City Commission Regular Meeting, August 18, 2026
The commission is being asked to formally object to a liquor license transfer this Tuesday. That’s not something you see every meeting.
🔦 The 3 items worth your attention
Up to $490K in federal money for childcare renovations. New Level Sports Ministries is in line to receive Community Development Block Grant funding to renovate and expand its after-school childcare program at 400 W. Michigan. The City Manager would sign the agreement if the commission says yes. (Item 448)
The school-year police liaison agreement is back for another round. Battle Creek Public Schools and the city would formalize which officers are placed in local schools for 2026–2027, a renewal that tends to draw public comment when it comes up. Worth watching. (Item 449)
Item 450 is the unusual one. The commission is being asked to formally object to the transfer of a Specially Designated Distributor license with Sunday Sales and a Specially Designated Merchant license. A municipal objection like this goes to the state, and it can actually stop an application, so the stakes are real even though the item looks short on paper.
🏗️ Roads & property
- The lease with Dimor for the WACO Site at Battle Creek Executive Airport is up for amendment. No dollar figure is listed, but it changes the terms on publicly owned airport land. (Item 446)
💰 Where the money’s going
- New Level Sports Ministries, up to $490,000.00 in federal CDBG funds for childcare facility renovations and expansion at 400 W. Michigan. (Item 448)
📌 Also notable
- Leila Arboretum Society would take on parks stewardship, urban forestry consultation, and downtown seasonal plantings for FY 2026/2027 under a new City Manager agreement. (Item 447)
- Rebecca Parker is up for a seat on the Community Oversight Board; James McGee would join as alternate. (Item 444)
- Revenue Services Director Aaron Kuhn presents the city’s mid-year financial statements through June 30. Good one to catch if you follow the city’s budget closely.
- The Random Act of Kindness recognition this week goes to Chad Curtis, Matthew Curtis, Andy Helmboldt, Marty McKibbin, and Cory Vincent. A nice moment before the business starts.
Public comment is open at the start of the meeting. The August 18 session typically begins at 7:00 p.m. at Battle Creek City Hall, confirm time and location at battlecreekmi.gov before you go.
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