KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners has set its first priorities for the next year, with more to come later, once they have a clearer picture on funding.
At a retreat yesterday afternoon, the board settled on filling gaps in their staff and upgrading outdated computer systems as their first priority.
They have already received $10.2-million in funding requests from department heads.
Board Chairman John Taylor says they should have a better idea of funding in September. Then he wants to go through the budget with a fine tooth comb to cut waste and dip into their cash reserves to fund other priorities like gun violence prevention, mental health, and community well being.
Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners retreat July 25, 2023 (courtesy John McNeill)
Commissioners agreed that affordable housing and substance abuse prevention are still priorities, but thanks to the county’s housing millage and opioid settlements, there are dedicated funding sources for those.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion also remains a priority, with commissioners saying it’s an overarching one that will be applied to all their decisions.
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