Jonathan Block

The board discussed committee reports and received an update from the County Administrator regarding the demolition of the Historical Courthouse. Amendments were made to several previous motions to correct term end dates. New business included authorizing the purchase of a copier for the Friend of the Court, making an appointment to the Kinexus Board, tabling an agreement for Animal Control, approving the creation of a temporary Clerk position for Boards and Commissions, and authorizing the purchase of three utility vehicles. A resolution was adopted to allow the County Administrator to utilize full step range levels for hiring until the end of the year to attract qualified talent. Additionally, an appointment was made to the Road Commission.

The board approved resolutions honoring retiring employees and long-serving members of the Board of Public Works. Key administrative actions included the approval of several budget amendments related to family courtroom video equipment, HVAC upgrades for the Sheriff's Office, uninterruptible power system battery replacements, and MSU Extension services funding. The board also appointed new members to the Parks Board and Planning Commission, authorized a labor counsel engagement, and approved various agreements and position changes. Updates were provided on the Cass County Medical Care Facility and internal 2019 accomplishments.

The board conducted elections for the positions of Chair and Vice-Chair. Several items were addressed under the consent agenda, including the approval of claims, opioid settlement requests, and a police services contract. New business included the approval of the 2025 meeting schedule, authorization for the purchase of a new K-9 vehicle, appointments to various county boards and commissions, and an appointment to the Van Buren/Cass District Board of Health. The meeting also included an executive closed session and administrative reports.

The board conducted a public truth in taxation hearing and authorized the levy of the county's 2024 millage rate. Key approvals included the Child Care Fund budget, a revised tax rate request, a boards and commissions attendance policy, and several equipment acquisitions, including a duress alarm system for the jail, engineering and design services for a park renovation, a drug testing system, and phone system upgrades. Additionally, the board appointed an officer delegate for an annual conference, reviewed claims, and held a closed session to discuss attorney-client privileged communication.

The board meeting included an administrator's report regarding a risk-limiting election audit, a video presentation on the Family Treatment Court, and discussions concerning state budget cuts. The board approved the 2019-20 CCAB grant funding budget and a 2.25% annual pay increase for elected, appointed, and non-union employees for the 2020 calendar year. Additionally, various reappointments and appointments were made to the Community Corrections Advisory Board, Cass District Library Board, and the Planning Commission.