Ryan Douglass

The work session focused on educating members regarding budget processes, including the Chart of Accounts and claims. Discussions covered the Fiscal Year 2023 General Appropriations Act, detailing millage rates and operational allocations. Budget rules were reviewed, outlining guidelines for county purchases, staffing levels, and the responsibilities of elected officials. The session differentiated between post-audit items (like routine monthly payments and contracts) and claims and accounts (items requiring board approval before payment, such as non-budgeted expenditures or specific large purchases). Concerns were raised regarding departments potentially circumventing board approval using personal service contracts. The process for handling fund transfers and budget amendments to cover expenses incurred in a prior fiscal year but paid in the current year was also detailed.

The Special Session included discussions on several significant matters. Key agenda items involved a public hearing request by the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority scheduled for June 21, 2022. The Board also reviewed and ultimately approved an agreement with Points Broadband, LLC, for the construction of a broadband fiber optic network, contingent upon legal counsel review. Discussions addressed payment schedules, project oversight by the consulting engineer, and funding sources, including ARPA funds and an additional $1.8 million requirement. Furthermore, the Board discussed the need for a wage study for non-union employees, deciding to issue an RFP for a wage consultant to address current compensation structure issues and potential inequities.

The special session primarily focused on the review of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding requests. Key discussions involved updates on broadband initiatives from State of Michigan representatives, presentation and recommendation from DCS Technology Design regarding high-speed internet implementation in seven townships, and a potential agreement with Point Broadband, which included a motion authorizing the County Administrator to develop contract documents with a potential allocation of $3.2 million. The Board also heard a funding request from the Glen Lake Association for $50,000.00 to cover a deficit related to their boat wash station operations, and received an update on the Empire Village proposal for water management, where expenses are still unknown. Additionally, a discussion regarding the Benzie/Leelanau District Health Department space update was postponed. The meeting concluded with discussions concerning the Human Resources Director job description and the process for finding a new County Administrator.

The meeting commenced with customary formalities, including a moment of silence and pledge to the flag. Key agenda items involved the approval of several sets of board minutes, including those from August 30, 2022. Public comments included a presentation from a Grand Traverse County Commissioner regarding the newly drawn 103rd State House seat district boundaries and her background, as well as concerns raised by residents regarding the Clerk's office functions and alleged issues with Dominion voting machines and election integrity, prompting a request for an ad hoc committee to investigate election integrity. The board also heard from the CEO of Northwest Michigan's Airport Authority.

The meeting agenda included communications, proclamations, presentations, and awards, followed by the approval of minutes from previous special, closed, and regular sessions held in February, March, and April. Key action items slated for discussion involved the recommendation of employment for the Building Official position, matters concerning the Economic Development Corporation, and a Solid Waste Policy on the Use of Funds under Planning and Community Development. Further action items included several Surveyor Services and Peer Group Member Agreements related to Remonumentation under the Register of Deeds. Senior Services items included the acceptance of donations and agreements for Meals on Wheels, Foot Care, and Respite/Personal Care Services. The Treasurer's section covered resolutions for the Investment Policy and Financial Depository Resolution. Other action items addressed funding allocations for a Veterans Memorial Plaza Security Camera, OPEB, an Enhanced Records Policy, and GTB 2% Allocation Agreements with various local organizations. Finally, the agenda listed discussion of a Fireworks Ordinance and Commissioner comments.