Kalamazoo County commissioners heard a first reading of a resolution supporting two additional judges for the county’s court system.
State Rep. Julie Rogers presented data from the State Court Administrative Office showing Kalamazoo County’s population has grown to nearly 265,000 residents, with judges carrying an estimated 119% of a standard caseload — prompting the recommendation for one new 9th Circuit Court judge and one new 8th District Court judge.
Rogers said her legislation, House Bill 5870, would need to pass at the state level, with the state covering judicial salaries while the county would be responsible for fringe benefits, support staff, and courtroom space.
Vice Chair John Taylor said he supported adding the judges but stressed the county must plan carefully for facilities, arguing judges belong in courtrooms rather than “ancillary departments,” and that public defenders and prosecutors need equal proximity to the bench. Commissioners noted the process could take several years; the resolution will return for consideration at the July 21 meeting.
