Say Yes To Jess
Jessica Thompson For Kalamazoo City Commissioner
Rooted in Community, Ready for Change
Say Yes to Jess is a grassroots campaign for Kalamazoo City Commission, rooted in community, sustainability, and inclusive economic growth. Jess Thompson, a longtime resident, small business owner, and community advocate, is running to ensure all voices are heard and every neighborhood is represented. From organizing local events to championing small businesses and environmental initiatives, Jess brings a collaborative, people-first approach to leadership. Together, we can build a more connected, equitable, and vibrant Kalamazoo.
Say Yes to Jess this November 4.
Grow The Movement
Every sign, conversation, and connection takes resources and your support helps make it all possible. By contributing to Say Yes to Jess, you’re investing in a campaign rooted in community, driven by solutions, and focused on a stronger future for Kalamazoo. Every dollar helps amplify local voices and turn bold ideas into action.
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About Jess
Hi! I’m Jess, and I’m running for Kalamazoo City Commission.
I’ve lived in Kalamazoo since 1991. I’ve raised five kids here, run a small business downtown, and served in leadership roles across the city — always with a heart for all of our neighborhoods, small businesses, and sustainability.
I’m running because I believe in:
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Putting Community First
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Investing in Sustainable Solutions
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Building Inclusive Economic Growth
I love this city - every block, every neighbor, every small moment that makes Kalamazoo Kalamazoo. And I believe we can move forward together with bold ideas and big heart.
If you believe in leadership that listens, acts, and uplifts everyone, I’d be honored to earn your support.
Let’s do this - Say Yes to Jess.
Community First
Listening, representing, and uplifting all of Kalamazoo.
As your City Commissioner, I will show up—not just in City Hall, but in every neighborhood. That means holding regular listening sessions, attending neighborhood association meetings, and making it easier for residents to share concerns and ideas. I’ll work to improve communication between the city and its residents, and advocate for systems that center equity, access, and transparency.
Whether you live on the Northside, in Edison, Oakwood, or out in the Vine, I want your voice heard at the table. I’ll prioritize policies that help neighborhoods thrive—from traffic calming and street safety to youth programs and community development grants.
Because when every resident is heard and valued, our whole city moves forward.
Sustainable Solutions
Protecting our environment and preparing for the future.
Sustainability isn’t just about climate—it’s about how we plan for growth, manage resources, and build a city where future generations can thrive. I’ll advocate for continued implementation of the city’s Sustainability Plan, with a focus on practical, visible improvements—like solar energy on city buildings, equitable access to recycling and composting, and safer infrastructure for walkers, bikers, and public transit users.
I’ll also push for green space preservation, tree planting in underserved areas, and support for local food systems. We can be a model for how mid-size cities lead on climate and resilience—by keeping it local, collaborative, and community-centered.
Because a healthy city starts with a healthy environment.
Inclusive Economic Growth
Supporting small businesses and building shared prosperity. As a small business owner myself, I understand how hard it is to keep the lights on and the doors open. I’ll advocate for programs that support local entrepreneurs—especially BIPOC-, women-, and youth-owned businesses—through streamlined city processes, expanded access to grants and technical assistance, and partnership-building with local organizations.
Inclusive growth also means investing in career pathways and workforce development so that residents can access opportunities right here in Kalamazoo. I’ll support land use policies that keep affordability in mind while encouraging smart development that reflects the needs of all.
Because true economic progress lifts everyone—not just a few.
Other Priorities I’m Focused On
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Public Safety for All
Everyone deserves to feel safe. I’ll work with city departments and community partners to address neighborhood-level safety concerns—from gun violence to substance use—while prioritizing prevention, accountability, and care. -
Affordable Housing & Unhoused Services
Housing is a human right. I support efforts that increase affordable housing options, protect renters, and provide compassionate, coordinated support for our unhoused neighbors. -
Youth & Family Resources
Our future starts with our kids. I’m committed to expanding access to youth programming, family services, and community spaces that empower the next generation across Kalamazoo.