Brewery Founder's Battle: Demanding Change in Kalamazoo's Response to Homelessness

By J.Alex- Jan 9, 2024

A Call for Action: Larry Bell's Stand Against Homelessness and City Responsibilities

Larry Bell, a prominent figure, has brought to light a concerning issue in Kalamazoo, Michigan. On January 4th, an employee of the Larry J. Bell Library Foundation reported homeless individuals setting up camp on Bell-owned vacant land at Walbridge and Ransom streets. Despite this, law enforcement faced limitations in removing the campers without supervisor approval, inciting Bell's frustration and subsequent public call for the city manager's dismissal.

The city manager's primary duty, as outlined in the city charter, is to ensure the enforcement of laws and ordinances. Bell asserts that the current city manager, Ritsema, has fallen short in fulfilling this responsibility, resulting in mounting problems faced by businesses and nonprofits in the Northside area. These issues encompass trespassing, illegal camping, drug use, and the presence of waste and feces, causing distress and inconvenience.

Bell's efforts to address the situation include posting signage on his properties to aid law enforcement in enforcing trespassing laws. However, Bell expresses dissatisfaction with the city's response, citing incidents of vandalism and a lack of action from city commissioners and public safety officials.

City officials responded to Bell's claims, affirming that laws regarding trespassing are actively enforced and efforts are made to balance outreach and enforcement when addressing homelessness. Ritsema denied allegations suggesting restrictions on law enforcement by the city manager's office.

Bell, disheartened by what he perceives as selective enforcement in Kalamazoo, has voiced concerns to the City Commission regarding issues like panhandling, public defecation, and illegal camping. Despite his appeals, Bell feels unheard and questions the city's commitment to safeguarding personal property.

Expressing his intent to invest in Kalamazoo, Bell expresses disillusionment with the city's failure to guarantee the protection of personal property. He has sought intervention from Attorney General Dana Nessel regarding what he perceives as the city's reluctance to enforce laws adequately, including prosecuting heroin and fentanyl dealers and users.

City spokesperson, Michael Smith, representing Ritsema, acknowledged Bell's concerns and reiterated the city's dedication to downtown safety through various initiatives. These include a new security camera system, a new KDPS substation, and a community service team working with the unhoused population. The city also collaborates with nonprofits on affordable housing and downtown safety measures.

Smith emphasized the city's commitment to ensuring downtown and nearby areas remain safe and conducive for residents and businesses, highlighting the ongoing efforts to address issues through outreach and citations.

In 2023, KDPS undertook over 700 outreach efforts and issued 238 citations for offenses including trespassing, illegal camping, violation of park rules, and panhandling, as part of their comprehensive approach to address community concerns.

Bell's outspoken advocacy and the city's initiatives underscore the complex balance required in addressing homelessness, enforcement of laws, and ensuring a safe and thriving community for all in Kalamazoo.

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Photo byAdrian NewellonUnsplash