Portage · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Portage public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Kalamazoo County Consolidated Dispatch radio readiness program
Miller reported the dispatch authority approved an ~$8 million program to fund encrypted police radios and migrate fire/EMS to the county system by end of 2027.
Secure parking for first responders
A resident pressed the city again for secure parking for police, fire, and dispatchers, over a year after first raising it, citing the recent killing of an officer in a vehicle.
Scam 'water test' mailers targeting residents
Some residents got a fake 'annual water test notice' claiming to be from the city offering free in-home water testing. The city says it's a scam — don't call the number.
Tone of city resident communications
Two residents blasted a threatening city letter about trees on city property, and Councilmember Young asked the acting city manager to review the language and tone of all resident communications.
July 3 storm response and emergency preparedness
Councilmembers used their statements to thank Public Safety and Public Works crews for the storm cleanup and remind residents to keep emergency kits and clear debris from sidewalks.
Hull Street right-of-way fence dispute
A property owner told the council a neighbor's fence has occupied roughly 21 feet of undeveloped Hull Street right-of-way for three months despite surveys confirming the encroachment. The mayor directed staff to follow up with legal expertise.