As the year comes to an end, Watershed Voice takes a look back at a year of keeping readers across Southwest Michigan informed. In 2025, Watershed Voice published 322 stories, averaging 27 articles per month. Over the course of the year, our reporting reached 137,762 total page views from 79,435 visitors.
Last week Kalamazoo, Sturgis, and Three Rivers had city commission meetings. In all three meetings, independent of each other, homelessness and ways the city can address it was discussed. As the holidays approach and cold weather continues, Watershed Voice compiled a list of all the resources available for those who need it most in St. Joseph, Cass, and Kalamazoo counties. This guide lists shelter, warming, food and crisis resources available during the holiday period. Availability and capacity can change quickly, especially during extreme weather.
The task force could include seven to 15 members appointed by the mayor and city commission, including city leadership (mayor or designee, police chief and city manager), a county Department of Health and Human Services representative, a school district liaison, a local housing authority or landlord representative, a mental health provider, a nonprofit or faith-based representative, a foster care transition coordinator, two community members with lived experience, a local business representative and, if possible, a legal aid or court representative.
A local laundromat owner, Alvie Wall, told commissioners he has dealt with repeated vandalism and theft and said he feels the city has failed to address the issue. “I know you’re sympathetic to the homeless. You feel bad because they’re homeless,” Wall said. “They choose to be homeless. Big deal. That’s their deal. Be homeless all you want, but stop vandalizing my stuff.”
Commissioners are expected to finalize a months-long debate over whether to continue curbside recycling in the city. During the meeting, the commission will consider approval of an exclusive franchise agreement with Borden Waste-Away Service LLC, the city’s current recycling provider.
The Three Rivers City Commission will meet this evening and is expected to again attempt to select a mayor pro tem. The commission will also consider a funding request tied to a Michigan State Housing Development Authority Neighborhood Community Development Block Grant. The city previously submitted a letter of intent requesting $600,000, but staff are requesting a revision to $700,000 after receiving higher-than-expected cost estimates. The funds would be used to renovate the upper floors of 111 Portage Ave. into three apartments.
Farrand Hall is hosting its first art show on December 18, featuring photo prints from artist Lynne Kasey, a Klinger Lake resident. The show will be held at the Farrand Hall Market & Workshop in downtown Colon at 113 E. State St. Beginning at 6 p.m., attendees can view Kasey’s prints and explore the Farrand Hall Market & Workshop space. Kasey’s subject matter varies, with nature being one of her favorites. From photos of birds and macro images of water drops to interesting textures and vintage items, she finds artistry in a wide range of objects.
To start off new business, commissioners unanimously approved a fundraiser in partnership with Gest Pro Tree Services and United Way. For a minimum $25 donation to United Way, Gest Pro Tree Services will pick up Christmas trees from a participating resident’s curbside, chip the tree, and compost the chippings. Donations must be made in advance, and the deadline to sign up is January 4.
Watershed Voice spoke with the new Dowagiac mayor about his first month in office, the goals he hopes to pursue, and his approach to transparency. Bakeman has served as mayor for just over a month, or three City Council meetings. He emphasized that significant policy changes take time.
Cass County Board of Commissioners previously used the format to allow commissioners to meet in a more informal setting before taking formal action at a regular business meeting. In a session, no final votes are taken, commissioners can ask detailed questions about upcoming agenda items, sponsors of new business or department heads can provide additional context, and the board can workshop ideas or identify issues that may require more research.
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