KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The Kalamazoo County board may jump with both feet into a battle between the Road Commission of Kalamazoo County and south County residents over plans to chop down thousands of trees.
The Road Commission has received a $25-million federal Safe Streets for All grant, and part of their plan is to remove roadside trees.
Frustrated residents have asked the county commission to intercede, but County Attorney Lewis Smith says the county is limited in its authority over the Road Board, and it can’t tell them what to do.
Staff has suggested a resolution requesting the road commissioners take 60 days to engage in meaningful public engagement first and consider revising their plans, or face the prospect of having to be elected rather than appointed.
Chair Jen Strebs had this to say.
But, electing road commissioners could create other problems.
Commissioners will discuss their options at their afternoon session Tuesday.
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