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Flock cameras dominate Kalamazoo public comment as commission approves housing items

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April 21, 2026

Supporters described the cameras as a public safety tool that can help solve crimes and locate suspects. Opponents argued the system raises civil liberties concerns, and could contribute to broader surveillance networks with limited public oversight. Roughly 15 residents spoke in favor of continuing the program, while about 10 residents spoke against it. While public attention centered on Flock cameras, the commission also approved several agenda items involving housing, infrastructure, and economic development.

What’s on the May 5 ballot in Southwest Michigan? Here’s what voters need to know

By Maxwell Knauer

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Local

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April 15, 2026

May election season is upon us, and while the ballots may seem light, their local impact is anything but. The Tuesday, May 5 special election in Michigan features relatively few races in most communities, with many ballots focused on school bond proposals, millage renewals and local questions rather than candidate contests. Still, these lower-turnout elections often decide issues that hit closest to home — from school building upgrades to tax levies and city charter changes.

Cass commissioners reverse course, approve Lawless Park funding

By Maxwell Knauer

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Dowagiac

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April 14, 2026

In March, commissioners were asked to approve use of $249,192 from the Bombardie bequest to help close a funding gap in the park improvement project, which was initially denied in a 4-4 vote. In a 5-3 vote on April 9, commissioners reversed course and approved the request. The Bombardie bequest stems from a donation made more than two decades ago by Charles Bombardie, who left 10% of his estate to Cass County Parks. County documents say $249,192 remained in the fund before Thursday’s vote, with the money restricted for park purposes. During Thursday’s discussion, Commissioner Samuel Barrera read from the last will and testament of Charles Bombardie, dated 2001, and argued the county should honor the donor’s intent by using the money for park improvements.

Three Rivers Police seek public’s help in hit-and-run involving child on scooter

By Watershed Voice

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Three Rivers

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April 14, 2026

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Sergeant Dibble at sdibble@threeriversmi.org or 269-278-1235. Tips may also be submitted to: St. Joseph County Central Dispatch: 269-467-4195 Three Rivers Police Department: 269-278-1235 Silent Observer: 616-774-2345

Sturgis commission approves routine items, splits on mowing contracts

By Maxwell Knauer

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Sturgis

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April 9, 2026

Commissioner Richard Bir, who said he worked as a city landscaper for 20 years, questioned why the city needs to contract out any of the work — something he said was not done during his tenure. Bir said he was one of two full-time employees at the time and had no trouble maintaining city properties. He questioned why the current staff — two full-time employees and a third primarily administrative position — requires outside help. Director of Public Services Thomas Sikorski said the city has added properties over time, increasing workload and the need for additional manpower. He also said the department has struggled to attract seasonal workers, particularly college-age applicants who have typically filled those roles.

Save the date: Watershed Voice Artist Showcase

By Alek Haak-Frost

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Culture

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April 8, 2026

The sixth annual Watershed Voice Artist Showcase, a celebration of local musicians, spoken word artists, and local journalism, will return to The Huss Project this summer in Three Rivers.

Kalamazoo commission removes $1.25 million federal police grant from agenda, residents cheer

By Maxwell Knauer

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Kalamazoo

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April 7, 2026

“I’d ask that item H3 be removed from tonight’s agenda, given the timing and the need for additional review to ensure the commission has a full understanding of the longer-term implications,” City Manager Malcolm Hankins said. “Removing the item, I believe, is appropriate. It also effectively means non-acceptance of the grant at this time.” Hankins’ comments were met with immediate applause from a packed commission chamber, where many residents had gathered to urge officials to reject the funding. This is the second time the item has been pulled from a commission agenda in recent weeks.

Local meeting primer: Sturgis City Commission

By Maxwell Knauer

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Sturgis

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April 7, 2026

The Sturgis City Commission will meet Wednesday, April 8 for its regular business meeting, with a largely routine agenda that includes contract approvals, infrastructure work, and an update on staffing.

Hyperscale Data announces planned land acquisition; Dowagiac officials say they were not informed

By Maxwell Knauer

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Dowagiac

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April 2, 2026

The announcement prompted questions locally, particularly in Dowagiac, where the company already operates a data center. City officials first responded Tuesday morning, saying they were not informed of the planned purchase and have not received any development proposals tied to it. On Wednesday, April 1, Watershed Voice spoke with Dowagiac City Manager Kevin Anderson, who said the city has no additional information about the property. “We don’t have any documentation identifying what property this is,” Anderson said. “We’re in the same position as the public.”

TRPD confirms continued use of Flock surveillance technology, says city added seventh camera in 2025

By Maxwell Knauer

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Three Rivers

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April 1, 2026

In an exclusive interview with Watershed Voice, Three Rivers Chief of Police Scott Boling and Detective Sgt. Steven Dibble said the cameras provide an additional investigative tool to help identify vehicles connected to crimes. Flock Safety’s license plate reader system has drawn national criticism from civil liberties groups, particularly the American Civil Liberties Union, which argues the technology enables a form of mass surveillance that extends beyond its original purpose. Boling said there is no “backdoor access” to the system, including for federal agencies such as ICE, and that any data sharing must be approved by the department.

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