Jim Martin

The board reviewed October 2025 budget reports and approved the payment of dues for the MCSSA. Due to the Federal Government shutdown and the resulting pause in SNAP benefit issuance, the board authorized donations to several community food banks. The meeting included discussions on a board member's term reappointment, the status of a new homeless shelter, and WIC program funding. Additionally, updates were provided regarding SNAP benefit issuance, tribal commodities, state budget status, and various departmental assistance program statistics.

The board reviewed the June 2025 county budget and approved the purchase of McDonald's gift cards for emergency use during child removals. The Director provided updates regarding staffing vacancies in Child Protective Services and Foster Care Licensing, assistance payments performance metrics, and Child Welfare statistics, including reports on complaints, referrals, and the number of children in care.

The board discussed and approved a contract renewal for Teaching Family Homes for the upcoming fiscal year. The May 2025 county budget was reviewed, and the board approved the purchase of Walmart gift cards for use by county residents. Additionally, the board received information regarding the eligibility requirements and application process for the diaper program. The meeting concluded with a director's update covering staffing updates, caseload statistics, and general department performance.

The Board meeting covered key discussions regarding the county budget, specifically rescinding previous approval for donations to local food pantries due to new information received from the County Clerk's office. The Board approved the allocation of remaining budget balances to purchase food and gas cards for distribution to residents. Updates were provided on the Superior Haven shelter, which is currently paused for rezoning, and a fundraising challenge for hunger relief was noted. The Director provided updates on staffing changes, the completion of a foster care licensing audit, child welfare statistics, and the reinstatement of Time Limited Food Assistance for Chippewa County.

The Board of Commissioners conducted a public hearing regarding truth in taxation and millage rates. During the regular meeting, the board addressed several resolutions, including floodplain management provisions for various townships, ballot language for separate tax limitations, and a proclamation for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Awareness Day. The board also recognized contractors and staff for courthouse restoration efforts. Additionally, the board approved various items such as media advertisement for a marijuana safety campaign, conflict legal services agreements, LexisNexis service renewal, security policies for criminal justice information, HVAC replacements, and courthouse repairs.