Kalamazoo’s Historic Preservation Commission voted October 14 to lower its quorum from five members to four and is seeking new members.
The commission approved the change by roll call. It amends Article III, Section 3.2 of the commission’s bylaws, which currently says a quorum consists of five members. The proposed language says four. The rule that no action may be taken without a quorum, except to adjourn to a later date, stays the same.
Why the change
City staff and commissioners said two members, Melissa Paduk and Fred Edison, were serving on extensions that ended with this meeting. With both leaving, they said, four members would remain, which is too few to meet a quorum of five. They also noted the Historic District Commission’s quorum is already four. Staff said a five-member quorum is a high bar when members are out sick or weather keeps people home.
Commissioners thanked Paduk and Edison for their service, including the extra time they stayed on.
How to get involved
Commissioners said they are looking for new members. According to the city, members need a demonstrated interest in or knowledge of historic preservation or Kalamazoo’s history. And terms run three years.
- Apply: Applications go through the city’s Apply to Join a Board or Commission page.
- Meetings: The commission’s page says it meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 241 W. South St. Commissioners also discussed possible schedule changes, so check the city’s meeting calendar before attending.
Commissioners said they also need to schedule time to work on the 2027 work plan.
