BC City Connection Podcast

This time on the BC CIty Connection Housing Podcast, REALTOR Talia Champlin joins the city's Darcy Schmitt to discuss what “equitable pathways to homeownership” really means and why the hardest part is often stepping onto the path in the first place. Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In their first interviews since Battle Creek Assistant City Manager Ted Dearing announced his retirement, he and successor Marcie Gilette talk through the priorities, partnerships, and resident input that will guide what comes next. Ted also reflects on his tenure in Battle Creek.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

This time, the BC CIty Connection Housing podcast visits with Executive Director Mike King from Habitat for Humanity in Calhoun County to break down how the program turns renters into homeowners through affordable payments, volunteer labor, and strong local partnerships. Darcy Schmidt from the City of Battle Creek weighs in about why homeownership matters for equity and how the city helps remove barriers so more homes can be built. Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek Housing StrategyCalhoun County Habitat for HumanityWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.BC CIty Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

This time on the BC City Connection, John Hart of the Small Business Development Office talks about Open4BizBC.com, a self-serve website that helps entrepreneurs understand what it really takes to open a business in Battle Creek. The discussion breaks down how the seven-step guide reduces surprises around zoning, permits, licensing, and costs so more small businesses can launch and last. Episode ResourcesOpenforBizBC.comWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

This time on the BC CIty Connection housing focus, Darcy Schmitt and Krista Trout-Edwards share how the city and the Calhoun County Land Bank align land, zoning, and neighborhood input to turn vacant parcels into infill homes. The discussion maps the shift in acquisitions, highlights early wins in Washington Heights, and invites builders into a growing local pipeline.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek Housing StrategyCalhoun County Land Bank AuthorityWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.BC CIty Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

On this episode of BC City Connection: Exploring how Neighborhood Planning Councils (NPCs) give Battle Creek residents a structured voice on policing, code, planning, and development, and why diverse, new members are vital. CommissionerJessica Lacosse and Helen Guzzo, community development manager, detail how councils work, what they decide, and how to join.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

Over the course of 2026, the BC CIty Connection will include some conversations specifically focused on housing in the city.In the first of those episodes, Planning Supervisor Darcy Schmitt lays out how Battle Creek tackles the housing shortage with mixed-use zoning, infill, and accessory dwelling units, and why public input shapes every choice. Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek Housing StrategyWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.BC CIty Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

This time on BC City Connection, a discussion outlining how Battle Creek is building an accessible digital city that meets Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) standards and puts residents first. From language-ready alerts to a content-first website overhaul, the plan, the tools, and how neighbors can help us improve are part of the discussion.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In this episode of the BC City Connection, Mayor Mark Behnke, City Manager Amanda Zimmerlin and Assistant City Manager Ted Dearing reflect on a year of change in Battle Creek and share plans to turn that transition into momentum. Episode ResourcesCity of Battle CreekBattle Creek City CommissionBattle Creek City ManagerBC CIty Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

Battle Creek’s outdoor sirens are being modernized for targeted, reliable severe weather alerts. Also, learn why monthly tests are important. In this episode of BC City Connection, Bret White from the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) explains upgrades, vendor support, and how residents can get fast phone alerts and even join CERT.Episode ResourcesOutdoor Warning Siren Activation ProjectSafeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund ProgramSubscribe to Battle Creek City AlertsSubscribe to Calhoun County Emergency NotificationsBC CIty Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In her first visit to the BC City Connection podcast, Battle Creek City Manager Amanda Zimmerlin discusses her background, what drew her to Battle Creek and the challenges and successes she sees in the Cereal City.Zimmerlin joined the City of Battle Creek after a 5-year stint as city manager in the Cincinnati suburb of Springdale, Ohio.Episode ResourcesCity Manager's Office Battle CreekBC City Connection is produced by Livemic Communications.

Since 2018, the City of Battle Creek has been selected to receive the Michigan Medicaid CHIP Lead Hazard Control Community Development Grant. Fiscal year 2026 is included.The grant was approved for a total of $1,345,000. In this episode of BC City Connection, Battle Creek Lead Programs Coordinator Emily Arntz discusses how the funds help families reduce the risk of exposure to lead paint - especially for children.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek Lead Safe ProgramMichigan Alliance for Lead Safe HomesCity of Battle Creek Minor Home Repair ProgramCity of Battle Creek Community DevelopmentCommunity Action Battle CreekBC City Connection is produced by Livemic Communications.

A plan to reimagine Battle Creek fire stations is coming to fruition. In this episode of BC CIty Connection, Battle Creek Fire Department Battalion Chief Cody Titus discusses how the changes will advance firefighting in the city.Newly appointed Battle Creek Chief Facilities Officer Katie Norton also discusses the fire station updates, as well as a broad perspective on city facilities management.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteCity of Battle Creek Fire Department websiteBCFD Fire Station Information websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

The City of Battle Creek is actively addressing elevated total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) in the water system, a maximum contaminant level violation.The municipalities affected include the City of Battle Creek, Springfield, Emmett Township and a portion of Pennfield Township. The City of Battle Creek has outlined details in this mailing residents will or have already received.In this episode of BC City Connection, Water Division Utility Administrator Perry Hart discusses the circumstances which led to the elevated levels of TTHM and the steps being taken to correct it.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek Water Division Informational Mailing Verona Wellfield and Water Quality UpdateWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In this episode of BC CIty Connection, Breanne Humphreys and Eric McClure from the City Hall communications office talk about the opt-in city alert system which helps residents stay informed.The BC City Connection podcast is also discussed - and the various ways it reaches viewers and listeners with pertinent and useful information from the City of Battle Creek.The city also seeks input periodically through the National Community Survey. Find out how in this episode.Episode ResourcesBattle Creek Get Connected WebsiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In this episode of the BC CIty Connection, Lt. Ryan Strunk and Sgt. Chris Rabbit bring listeners a wide-ranging list of safety and crime prevention tips.From driving safety to situational awareness and fraud, the BCPD encourages residents to think about these safety tips as it relates to their own situations.Episode ResourcesBattle Creek Police DepartmentWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

The City of Battle Creek understands code compliance can be perceived as a roadblock sometimes. However, the city code compliance office wants to be helpful and resourceful for residents.In this episode of the BC City Connection podcast, Battle Creek Code Compliance Manager Jason Francisco talks about what each property owner should know about how the office works. What's more, city residents who need paint to complete house painting projects can avail themselves of paint at no-cost. Click to hear how the program works.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle CreekProperty Search at BSAOnline.comWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In a partnership with the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the City of Battle Creek welcomed a Community Development Fellow in 2025.The role "...support[s] various initiatives within community development, to include planning and small business development," Battle Creek Community Services Director Marcie Gillette said in a press release."They assist with serving more community members and pushing projects over the finish line that might not have been prioritized otherwise," Shate'ja Curry, CEDAM community fellowship manager, said.Tiyanna Williams, chosen as the Battle Creek CEDAM Fellow, joins Battle Creek Planning Supervisor Darcy Schmitt in this episode discussing the impact for both the city and the CEDAM Fellow.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle CreekWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

The City of Battle Creek has activated a new online portal for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.In this episode of BC City Connection, Battle Creek City Attorney William Kim discusses the new process for FOIA requests, as well as why FOIA requests are submitted.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek FOIA Information and Submission PortalWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

Even when Battle Creek residents might be immersed in winter activities, the city's Recreation Department is planning for warm weather fun - even when the snow is still flying.This time on the BC City Connection, Recreation Director Danielle Myrkle talks about the planning for everything from summer camp to Flash Flood and Binder Park Golf Course. She also discusses the types of summer job opportunities which are available.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle CreekBattle Creek Recreation DepartmentWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

As 2024 closes, the City of Battle Creek looks upon some new beginnings in 2025. Ten-year City Manager Rebecca Fleury has retired, providing a chance for her successor to be discovered in 2025.The city also hired a successor for longtime attorney Jill Steele and decided on a plan to upgrade the city's fire stations.And then there's the Olive Garden.Mayor Mark Behnke and Interim City Manager Ted Dearing join the BC City Connection to look back at 2024 - and ahead to 2025.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle CreekBattle Creek City ManagerBattle Creek City CommissionWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

Did you know there are about 300 road miles the City of Battle Creek has to clear when it snows?That's just one fact among many in this BC City Connection episode with Field Services Superintendent Todd Gerber, who also discusses 'Snowtifications' meant to help keep residents informed.Click to listen, as well, to hear how you can make your mark on the city's snowplow trucks by helping to name them.Episode ResourcesBattle Creek Public WorksMore about SnowtificationsWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

Modern voting in Battle Creek means there are multiple options to cast your ballot: Early voting, absentee ballot or on Election Day. But, before your ballot is cast, there are important things to know.In this episode of BC City Connection, Battle Creek City Clerk Victoria Houser tells us the top three things voters should be aware of before they make a choice and cast their ballots.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek ElectionsCalhoun County ElectionsMichigan Voter Information CenterYour Voter InformationMichigan Department of State – ElectionsWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

This episode of the BC City Connection podcast welcomes three members of the Battle Creek Fire Department to update residents and listeners on several important topics.Part of the discussion is key information every resident should hear about fire safety in their homes, including what to do if you can't afford or need help getting smoke detectors installed in your home.Also discussed: The latest on Battle Creek fire station upgrades, interim fire department leadership, fire training and recruitment.Episode ResourcesBattle Creek Fire DepartmentPrevious Episode: Understanding the Proposal to Upgrade Battle Creek's Fire StationsWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In this episode of BC CIty Connection, Battle Creek City Manager Rebecca Fleury discusses how the city manager and commission-form of government operates. She takes time to bring context and understanding for listeners on how each segment interacts.Fleury also discusses how elections can have an effect on that interaction.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteBattle Creek Mayor and Commission websiteBattle Creek City Manager websiteYour Government Battle Creek websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

This year, 2024, marks the centennial of the Battle Creek Executive Airport. In this episode of Inside Calhoun County, Aviation Director Phil Kroll talks about the history of the airport, a special event the public can attend to commemorate the occasion, as well as some other details.Episode ResourcesBattle Creek Executive Airport websiteAirport Centennial Celebration infoWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

Warm weather months in Battle Creek bring city staff out to prepare parks and recreation spaces for summer.In this episode, Duska Brumm visits with BC City Connection to talk about parks and recreation options in the city - everything from Bailey Park to Full Blast to Binder Park Golf Course.Episode ResourcesBC Parks and Recreation websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In this episode of the BC City Connection, Battle Creek City Manager Rebecca Fleury and Fire Chief Bill Beaty help listeners understand the reasoning behind a proposal to upgrade the city's fire stations.At the center of the reasoning is one city fire station built more than 100 years ago, along with a second which are no longer suitable as fire station buildings.Click to hear how the city has studied the proposal and gathered input from residents.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteCity of Battle Creek Fire Department websiteBCFD Fire Station Information websiteYouTube: Public Session VideoWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

The City of Battle Creek has undertaken the significant task of replacing lead service lines in the water distribution system. In this episode of BC City Connection, the Water Division's Matt Miller and Amber Whitcomb discuss the progress made on the replacements and how residents can assist by completing a special city survey.The pair also discusses the city's water quality report and Battle Creek's nationally-recognized hydrant assembly teams.Episode ResourcesWater Department SurveyCity of Battle Creek Water Division websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

How should you recycle styrofoam? Can your commingled curbside recycling be in a bag inside your recycling bin?The answers might surprise you!This time, the BC City Connection podcast welcomes Bessie Stears, Environmental Program Coordinator and Patty Hoch-Melluish, Environmental and Storm Service Manager at the City of Battle Creek.Bessie and Patty also discuss how you can participate in special Earth Day activities, the results of a recycling audit and how to buy a rain barrel from the City of Battle Creek. Click to listen.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek Environmental Services websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In the time since citizen input was sought in November 2022 about a potential Battle Creek Community Oversight Board, information gathering and other work has continued.Additionally, the Battle Creek police chief has changed and a new diversity, equity and inclusion officer has joined the team.In this episode, Chief Shannon Bagley and DEI Officer Kimberly Holley visit the BC City Connection Podcast to offer an update on progress toward the establishing of the panel.Click to hear the discussion.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteCity of Battle Creek Police Department websiteCity of Battle Creek Police Chief websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.

In the first episode of the BC City Connection Podcast, Battle Creek City Clerk Victoria Houser discusses a new voting option: Early voting. When Michigan voters passed Proposal 2 in 2022, that cleared the way for 9 days of early voting ahead of many elections going forward. The idea behind it: Provide additional chances for voters to cast a ballot in addition to Election Day voting and via absentee.Shortly after, Michigan’s presidential primary was moved to February 27 from March.Now, voters will experience the confluence of those two things. While the city has established all the necessary protocols for early voting, it is important for voters to know where they will need to go to cast that early ballot. It may not be where they would typically go to vote.Click to listen for details.Episode ResourcesCity of Battle Creek websiteMichigan.gov Voter Resources website (check your polling location here)Battle Creek City Clerk websiteCalhoun County Elections websiteWatch the video of this discussion here or see the episodes on Access Vision in Battle Creek Tuesdays at 6:30 PM on channel 17/917.The BC City Connection Podcast is produced by Livemic Communications.