KALAMAZOO, MI -- The cost to relocate to Kalamazoo was more than expected for Kalamazoo Valley Community College’s new president.

The Board of Trustees voted Tuesday, Dec. 11, to amend President Marshall Washington’s contract to add an additional $16,000 as a moving allowance.

Trustee Christian Schauer said during Tuesday’s meeting that the original estimate was too low. The contract granted Washington $2,500 to relocate to Kalamazoo.

College spokesperson Mike Collins said the president is currently renting in Kalamazoo but intends to move his family here and buy a house.

The president’s three-year contract, which took effect July 1, granted him a $200,000 annual salary. He will also receive a $20,000 non-itemized expense account, a $9,000 transportation allowance yearly for a vehicle, $7,000 a year for housing, a Park Club membership, office redecorating allowances and a cell phone.

The change also removed the previously implemented time frame for Washington to move. Originally, he had until Dec. 31 to use the funds to move his family to Kalamazoo, according to his contract.

There is no longer a time frame outlined for him to use the funds.

The money is considered income and is subject to taxes, Schauer said.