Battle Creek · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Battle Creek public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Employee and Retiree Healthcare Plan Renewals
The city is switching to Mutual of Omaha for 2027 life and AD&D coverage, saving about 26% while keeping the same benefit for employees and families.
City finances mid-year check
Revenue Services Director Aaron Kuhn walked the Commission through the city's interim financial statements through June 30, 2026.
State video franchise legislation threatens local authority
House Bill 5123 and Senate Bill 719 would limit cities' video franchise authority and carve streaming services out of the franchise act. The Commission narrowly opposed the bills; dissenters said it's not the city's place to lobby the state.
Cloud-based software services contract
The Commission considered a contract with BS&A Software, LLC for cloud-based city software at about $128,445 in the first year — the systems behind much of the city's recordkeeping and services.
Residential refuse rates set through 2030
Trash rates were locked in for the four-year renewal of the Republic Services contract. The mayor called it good value but said future talks about unlimited pickup may be needed.
May 2026 ballot question on four-year terms
Voters decide in May whether commission terms should go from two years to four. Commissioners stressed the question came from state-law process, not a commission scheme, and noted four-year terms would create a recall window.