The advisory board idea is already on their agenda to further discuss in March.
In addition, Kalamazoo’s Vice Mayor Patrese Griffin introduced the proposed revision to Chapter 18 of the Kalamazoo Code of Ordinances, which details city policy pertaining to discrimination. The potential change would eliminate all blanket housing rejections for any demographic group.
Commissioners will hold a workshop to discuss these housing ordinance amendments that would stop landlords who have been rejecting renters because they will pay with housing vouchers.
The workshop will begin Monday at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
