Manistee County public meetings in 2025

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board will approve the November 19 minutes and the Treasurer's financial reports, including profit and loss details and budget versus actual comparisons. It will also authorize payment of November bills. In new business, the board will adopt the meeting schedule for 2026.

• Approval of November 19, 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Approval of Treasurer's Report (profit & loss detail, budget vs. actual)
• Payment of November bills (Check Register)
• Director's report on staffing and project updates
• Adoption of the 2026 911 Board meeting schedule

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the 2026 meeting schedule and paid November bills totaling $97,856.47. The board also approved the amended agenda and the November 19, 2025 minutes. No substantive policy decisions were made; most committee reports were not given.

• Approved amended agenda (all in favor)
• Approved November 19, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (all in favor)
• Paid November bills totaling $97,856.47 (roll call: 6 yes)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (all in favor)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will approve the minutes from the November 18 meeting and adopt the December 2025 monthly appropriations and fund transfers. The agenda includes recognition of long‑service employees and appointments to several county boards and commissions. Committee reports and a presentation of the Annual Landbank Report will be heard. The board will also consider a County‑wide ORV ordinance and Resolution 2025‑14 authorizing financial institutions.

• Approval of December 2025 monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $66,799.76
• Consideration of a County‑wide ORV ordinance
• Consideration of Resolution 2025‑14 authorizing financial institutions
• Appointments to vacancies on the Airport Authority Board, Land Bank Authority, Parks and Recreation Commission, and County Library
• Treasurer Rachel Nelson will present the Annual Landbank Report

The Board approved the consent agenda and on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,392,419.31. It adopted several contracts—including a $175,755 cloud‑service agreement with BS&A, a Spyglass Snapshot audit agreement, and a $260,925 MMRMA renewal—and appointed members to multiple county boards. A public hearing on the county‑wide ORV ordinance was also scheduled.

• Approved consent agenda (including November 18 minutes and December appropriations) – unanimous (6 yeas)
• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,392,419.31 – unanimous (6 yeas)
• Approved BS&A cloud service agreement not to exceed $175,755 – unanimous (6 yeas)
• Approved Spyglass Snapshot audit agreement – unanimous (6 yeas)
• Approved MMRMA renewal for 2026‑2027 at $260,925 – unanimous (6 yeas)
• Approved $4,000 contribution to Isabella County for Pung case (5‑1 vote)
• Appointed George Becker to the Airport Authority – unanimous (6 yeas)
• Appointed Harold W. Beldo, Linda Cudney, and Robert Schuelke to the Park and Recreation Commission – unanimous (6 yeas each)

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority will meet to receive updates from Contour Airlines and review financial reports. The body will consider an action item regarding an Economic Necessity Form and discuss an Alternate Essential Air Service Annual Report.

• Contour Airlines update from Ben Munson
• Action item: Economic Necessity Form
• Non-action item: Alternate Essential Air Service Annual Report
• Review of November 2025 Accounts Payable for General Fund and Fund 481 (Capital Improvement Fund)

The board approved the amended meeting agenda. It accepted the regular and special meeting minutes from November 2025. The November 2025 Accounts Payable Report and Financial Statement were both approved. The Economic Necessity Certification for routine pavement maintenance at non‑primary airports was also approved.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved regular meeting minutes of November 17, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved special meeting minutes of November 21, 2025 (5‑0)
• Approved November 2025 Accounts Payable Report – General Fund (5‑0)
• Approved November 2025 Financial Statement (5‑0)
• Approved Economic Necessity Certification for Non‑Primary Airport routine pavement maintenance projects (5‑0)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will review its latest finance reports and project updates, including old‑business items such as the Java Lodge purchase agreement and MDOT sidewalk upgrades. New business includes a request to support the funding gap for the Manistee County Housing Zoning Atlas project and a letter of support for the Neighborhood Restoration Act. The meeting will also feature comments from the Authority Chair and members before adjournment.

• Consider approval of updated purchase agreement for Java Lodge (Bear Lake property, US‑31/Lynn St)
• Discuss MDOT sidewalk upgrades related to Bear Lake property
• Review progress of Blight Elimination Funds Round 3 and Round 4 (deadline 9/30/26)
• Request to support funding gap for Manistee County Housing Zoning Atlas Project
• Letter of support for the Neighborhood Restoration Act

The Authority unanimously approved a letter of support for the Congressional Neighborhood Restoration Act. It also amended the Java Lodge purchase agreement to set a new closing date of January 16, 2026. The board decided not to proceed with the Jefferson property purchase and declined to fund the HousingNorth Zoning Atlas project. Earlier agenda and minutes were approved unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (4 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (4 yeas, 0 nays)
• Amended Java Lodge purchase agreement closing date to Jan 16 2026 (4 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Decided not to proceed with Jefferson property purchase (no formal vote)
• Declined to fund HousingNorth Zoning Atlas project (consensus, no vote)
• Approved letter of support for Congressional Neighborhood Restoration Act (unanimous)
• Noted reappointment request for Mitch Deisch to be considered by County Board (no decision)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:20 p.m. (no vote)

Local Revenue Sharing Board

The Manistee County Local Revenue Sharing Board will review agenda items, approve minutes, and set the grant application deadline for Cycle I 2026. It will approve payment of $12,500 in administrative fees to the county and consider authorizing grant awards and PILT based on Cycle 11‑2025 applications. The board will also review the financial report and schedule future meetings.

• Set grant application deadline for Cycle I 2026: March 6, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
• Approve payment of $12,500 administrative fees to Manistee County (50% of $25,000)
• Review financial report (Appendix A)
• Consider authorizing grant awards and PILT based on Cycle 11‑2025 grant applications
• Schedule next meeting: Monday, February 9, 2026 (annual organizational meeting)

The board approved its agenda and the October 13, 2025 minutes. It authorized a $12,500 payment to Manistee County for administrative fees and approved multiple equipment grants, including $20,863.98 for police body‑worn cameras, $10,000 for fire turnout gear, $38,756 for township fire gear, $17,905 for a sheriff’s speed trailer, $2,500 for a township UTV, and a $1,386,911.33 PILT grant. All motions passed unanimously (3‑0).

• Approved meeting agenda (3-0)
• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes (3-0)
• Approved $12,500 payment to Manistee County (3-0)
• Approved $20,863.98 for City of Manistee Police body‑worn cameras (3-0)
• Approved $10,000 for City of Manistee Fire Department turnout gear (3-0)
• Approved $38,756 for Manistee Township Fire Department protective gear (3-0)
• Approved $17,905 for Manistee County Sheriff speed trailer (3-0)
• Approved $2,500 for Stronach Township Fire Department UTV (3-0)

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for December 5, 2025, has been cancelled.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee meeting scheduled for December 5, 2025, has been cancelled.

Policy Committee

The committee will discuss the Classification and Compensation Policy outlined in Appendix A. The agenda covers the purpose, policy statement, job evaluation methods, and procedures for new jobs, reclassifications, and pay adjustments. No formal decisions are noted; the meeting is for review and discussion of the guidelines.

• Review of Compensation Classification Guideline Policy (Appendix A)
• Discussion of point‑factor job evaluation and pay‑grade assignments
• Procedures for adding new jobs to the compensation structure
• Procedures for reclassifying existing positions
• Annual pay increase, step increase, and red‑circled employee adjustments

The committee adopted the proposed additional language for the Compensation Classification Guideline Policy concerning temporary internal transfers. The motion was made by Commissioner Koons, seconded by Machen, and passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved additional language for the Compensation Classification Guideline Policy for Temporary Internal Transfer (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will approve the October 22, 2025 meeting minutes and receive a staff update. It will review the Pleasanton Township Master Plan and discuss the 2026 meeting calendar. The commission will also consider distributing the master plan prepared by Glenn.

• Approve October 22, 2025 minutes
• Review Pleasanton Township Master Plan
• Discuss 2026 meeting calendar
• Distribute Master Plan (Glenn)

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the October 16, 2025 minutes by voice vote. It then approved the staff report for the Pleasanton Township Master Plan, also by voice vote. The commissioners discussed and approved the proposed dates for the 2026 meeting calendar. They also agreed to upload the newly approved County Master Plan to the website and consider printed copies for the library and offices.

• Approved agenda (voice vote)
• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved staff report for Pleasanton Township Master Plan (voice vote)
• Approved proposed dates for 2026 meeting calendar
• Decided to upload newly approved County Master Plan to website

Green Team Committee

The Green Team/Recycling Committee is meeting to receive a report on the PA 69 recycling program. The body will discuss materials management planning and the recycling information card. The committee will also review a contract for a PA 69 Recycling Coordinator.

• PA 69 Recycling Program Report
• Part 115 Materials Management Planning updates
• Manistee County Recycling Info Card update
• PA 69 Recycling Coordinator Contract

The Green Team Committee meeting on Dec 3, 2025 had no public comment. A motion was made and seconded to approve renewing the Bay Area Recycling agreement for the PA‑69 recycling coordinator, covering March 1 2026 through Dec 31 2028. The motion carried with all ayes and no nays.

• Approved renewal of Bay Area Recycling Agreement (Mar 1 2026–Dec 31 2028); Ayes: all, Nays: none

Ways & Means Committee

The provided document is a notice to reschedule the Ways & Means Committee meeting on December 3, 2025. The meeting time was changed from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M.

Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee will review the Finance Report presented by Finance Officer Susan Zielinski. It will discuss a BS&A Cloud proposal, the SpyGlass Snapshot Audit Agreement presented by IT Director Gordon McLellan, and a bid for the Controller/Administrator’s Office Door and Transaction Window Project presented by Maintenance Supervisor Thomas Williams. The committee will also consider recommending payment of unused accumulated PTO to three former employees totaling $10,315.57.

• Finance Report – Susan Zielinski (Appendix A)
• BS&A Cloud proposal (Appendix B)
• SpyGlass Snapshot Audit Agreement – Gordon McLellan (Appendix C)
• Bid for Controller/Administrator’s Office Door and Transaction Window Project – Thomas Williams (Appendix D)
• Payment of unused PTO: Anthony Cicchelli $6,985.42, Jennifer Skipski $681.09, Lesya Dull $2,649.06 (total $10,315.57)

The Ways & Means Committee approved $2,392,419.31 in on‑demand checks, bills and payroll (all votes yes). It also authorized a cloud services contract with BS&A up to $175,755, a Spyglass Snapshot audit agreement, a $7,889 door security project, a Gabridge & Co audit engagement, PTO payouts totaling $10,315.57, and a $4,000 contribution to an Isabella County court case.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll $2,392,419.31 (All Ayes)
• Approved BS&A cloud services contract up to $175,755 from Restricted Technology Fund (All Ayes)
• Approved Spyglass Snapshot audit agreement (All Ayes)
• Approved door security project $7,889 from Contingency Fund (All Ayes)
• Approved Gabridge & Co engagement letter for FY 2025 audit (All Ayes)
• Approved PTO payment to Anthony Cicchelli $6,985.42 (All Ayes)
• Approved PTO payment to Jennifer Skipski $681.09 (All Ayes)
• Approved $4,000 contribution to Isabella County case from Foreclosure Fund (All Ayes)

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission meeting notice for December 1, 2025 provides contact information and compliance statements with the Michigan Open Meetings Act, but does not list any specific agenda items to be decided or discussed.

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Airport Authority is holding a special meeting to address a specific project modification. The primary item for discussion is a change order regarding the city water main.

• Change Order 1 for insulating City Water Main and Temperature Monitoring

The Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the November 17 and November 21 meeting minutes, the November 2025 Accounts Payable Report, and the November 2025 Financial Statement. It also approved the Economic Necessity Certification for Non‑Primary Airports planning routine pavement maintenance projects. All motions passed with 5 yeas, 0 nays and 2 absences.

• Approved December 15, 2025 agenda (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved November 17, 2025 regular meeting minutes (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved November 21, 2025 special meeting minutes (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved November 2025 Accounts Payable Report – General Fund (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved November 2025 Financial Statement (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Economic Necessity Certification for routine pavement maintenance projects (5 yeas, 0 nays)

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee 911 Board will meet to approve the November treasurer's report and pay November bills. The board will receive an update on the Encryption Project and review monthly statistics and region updates.

• Approval of November Profit & Loss Detail and Budget Vs. Actual reports
• Payment of November bills via Check Register
• Encryption Project update
• Region updates and Code Red report

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the amended agenda and the October 15 meeting minutes. It authorized a $20,000 transfer from the fund balance and approved payment of November bills totaling $17,748.13. The Treasurer’s Report was accepted and the Personnel Committee meeting minutes were approved. All actions passed unanimously.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 transfer from Fund Balance (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved payment of November bills $17,748.13 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Accepted Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Approved Personnel Committee meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $66,799.76. The meeting includes appointments for the Centra Wellness Network, Airport Authority Board, and County Fair Board, as well as an annual report from the Area Agency on Aging of NW Michigan.

• November appropriations of $13,392.42 for District Health Dept. #10 and $21,299.59 for Centra Wellness Network
• Fund transfers totaling $32,107.75, including $19,583.33 to the Airport Fund
• Appointments for Centra Wellness Network, Airport Authority Board, and Manistee County Fair Board
• Discussion of Planning Commission Bylaw Amendments
• Discussion of County Wide ORV Ordinance

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,633,114.39. It also approved a $15,250 Vital Records request, a $13,500 credit‑card limit for the Airport Director, and several appointments to local boards and agencies.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,633,114.39 (7‑0)
• Approved Vital Records request with Fidlar Technologies for $15,250 (7‑0)
• Approved airport director Miles Weaver credit card with $13,500 limit (7‑0)
• Approved distribution of RFP for IT Managed Services (7‑0)
• Authorized Sheriff Gutowski to apply for WEX fleet fuel card (7‑0)
• Approved PTO payment $2,130.60 to David Jarvi (7‑0)
• Approved PTO payment $331.55 to Traci McIntyre (7‑0)
• Appointed multiple members to Fair Board, Centra Wellness Network, Airport Authority, etc. (7‑0)

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority will discuss several administrative resolutions and equipment leases. The board is seeking authorization for a time-sensitive project to insulate a city water main on airport property.

• Proposed $183,900 change order for insulating City Water Main and adding temperature monitoring
• Resolution 2025-01 to designate Board Chair Dyllan Walker as signatory for GSA leases
• Resolution 2025-02 to authorize Board Chair to execute MDOT Office of Aeronautics contracts
• Proposed 60-month lease for a Xerox B415DN office copier at $332.88 per year
• Review of Airport Capital Improvement Plan (ACIP) following meeting with Mead & Hunt

The Authority approved the meeting agenda, the October 17 minutes, and the October 2025 accounts payable and financial statements. It then adopted four resolutions: authority to sign the GSAL lease agreement, authority to execute sponsor contracts with MDOT, a 60‑month lease for a Xerox printer, and a contract for dumpster service. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved October 17, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved October 2025 Accounts Payable Report – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved October 2025 Financial Statement – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Resolution #2025-01: Authority to sign GSAL lease agreement – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved Resolution #2025-02: Authority to execute Airport Sponsor contracts, grants and certifications with MDOT – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved 60‑month Xerox lease ($27.74/month) – 5 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved dumpster service contract – 5 yeas, 0 nays

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will consider award decisions for the lead‑paint inspection and the design professional services contracts for the property at 7780 Lake Street in the Village of Bear Lake. The meeting will also include a finance report covering the fund's revenue and expenditure for the last fiscal year and the current month. Additional agenda items cover old business such as the Bear Lake property (US‑31/Lynn St), the Kosciusko Street tiny‑developers project, blight‑elimination fund progress, and potential collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and other partners.

• Review bids and consider awarding a contract for lead‑paint inspection at 7780 Lake St, Bear Lake
• Review bids and consider awarding design professional services for Bear Lake Department of Public Works renovation at 7780 Lake St
• Finance report: revenue & expenditure for FY 2024‑25 and October 2025
• Old business: Bear Lake (US‑31/Lynn St) property inquiries, including Java Lodge purchase and MDOT sidewalk upgrades
• Blight Elimination Funds – Round 3 and Round 4 progress with deadlines 9/30/26

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority approved its agenda and amended minutes by unanimous vote. It awarded the lead‑paint inspection contract for 7780 Lake St to Otwell Mawby for up to $1,370. It also approved Phase 1 of the design professional services for the same site to Fleis & VandenBrink for up to $19,000, deferring Phase 2 until Phase 1 results are available.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous 5‑0)
• Amended and approved October 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous 5‑0)
• Awarded Lead Paint Inspection contract to Otwell Mawby, not to exceed $1,370 (5‑0)
• Awarded Phase 1 Design Professional Services to Fleis & VandenBrink, not to exceed $19,000 (5‑0)

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for November 7, 2025 at 9:00 A.M. was cancelled. The cancellation complies with the Michigan Open Meetings Act. No agenda items were considered or decided. Notices were posted on October 30, 2025 as required.

Public Safety Committee

The Manistee County Public Safety Committee meeting scheduled for November 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. was canceled. Because the meeting was canceled, no agenda items were discussed or decided. The notice complies with the Michigan Open Meetings Act.

Policy Committee

The November 7, 2025, meeting of the Manistee County Policy Committee has been cancelled. The cancellation complies with the Michigan Open Meetings Act. The meeting was scheduled for 2:00 P.M. in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room at the Manistee County Courthouse.

• Meeting cancelled
• Meeting location: Manistee County Courthouse, 415 Third Street
• Meeting time: November 7, 2025, at 2:00 P.M.
• Notice posted October 30, 2025

Green Team Committee

The Green Team Committee will hear a recycling program update from Karla Smith‑Kasten. Old business includes updates on Part 115 Materials Management Planning and county recycling cards and program overviews. New business proposes a PA‑69 contract for a Recycling Coordinator and a contract with GFL for waste services. The meeting ends with any additional items from committee members.

• PA‑69 Recycling Coordinator contract
• GFL waste‑services contract
• Recycling program report (Karla Smith‑Kasten)
• Update on Part 115 Materials Management Planning
• Update on Manistee County recycling card and PAG 9 overview

Green Team Committee

The Green Team meeting scheduled for November 5, 2025, has been cancelled.

Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee will discuss a proposal for a Vital Records Management program and an RFP for IT Managed Services. The body will also consider payments for resigned employees and requests for credit and fuel cards.

• Proposal from Fidlar for a Vital Records Management program
• RFP for IT Managed Services
• Payment of $2,130.60 for unused PTO to David Jarvi (Planning Department)
• Payment of $331.55 for unused PTO to Traci McIntyre (Probate Court)
• County Credit Card request for Airport Director Miles Weaver

The Ways & Means Committee unanimously approved the on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $2,633,114.39. It also approved a $15,250 Vital Records system contract with Fidlar Technologies, a $13,500 credit card for the Airport Director, and authorized the Sheriff to apply for a new WEX fuel card. Additionally, the committee approved payments for unused PTO to two former employees totaling $2,462.15.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,633,114.39 (unanimous)
• Approved Vital Records proposal with Fidlar Technologies for $15,250 (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Director credit card with $13,500 limit (unanimous)
• Recommended distribution of RFP for IT Managed Services (unanimous)
• Authorized Sheriff to apply for WEX fuel card program (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $2,130.60 PTO to David Jarvi (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $331.55 PTO to Traci McIntyre (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission will discuss updates to the county-wide ORV ordinance as added by the Prosecutor’s Office. It will also consider matters related to a county‑owned property on 11 Mile Rd. Additional agenda items include public comments, various recreation‑related updates, and expiring terms.

• County-wide ORV Ordinance: additions from Prosecutor’s Office
• County‑owned property: 11 Mile Rd
• Expiring Terms

The Recreation Commission approved the November 3 agenda and the corrected October 2025 minutes by voice vote. Members heard updates on trail projects, snowmobile activities, and the county-wide recreation plan, but no new contracts or policies were adopted. The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m. by voice vote.

• Approved agenda (voice vote)
• Approved October 2025 minutes with corrected date (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:00 PM (voice vote)
• Staff assigned to confirm forestry plan status with County Controller
• Staff assigned to obtain latest forestry report
• Staff assigned to explore allocation of timber proceeds toward trail development

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $433,510.68, fill two board appointments, and consider a resolution to adopt the County Master Plan.

• Approval of October 2025 appropriations and fund transfers ($433,510.68)
• Appointment to Centra Wellness Network (vacancy expires March 31, 2026)
• Appointment to Airport Authority Board (vacancy expires December 31, 2026)
• Resolution to adopt County Master Plan
• Temporary Road Signs Ordinance

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners approved the new County Master Plan, establishing the future land‑use framework. They also confirmed several operational items, including a magistrate appointment, a Sobriety Court grant, a K‑9 purchase, and a jail cooler replacement.

• Approved new Manistee County Master Plan (6-0)
• Approved appointment of Scott James Alexander as magistrate (6-0)
• Accepted FY26 Michigan Drug Court Grant for Sobriety Court, $59,392 (6-0)
• Approved purchase of K‑9 for County (6-0)
• Approved $12,600 walk‑in cooler replacement for jail (6-0)
• Approved BIS Digital system purchase for Probate Court, up to $20,000 (6-0)
• Approved $1,233.27 PTO payout to James Appledorn (6-0)
• Approved Temporary Road Sign Ordinance (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will meet on October 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM, changed from the originally scheduled 9:00 AM. The notice includes information on auxiliary aids such as sign language interpreters and audio recordings for individuals with disabilities. It also confirms compliance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act. No specific agenda items are listed.

• Meeting time changed from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Oct 28, 2025
• Notice of auxiliary aids (sign language interpreters, audio tapes) for individuals with disabilities

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will consider its latest revenue and expenditure report covering October 1 2024 through September 30 2025. It will discuss old business items including the Bear Lake property and progress on Blight Elimination Fund rounds 3 and 4. New business includes a review of land‑bank owned properties and an application to purchase 1001 Kosciusko St, Manistee. The meeting also includes public comment and updates from the project manager.

• Finance Report – Revenue & Expenditure (Oct 1 2024‑Sept 30 2025)
• Old Business – Bear Lake (US‑31/Lynn St) property inquiries (draft Java Lodge purchase agreement, MDOT sidewalk upgrades)
• Blight Elimination Funds – Round 3 & 4 progress, stake survey at 518 1° Street
• New Business – Review of Land Bank owned properties
• New Business – Application for purchase of 1001 Kosciusko St, Manistee

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority unanimously approved the amended purchase agreement for the Bear Lake US‑31/Lynn Street property, changing the commencement date to December 31, 2026. The board also approved a $450 surveying contract for 518 First Street and authorized the chair to issue a Letter of Intent to Tiny Developers for a workforce‑housing project on 1001 Kosciusko Street. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved purchase agreement for Bear Lake US‑31/Lynn Street property with commencement change (5‑0)
• Approved Slawinski Surveying contract for 518 First Street at $450.00 (5‑0)
• Authorized Chair to issue Letter of Intent to Tiny Developers for 1001 Kosciusko Street parcel (5‑0)
• Approved meeting agenda as presented (5‑0)
• Approved regular meeting minutes from September 15, 2025 (5‑0)

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Airport Authority will meet to discuss several action items, including contracts for T-Hangar door replacement and a PFC application. The body will also review the FY2026 fee schedule and credit card policy.

• Federal FY2023 IIJA T-Hangar Door Replacement: Independent Fee Estimate and Mead & Hunt Design Contract
• FY2026 Fee Schedule Update
• PFC Application: Mead & Hunt contract
• Credit Card Policy
• Review of EAS/AEAS funding and Airport Capital Improvement Plan (ACIP)

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority approved its amended agenda, the September 29, 2025 meeting minutes, the September 2025 accounts payable report, and the September 2025 financial statement. It also approved an independent fee estimate up to $6,000 and a design contract with Mead & Hunt for the T‑Hangar door replacement costing $35,355.01, authorizing the Airport Director to sign. The board adopted a FY2026 fuel‑farm lease fee schedule change, a passenger‑facility‑charge services agreement up to $20,000, and the county credit‑card policy, and removed a TSA video from the airport.

• Approved agenda amendment (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved September 29, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved September 2025 Accounts Payable Report (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved September 2025 Financial Statement (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved independent fee estimate for T‑Hangar door replacement up to $6,000 (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved Mead & Hunt design contract for T‑Hangar door replacement $35,355.01, authorizing Airport Director to sign (5-0, 1 absent)
• Adopted FY2026 Fuel Farm Lease fee schedule change to $0.09/gal (5-0, 1 absent)
• Approved 2025‑2026 Passenger Facility Charge Services Agreement up to $20,000, authorizing Airport Director to sign (5-0, 1 absent)

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will consider several agenda items, including approval of the September 25, 2025 minutes and a draft bylaw language. Staff will provide a department update and report on recent meetings and trainings. New business includes addressing issues on Hopkins Forest Drive and Sweetnam Drive, and reviewing the master plans for Norman Township and the Village of Onekama. The commission will also hear any other business from members or staff.

• Approve September 25, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review draft bylaw language
• Address issue on Hopkins Forest Drive
• Address issue on Sweetnam Drive
• Review Norman Township Master Plan

The commission approved recommended changes to its bylaws, address adjustments on Hopkins Forest Drive and Sweetnam Drive, and the master plans for Norman Township and the Village of Onekama. Each motion was adopted by voice vote, with one member abstaining on the Norman Township plan.

• Recommended approval of Planning Commission bylaw changes to County Board (voice vote)
• Approved address changes on Hopkins Forest Drive (voice vote)
• Approved address changes on vacated Sweetnam Drive portion (voice vote)
• Recommended approval of Norman Township Master Plan with additions (voice vote, one abstention)
• Recommended approval of Village of Onekama Master Plan (voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will hold its October meeting on October 16, 2025, at 2:00 pm in the Planning Department Conference Room at 395 Third Street. The meeting is a standard procedural gathering to comply with the Michigan Open Meetings Act.

• Meeting date and time set for October 16, 2025
• Location: Manistee County Planning Department Conference Room, 395 Third Street
• Notice posted on September 30, 2025, by Jessica Sorensen
• Auxiliary aids available for individuals with disabilities upon two weeks' notice
• Meeting notice posted in the Planning Department entry and Courthouse lobby

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board will approve the meeting agenda and the September 17th minutes. It will consider the Treasurer's Report, including profit & loss details and check registers for FY 24‑25 and FY 25‑26, and approve related bill payments. Committee reports are noted as not having met, and the Director will give staffing updates. No new or old business items are listed.

• Approval of the agenda
• Approval of September 17th meeting minutes
• Review and approval of Treasurer's Report (profit & loss details, budget vs. actual, check registers)
• Payment of August bills per check registers
• Director’s report on staffing updates

The Manistee County E‑911 Board approved an amendment to increase the 2024‑2025 budget by $70,000 on both income and expense sides. It also approved payment of September bills totaling $218,579.06, a transfer of $161,475 from the fund balance to cover expenses, and payment of October bills totaling $72,039.45. The Treasurer’s Report and the amended agenda were accepted, and the September 17, 2025 minutes were approved. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $70,000 budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved payment of September bills $218,579.06 (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $161,475 from fund balance to expenses (unanimous)
• Approved payment of October bills $72,039.45 (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Local Revenue Sharing Board

The Local Revenue Sharing Board will consider approving payment of an outstanding invoice for $1,619.30. It will also review the financial report and discuss Cycle II 2025 grant applications. The agenda includes scheduling two future meetings and a public comment period.

• Approve payment of $1,619.30 for a Manistee County per‑diem invoice (dated Oct 13, 2025)
• Review financial report (Appendix B)
• Discuss Cycle II 2025 grant applications (Appendix C)
• Schedule Board meetings: Dec 28, 2025 (Cycle 11‑2025 Grant Award) and Feb 9, 2026 (Annual Organizational Meeting)
• Public comment period

The Local Revenue Sharing Board approved its agenda and the June 3 2024 meeting minutes. It voted to pay the County $1,295.44 for per‑diem reimbursement covering 10/01/23‑09/30/24. The board also set the Cycle II Grant Awards meeting for December 8 2028 at 4:30 PM. No other business was taken.

• Approved October 7 2024 agenda (motion carried)
• Approved June 3 2024 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved payment of $1,295.44 to Manistee County (3 yeas, 0 nays, motion carried)
• Scheduled Cycle II Grant Awards meeting for December 8 2028 at 4:30 PM

Green Team Committee

The Manistee County Green Team Committee meeting originally set for October 1, 2025 at 2:00 PM has been rescheduled to October 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM. The notice includes information on auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities, such as signers for the hearing impaired and audio recordings of printed materials. The posting complies with the Michigan Open Meetings Act (Section 267 of 1976) and was posted on September 23, 2025.

• Meeting originally scheduled for Oct 1, 2025 at 2:00 PM now set for Oct 8, 2025 at 2:00 PM
• Auxiliary aids offered: signers for hearing‑impaired and audio recordings of printed materials
• Notice posted Sep 23, 2025 to meet Michigan Open Meetings Act requirements

Green Team Committee

The Manistee County Green Team/Recycling Committee is meeting to receive an update on the PA 69 recycling program, including a report in Appendix A. They will also discuss old business items such as recycling program interlocal agreements, Part 115 materials management planning, and updates to county recycling informational materials. No new business items are listed.

• PA 69 Recycling Program Update with report (Appendix A)
• Discussion of Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning
• Update of Manistee County Recycling Info Card
• Update of Manistee County PA69 Recycling Program Overview

The Green Team Committee met on October 8, 2025, with most members present. A recycling program update and several township reports were discussed. The Board approved the FY2026 work plan as reported by Administrator Lisa Sagala. No other actions were formally decided at this meeting.

• Board approved FY2026 work plan

Ways & Means Committee

The Manistee County Ways & Means Committee will receive a finance report, hear the 2025 County Apportionment Report, and consider a grant award for the 85th District Court DWI Sobriety Court. It will also review the Manistee County‑MSU Extension agreement, evaluate a bid for a walk‑in cooler at the jail, and consider a quote to replace recording equipment in the probate courtroom. Finally, the committee will recommend payment of FY2024/25 invoices, including a $1,233.27 payout of unused PTO to James Appledorn.

• Finance Report presented by Susan Zielinski (Appendix A)
• 2025 County Apportionment Report presentation by Heather Vasquez (Appendix B)
• Grant award for the 85th District Court DWI Sobriety Court
• Bid for a walk‑in cooler at the jail (Tom Williams, Appendix D)
• $1,233.27 payment of unused PTO to James Appledorn

The Ways & Means Committee voted to approve on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,761,961.54. It also accepted the 2025 County Apportionment Report, the MSU Extension Services agreement for $51,388, a $12,600 walk‑in cooler bid for the jail, a probate courtroom equipment bid not to exceed $20,000, and a $1,233.27 PTO payment to James Appledorn. All motions carried with unanimous affirmative votes and one absent member.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll $2,761,961.54 (All Ayes, Schmidt absent)
• Accepted 2025 County Apportionment Report (All Ayes, Schmidt absent)
• Approved MSU Extension Agreement $51,388 for FY 2026 (All Ayes, Schmidt absent)
• Accepted Custom Sheet Metal bid $12,600 for jail walk‑in cooler (All Ayes, Schmidt absent)
• Approved BIS Digital equipment bid up to $20,000 for probate courtroom (All Ayes, Schmidt absent)
• Approved PTO payment $1,233.27 to James Appledorn (All Ayes, Schmidt absent)

Recreation Commission

The Commission will meet to discuss updates on regional recreation plans and groups. The agenda includes a review of a draft ORV ordinance and a discussion on policies and procedures.

• Draft ORV Ordinance Review
• County-Wide Recreation Plan updates
• Setting priorities, policies, and procedures
• Updates from Friends of SMARTrails
• Updates from Benzie Manistee County Dirt Birds and Snowbirds

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the August 4, 2025 minutes, both unanimously. Members voted 7‑0 to adopt proposed changes to the ORV ordinance and to adopt the Priorities, Policies, and Procedures document. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved August 4, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved proposed ORV ordinance changes (Yeas: 7, Nays: 0, Absent: 3)
• Approved Priorities, Policies, and Procedures Document (Yeas: 7, Nays: 0, Absent: 3)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:53 PM (all in favor)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee meeting scheduled for October 3, 2025, has been cancelled. No items were decided or discussed.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for October 3, 2025 at 9:00 A.M. was cancelled. No agenda items were considered or decided.

• Meeting cancelled – no items discussed

Public Safety Committee

The Manistee County Public Safety Committee meeting scheduled for October 3, 2025 at 11:00 AM was cancelled to comply with the Michigan Open Meetings Act. No agenda items were considered. The county will provide auxiliary aids and services for future meetings as required.

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Airport Authority meeting will approve minutes from prior meetings, review the treasurer's financial reports, and consider the FY 2025/2026 budget. It will also discuss a new Fixed‑Base Operator (FBO) contract. Additional items include reports from various committees and the Airport Director.

• Approval of minutes from August 18, 2025 regular meeting, August 22, 2025 special meeting, and September 3, 2025 special meeting
• Treasurer’s report on August 2025 accounts payable for the General Fund and Capital Improvement Fund
• Discussion of FY Budget 2025/2026 (old business)
• Consideration of a new FBO contract (new business)
• Reports from Executive, Capital Projects, Budget, By‑Laws, and Transition committees

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority approved its amended agenda, the minutes of prior meetings, and the August 2025 financial reports. It adopted the By‑Laws as presented, approved the FY2025/2026 budget of $8,678,281.00, and authorized both the Fixed Base Operator Agreement and the Operations and Service Part 139 Agreement. The board also extended Airport Director Barry Lind’s contract through November 21, 2025. All motions passed with five yeas, zero nays and one member absent.

• Approved amended agenda (motion by Jeff Dontz, supported by Picardat) – All in favor
• Approved minutes of August 18, 2025; August 22, 2025; September 3, 2025 – All in favor
• Approved August 2025 Accounts Payable Report – Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 1 (Goodman)
• Approved August 2025 Financial Statement – Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 1 (Goodman)
• Approved By‑Laws as presented – All in favor
• Approved FY2025/2026 budget of $8,678,281.00 – Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 1 (Goodman)
• Approved Fixed Base Operator Agreement – Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 1 (Goodman)
• Approved Operations and Service Part 139 Agreement – Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 1 (Goodman)

Airport Authority

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific action items, contracts, or discussion topics are listed.

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the Proposed Manistee County Master Plan. The meeting will also include the approval of August 28, 2025, minutes and a review of Manistee Township map amendments.

• Public Hearing: Proposed Manistee County Master Plan
• Approval of August 28, 2025, Minutes
• Manistee Township Map Amendment Review
• Presentation by Tyler Dula
• Bylaw Review

The commission approved the Manistee County Master Plan by resolution with a 6‑0 vote and one member absent. It also approved the proposed amendments to the Manistee Township Zoning Map. The department decided not to pursue the Brown Field Redevelopment Authority EPA grant this year. No public comments were received.

• Approved Manistee County Master Plan (6-0, 1 absent)
• Approved Manistee Township Zoning Map amendments (voice vote)
• Decided not to pursue Brown Field Redevelopment Authority EPA grant this year

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to approve minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting and consider disbursement requests for the Oak Grove and Joslin Cove projects. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding an EPA Site Assessment Grant.

• Approval of August 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Oak Grove 2024 Disbursement
• Joslin Cove 2024 Disbursement
• EPA Site Assessment Grant discussion
• Oak Grove 2023 Disbursement

The commission unanimously approved several financial actions. It retained $2,000 and $6,482.31 for local administrative costs and approved disbursements of $6,699.64, $181,997.94, and $8,219.85 to developers. All motions passed with a 4‑yes, 0‑no vote.

• Retain $2,000 of local administrative fees (4-0)
• Disburse $6,699.64 of unobligated TIR to developer (4-0)
• Retain $6,482.31 for administrative costs (4-0)
• Disburse $181,997.94 of unobligated TIR to Benchmark Capital (4-0)
• Disburse $8,219.85 of unobligated state TIR to developer (4-0)

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will hold a meeting on September 18, 2025, at 2:00 pm in the Planning Department Conference Room. The meeting agenda is not provided in the source text.

• Meeting date: September 18, 2025
• Meeting time: 2:00 pm
• Location: Manistee County Planning Department Conference Room, 395 Third Street
• Notice posted by Jessica Sorensen on September 5, 2025

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board will hold its regular monthly meeting. Items include approval of the August 20, 2025 meeting minutes, approval of the Treasurer’s report with September profit and loss details, and reports from the Director and Deputy Director. No committee meetings were held and there is no old or new business on the agenda.

• Approval of August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of Treasurer’s Report (September profit & loss detail and budget vs. actual)
• Director’s Report on 2025‑2026 project plans

The board unanimously approved the amended agenda and the August 20, 2025 meeting minutes. It accepted the Treasurer's Report and approved payment of bills totaling $6,745.72. The Finance Committee minutes and the 2025‑2026 fiscal year budget were both approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 9:55 a.m.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $6,745.72 (unanimous)
• Approved Finance Committee meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2025-2026 FY budget (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:55 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board will approve its consent agenda, which includes the August 19 and September 5 meeting minutes and September 2025 monthly appropriations. It will hold a public hearing on the FY2025/26 county budget and the proposed 9.0896‑mill property tax rate. After the hearing, the Board will consider adopting the FY2025/26 General Fund Appropriations Act resolution that sets the budget and millage. Additional items include appointments to the Centra Wellness Network, the Department of Health and Human Services board, the County Board of Canvassers, and approval of the FY26 Materials Management Plan.

• Appointment to Centra Wellness Network (1‑year term, expires March 31, 2026)
• Appointment to Department of Health and Human Services Board (3‑year term, begins Nov 1, 2025)
• Appointment to Manistee County Board of Canvassers (two partisan seats, 4‑year terms starting Nov 1, 2025)
• Public hearing on FY2025/26 county budget and proposed 9.0896‑mill property tax rate
• Consideration of FY2025/26 General Fund Appropriations Act resolution (budget adoption)

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the FY 2025/26 General Fund budget of $15,049,417 and Supplemental Fund budgets totaling $22,742,367, and set a total property tax millage of 9.0896 mills. The board also filled several appointed positions, authorized participation in litigation over a state health‑services RFP, and approved various financial and contract items.

• Adopted FY 2025/26 General Fund budget of $15,049,417 and Supplemental Fund budgets totaling $22,742,367 (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Set total property tax millage at 9.0896 mills for FY 2025/26 (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Nominated David A. Wild to the Department of Health and Human Services Board (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Nominated Jo R. Hall as Democratic member of the Board of Canvassers (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Nominated James M. Mowry as Republican member of the Board of Canvassers (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Authorized the county to join litigation challenging the MDHHS PIHP RFP (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,462,570.09 (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved the MGT Master Services Agreement for the Cost Allocation Plan (6 yeas, 0 nays)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will review the proposals received for the demolition of the commercial property at 518 First Street and consider awarding the contract. The demolition is funded through a State of Michigan blight elimination grant that uses federal dollars. The meeting will also include a finance report covering revenue and expenditures from October 1 2024 to August 31 2025 and updates on old business such as Bear Lake property and blight elimination fund progress.

• Review proposals for demolition of commercial property at 518 First Street
• Consider award of demolition contract; sealed bids due Sep 11 2025, tentative selection Sep 15 2025
• Demolition funded by a State of Michigan blight elimination grant using federal dollars
• Contract requires asbestos abatement, contaminated soil excavation, and disposal to licensed landfills
• Local business and Section 3 preferences are required for bidders

The board approved awarding the demolition contract for 518 First Street to Melching, Inc. for $116,120 with additional soil remediation costs. It also set the sale price of the Bear Lake US‑31 I Lynn Street property at $5,000 and approved a letter of support for Housing North’s Zoning Atlas program. The board declined to accept the donation of 616 Engleman Street, and all motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved demolition contract for 518 First Street to Melching, Inc. ($116,120) (5‑0)
• Approved regular meeting minutes from Aug 18, 2025 (5‑0)
• Set sale price for Bear Lake US‑31 I Lynn Street property at $5,000 (5‑0)
• Approved special meeting on Sep 29, 2025 to finalize Bear Lake agreement (5‑0)
• Declined donation of 616 Engleman Street property
• Approved letter of support for Housing North Zoning Atlas program (5‑0)

Recreation Commission

The provided document is a meeting notice for the Manistee County Recreation Commission. It contains only procedural boilerplate and does not list specific agenda items for discussion or decision.

Public Safety Committee

The Manistee County Public Safety Committee is meeting to review monthly statistics from the Sheriff's Office, City of Manistee Police and Fire, 911/Central Dispatch, Emergency Management, and Mobile Medical Response. The agenda includes reports on patrol activity, response times, and incident counts, with no votes or decisions scheduled.

• Sheriff's Office monthly statistics (Appendix A) including patrol, complaints, and jail data
• City of Manistee Police and Fire statistics (Appendix B) with EMS response times and fire incident counts
• 911/Central Dispatch monthly statistics (Appendix C)
• Mobile Medical Response (MMR) statistics (Appendix D) including 243 responses in July 2025
• Munson Medical Center YTD transfers report

The committee heard reports from the Sheriff's Office, City Police, City Fire, 911 dispatch, Emergency Management, Mobile Medical Response, and Michigan State Police. The reports included statistics, training activities, a fundraiser, and a tabletop dam‑failure exercise. No items requiring Board action were presented or voted on. The meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for September 5, 2025, has been cancelled. The notice complies with the Michigan Open Meetings Act and was posted on September 4, 2025.

• Meeting cancelled
• Notice posted by Administrative Secretary Lindsey Marquardt

Policy Committee

The Manistee County Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially update policies on new employee orientation and jury duty leave. The agenda includes public comment and new business, with the two policy items attached as appendices.

• New employee orientation policy for county, 19th Judicial Circuit, 85th Judicial District, and Probate Court employees
• Paid jury duty leave policy for full-time, part-time, and temporary employees
• Requirement for employees to return court stipends to receive county compensation during jury duty

The committee voted to approve the New Employee Orientation Policy as presented. It also approved the updated Jury Duty Policy that includes court requests. Both motions were carried with unanimous support.

• Approved New Employee Orientation Policy (all ayes)
• Approved Jury Duty Policy (all ayes)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting on September 5, 2025, at 2:00 P.M. The primary agenda item is the removal of medical care millage ballot language for the upcoming November election. The meeting will also include standard procedural items such as roll call and public comment periods.

• Removal of Medical Care Millage Ballot Language For November Election

The Board considered two motions regarding the Manistee County Medical Care Facility millage ballot language. A motion to keep the original language as approved on August 11, 2025 failed with a 3‑1 vote. A separate motion to remove the proposal from the November 4, 2025 ballot also failed, this time 1‑3. As a result, the original ballot language remains unchanged.

• Motion to keep original ballot language failed (3 yeas, 1 nay)
• Motion to remove proposal from November ballot failed (1 yea, 3 nays)

Green Team Committee

The Manistee County Green Team Committee will meet to receive the annual Recycling Program Report and discuss updates to interlocal agreements, state-mandated materials management planning, and public outreach materials. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Recycling Program Report (Appendix A)
• Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Part 115 Materials Management Planning updates
• Manistee County Recycling Info Card update
• Manistee County PA 69 Recycling Program Overview update

The Green Team Committee meeting on September 3, 2025 did not have a quorum, so no items requiring Board action were considered or decided. The meeting was adjourned at 2:27 p.m.

Ways & Means Committee

The committee will review a finance report detailing expenditures totaling $2,462,570.09. Members will also discuss the renewal of a Cost Allocation Plan contract and the Manistee County Crossroads Kids 4H Club.

• Finance report showing total expenditures of $2,462,570.09
• Renewal of Cost Allocation Plan Contract
• Manistee County Crossroads Kids 4H Club discussion
• Payment of $701,344.00 to Corporate Flight Management, Inc. for air service

The Ways & Means Committee approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,462,570.09. It also renewed the Cost Allocation Plan contract with MGT Impact Solutions through FY 2030. Finally, the committee authorized the District Court to purchase a BIS digital audio‑video system for $13,726.19, pending FY 25/26 budget approval.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll $2,462,570.09 (all ayes)
• Renewed Cost Allocation Plan contract with MGT Impact Solutions through FY 2030 (all ayes)
• Authorized District Court to purchase BIS digital system $13,726.19, contingent on FY 25/26 budget (all ayes)

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Airport Authority is holding a special meeting. The primary agenda item is the Airport Director offer.

• Airport Director offer

The Manistee County Airport Authority approved its September 3, 2025 agenda unanimously. It also approved the Transition Committee's recommendation to offer Miles Weaver the Airport Director employment contract, adding a $50‑per‑month cell‑phone stipend. Both motions passed with a 7‑0 vote. The updated contract will be prepared and sent to Mr. Weaver for review.

• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved employment contract recommendation for Airport Director, adding $50/month cell phone stipend (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will hold a meeting on August 28, 2025, to discuss zoning language updates for child care facilities, text amendments for Arcadia and Filer Townships, and a general bylaw review. The meeting includes procedural items, public comment, and updates from the Planning Department.

• Child Care Facilities Zoning Language update
• Arcadia Township Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment
• Charter Township of Filer Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment
• Bylaw Review discussion
• Public comment period at meeting start

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Arcadia Township Board approve its proposed zoning ordinance amendments and that the Charter Township of Filer Board approve its proposed zoning ordinance amendments. The agenda and July 24 minutes were approved by voice vote. The commission also agreed to move the October meeting to October 16, 2025 and tabled further bylaw discussion until the next meeting.

• Approved August 28 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved July 24 minutes (voice vote)
• Recommended approval of Arcadia Township Zoning Ordinance amendments (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Charter Township of Filer Zoning Ordinance amendments (5-0)
• Agreed to move October meeting to October 16, 2025
• Tabled bylaw review discussion until next meeting

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority is holding a special meeting to discuss an airport transition. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and member comments.

• Discussion regarding Airport Transition

The board approved extending Airport Director Barry Lind's contract through January 31, 2026. The extension passed with five yeas and zero nays, with two members absent. The board also authorized the Transition Committee to negotiate a three‑year Fixed Base Operator contract with Orchard Beach Aviation, also passing 5‑0 with two absences. The meeting agenda was approved unanimously.

• Approved extension of Airport Director Barry Lind contract to Jan 31 2026 (5‑0, 2 absent)
• Authorized Transition Committee to negotiate three‑year FBO contract with Orchard Beach Aviation (5‑0, 2 absent)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimously)

Airport Authority

The Manistee Blacker Airport Authority will hold a special meeting to discuss the transition of the Airport Director and the Fixed Base Operator role. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom and in person at the Airport Conference Room.

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to approve the meeting agenda and minutes, review bylaws, and discuss an EPA site assessment grant. No decisions are listed in the agenda beyond procedural approvals.

• Approval of August 21, 2025 meeting agenda
• Approval of July 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of EPA Site Assessment Grant
• Review of Bylaw Review item

The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved its meeting agenda and the minutes from the July 24, 2025 meeting. It voted 6‑0 to approve the assignment of agreements between Manistee Lakes LLC and Benchmark Capital Finance. The annual bylaw review was completed with no amendments recommended. The commission discussed pursuing an EPA Site Assessment Grant but took no action.

• Approved August 21, 2025 meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Approved July 24, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved assignment of agreements between Manistee Lakes LLC and Benchmark Capital Finance (6-0 vote)
• Completed annual bylaw review with no amendments recommended
• Discussed potential EPA Site Assessment Grant (no decision taken)

Brownfield Commission

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate and a meeting notice. No specific discussion items or decisions are listed.

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board is holding a regular monthly meeting with routine administrative items. The board will consider approving the treasurer's report, including profit and loss details, and payment of bills for August. No committee meetings were held, and there is no old or new business on the agenda.

• Approval of treasurer's report with September Profit & Loss Detail and Budget vs. Actual
• Payment of bills for August with check register (Appendix A1)
• Approval of July 16th, 2025 meeting minutes
• Director's report on MCDA meeting
• Deputy Director's report on monthly stats and exercises

The board approved the amended agenda, the July 16, 2025 minutes, and accepted the Treasurer's Report. A roll‑call vote approved payment of bills totaling $192,299.52, with every member voting Yes. The Finance Committee agreed to meet on September 9 at 10:00 a.m. in the EOC.

• Approved amended agenda (all in favor)
• Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (all in favor)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $192,299.52 (Chief Glass, Dir. Medacco, Mr. Dontz, Mr. Mosholder, Mr. Johnson, U/S Torrey all Yes)
• Finance Committee meeting scheduled for September 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. in the EOC

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting on August 19, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the Board of Commissioners' meeting room at the Manistee County Courthouse. The board will discuss and consider adopting the tentative FY2025/26 General Fund budget and various supplemental budgets, following recommendations from the Budget Study Session on July 31, 2025. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for September 16, 2025.

• Public hearing to discuss final edits to the Manistee County Master Plan at 9:05 a.m.
• Appointment to the Land Bank Authority for an unexpired term expiring December 31, 2027
• Annual reports from the Michigan Association of Counties and Networks Northwest
• Consideration of tentative FY2025/26 General Fund budget and supplemental budgets
• Monthly appropriations totaling $34,692.01 and fund transfers totaling $20,098.17

The Board adopted a resolution authorizing Manistee County to enter participation agreements for the Purdue/Sackler opioid settlement. It also adopted the FY 2025/26 General Fund Budget of $15,049,417 and the Supplemental Fund Budget of $22,742,367. Additional items approved included payroll and on‑demand checks, courtroom recording equipment, a land‑bank appointment, a PTO payment, and a vehicle sale advertisement.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $1,996,909.21 (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved purchase of circuit courtroom recording equipment for $17,773.41 (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved appointment of Duane Jones to the Land Bank Authority (unanimous yeas)
• Approved payment of $243.50 to Bridget Jacobson for unused PTO (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved advertising sale of a 2010 Dodge Dakota with minimum bid $6,000 (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adopted Tentative FY 2025/26 General Fund Budget of $15,049,417 (6 yeas, 1 absent)
• Adopted Supplemental Fund Budget of $22,742,367 (6 yeas, 1 absent)
• Adopted Resolution authorizing participation agreements in the Purdue/Sackler opioid settlement (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 not voting)

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Airport Authority will meet to approve minutes, receive a treasurer’s report on July 2025 accounts payable and financial statements, and hear from Contour Airlines representatives. Committee reports and the Airport Director’s update will also be presented.

• July 2025 financial statements (revenue, expenses, trial balance)
• July 2025 accounts payable for General Fund and Capital Improvement Fund
• MDOT Infrastructure Investments and Act Agreement discussion

The Authority approved its August 18 agenda, the July 28 meeting minutes, the July 2025 accounts payable report and financial statement, and authorized up to $25,000 for a recruiting firm to find a new Airport Director. It also approved the Michigan Department of Transportation Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act Agreement. All motions carried.

• Approved August 18, 2025 agenda (all in favor, motion carried)
• Approved July 28, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor, motion carried)
• Approved July 2025 Accounts Payable Report – General Fund (Yeas: 6, Nays: 0, Absent: 1)
• Approved July 2025 Financial Statement (Yeas: 6, Nays: 0, Absent: 1)
• Authorized up to $25,000 for the Transition Committee to hire a recruiting company (all in favor, motion carried)
• Approved MDOT Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act Agreement (all in favor, motion carried)

Land Bank Authority

The Land Bank Authority will review financial reports and approve the FY 2025/26 budget. The board will also discuss property updates for the former Village Variety in Bear Lake and progress on blight elimination funds.

• Approval of FY 2025/26 Budget
• Discussion of Bear Lake property at US-31/Lynn St (Former Village Variety)
• Blight Elimination Funds Round 3 and 4 progress (deadlines 9/30/26)
• Potential property collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers
• Review of Revenue & Expenditure Report showing $267,889 spent on blight elimination

The Land Bank Authority unanimously approved its 2025‑2026 budget of $2,025,500. Members declined to use ARPA funds for a fence at the 231 Fifth Street property. The board agreed to draft a development agreement for the Java Lodge property transfer and to support upcoming work sessions with MAPS and the City.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous vote)
• Approved minutes from July 21, 2025 meeting (unanimous vote)
• Approved FY 2025‑2026 budget of $2,025,500 (Yeas 4, Nays 0)
• Declined ARPA funding for fence at 231 Fifth Street
• Agreed to draft a development agreement for the Java Lodge property transfer
• Supported holding work sessions with MAPS (Aug 27) and with the City

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to consider approving ballot language for the renewal of the Medical Care Millage. The renewal would extend a 0.5-mill tax for five years (2026–2030) to fund the Manistee County Medical Care Facility, with an estimated first-year yield of $760,012.

• Renewal of Medical Care Millage (0.5 mills for 5 years, 2026–2030)
• Estimated first-year revenue: $760,012
• Ballot proposition language approval requested by Joe Coleman, Administrator

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to approve ballot language for the Manistee County Medical Care facility. The meeting is scheduled for August 11, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room at the Manistee County Courthouse & Government Center.

The Board of Commissioners voted to approve the proposal language for the Manistee County Medical Care Facility Millage Renewal. The approval places the renewal on the November 2025 ballot. The motion passed unanimously with five yeas and no nays.

• Approved Manistee County Medical Care Facility Millage Renewal proposal for November 2025 ballot (5-0)

Green Team Committee

The committee will receive a recycling program report from Karla Smith-Kasten. Members will also discuss interlocal agreements and materials management planning under Part 115.

• PA 69 Recycling Program Report
• Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Part 115 Materials Management Planning updates
• Updates to Manistee County Recycling Info Card
• Updates to Manistee County PA 69 Recycling Program Overview

The Green Team/ Recycling Committee met on August 6, 2025 at the Manistee County Courthouse. The session included a recycling program update, announcements of upcoming hazardous‑waste and tire collection events, and a status report on grant applications and a school garden project. No items requiring Board action were presented, and no votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Ways & Means Committee

The committee will review the FY 2025/26 budget and a quote for recording equipment in the Circuit Courtroom. Members will also consider delegates for the Municipal Employees Retirement System Annual Conference.

• Quote from BIS Digital for Circuit Courtroom recording equipment replacement
• Selection of Officer Delegate and Alternate for the Municipal Employees Retirement System Annual Conference
• Payment of $243.50 for unused PTO to former Sheriff's Department employee Bridget Jacobson
• Discussion to sell a 2010 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab Bighorn 4x4
• Review of Vogue Theatre ARPA Funds letter

The Ways & Means Committee voted to approve on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $1,996,909.21. It also approved a $17,773.41 purchase of circuit courtroom recording equipment, funded from two contingency accounts. The committee confirmed the MERS Annual Conference delegates and approved a $243.50 PTO payment and the advertisement of a 2010 Dodge Dakota with a $6,000 minimum bid. All motions carried unanimously; Commissioner Richard Schmidt was absent.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $1,996,909.21 (All present, Schmidt absent)
• Approved recording equipment purchase for Circuit Courtroom $17,773.41 (funded $16,000 from Circuit Court Contingency Fund and $7,773.41 from FOC Contingency Fund)
• Approved MERS conference delegates: Susan Zielinski (Officer), Julie Griffis (Alternate), Kristyn Malkowski (Employee), Alexie Gruenberg (Alternate)
• Approved payment of $243.50 PTO to Bridget Jacobson from Employee Separations Account
• Approved advertising sale of 2010 Dodge Dakota Extended Cab Bighorn 4x4 with minimum bid $6,000

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission will meet to discuss the draft ORV ordinance and establish priorities, policies, and procedures. The body will also receive updates on the County-Wide Recreation Plan and various regional trail and outdoor groups.

• Review of Draft ORV Ordinance
• Discussion on priorities, policies, and procedures
• Review of Sponsor Master List
• Updates on County-Wide Recreation Plan

The Recreation Commission voted to recommend approval of the Manistee County ORV Ordinance with the changes suggested by staff. The recommendation was approved by a 10‑0 vote and will be forwarded to the Road Commission and the County Board of Commissioners. The commission also approved the Sponsor Master List as a living document, also by a 10‑0 vote. All agenda items and the July 7, 2025 minutes were approved unanimously.

• Recommended approval of Manistee County ORV Ordinance with changes (10-0)
• Approved Sponsor Master List with changes and updates (10-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (10-0)
• Approved July 7, 2025 meeting minutes (10-0)
• Adjoined meeting at 7:06 PM (10-0)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is discussing updates to several employee personnel policies. The meeting includes a review of a new jury duty policy and existing policies regarding employee orientation, holidays, and bereavement leave.

• Proposed Jury Duty Policy providing paid leave for full-time and part-time employees
• Review of New Employee Orientation Policy
• Review of Holiday Policy for non-union employees and elected officials
• Review of Bereavement Leave Policy providing up to 3 or 5 days of paid leave

The committee voted to adopt the proposed wording change to the Holiday Policy and forward it to the full board. It also approved moving son‑in‑law and daughter‑in‑law into the three‑day bereavement leave category, pending the judge’s input. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved holiday policy wording change (motion carried)
• Approved bereavement leave update to include son‑in‑law/daughter‑in‑law (motion carried)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to receive monthly statistics and reports from various emergency services. The meeting includes updates from the Sheriff's Office, City of Manistee Police and Fire, and 911/Central Dispatch.

• Sheriff's Office monthly statistics
• Jail Administrator monthly statistics
• City of Manistee Police and Fire statistics
• 911/Central Dispatch monthly statistics
• Mobile Medical Response monthly statistics

The Public Safety Committee heard updates from the Sheriff’s Office, City Police, City Fire, 911 Dispatch, Emergency Management, Mobile Medical Response, and Munson Medical Center. No items required Board action, and no approvals, denials, or votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 12:03 a.m.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for August 1, 2025, has been cancelled.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review financial statements and a draft FY2025/26 budget prepared by County Administration. The session includes a review of millage rates for various county entities to inform a future budget resolution.

• Review of millage rates for County Operating (5.4615), Library (0.9930), and 9-1-1 (0.9840)
• Review of millage rates for Medical Care Facility (0.4847), Dial-A-Ride (0.4847), Council On Aging (0.4604), and Conservation District (0.2213)
• Discussion of the FY2025/26 draft budget

The Board met for a budget work session and reviewed proposed millage rates for several county entities. A draft FY 2025/26 budget was discussed, including revenue and expense reports. Commissioners reached consensus to approve a 3% wage increase for county employees. No vote tally was recorded.

• Approved 3% wage increase for county employees (consensus)

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Airport Authority will meet to discuss employment for an Airport Director and a service agreement with Mead & Hunt. The body will also receive reports from Contour Airlines and various internal committees.

• Offer of employment for Airport Director
• Agreement with Mead & Hunt for PFC Services
• Reports from Contour Airlines representatives
• June 2025 Accounts Payable for General Fund and Fund 481 (Capital Improvement Fund)

The Authority approved the July 28 agenda and several financial reports. It voted to submit a 3‑year offer letter to Kyle Malacinia for the Airport Director position, specifying a wage not below $92,000, a 4% retirement match, a $5,000 moving cost, an HMO option, and a $4,291 annual insurance premium payment. The board also approved a $5,000 agreement with Mead & Hunt for PFC services and disbanded the Car Rental Committee.

• Approved July 28 agenda (5‑0)
• Approved offer letter for Airport Director Kyle Malacinia: 3‑year contract, wage ≥$92,000, 4% retirement match, $5,000 moving cost, HMO option, $4,291 annual insurance premium (5‑0)
• Approved agreement with Mead & Hunt for PFC services up to $5,000 (5‑0)
• Approved June 16, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved June 2025 Accounts Payable Report – General Fund (5‑0)
• Approved June 2025 Financial Statement (5‑0)
• Disbanded Car Rental Committee as no longer necessary

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is meeting to conduct routine business and address one new item. The body will consider a request regarding the assignment of agreements for Joslin Cove.

• Joslin Cove Assignment of Agreements Request

The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority voted to table the proposed assignment of future Brownfield Tax Increment Financing reimbursements from Manistee Lakes, LLC to Benchmark Capital, pending review by legal counsel and retaining the annual renewal provision. Earlier agenda and June 26 meeting minutes were approved by voice vote. No other actions were taken.

• Approved July 24, 2025 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved June 26, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Tabled Joslin Cove TIF assignment pending legal review, annual renewal provision retained (voice vote)

Brownfield Commission

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate and a meeting notice. No specific items for decision or discussion are listed.

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will meet to elect a Secretary and review county ordinances. The body will also initiate an update to the County-wide Recreation Plan.

• Election of Secretary for term July 24, 2025, to June 30, 2026
• Stronach Township Resolution of Support
• Address issue at 23650 Cole Rd
• Planning Commission Ordinance Review
• County-wide Recreation Plan Update Kick-off

The Planning Commission voted 4‑2 to adopt the amended Stronach Township resolution backing the Natural Rivers designation for the Little Manistee River. Duane Jones was elected Commission Secretary for the 2025‑2026 term with all votes in favor. A request to change the address of 23650 Cole Rd to 23630 Cole Rd was denied by voice vote. The Commission took no action on a proposed amendment to its ordinance language, leaving it unchanged.

• Approved Stronach Township resolution of support (amended) (4‑2)
• Elected Duane Jones as Planning Commission Secretary (unanimous roll‑call)
• Denied address change request from 23650 Cole Rd to 23630 Cole Rd (voice vote)
• Took no action on Planning Commission Ordinance language (remains unchanged)
• Approved amendment to June 26 minutes changing “Crystal Lake Wellness Center” name (voice vote)
• Approved meeting agenda (voice vote)

Planning Commission

The provided document is a meeting notice for the Manistee County Planning Commission. It contains no specific agenda items, proposals, or decisions to be addressed.

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will review and consider awarding a bid for asbestos abatement and demolition of a commercial storefront in Bear Lake. The board will also discuss property uses and blight elimination fund progress.

• Review of bids for asbestos abatement and demolition at 7702 Lake St, Bear Lake
• Discussion of Bear Lake property (Former Village Variety) regarding Java Lodge, appraisals, and MDOT sidewalk upgrades
• Progress updates on Blight Elimination Funds Round 3 and Round 4 (deadline 9/30/26)
• Potential collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers
• Discussion of a vacant position

The board unanimously approved several actions, including awarding the asbestos abatement contract for 7702 Lake Street to Swidorski Bros Excavating LLC for up to $42,500. It accepted a $300 offer from the Michigan Department of Transportation to construct a sidewalk at 12407 Lynn Street. The authority notified the Manistee Area Public School Board of its continued interest in acquiring the Jefferson School property for demolition costs up to $250,000. It also accepted a donation of the lot at 616 Engleman Street.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Awarded asbestos abatement contract for 7702 Lake St to Swidorski Bros Excavating LLC, cost ≤ $42,500 (4-0)
• Approved June 16, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Accepted MDOT $300 offer for sidewalk at 12407 Lynn St (4-0)
• Notified School Board of interest in Jefferson School property demolition up to $250,000 (4-0)
• Accepted donation of lot at 616 Engleman St (4-0)

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee 911 Board will meet to approve June minutes and July bill payments. The board will discuss the 2025/26 budget, a new hire, and a payout for Dispatcher Roy.

• Approval of July bill payments
• Discussion of 2025/26 Budget
• Report on a new hire
• Dispatcher Roy payout

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the agenda and June 18 minutes. It accepted the Treasurer's Report and authorized payment of bills totaling $178,735.19. The board also approved a $3,439.17 payout to former dispatcher Deborah Roy and decided not to use Zoom for future meetings.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted Treasurer's Report (all in favor)
• Approved payment of $178,735.19 bills (unanimous roll call)
• Approved Deputy Director Evaluation recommendation (all in favor)
• Approved $3,439.17 payout to former Dispatcher Deborah Roy (unanimous roll call)
• Determined Zoom will not be used moving forward (discussion outcome)
• Requested review of employee payouts without proper notice (request, not a vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review appointments for the Planning Commission and Land Bank Authority. The meeting includes a presentation of the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce annual audit report and a resolution to support updating the county-wide park and recreation plan.

• Appointment for Planning Commission (Agricultural, Forestry, and Land Use interest): Tyler Dula
• Appointment for Planning Commission (Environmental and Recreational interests): Duane Jones
• Resolution #2025-7 supporting an update of the Manistee County-Wide Park and Recreation Plan
• Appropriations of $13,392.42 for District Health Dept. and $21,299.59 for Centra Wellness Network
• Fund transfers including $12,500.00 to the Airport Fund and $7,598.17 to the Child Care Fund

The Board approved numerous financial items, including on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $2,052,303.15, the Child Care Fund budget for 2025/2026, and several procurement bids for jail panel upgrades, courthouse cement, and a GIS workstation. It also appointed Tyler Dula and Duane Jones to the Planning Commission and adopted Resolution 2025‑7 supporting the update of the Manistee County‑wide Park and Recreation Plan.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,052,303.15 (6‑0)
• Approved Child Care Fund Budget for 2025/2026 (5‑0)
• Approved Jail Panel Upgrade bid from Johnson Controls for $l ,536.86 (6‑0)
• Approved Prosecutor’s Office carpet replacement bid $6,955.00 (6‑0)
• Approved Courthouse cement project bid $8,500 from Swidorski Bros. (6‑0)
• Approved GIS workstation bid $3.800 from Sehi (6‑0)
• Appointed Tyler Dula to Planning Commission (6‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑7 supporting county‑wide Park and Recreation Plan update (6‑0)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is meeting to discuss three specific personnel policies. These include guidelines for funeral and court leave, new employee orientation, and the designation of paid holidays.

• Funeral and Court Leave Policy (Appendix A)
• New Employee Orientation Policy (Appendix B)
• Holiday Policy (Appendix C)

The Policy Committee reviewed proposed changes to the funeral and court leave policy, including adding stepparent coverage and a separate jury‑duty policy. The new employee orientation policy wording was corrected to reference the Human Resources Generalist. The holiday policy wording was changed to Paid Time Off and Juneteenth was added as a county holiday. No formal approvals or votes were recorded.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Personnel Committee will meet to discuss employee compensation and benefits. The body will review wage increases for FY25-26 and the renewal of health insurance.

• Discussion and recommendation regarding PA152
• Discussion regarding Health Insurance Renewal
• Discussion regarding wage increase for FY25-26

The Personnel Committee voted to recommend that Manistee County opt out of the Public Funded Health Insurance Contribution Act (PA 152) for fiscal year 2025/26. The recommendation applies to union employees, non‑union employees, court staff, and elected officials. The employee contribution to the public health insurance fund will remain at 11%. The motion was carried.

• Opted out of PA152 for FY 2025/26, employee contribution set at 11% (motion carried)

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to review monthly statistics and reports from various emergency services. The agenda includes a review of the Sheriff's 2024 Annual Use of Force Report.

• 2024 Annual Use of Force Report from the Sheriff's Office
• Monthly statistics from the Sheriff's Office and Jail Administrator
• Fire statistics from the City of Manistee
• Monthly statistics from Mobile Medical Response (MMR)

The Public Safety Committee reported that the executive board approved buying property on Schoedel Rd. Other agenda items were informational updates from the sheriff, city police, fire department, 911 dispatch, and Mobile Medical Response. No other actions were taken or voted on during the meeting.

• Approved purchase of property on Schoedel Rd (executive board)

Recreation Commission

The Commission will meet to discuss updates on county-wide recreation planning and regional trail and snowbird initiatives. The agenda includes a review of a draft ordinance regarding off-road vehicles (ORVs).

• Review of Draft ORV Ordinance
• County-Wide Recreation Plan Update
• Rec Plan Survey
• Friends of SMARTrails Update
• Benzie/Manistee County Snowbirds and Dirt Birds Updates

The Recreation Commission approved the July 7, 2025 meeting agenda and the June 2, 2025 meeting minutes, each by unanimous consent. A motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:01 p.m. was made by Batzer, supported by Cudney, and carried. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved July 7, 2025 meeting agenda (ALL in favor, motion carried)
• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (ALL in favor, motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:01 p.m. (motion by Batzer, supported by Cudney, ALL in favor, motion carried)

Green Team Committee

The committee will receive a recycling program report and discuss interlocal agreements and materials management planning. Members will also consider updates to the county's recycling information card and program overview.

• Review of PA69 Recycling Program Report
• Discussion of Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Updates to Part 115 Materials Management Planning
• Proposed updates to Manistee County Recycling Info Card
• Proposed updates to PA69 Recycling Program Overview

The July 2, 2025 meeting of the Manistee County Green Team/Recycling Committee provided updates on the recycling program, a denied SWIFER grant, upcoming tire and household hazardous waste events, and plans to update recycling information cards. No items requiring board action were voted on or formally approved, denied, or tabled. Interlocal agreements were noted and will be turned over to the administrator.

Ways & Means Committee

The committee will discuss the FY2025-26 County Budget Outline and a nine-month budget review. Members will also consider bids for several facility upgrades and a GIS workstation.

• Bids for Jail Panel Upgrade
• Bids for replacing carpet in the Prosecutor’s Office
• Bids for the Courthouse Cement project
• Bids for a GIS Workstation
• Payment of $520.09 for unused PTO to Michele Herbert

The Ways & Means Committee unanimously approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,052,303.15. It also approved the Child Care Fund budget of $666,032.99, a jail panel upgrade bid for $11,536.86, a carpet replacement bid for $6,955.00, a courthouse cement project bid for $8,500, a GIS workstation bid for $3,800, and payment of $520.09 for unused PTO. All motions were carried with all members voting aye.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,052,303.15 (All aye)
• Approved Child Care Fund budget of $666,032.99 (All aye)
• Approved jail panel upgrade bid from Johnson Controls for $11,536.86 (All aye)
• Approved Prosecutor’s Office carpet replacement bid from Haglund’s Floor Covering for $6,955.00 (All aye)
• Approved courthouse cement project bid from Swidorski Bros. Excavating for $8,500 (All aye)
• Approved GIS workstation bid for $3,800 from Sehi (All aye)
• Approved payment of $520.09 for unused PTO to Michele Herbert (All aye)

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to elect officers for the 2025-2026 term. The body will also discuss the Joslin Cove Development and Reimbursement Agreement.

• Election of Officers for term July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026
• Joslin Cove Development and Reimbursement Agreement
• Conflict of Interest Policy

The commission voted to extend the amended Joslin Cove development and reimbursement agreement by one year. Ted Batzer was elected Chair, Glenn Zaring Vice Chair, and Mary Becker‑Witt Secretary for the 2025‑2026 term. Jessica Sorensen was appointed Recording Secretary. All votes were taken by voice.

• Approved one‑year extension to Joslin Cove development agreement (voice vote)
• Ted Batzer elected Chair (voice vote)
• Glenn Zaring elected Vice Chair (voice vote)
• Mary Becker‑Witt elected Secretary (voice vote)
• Jessica Sorensen appointed Recording Secretary (voice vote)
• Approved June 26, 2025 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved March 6, 2025 meeting minutes and May 15, 2025 work‑session minutes (voice vote)

Brownfield Commission

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate for a meeting notice. No specific items for decision or discussion are listed.

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will meet to discuss an address issue at 6596 Highbridge Rd and elect officers for the term of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. The body will also review temporary signs in the right-of-way.

• 6596 Highbridge Rd address issue
• Election of Officers for July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026
• Temporary Signs in the ROW

The commission approved an address change for 6596 High Bridge Rd to 6598 High Bridge Rd. Mary Becker‑Witt was elected Chair and Glenn Zaring was elected Vice Chair for the 2025‑2026 term. The appointment of a Secretary was tabled, while Jessica Sorensen was appointed Recording Secretary. A resolution supporting Stronach Township’s opposition to the Natural River designation was also approved.

• Approved address change to 6598 High Bridge Rd (voice vote)
• Elected Mary Becker‑Witt as Chair (voice vote)
• Elected Glenn Zaring as Vice Chair (voice vote)
• Tabled decision on Secretary appointment (voice vote)
• Appointed Jessica Sorensen as Recording Secretary (voice vote)
• Approved resolution supporting Stronach Township opposition (voice vote)
• Approved agenda for June 26, 2025 (voice vote)
• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (voice vote)

Planning Commission

The agenda provided consists of procedural boilerplate and meeting notice information. No specific discussion items or decisions are listed.

Manistee-Missaukee-Wexford Multi-County Materials Management Planning Committee

The Manistee-Missaukee-Wexford Multi-County Materials Management Planning Committee will meet to discuss planning processes. The agenda includes updates on a survey, county demographics, and previous planning efforts.

• Survey update
• Process update
• Review of county demographics
• Review of previous planning efforts
• Discussion of community engagement thoughts

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee 911 Board will meet to review the treasurer's report and pay June bills. The board will discuss a financial audit and upcoming projects for 2025/2026.

• Payment of June bills
• Discussion of financial audit
• Review of 2025/2026 projects
• Approval of May 21, 2025 meeting minutes

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the meeting agenda. The board approved the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes. The board approved payment of bills totaling $17,381.29. The board accepted the 2024‑2025 fiscal year financial audit.

• Approved meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $17,381.29 (all in favor)
• Accepted 2024‑2025 FY financial audit (all in favor)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to receive an annual audit report from Joe Verlin of G. Bridge and Company. The board will also consider monthly appropriations and fund transfers.

• Annual audit report presentation by Joe Verlin, G. Bridge and Company
• Appropriations of $13,392.42 for District Health Dept. and $21,299.59 for Centra Wellness Network
• Fund transfer of $12,500.00 to the Airport Fund
• Fund transfer of $7,598.17 to the Child Care Fund
• Discussion of Economic Development Report and Board meeting time

The Board approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $5,575,427.53. It also approved the FY 2026 MIUC grant application for the Public Defender’s Office and renewed a three‑year software license agreement with Fidlar Technologies. Additionally, the Board authorized payment of unused PTO to three employees.

• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $5,575,427.53 (4‑0 vote)
• Approved FY 2026 MIUC grant application for the Public Defender’s Office (4‑0 vote)
• Approved renewal of 3‑year computer and license sales agreement with Fidlar Technologies (motion carried)
• Approved payment of $1,371.31 PTO to Rachel Wittlief (4‑0 vote)
• Approved payment of $1,121.04 PTO to Manuela Kowalski (4‑0 vote)
• Approved payment of $1,163.26 PTO to Nancy Baker (4‑0 vote)
• Approved Ways & Means Committee Minutes of June 4, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved Public Safety Committee Minutes of June 6, 2025 (motion carried)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will review financial reports and project updates. The body is discussing the use of the former Village Variety property in Bear Lake and the progress of multiple blight elimination rounds.

• Discussion of Bear Lake property at US-31/Lynn St, including Java Lodge inquiries and appraisal proposals
• Progress updates on Blight Elimination Fund Round 3 and Round 4 with completion deadlines of 9/30/26
• Potential collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers
• Discussion of Memorandums of Understanding regarding the Jefferson Property with MAPS and the City
• Review of expenditures including $168,029.46 paid to Bay Area Demolition, LLC

The Land Bank Authority unanimously approved its meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 19 meeting. A motion was passed to hire Doug Parkes to conduct a commercial appraisal of the US‑31/Lynn Street (Java Lodge) property for a fee not to exceed $500. Other project updates were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous vote)
• Approved May 19 regular meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Approved Doug Parkes to perform appraisal for US‑31/Lynn Street site, price ≤ $500 (4‑0, Carlson absent)

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority will meet to receive a presentation of the airport audit from Gabridge & Company. The body will also discuss the FY 2026 operating budget, an air service grant, and the hiring process for the airport director.

• Presentation of the Airport Audit by Lauren Chatterton, CPA
• FY 2026 Operating Budget
• Air Service Grant
• Airport Director hiring process

The board approved the meeting agenda, accepted the audit, approved May 2025 minutes, accounts payable and financial statements, adopted the FY2026 draft budget of $1,201,558, authorized the Chair to sign the GSAL lease agreement, and approved a $200,000 Air Service Grant contract. All motions passed with a 6‑0 vote; Jeff Dontz was absent.

• Approved June 16, 2025 agenda (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Accepted the Airport Audit (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Approved May 19, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Approved May 2025 Accounts Payable Report—General Fund (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Approved May 2025 Financial Statement (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Approved FY2026 draft budget of $1,201,558 plus EAS and Federal grants (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Approved resolution allowing Authority Chair to sign the GSAL lease agreement (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)
• Approved Air Service Grant Contract of $200,000 and authorized Airport Director to sign (6-0, absent Jeff Dontz)

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission is holding a work session. The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and does not list specific discussion items or decisions.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for June 6, 2025, has been cancelled.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to review monthly statistics from various emergency and law enforcement agencies. The meeting includes reports from the Sheriff's Office, City of Manistee Police and Fire, and other regional safety partners.

• Sheriff's Office and Jail Administrator monthly statistics
• City of Manistee Police and Fire statistics
• 911/Central Dispatch monthly statistics
• Mobile Medical Response (MMR) monthly statistics
• Reports from State Police, US Coast Guard, Tribal Police, and DNR

The June 6, 2025 Public Safety Committee heard reports from the Sheriff’s Office, city police, fire department, emergency manager, MMR, state police, and the U.S. Coast Guard. No items requiring Board action were presented, and no votes or formal decisions were recorded.

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee meeting scheduled for June 6, 2025, has been cancelled.

Local Revenue Sharing Board

The board will review grant applications for Cycle 1—2025 and consider authorizing payments. The meeting also includes a review of the financial report and outstanding invoices.

• Payment of $12,500.00 in administrative fees to Manistee County
• Authorization of grant payments for Cycle 1—2025 applications
• Announcement of Cycle 11—2025 grant application window: August 8, 2025, to September 12, 2025

The Local Revenue Sharing Board approved its agenda and the April 14 minutes. It authorized a $12,500 payment to Manistee County for administrative fees. The board also approved five grant awards totaling $110,521.31 for fire, police, airport, and township safety equipment.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved April 14, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved $12,500 payment to Manistee County (motion carried)
• Approved $7,375.50 award to City of Manistee Fire Department (motion carried)
• Approved $27,677.00 award to City of Manistee Police Department (motion carried)
• Approved $28,160.00 award to Manistee Blacker Airport Authority (motion carried)
• Approved $47,308.81 award to Norman Township Fire Department (motion carried)

Local Revenue Sharing Board

The meeting originally scheduled for June 9, 2025, has been rescheduled to June 5, 2025. The provided document is a meeting notice and contains no other agenda items.

Green Team Committee

The committee will receive a recycling program report from Karla Smith-Kasten and discuss interlocal agreements. Members will also review updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning, including upcoming resident and business surveys.

• Recycling Program Report from Karla Smith-Kasten
• Discussion of Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Updates on Part 115 Materials Management Planning
• Review of MMP surveys for residents, local government, and businesses

The June 4, 2025 Green Team/Recycling Committee meeting presented recycling program updates, discussed interlocal agreements, and reviewed materials management planning information. No items requiring Board action were presented, and no votes or approvals were recorded. The committee adjourned at 2:23 p.m.

Ways & Means Committee

The committee will discuss a grant application for the FY2026 MIDC and a software license agreement with Fidlar Technologies. Members will also consider payments for retired employees' unused PTO and discuss a 5-year building maintenance plan.

• FY2026 MIDC Grant Application presentation
• Computer System and Software License Sales Agreement with Fidlar Technologies
• PTO payment to Rachel Wittlieff: $1,371.31
• PTO payment to Manuela Kowalski: $1,121.04
• PTO payment to Nancy Baker: $1,163.26

The Ways & Means Committee voted to approve on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $5,575,427.53. It also approved the submission of the FY2026 MIDC grant application requesting $1,345,985.52, with a local share of $284,585.77. The Register of Deeds software and license sales agreement with Fidlar Technologies was renewed for three years. Unused PTO was paid to three retirees, each motion passing unanimously.

• Approved on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $5,575,427.53 (All votes in favor)
• Approved submission of FY2026 MIDC grant application requesting $1,345,985.52 (All votes in favor)
• Approved renewal of 3‑year Register of Deeds software and license agreement with Fidlar Technologies (All votes in favor)
• Approved payment of $1,371.31 PTO to Rachel Wittlieff (All votes in favor)
• Approved payment of $1,121.04 PTO to Manuel Calmski (All votes in favor)
• Approved payment of $1,163.26 PTO to Nancy Baker (All votes in favor)

Recreation Commission

The Commission will meet to discuss updates on local trail projects and review a draft ordinance regarding the operation of Off Road Vehicles (ORVs) on county roads.

• Review of Draft ORV Ordinance including potential fines between $175.00 and $500.00
• Updates on SMARTrails trail segment construction between Thompsonville and Copemish
• Updates from Benzie/Manistee County Snowbirds and Dirt Birds
• Discussion of a $5-million appropriation request for the Thompsonville to Kaleva trail segment

The commission approved the June 2, 2025 meeting agenda and the May 5, 2025 meeting minutes, each with all members in favor. It decided to change the draft ORV ordinance timeline to run from November 15 to March 1. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:45 PM with unanimous support.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved May 5, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Changed draft ORV ordinance timeline to Nov 15–Mar 1 (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:45 PM (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear a staff update, and discuss new business including temporary sign regulations and a zoning amendment for Brown Township. Public comment is allowed at the start of the meeting.

• Approve April 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review Brown Township zoning amendment
• Discuss temporary sign regulations in right-of-way

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the April 24 minutes, both by voice vote. It also approved, by voice vote, sending a memo with staff comments and a recommendation to Brown Township regarding its zoning ordinance amendment. The meeting was adjourned at 3:03 p.m.

• Approved May 22 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved April 24 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved sending memo with staff comments to Brown Township (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Manistee 911 Board

The board will meet to approve the April 16 meeting minutes and the treasurer's report. The session includes the payment of May bills and a report from the Deputy Director on staffing, training, and monthly statistics.

• Approval of April 16, 2025, meeting minutes
• Payment of May bills
• Review of September Profit & Loss Detail and Budget vs. Actual reports
• Deputy Director's report on staffing and training updates

The Manistee County E911 Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the April 16, 2025 minutes. The Treasurer's Report was also approved unanimously. A roll‑call vote approved payment of bills totaling $198,920.45, with every member voting yes.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $198,920.45 (all yes)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting on May 20, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in the County Courthouse. The board will consider appointments to fill vacancies on the Planning Commission, Recreation Commission, and Jury Board, as well as approve monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $54,790.18.

• Appointment to Manistee County Planning Commission (Agricultural, Forestry, and Land Use interest)
• Appointment to Manistee County Recreation Commission (at-large vacancy)
• Appointment to Manistee County Jury Board (alternate member for six-year term)
• Approval of May 2025 monthly appropriations ($34,692.01) and fund transfers ($20,098.17)
• Discussion of Manistee County Master Plan with approval sought for distribution

The Manistee County Board adopted a resolution levying the 2025 summer property tax at 5.4615 mills. It also approved several contracts and payments, including a land‑bank service agreement, lawn‑care services, a field‑truck lease, a GIS fee waiver, an unused PTO payout, and a tax‑bill printer purchase. The on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $2,972,636.90 were accepted.

• Approved 2025 summer property tax levy (5.4615 mills) – yeas 6, nays 1
• Approved land‑bank service agreement starting Oct 2025 – yeas 7, nays 0
• Approved 1‑year lawn‑care contract with Jus‑Green – yeas 7, nays 0
• Approved lease of Chevy Colorado field truck at $757.35/month – yeas 7, nays 0
• Approved waiver of GIS data fees for Networks Northwest – yeas 7, nays 0
• Approved payment of $2,009.99 to Dillon Rosa for unused PTO – yeas 7, nays 0
• Approved purchase of tax‑bill printer from Insight for $4,576.59 – yeas 7, nays 0
• Approved on‑demand checks, bills and payroll totaling $2,972,636.90 – yeas 7, nays 0

Board of Commissioners

The meeting scheduled for May 20, 2025, has been rescheduled from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 A.M. The provided document contains only the meeting notice and no specific agenda items.

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Black Lake Airport Authority will meet to review financial reports and committee updates. The body is scheduled to discuss a construction contract with M&M Excavating Co and agreements with Mead & Hunt.

• Construction contract with M&M Excavating Co
• Construction Management Contract Amendment with Mead & Hunt
• General Services Agreement with Mead & Hunt
• April 2025 Accounts Payable for General Fund and Fund 481 (Capital Improvement Fund)

The Airport Authority approved its May 19 agenda, the May 9 meeting minutes, and April 2025 financial reports. It also approved a $1,717,408.75 construction contract with M&M Excavating, a construction‑management amendment with Mead & Hunt, and a master services agreement with Mead & Hunt. All motions passed unanimously with six yeas and one absent member.

• Approved May 19 agenda (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved May 9 meeting minutes (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved April 2025 Accounts Payable Report—General Fund (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved April 2025 Accounts Payable Report—Fund 481 (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved April 2025 Financial Statement (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved Construction Contract with M&M Excavating for $1,717,408.75 (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved Construction Management Contract Amendment with Mead & Hunt (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Approved Master Services Agreement with Mead & Hunt (6 yeas, 0 nays, 1 absent)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will review a draft budget for 2025-26 and discuss the status of blight elimination funds. The board will also address inquiries regarding the former Village Variety property in Bear Lake.

• Discussion of Bear Lake property at US-31/Lynn St (Former Village Variety)
• Review of Pt 25/26 Draft Budget
• Progress reports on Blight Elimination Funds Rounds 3 and 4
• Draft Memorandum of Understanding for MAPS—jefferson Property
• Potential collaboration with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from prior meetings, then adopted the 2025‑2026 draft budget of $2,025,500. The board also amended the agenda order for old‑business items and approved memoranda of understanding with MAPS and the City of Manistee, each with specified financial caps and a term ending August 31 2025.

• Approved meeting agenda (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved regular meeting minutes from April 21 2025 and work‑session minutes from April 2 2025 (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved 2025‑2026 draft budget of $2,025,500.00 (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Amended agenda order to discuss Old Business item d before item b (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved MOU with MAPS, authorizing Chair to sign, $250,000 cap on demolition contributions, term through Aug 31 2025 (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved MOU with City of Manistee, authorizing Chair to sign, term through Aug 31 2025 (5 yeas, 0 nays)

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is holding a work session to receive a presentation from an EGLE representative on the Brownfield Program. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is informational only.

• Presentation by an EGLE representative on the Brownfield Program

The commission met at 2:00 p.m. on May 15, 2025 and approved the agenda by voice vote. A presentation on the EGLE Brownfield program was given by Aaron Assmann. The work session adjourned at 3:16 p.m.

• Approved May 15, 2025 agenda (voice vote)

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is holding a work session on May 15, 2025, at 2:00 pm. The posted agenda contains only meeting logistics and open-meeting compliance notices; no specific discussion topics, proposals, or decisions are listed.

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority is meeting to consider approval of a novation agreement with the General Services Administration and Manistee County, a collaborative marketing investment, and new agreements with Enterprise Car Rental. The meeting will also include approval of previous minutes and financial reports.

• Approval of Novation Agreement with GSA and Manistee County
• Collaborative Marketing Investment (no details specified)
• Approval of Agreements with Enterprise Car Rental
• Approval of March 2025 financial statements and accounts payable
• Capital Projects Committee report

The board approved a $5,000 construction allowance for an Enterprise Car Rental counter and signed agreements with Enterprise Leasing Company. It also increased the collaborative marketing budget by $5,000, approved a Novation Agreement with GSA, and adopted the Airport Director job description. The authority accepted the March 2025 accounts payable report, the March 2025 financial statement, and the meeting minutes from March 17 and April 11, 2025.

• Approved up to $5,000 to construct a counter for Enterprise Car Rental (Yeas 6, Nays 0, Absent 1)
• Approved agreements with Enterprise Leasing Company effective May 15, 2025 (Yeas 6, Nays 0, Absent 1)
• Increased collaborative marketing budget by up to $5,000 (Yeas 6, Nays 0, Absent 1)
• Approved Novation Agreement with GSA and Manistee County, allowing Airport Director to sign (Yeas 6, Nays 0, Absent 1)
• Approved Airport Director job description (Yeas 6, Nays 0, Absent 1)
• Approved March 2025 Accounts Payable Report—General Fund, withholding Contour’s April invoice (Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 2)
• Approved March 2025 Financial Statement (Yeas 5, Nays 0, Absent 2)
• Approved regular and closed‑session meeting minutes for March 17 and April 11, 2025 (Yeas 6, Nays 0, Absent 1)

Airport Authority

This is a procedural notice for the rescheduled regular meeting of the Manistee Blacker Airport Authority. The meeting will be held in person and via Zoom. No substantive agenda items are listed in the notice.

• Meeting rescheduled from April 28 to May 9, 2025 at 8:00 a.m.
• Meeting to be held at Airport Conference Room, 2323 Airport Road, Manistee, MI
• Remote participation available via Zoom (Meeting ID: 89222538859)
• Notice posted April 23, 2025 by Administrative Secretary Lindsey Marquardt

Green Team Committee

The Manistee County Green Team/Recycling Committee will receive an update on the P.A. 69 Recycling Program and consider interlocal agreements for the recycling program. The committee will also discuss updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning.

• Karla Smith-Kasten presents the Recycling Program Report (Appendix A) under P.A. 69.
• Old business includes Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements.
• Updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning are scheduled.
• No new business items are listed.

The committee reviewed the March 2025 recycling program report, noting 50,100 lb collected and pickup schedules for several townships. Interlocal agreements were corrected and are awaiting return. A suggestion was made for townships to provide recycle containers during spring clean‑up. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Ways & Means Committee

The committee will review Resolution #2025-6, which imposes the 2025 Summer Property Tax Levy under Public Act 357 of 2004, and hear from the Equalization Director. They will also consider a service agreement with the Manistee County Land Bank Authority, bids for lawn maintenance, quotes for a new field truck, and a request from Networks Northwest to waive GIS data fees. The finance officer will present a finance report and mid-year budget review.

• Resolution #2025-6 imposing 2025 Summer Property Tax Levy
• Service agreement between Manistee County Land Bank Authority and County
• Bids for lawn maintenance
• Quotes for new field truck
• Payment of unused PTO to Dillon Rose ($2,009.99)

The Ways & Means Committee approved a $2,972,636.90 on‑demand check and payroll package. It adopted Resolution 2025‑6 imposing the 2025 Summer Property Tax Levy. It also approved a service agreement with the Land Bank, a 1‑year lawn‑care contract with Jus‑Green, a lease of a Chevy Colorado for $757.35 per month, waiving GIS data fees for Networks Northwest, payment of $2,009.99 for unused PTO, and purchase of a tax‑bill printer for $4,576.59. All motions carried unanimously (or with all votes recorded).

• Approved $2,972,636.90 on‑demand checks and payroll (Ayes: AIL)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑6 Summer Property Tax Levy (Ayes: All)
• Approved Land Bank service agreement effective Oct 1 2025 (Ayes: All)
• Approved 1‑year lawn‑care contract with Jus‑Green (Ayes: All)
• Approved lease of Chevy Colorado for $757.35 monthly (Ayes: All)
• Waived GIS data fees for Networks Northwest (Ayes: All)
• Approved $2,009.99 payment for unused PTO (Ayes: All)
• Approved purchase of tax‑bill printer for $4,576.59 (Ayes: All)

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission will hold its regular meeting, including electing officers, approving minutes, and hearing public comment. They will receive updates from trail groups and the planning department. The main item is an initial review of a draft ORV ordinance. The commission will also brainstorm ideas for future sessions.

• Election of officers
• Initial review of draft ORV ordinance
• Updates from Friends of SMARTrails, Snowbirds, and Dirt Birds
• Future session brainstorming

The Recreation Commission approved its meeting agenda and the April 7, 2025 minutes. It voted to have Planning Department staff prepare a letter of support for a $5 million appropriation request for the Thompsonville‑Kalevat trail segment. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried, all in favor)
• Approved April 7, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried, all in favor)
• Directed Planning Department staff to create a letter of support for the $5 million trail appropriation request (motion carried, all in favor)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:40 p.m. (motion carried, all in favor)

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Personnel Committee will meet to discuss an update regarding a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Third Party Administrator. The meeting also includes time for public comment.

• Third Party Administrator RFP update

The committee reviewed the third‑party administrator RFP, noting five bids and focusing on Gallagher and Manquen Vance. Commissioners Machen and Gustad moved and seconded a motion to recommend approving Manquen Vance as the county’s benefits consultant, and the motion carried. Commissioner Goodman asked for a one‑page synopsis of Manquen Vance for the upcoming Board meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Recommend approval of Manquen Vance benefits consultant (motion carried)
• Requested one‑page synopsis of Manquen Vance for Board meeting

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will meet to receive monthly statistics and reports from various local emergency and law enforcement agencies. The meeting includes updates from the Sheriff's Office, City of Manistee Police and Fire, and 911 Central Dispatch.

• Sheriff's Office monthly statistics
• Jail Administrator monthly statistics
• City of Manistee Police and Fire statistics
• 911/Central Dispatch reports
• Mobile Medical Response monthly statistics

The Public Safety Committee moved a motion, introduced by Jeffrey Dontz and seconded by Karen Goodman, to allow the sheriff's K9 to retire with its handler for a $1 transfer. The motion was carried. No other board actions were recorded in the meeting.

• Approved allowing the K9 to retire with its handler for $1 (motion carried)

Policy Committee

The Manistee County Policy Committee will discuss two proposed policies: a Hazardous Weather Conditions Policy outlining building closures and employee pay during inclement weather, and a Government Center/Courthouse Security Screening Policy requiring all individuals to pass through metal detectors and bag searches at the main entrances. The meeting is for discussion only; no votes are scheduled.

• Hazardous Weather Conditions Policy — defines closure authority for Controller/Administrator, employee pay provisions during closures and inclement weather, and library closure rules
• Government Center/Courthouse Security Screening Policy — mandates screening at main entrances starting [date TBD], prohibits weapons, allows only North/South lobby entrances for entry

The committee approved the amended Building Closures/Inclement Weather Policy. It also approved the amended Government Center/Courthouse Security Screening Policy, which will become effective on June 1, 2025. Both motions were carried without a recorded vote tally.

• Approved Building Closures/Inclement Weather Policy (motion carried)
• Approved Government Center/Courthouse Security Screening Policy, effective June 1, 2025 (motion carried)

Land Bank Authority

This is a worksession of the Manistee County Land Bank Authority. The board will discuss a potential collaboration with MAPS (Manistee Area Public Schools) regarding the Jefferson School Property. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Discussion on potential collaboration with MAPS concerning Jefferson School Property

The Authority reached consensus to acquire the entire Jefferson School parcel to keep planning options open. Staff was instructed to promptly issue a Request for Proposals for demolition and to conduct a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment. The LBA will give the City of Manistee a defined window to express interest in recreational use, otherwise will proceed with residential redevelopment. A draft memorandum of understanding with MAPS will be prepared for the next regular meeting, and cost, legal and environmental reviews will continue.

• Acquire the full Jefferson School property (consensus)
• Issue a Request for Proposals for demolition promptly
• Conduct a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment before demolition
• Provide the City of Manistee a defined window to request recreational use
• Prepare a draft memorandum of understanding with MAPS for next meeting review
• Continue cost estimation and legal/environmental review planning
• Continue discussions with MAPS on acquisition and demolition strategy
• Coordinate communication with the City of Manistee on redevelopment plans

Airport Authority

The Manistee Blacker Airport Authority will hold a regular meeting on April 28, 2025. The provided document is a meeting notice and does not list specific agenda items.

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will review a large text amendment for Arcadia Township and a Master Plan review for Grant Township. The body will also address an address issue at 18800 Tomasek Rd.

• Arcadia Township Large Text Amendment
• Master Plan Review for Grant Township
• 18800 Tomasek Rd address issue
• County Master Plan — NWNW
• Planning Commission website overview

The commission approved an address change for parcel 51-13-002-230-30 to 18856 Wild River Way. It also approved the Arcadia Township zoning ordinance amendments recommended by staff. A letter to the Grant Township Planning Commission was approved for distribution, and Mr. Jones was elected temporary secretary until the June officer election.

• Approved address change to 18856 Wild River Way (voice vote)
• Approved Arcadia Township zoning ordinance updates (voice vote)
• Approved distribution of letter to Grant Township Planning Commission (voice vote)
• Elected Mr. Jones as temporary Planning Commission secretary (voice vote)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will discuss the 2025 foreclosure properties and provide updates on blight elimination projects. The body will also review revenue and expenditure reports for the period ending March 31, 2025.

• Review of 2025 foreclosure properties
• Discussion of Bear Lake property at US-31/Lynn St (Former Village Variety)
• Blight elimination progress updates for properties including 401 River Street and 183 Taylor Street
• Potential collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers
• Work session scheduled for April 29 regarding the MAPS Jefferson Property

The Land Bank Authority approved the meeting agenda and the March 17 minutes by unanimous vote. Members agreed to postpone a work session on County Appropriation Funds until MAPS collaboration progresses. The Authority decided not to pursue acquisition of a parcel before its auction, and approved a design‑build approach for the 7780 Lake Street project.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous vote)
• Approved March 17 minutes (unanimous vote)
• Postponed work session on County Appropriation Funds
• Declined to pursue acquisition of one parcel pending auction
• Agreed to use design‑build method for 7780 Lake Street project

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board holds its regular monthly meeting to approve minutes from March, the treasurer's report, and bill payments. Committee reports indicate no meetings were held. Old business includes committee appointments, and directors provide staffing, project, monthly stats, and storm updates.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from March 19, 2025
• Approval of treasurer's report and payment of April bills (check register in appendix)
• Committee appointments under old business
• Director's report includes staffing and project updates
• Deputy director's report covers monthly stats and a storm update

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the meeting agenda, the March 19, 2025 minutes, and the Treasurer's Report, each with all members in favor. The board also approved payment of bills totaling $289,916.02, with every member voting Yes. No new business was considered.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $289,916.02 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider appointments for the Centra Wellness Board of Directors and the County Jury Board. The meeting includes the adoption of the 2025 County Equalization Report and annual reviews for the District Health Department #10 and Centra Wellness. The board will also review monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $54,790.18.

• Resolution #2025-5 to adopt the 2025 County Equalization Report
• Monthly appropriations of $13,392.42 for District Health Dept. #10 and $21,299.59 for Centra Wellness Network
• Fund transfers including $12,500.00 to the Airport Fund and $7,598.17 to the Child Care Fund
• Appointments for three vacancies on the Centra Wellness Board of Directors
• Appointment of Diane Van Aken to the Manistee County Jury Board

The Board adopted the 2025 County Equalization Report, approving the equalized real and personal property values for all townships and the city. It appointed three members to the Centra Wellness Board and Diane Van Aken to the County Jury Board. The Board also approved several contracts, a $56,517 grant amendment, a $13,224 budget transfer, and a $1.04 K PTO payout.

• Adopted Resolution #2025-5, approving the 2025 County Equalization Report (6‑0)
• Appointed Jack Loynes, Jim UhI, and Maureen Eckstein to the Centra Wellness Board (all six commissioners voted yes)
• Appointed Diane Van Aken to the Manistee County Jury Board (6‑0)
• Approved amendment to the CVSF grant and budget for $56,517 (6‑0)
• Approved transfer of $13,224 from the General Fund to Fund 293 (6‑0)
• Approved Monumentation Surveyor agreement with Pat Bentley (Spicer Group) for $17,554 (6‑0)
• Approved four peer‑review surveyor agreements (Wendy Papineau, Alex Altmaier, Patrick Johnson) each not to exceed $595 (6‑0)
• Approved Zoning Services Agreement with the Village of Bear Lake (5‑1)

Local Revenue Sharing Board

The Manistee County Local Revenue Sharing Board will convene a procedural meeting to approve minutes, review financial reports, and discuss Cycle 1 2025 grant applications. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

The board approved the meeting agenda and accepted the City of Manistee as the third local unit, each with a unanimous 3‑yes vote. Members elected James Henderson as Chair, Jeff Dontz as Vice Chair, and James Grabowski as Secretary (with Lindsey Marquardt as Recording Secretary), all unanimously. The board set the 2025‑2026 meeting schedule, approved the December 2 2024 minutes, and established the Cycle I grant application deadline of March 14 2025 5 PM.

• Approved meeting agenda (3-0)
• Accepted City of Manistee as third local unit (3-0)
• Elected James Henderson as Chair (3-0)
• Elected Jeff Dontz as Vice Chair (3-0)
• Elected James Grabowski as Secretary and Lindsey Marquardt as Recording Secretary (3-0)
• Set 2025-2026 meeting dates: Apr 14 2025, Jun 9 2025, Oct 13 2025, Dec 28 2025, Feb 9 2026
• Approved Dec 2 2024 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Established Cycle I grant application deadline: Mar 14 2025 5 PM

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority is holding a special meeting to address directors and officers insurance. The body will also enter a closed session to review an attorney-client privileged opinion letter.

• Directors and Officers Insurance
• Closed session regarding attorney-client privileged opinion letter

The board approved the agenda for the special meeting and authorized a $2,000,000 Directors and Officers insurance policy from Boyer Insurance Agency at a cost of $3,295.00. Members voted to enter a closed session, then later to leave it and return to regular business. The regular meeting originally set for April 21, 2025 was moved to April 28, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.

• Approved April 11, 2025 special meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of $2,000,000 D&O insurance from Boyer Insurance Agency for $3,295.00 (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Entered closed session to review privileged attorney opinion (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Exited closed session and returned to regular session (5 yeas, 0 nays)
• Rescheduled regular meeting from April 21 to April 28, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. (decision announced)

Green Team Committee

The Green Team/Recycling Committee agreed to move its meetings to the 1% Wednesday of each month at 2:00 pm, beginning May 7, 2025. A motion was made and seconded to recommend the Manistee County Materials Management Plan Work Program to the full board, and the same was done for the Manistee‑Missaukee‑Wexford Multi‑County Materials Management Planning Committee Bylaws. Both recommendations received all affirmative votes and were carried.

• Change committee meeting day to the 1% Wednesday each month at 2:00 pm (effective May 7, 2025)
• Recommend approval of the Manistee County Materials Management Plan Work Program (ayes: all)
• Recommend approval of the Manistee‑Missaukee‑Wexford Multi‑County Materials Management Planning Committee Bylaws (ayes: all)

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission will hold its regular meeting on April 7, 2025, at the Planning Department Conference Room and via Zoom. The agenda includes updates on trail groups and a discussion of a possible county-wide ORV ordinance as old business. Officers will be elected, and minutes from March 3, 2025, will be approved.

• Election of officers
• Friends of SMARTrails update
• Benzie/Manistee County Snowbirds update
• Benzie Manistee County Dirt Birds update
• Possible County-Wide ORV Ordinance

The Recreation Commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the March 3, 2025 meeting. It voted to have the Planning Department prepare the County Recreation Plan update internally, which is projected to save $30,000‑$40,000. The commission also accepted the “Power of Trails: Enhancing Rural Towns and Communities” document and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved April 7, 2025 meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved March 3, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Directed Planning Department to conduct in‑house County Recreation Plan update (all in favor)
• Accepted “The Power of Trails: Enhancing Rural Towns and Communities” document (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:10 PM (all in favor)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee will discuss and potentially adopt two new policies: a Hazardous Weather Conditions Policy governing building closures and employee pay, and a Government Center/Courthouse Security Screening Policy requiring all visitors to pass through metal detectors and bag searches at main entrances.

• Hazardous Weather Conditions Policy: details pay rules for employees when county facilities close due to weather or other circumstances
• Government Center/Courthouse Security Screening Policy: mandates screening at north and south lobby entrances, prohibits weapons, and allows hand-held wand screening for those unable to use metal detectors

The committee reviewed a draft hazardous weather conditions policy (Appendix A) and a draft government center/courthouse security screening policy (Appendix B). Members suggested clarifications, additional verbiage, and procedural changes, but no formal board actions or votes were recorded.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee meeting scheduled for April 4, 2025, has been cancelled. No other business is listed.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee meeting scheduled for April 4, 2025, has been cancelled. No other business was listed on the agenda.

Ways & Means Committee

The committee will hear public comment, then receive a finance report and consider amendments to the CVSF Grant for FY25. It will review renewals of agreements with a Monumentation Surveyor and a Peer Review Surveyor, and consider a zoning services agreement with the Village of Bear Lake. The committee will also recommend payment of $1,042.18 in unused PTO to a former employee. Other items may be discussed.

• Finance report for period ending March 13, 2025 (Appendix A)
• Amendments to the CVSF Grant for FY25 (Appendix B)
• Renewal of agreement with Monumentation Surveyor (Appendix C)
• Review of Zoning Services Agreement with Village of Bear Lake (Appendix D)
• Recommendation for payment of $1,042.18 unused PTO to Susan Almy (Appendix E)

The committee unanimously approved on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $1,675,626.70. It also approved a $56,517 amendment to the CVSF Grant and a $13,224 transfer from the General Fund to Fund 293. Several surveyor service agreements were approved, including two $17,554 contracts and four peer‑review agreements not to exceed $595 each.

• Approved on‑demand checks and payroll totaling $1,675,626.70 (Ayes: All)
• Approved CVSF Grant amendment for $56,517 (Ayes: All)
• Approved transfer of $13,224 from General Fund to Fund 293 (Ayes: All)
• Approved Monumentation Surveyor agreement with Pat Bentley, Spicer Group for $17,554 (Ayes: All)
• Approved Monumentation Surveyor agreement with Wendy A. Papineau for $17,554 (Ayes: All)
• Approved peer‑review surveyor agreements not to exceed $595 each (Ayes: All)
• Approved Village of Bear Lake contract services amendment (Ayes: All)
• Approved payment of $1,042.18 for unused PTO to Susan Almy (Ayes: All)

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission meets for a largely procedural agenda. Items include approval of the February 27, 2025 minutes, a remonumentation report, and an update on the County Master Plan. No rezonings, contracts, or new ordinances are scheduled for action.

• Approval of February 27, 2025, meeting minutes
• Remonumentation Report by Pat Bentley
• County Master Plan update (NWNW)
• Planning Department Staff Update
• Meetings and Trainings attended by commission members

The commission approved the March 27 agenda and the February 27 minutes, each by voice vote. No public comments were received. Commissioner Eleanor DeYoung resigned, and the commission will review the by‑law absence policy at its June organizational meeting.

• Approved March 27 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved February 27 minutes (voice vote)
• Recorded resignation of Commissioner Eleanor DeYoung
• Scheduled review of by‑law absence policy in June

Manistee-Missaukee-Wexford Multi-County Materials Management Planning Committee

The Manistee-Missaukee-Wexford Multi-County Materials Management Planning Committee will meet to review and consider approval of its bylaws and work program. They will also discuss the Materials Management Plan. The meeting includes public comment periods.

• Review and possible approval of bylaws
• Review and possible approval of work program
• Discussion of Materials Management Plan

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board will consider approving the February 2024 meeting minutes, the treasurer's report, and payment of bills for February. The director will provide a staffing update and report on an interoperability conference, while the deputy director will present monthly statistics and exercise planning. No committee meetings were held since the last meeting.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from February 19, 2024
• Approval of treasurer's report including September profit & loss and budget vs. actual
• Payment of bills for February (check register in agenda appendix)
• Director's report on staffing update and interoperability conference
• New business: Flees Payout

The board approved the agenda and the February 19, 2025 minutes. It authorized payment of bills totaling $113,988.41. Director Medacco was nominated and approved as the new Treasurer. The board also approved payment to former dispatcher Christine Flees for unused PR time.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $113,988.41 (unanimous)
• Nominated and approved Director Medacco as Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved payment to former Dispatcher Christine Flees for unused PR time (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on March 18, 2025, to consider several actions including appointments to the Materials Management Planning Committee and Centra Wellness Board, a request from the Drain Commissioner to abandon the School Drain in Bear Lake Township, a letter of support for a BEAD grant application for a fiber project, and the Sheriff's Office Year in Review. The board will also approve monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $54,790.18, and consider awards for Opioid Settlement Funds RFP and a resolution declaring April Parkinson's Awareness Month.

• Letter of support for BEAD grant application for fiber project in Manistee County by Great Lakes Energy and Acentek
• Opioid Settlement Funds RFP awards
• Abandonment of School Drain in Bear Lake Township requested by Drain Commissioner Gary Schwaiger
• Appointment of Joseph Grzybowski to Materials Management Planning Committee (five-year term) and a commissioner to Centra Wellness Board
• Resolution 2025-3 declaring April Parkinson's Awareness Month

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners approved roughly $1.75 million in on-demand checks, bills, and payroll for February 2025, plus several purchases and appointments. They created a new Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position, appointed Lisa Kenner as District Court Magistrate for the 85th District Court assigned to Benzie County, and approved distributing up to $116,418 in opioid settlement funds to three local agencies. All votes were 6-0 with Commissioner Schmidt absent.

• Approved $1,754,049.64 in on-demand checks, bills, and payroll (6-0)
• Approved creation of Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position (6-0)
• Approved Lisa Kenner as District Court Magistrate for 85th District Court (6-0)
• Approved $116,418 opioid settlement distribution to Lakeshore CAC, Centra Wellness, DHD#10 (6-0)
• Approved $6,589.19 NAS Server purchase from contingency funds (6-0)
• Approved $14,557.07 Trebron 1-year agreement (6-0)
• Approved 50% cost share of $10,015.40 carpet replacement with DHD#10 (6-0)
• Approved PTO Policy with recommended changes (6-0)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will discuss the Jefferson property and review bids for stabilization work at 141 Washington St and a Phase II Environmental Site Assessment at 7702 Lake St.

• Potential bid award for renovations to stabilize vacant building at 141 Washington St
• Potential bid award for Phase II Environmental Site Assessment at 7702 Lake St
• Discussion regarding the Jefferson property
• Review of Blight Elimination Funds Round 3 and Round 4 progress
• Discussion of Bear Lake property (US-31/Lynn St) and Java Lodge

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority awarded a $1,488,984 contract to Kincaid Building Group Inc. for renovations to stabilize the vacant building at 141 Washington Street, with any additional costs to be borne by the property owner. The board also awarded a $2,000 contract to Otwell Mawby for a Phase II environmental site assessment at 7702 Lake Street. A work session was scheduled for April 29, 2025, to further discuss the Jefferson property transfer and development feasibility. The board amended the County Contract start date to October 1, 2025.

• Awarded RFP for 141 Washington Street stabilization to Kincaid Building Group Inc., not to exceed $1,488,984 (5-0)
• Awarded RFP for Phase II Environmental Site Assessment at 7702 Lake Street to Otwell Mawby at $2,000 (5-0)
• Approved regular meeting minutes from February 18, 2025 (unanimous)
• Amended County Contract start date to October 1, 2025 (5-0)
• Set work session for April 29, 2025, to explore Jefferson property financial and logistical details

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority will meet to review financial reports and committee updates. The agenda includes a presentation from Contour Airlines President Ben Munson and a discussion on a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Directors and Officers insurance.

• Presentation by Ben Munson, President of Contour Airlines
• Directors and Officers Insurance RFP
• February 2025 Accounts Payable for General Fund and Fund 481 (Capital Improvement Fund)
• Closed session to discuss an attorney-client privileged opinion letter

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority approved the February 2025 accounts payable report and financial statement, but withheld the Corporate Flight Management payment until outstanding invoices are resolved. The board also approved a GSA lease for TSA space, purchased directors and officers insurance, and entered closed session to discuss a legal opinion. A special meeting is set for April 11 to review RFPs for the airport director and FBO.

• Approved February 2025 accounts payable report, withholding Corporate Flight Management payment until October 2024–January 2025 invoices are paid (5-0)
• Approved February 2025 financial statement (5-0)
• Approved GSA lease for TSA space, authorizing chair to sign (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Directors and Officers Insurance up to $100 (5-0)
• Entered closed session to review attorney-client privileged opinion letter (5-0)
• Left closed session and returned to regular session (5-0)

Green Team Committee

The Green Team/Recycling Committee will receive an update on the PA 69 Recycling Program and review the recycling program report. Old business includes interlocal agreements and Part 115 materials management planning. Under new business, the committee will consider a Recycling Program Management Services Service Agreement with Bay Area Recycling for Charities, with annual rates between $48,000 and $50,923. The public may comment at the start of the meeting.

• Recycling program update from Karla Smith-Kasten and review of Recycling Program Report (Appendix A)
• Discussion of Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning
• Consideration of Recycling Program Management Services Service Agreement with Bay Area Recycling for Charities (Appendix B) – annual rates $48,000 (Year 1), $49,440 (Year 2), $50,923 (Year 3)
• Public comment period

The Green Team Committee voted to recommend a one-year extension of Karla Smith-Kasten's Recycling Program Management Services contract, which expired at the end of February 2025. The extension, at the same compensation, will allow time to evaluate how Part 115 affects the recycling program. The committee also discussed recycling site issues, including snow-related closures and an unmonitored trailer in Onekama, and noted a $9,500 Community Foundation Grant was submitted contingent on a SWIFER grant award.

• Recommended one-year extension of Karla Smith-Kasten's recycling contract (moved by Koons, seconded by Gustad)
• Commissioner McCraner to request agenda time with Onekama School board regarding unmonitored recycle trailer
• Noted Household Hazardous Waste event scheduled for August 2025 at Manistee County Road Commission
• Discussed future agricultural tire event as possible 2026 event

Regional Summit Committee

The Manistee County Regional Summit Committee will hold a meeting on March 7, 2025, to discuss the upcoming Regional Summit and approve a schedule of committee meetings for the remainder of 2025 and early 2026. The agenda includes public comment, discussion, and other items from members. The proposed meeting dates and Zoom access details are provided in Appendix A.

• Discussion regarding the Regional Summit
• Proposed schedule of 10 meetings from April 2025 to January 2026 (Appendix A)
• Public comment period
• Other items from committee members

The committee voted to recommend that the Chamber of Commerce take over the Regional Summit, with the county acting as participants rather than planners. The discussion noted that the Chamber could host a morning event with presentations and invite past attendees plus Chamber members. Funding for the event will be addressed in the next budget cycle.

• Recommended that the Chamber of Commerce take over the Regional Summit (moved by Gustad, seconded by Koons; motion carried).
• Deferred discussion of budgeted funds for the event to the next budget cycle.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee will review an update regarding the Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position. The body will also discuss an update on a Third Party Administrator RFP.

• Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position update
• Third Party Administrator RFP update

The Manistee County Personnel Committee recommended approval of a new Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position at Grade 6, Step 1. The position is a reclassification and will not be posted. The committee also discussed the Third Party Administrator RFP, narrowing candidates to two consultants for further presentations, with Commissioner Gustad volunteering to participate.

• Recommended approval of the creation of the Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position as presented.
• Narrowed Third Party Administrator Benefit Consultant candidates to two for additional presentations.
• Commissioner Gustad volunteered to participate in the consultant presentations.

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee meeting scheduled for March 7, 2025, has been cancelled.

Policy Committee

The Manistee County Policy Committee is meeting to discuss a proposed Paid Time Off (PTO) policy, listed under Old Business. The policy outlines two types of PTO (Banked and Accrued), accrual rates based on years of service, carryover limits, and rules for use, donation, and discipline. No decision has been recorded; this is a discussion item.

• Discussion of PTO Policy (Appendix A) covering Banked PTO (45-48 hours for full-time) and Accrued PTO (75-200 hours per year)
• Accrual rates vary by years of service: 0-4 years (75/80 hours), 5-9 years (112.5/120 hours), 10+ years up to 187.5/200 hours
• Employees may carry over up to 75/80 hours of unused Accrued PTO and cash out up to 3 days per year
• PTO can be used for illness, family care, domestic violence, public health emergencies, and other reasons
• Donation of PTO hours allowed: minimum 8 hours, maximum 40 hours, with donor retaining at least 80 hours

The Manistee County Policy Committee voted to recommend accepting the revised PTO Policy (Appendix A-1) with changes to comply with the state's revised Earned Sick Time Act. The update caps carry-over at 75 hours and standardizes terminology to 'PTO'. The recommendation now goes to the full Board of Commissioners for final action.

• Recommended accepting PTO Policy Appendix A-1 with ESTA compliance changes (motion carried)

Regional Summit Committee

This meeting notice announces a regular meeting of the Manistee County Regional Summit Committee on March 7, 2025. No specific agenda items, proposals, or decisions are listed in the notice. The agenda is purely procedural.

Brownfield Commission

This meeting is largely procedural, including call to order, approval of minutes, and conflict of interest declarations. The main discussion items are updates on the Parkdale Apartments and Oak Gove brownfield projects, and approval of guidelines for the authority.

• Review and discussion of Parkdale Apartments brownfield project
• Review and discussion of Oak Gove brownfield project
• Approval of guidelines for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
• Approval of January 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comment period

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved its updated guidelines, including a change to the project evaluation threshold from twenty to fifteen percent. It also voted to retain $4,812.40 for administrative costs related to the Oak Grove project. The authority discussed the Joslin Cove project, noting that funds will not be disbursed to the developer until state treasury issues are resolved. No new business was conducted.

• Approved March 6, 2025 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved January 16, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Retained $4,812.40 for administrative costs (voice vote)
• Approved Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Guidelines (voice vote)

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is meeting on March 6, 2025. The posted notice includes only standard procedural information—meeting time, location, accommodations for disabilities, and Open Meetings Act compliance—with no listed substantive items for discussion or decision.

Ways & Means Committee

The Manistee County Ways & Means Committee will review the February finance report and consider several action items. The committee will discuss quotes for dedicated storage for the Prosecutor's Office and a firewall subscription renewal for the courthouse and sheriff's office. Other items include budget recalculations for the FY25 County Veteran Service Fund grant, a letter of support for broadband expansion by Charter/Spectrum, and a data request from the Little Manistee River Watershed Conservation Council.

• Prosecutor's Office dedicated storage quotes (Appendix B)
• Courthouse and Sheriff's Office firewall subscription renewal (Appendix C)
• FY25 County Veteran Service Fund (CVSF) grant budget recalculations (Appendix D)
• Letter of support for broadband expansion by Charter/Spectrum (Item 8)
• Little Manistee River Watershed Conservation Council request for parcel shape file (Appendix E)

The Ways & Means Committee recommended approval of $1,754,049.64 in bills, payroll, and on-demand checks, and approved purchases of a NAS server for the prosecutor's office and a firewall subscription renewal. They also recommended splitting the cost of carpet replacement at District Health Department #10. The committee discussed but did not vote on a veteran service fund budget recalculation and a broadband expansion letter of support.

• Approved $1,754,049.64 in bills, payroll, and on-demand checks (all ayes)
• Approved $6,589.19 purchase of QNAP NAS server from Insight for prosecutor's office (all ayes)
• Approved $14,557.07 firewall subscription renewal from Trebron (all ayes)
• Approved splitting $10,015.40 carpet replacement cost with District Health Department #10 (all ayes)

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission will elect officers, approve prior minutes, and hear updates from various groups. New business includes discussion of recreational asset optimization for Sands Park and Jefferson School property, a possible county-wide ORV ordinance, and a future work session brainstorming. Old business includes an Economic Development Document.

• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from January 6, 2025
• Old Business: Economic Development Document discussion
• New Business: Recreational Asset Optimization for Sands Park and Jefferson School Property
• New Business: Possible County-Wide ORV Ordinance

The Manistee County Recreation Commission approved a motion to have planning staff further investigate the feasibility of a county-wide ORV ordinance. The commission also approved a letter of support for the Village of Kaleva's appropriation funding request, and accepted the 'Rethinking Parking & Street Design in Rural Towns' document. Officers were elected for the year, and the January 6, 2025 meeting minutes were approved as amended.

• Approved planning staff to investigate county-wide ORV ordinance feasibility (all in favor)
• Approved letter of support for Village of Kaleva appropriation funding (all in favor)
• Accepted 'Rethinking Parking & Street Design in Rural Towns' document (all in favor)
• Elected Wayne Beldo as Chair, Margaret Batzer as Vice Chair, Gary Schwaiger as Secretary (all in favor)
• Appointed David Jarvi as Recording Secretary (all in favor)
• Approved March 3, 2025 agenda (all in favor)
• Approved January 6, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to review the County Master Plan and receive a staff update. The body will also act on the approval of the January 30, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Approval of January 30, 2025, minutes
• Discussion of County Master Plan — NWNW
• Planning Department staff update

The Manistee County Planning Commission reviewed and edited the draft County Master Plan, making corrections to chapters, graphs, and sentences. The commission also approved a letter of support for the Village of Bear Lake's water system improvement appropriation request. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda as amended (voice vote)
• Approved January 30, 2025 minutes as printed (voice vote)
• Reviewed draft County Master Plan with corrections
• Approved letter of support for Village of Bear Lake water system improvement (voice vote)

Manistee-Missaukee-Wexford Multi-County Materials Management Planning Committee

The Manistee-Missaukee-Wexford Multi-County Materials Management Planning Committee will hold an organizational meeting to elect a chair and vice-chair, set the meeting schedule, and review foundational documents including the bylaws, work program, and EGLE plan format. Two public comment periods are scheduled. This is a procedural meeting focused on establishing the committee's structure and duties.

• Election of chair and vice-chair officers
• Review and potential approval of bylaws
• Review of the work program
• Review of EGLE plan format requirements
• Setting of future meeting schedule

Manistee 911 Board

The board will consider routine approvals including minutes from January 2024, the treasurer's report, and payment of February bills. Committee reports indicate no meetings were held. New business includes making appointments for the 2025 board and discussing ESTA. The director's report covers staffing and a financial audit.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from January 15, 2024
• Approval of treasurer's report and payment of February bills
• 2025 Manistee County 911 Board appointments
• Discussion of ESTA (Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority)
• Director's report on staffing and financial audit

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the agenda, minutes, treasurer's report, and bill payments totaling $229,083.68. It elected U/S Torrey as Chair, Chief Glass as Vice Chair, and Trp. Skorka as Treasurer, all by unanimous roll call votes. The board also approved a motion allowing the 911 Director and Deputy Director to follow the county's ESTA policy with the ability to pay up to 48 hours of unused ESTA time, also unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Approved bill payments totaling $229,083.68 (unanimous)
• Elected U/S Torrey as 911 Board Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Chief Glass as 911 Board Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Trp. Skorka as 911 Board Treasurer (unanimous)
• Approved ESTA policy change allowing up to 48 hours unused ESTA pay (unanimous)

Land Bank Authority

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority will meet to discuss updates on the Blight Elimination Program, including Round 3 and Round 4 progress with a deadline of September 30, 2026, and potential collaborations. They will also consider inquiries for the Bear Lake property (former Village Variety) and discuss a new Rapid Response Revolving Fund. New business includes late payments on land contracts and administrative items.

• Blight Elimination Program: Round 3 ($600,000 guaranteed) and Round 4 ($1,882,240.42 competitive) progress and completion updates, with deadline September 30, 2026.
• Bear Lake property (US-31/Lynn St, former Village Variety): discussion of inquiries from Java Lodge and J.C. Originals, septic system issues, and other potential uses.
• Rapid Response Revolving Fund: discussion of a new fund for property acquisition or development.
• Land contract late payments: review of delinquent payments on land contracts.
• Potential collaboration on blight elimination with Habitat for Humanity, Tiny Developers, Mike McClafferty, and MAPS (Manistee Area Public Schools).

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority approved a service agreement with Manistee County for fiscal, IT, and administrative services, pending legal review. The board also approved the meeting agenda with an added side lot sales discussion and the January minutes. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting included presentations on housing and blight updates.

• Approved service agreement with Manistee County (3-0, 2 absent)
• Approved meeting agenda with side lot sales added (unanimous)
• Approved January 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting on February 18, 2025. The board will consider approving the consent agenda, which includes minutes from January 21 and February 2025 monthly appropriations ($34,692.01) and fund transfers ($20,098.17). They will also hear the Annual Recreation Commission Report presented by the Planner/Zoning Administrator and address a vacancy on the Centra Wellness Board with no applicants received. Various committee reports are scheduled, including updates from the Road Commission and Airport Authority.

• Approve February 2025 appropriations: $13,392.42 to District Health Dept #10, $21,299.59 to Centra Wellness Network
• Approve fund transfers: $12,500 to Airport Fund, $7,598.17 to Child Care Fund
• No applications received for Centra Wellness Board vacancy (one secondary consumer position)
• Planner/Zoning Administrator David Jarv presents Annual Recreation Commission Report
• Committee reports include Road Commission and Airport Authority updates

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners approved the February 2025 consent agenda, including minutes and appropriations, and unanimously approved several financial items: $3,057,090.11 in claims and payroll, $38,400 for opioid Medically Assisted Treatment at the jail, a 3-year Microsoft enterprise agreement at $87,494 per year, and $5,000 from prosecutor contingency funds for a law school intern. The board also adopted new service animal and earned sick time policies.

• Approved consent agenda including January 21 minutes and February appropriations (6-0, Goodman absent)
• Approved $3,057,090.11 in claims and payroll (7-0)
• Approved $38,400 opioid MAT funding for jail (7-0)
• Approved 3-year Microsoft enterprise agreement at $87,494/year (7-0)
• Approved $5,000 for law school intern from prosecutor contingency funds (7-0)
• Adopted Employee Pets Prohibition, ADA Service Animal, and related policies (7-0)
• Adopted Earned Sick Time Act and PTO policies effective Feb 21, 2025 (7-0)

Green Team Committee

The Manistee County Green Team/Recycling Committee will receive an update on the recycling program from Karla Smith-Kasten under P.A. 69. The committee will also discuss interlocal agreements for recycling services and receive updates on Part 115 Materials Management Planning.

• Recycling Program Report (Appendix A) from Karla Smith-Kasten
• Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning

The Green Team Committee met on February 13, 2025, and received updates on recycling programs, including contract statuses and upcoming events. No formal motions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational only.

Local Revenue Sharing Board

The provided document is a meeting notice and schedule for the Local Revenue Sharing Board. It lists the dates for verbal presentation and grant award meetings for 2025 and 2026.

• April 14, 2025: Cycle 1-2025 Verbal Presentation Meeting
• June 9, 2025: Cycle 1-2025 Grant Award Meeting
• October 13, 2025: Cycle 11-2025 Verbal Presentation Meeting
• December 8, 2025: Cycle 11-2025 Grant Award Meeting
• February 9, 2026: Annual Organizational Meeting

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Personnel Committee is establishing its regular meeting dates for 2025 through early 2026, with all meetings scheduled for the first Friday of each month (except January 2026 on the second Friday). The agenda contains only procedural scheduling information; no specific policy decisions, personnel actions, or public hearings are listed.

• 11 meetings scheduled from March 7, 2025 through January 9, 2026
• All meetings at 9:00 AM in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room, 415 Third Street, Manistee
• Meetings will be conducted remotely via Zoom and in person
• Notice posted February 11, 2025 as required by the Michigan Open Meetings Act

Local Revenue Sharing Board

This is an organizational meeting of the Manistee County Local Revenue Sharing Board. The board will elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary, and establish meeting dates for 2025. It will also receive correspondence regarding a third board seat from the City of Manistee and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Election of officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary) per board bylaws
• Set 2025 meeting dates: second Monday monthly at 4:30 PM (specific dates listed)
• Correspondence from City of Manistee regarding the third seat on the board
• Approval of regular meeting minutes from December 2, 2024

The Local Revenue Sharing Board accepted the City of Manistee as the third local unit, elected officers for 2025, and set meeting dates for 2025-2026. The board also approved the prior meeting minutes and noted the grant application deadline.

• Accepted City of Manistee as third local unit (3-0)
• Elected James Henderson as Chair (3-0)
• Elected Jeff Dontz as Vice Chair (3-0)
• Elected James Grabowski as Secretary and Lindsey Marquardt as Recording Secretary (3-0)
• Approved meeting dates for 2025-2026, all at Manistee County Government Center
• Approved December 2, 2024 meeting minutes

Airport Authority

The Manistee Blacker Airport Authority will hold a special meeting on February 10, 2025, for a strategic planning presentation. The meeting is intended to discuss future planning for the airport, but no specific decisions are scheduled to be made.

• Strategic planning presentation for the airport's future

Airport Authority

The Manistee County-Blacker Airport Authority will hold a strategic planning and goal-setting session on February 10, 2025. The meeting will be conducted in person and via Zoom. No specific votes or action items are listed on the agenda.

• Strategic planning and goal-setting session for the airport authority

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority will meet to review financial reports and committee updates. The body is scheduled to approve an MDOT sponsor contract and discuss a construction contract with M&M Excavating.

• Approval of MDOT Sponsor Contract
• Discussion of construction contract with M&M Excavating
• Review of Terminal Boiler Replacement
• Review of MDOT Air Service Grant
• January 2025 Accounts Payable for General Fund and Capital Improvement Fund

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority approved a $1,695,922 MDOT block grant contract for runway lighting and safety area reconstruction, and a construction contract with M&M Excavating for the same project. They also accepted a $28,160 bid from Moore Mechanical for terminal boiler replacement. All votes were unanimous (7-0).

• Approved MDOT block grant contract for runway lighting and safety area reconstruction, $1,695,922 (7-0)
• Approved construction contract with M&M Excavating for Runway 10-28 ROFA & Lighting Reconstruction (7-0)
• Accepted Moore Mechanical bid of $28,160 for terminal boiler replacement (7-0)
• Approved January 2025 Accounts Payable Report – General Fund (7-0)
• Approved January 2025 Financial Statement (7-0)
• Approved February 10, 2025 agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved January 13, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Regional Summit Committee

The Regional Summit Committee is scheduled to meet on February 7, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. The provided document is a meeting notice and does not list specific agenda items for discussion or decision.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Personnel Committee will hold a meeting on February 7, 2025, at 9:00 AM in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room. The agenda contains only procedural boilerplate and the required notice under the Michigan Open Meetings Act. No specific decisions or discussions are outlined.

Policy/Personnel Committee

The Manistee County Policy/Personnel Committee will meet on February 7, 2025, to discuss the Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator position, including review of a detailed job description submitted by the Probate Court. The committee will also discuss REP and schedule 2025 committee meetings. Public comment will be heard.

• Discussion and review of the Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator job description and classification (Appendix A)
• REP discussion (item not further specified in agenda)
• Scheduling of 2025 Committee Meetings (Appendix B)

The Personnel Committee discussed a proposal to reclassify the Probate Register position to add Deputy Court Administrator duties, citing workload concerns in the District Court. No formal action was taken; the committee asked for a list of assigned duties and salary information for the next meeting. The committee also noted that five RFPs for a benefits TPA had been received and that four vendors would be interviewed.

• Deferred action on Probate Register/Deputy Court Administrator reclassification pending more details
• Requested list of assigned duties from court administrator and salary info for next meeting
• Noted receipt of 5 RFPs for benefits TPA; 4 vendors to be interviewed

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee receives monthly statistics from the Sheriff's Office and City of Manistee Police and Fire, and reviews the December 2024 and full-year 2024 statistics from Mobile Medical Response (MMR). The meeting also includes updates from 911 Dispatch, Emergency Management, Munson Medical Center, State Police, Coast Guard, Tribal Police, DNR, and the Fire Fighters Association. The committee will schedule its 2025 meetings.

• Sheriff's Office presents December 2024 monthly statistics on patrol, complaints, and court duties.
• City of Manistee Public Safety provides police and fire statistics for January 2025.
• Mobile Medical Response reports December 2024 and full-year 2024 call data (2,558 total calls in 2024).
• Committee will schedule the 2025 Public Safety Committee meeting dates.
• Updates from Munson Medical Center, State Police, Coast Guard, Tribal Police, DNR, and Fire Fighters Association.

The Manistee County Public Safety Committee met on February 7, 2025, and received updates from the Sheriff's Office, City Fire, City Police, MMR, Michigan State Police, and Coast Guard. No formal motions or votes were taken; the meeting was informational only. A request was made to invite the U.S. Forest Service to future meetings, and the Administrator will seek a contact.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at the meeting
• Request to invite U.S. Forest Service to future meetings; Administrator to find contact

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee is meeting to discuss a proposed paid sick leave policy and an OMA update. The proposed sick leave policy would allow employees to accrue one hour of leave for every 30 hours worked, with a maximum use of 72 hours per year.

• Proposed Paid Sick Leave Policy effective February 21, 2025
• OMA Update

The Policy Committee recommended removing six specific sick days from the overall PTO policy, with the remainder funded by the county. The motion carried. The committee also discussed work agreements for the Administrator/Controller and Equalization Director, and an OMA update, but took no final action on those items.

• Recommended removing 6 specific sick days from PTO policy, remainder funded by county (motion carried)

Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee will receive a finance report and discuss monthly reporting. They will consider a request for proposals (RFP) for Manistee County Opioid Settlement Funds, an enterprise agreement with Microsoft, and a request from the Prosecutor to use Department Contingency Funds.

• Finance report (Appendix A) for period through Jan 31, 2025
• Discussion on monthly reporting procedures
• Opioid Settlement Funds RFP presented by Sheriff Brian Gutowski (Appendix B)
• Enterprise Agreement with Microsoft presented by IT Director Gordon McLellan (Appendix C)
• Request to use Department Contingency Funds from Prosecutor Jon Hauswirth

The Ways & Means Committee met but lacked a quorum, so no formal votes were taken. Members reviewed January 2025 claims totaling $2,038,826.19 and discussed the opioid settlement RFP, a Microsoft enterprise agreement, and a prosecutor's request for $5,000 in contingency funds for a law school internship. No decisions were made.

• No quorum; no formal actions taken
• Reviewed January 2025 claims totaling $2,038,826.19
• Discussed opioid settlement fund request for $38,400 for jail MAT program
• Discussed 3-year Microsoft enterprise agreement proposal
• Discussed $5,000 prosecutor contingency request for law intern

Recreation Commission

This is a procedural meeting notice for the Manistee County Recreation Commission. The agenda contains no substantive items for discussion or decision—only standard Open Meetings Act compliance information.

Planning Commission

The Manistee County Planning Commission will meet to consider approval of December 2024 minutes, receive updates on the County Master Plan, and address three property address issues (Berg Road, Farr Road, Gene Street). No final decisions are anticipated on major policy changes; the meeting focuses on routine business and staff reports.

• County Master Plan update (unfinished business)
• 11355 Berg Road address issue
• 6334 Farr Road address issue
• 17093 Gene Street address issue
• Approval of December 10, 2024 minutes

The Manistee County Planning Commission voted to keep the address 11355 Berg Road as is, despite it being out of sequence, after the parcel owners requested no change. It also approved changing the address of a parcel on Farr Road to Wildwood Trail and another on Gene Street to Second Street, as recommended by staff. The commission reviewed a draft of the county Master Plan and heard updates on planning department activities.

• Approved keeping 11355 Berg Road address (roll call vote, 5-0)
• Approved changing 6334 Farr Road to 4770 Wildwood Trail (voice vote)
• Approved changing 17093 Gene Street to 17093 Second Street (voice vote)
• Approved agenda as amended (voice vote)
• Approved December 10, 2024 minutes as printed (voice vote)

Planning Commission

This is a procedural meeting notice for the Manistee County Planning Commission on January 30, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The agenda contains no specific items for discussion or decision, only standard open meetings compliance and accessibility information.

Policy Committee

The provided document is a meeting notice and schedule for the 2025 Policy Committee. It lists the dates and times for meetings through January 2026 but contains no specific items for decision or discussion.

Policy Committee

The Manistee County Policy Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially approve several employment policies, including a new paid sick leave policy effective February 21, 2025, and policies regarding pets and service animals in the workplace. The committee will also review the 2025 annual meeting schedule. These are policy reviews and decisions that will affect county employees and the public.

• Paid sick leave policy: 1 hour accrued per 30 hours worked, max 72 hours use per year, effective Feb 21, 2025
• Employee pets prohibition policy with exceptions for service animals, police K9, animal control, and elected officials
• ADA accommodation policy for service animals, including trial basis and requirements
• Service animal policy and procedure, including miniature horses and service animals in training
• 2025 Annual Meeting Schedule review

The Manistee County Policy Committee approved four animal-related workplace policies with discussed changes: Employee Pets Prohibition, ADA Accommodation for Service Animals, Service Animal Policy and Procedure, and the County Service Animal Workplace Agreement. The committee discussed a draft Paid Sick Leave Policy effective February 21, 2025, but took no action, instead requesting employee input and a survey of other counties. The committee also changed its 2025 meeting schedule to the first Friday of each month at 1:00 p.m. and discussed seeking a legal opinion on allowing commissioners to participate via Zoom.

• Approved Employee Pets Prohibition in the Workplace Policy (motion by Goodman, seconded by Koons)
• Approved ADA Accommodation for Service Animal Policy (motion by Goodman, seconded by Koons)
• Approved Service Animal Policy and Procedure (motion by Goodman, seconded by Koons)
• Approved County Service Animal Workplace Agreement (motion by Goodman, seconded by Koons)
• Changed 2025 committee meetings to 1st Friday of each month at 1:00 p.m.

Planning Commission

This is a notice of a regular Planning Commission meeting on January 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Planning Department Conference Room. The agenda contains only boilerplate compliance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act; no substantive items such as rezonings, ordinances, or public hearings are listed.

Green Team Committee

This document is a notice of the 2025 meeting schedule for the Manistee County Green Team/Recycling Committee, not a meeting agenda. It lists dates from February 13, 2025, through January 7, 2026, and notes that meetings will shift from the second Thursday to the first Wednesday of each month effective April 15, 2025. No substantive decisions or discussions are included.

• Meeting schedule published for February 2025 through January 2026
• Meetings change from 2nd Thursday to 1st Wednesday starting April 15, 2025
• Meetings held in person at the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room and via Zoom
• Notice posted on April 16, 2025, in compliance with Michigan Open Meetings Act

Green Team Committee

The Green Team/Recycling Committee will hear a recycling program update from Karla Smith-Kasten under PA 69, review a program report (Appendix A), and discuss recycling program interlocal agreements and updates on Part 115 materials management planning. The committee will also consider scheduling its 2025 meeting dates.

• Recycling Program Report (Appendix A) presented by Karla Smith-Kasten
• Discussion of Recycling Program Interlocal Agreements
• Updates regarding Part 115 Materials Management Planning
• Consideration of scheduling 2025 Green Team Committee meetings (Appendix B)

The Manistee County Green Team/Recycling Committee met and received updates on recycling programs, including a 99,960-pound increase in materials collected in 2024. The committee agreed to move its 2025 meetings to the 4th Thursday of each month at 1:00 p.m., starting February 13, 2025. No formal votes or resolutions were taken; all items were informational or scheduling in nature.

• Moved 2025 Green Team meetings to 4th Thursday at 1:00 p.m. starting February 13, 2025
• Received recycling report showing 2024 collections up 99,960 pounds from 2023
• Noted HHW event scheduled for August 2025 at Manistee County Road Commission
• Noted Part 115 committee meeting scheduled for February 26, 2025 at 9:30 a.m.
• Noted SWIFER grant submitted in December 2024

Land Bank Authority

The Land Bank Authority will review financial reports and project updates, including a discussion on the MAPS initial concept. The board will also consider an extension for Bay Area Demolition and discuss potential collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers.

• Discussion of Bear Lake property at US-31/Lynn St (Former Village Variety)
• Consideration of extension for Bay Area Demolition
• Review of Blight Elimination Funds for Rounds 3 and 4 with deadlines of 9/30/26
• Discussion of potential collaborations with Habitat for Humanity and Tiny Developers
• Election of Vice Chair and Secretary/Treasurer

The Manistee County Land Bank Authority approved an extension for Bay Area Demolition to complete projects by March 31, 2025, and elected officers for 2025. Members also reviewed financial reports, discussed potential collaboration with Manistee Area Public Schools on a conceptual housing plan, and set the 2025-2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved extension for Bay Area Demolition to March 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Elected Gary Buren as Vice Chair (4-0, 1 absent)
• Elected Eric Gustad as Secretary/Treasurer (4-0, 1 absent)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 16, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to consider several appointments, a resolution of intent to apply for state transportation assistance, and receive the annual landbank report. They will also approve monthly appropriations and fund transfers totaling $54,190.18, and hear a quarterly investment update from the treasurer. The agenda includes committee reports and public comment periods.

• Appointment to Manistee County Road Commission (unexpired term ending Dec 31, 2026): applicants Greg Heji and Tony Merrill
• Appointment to Land Bank Authority (3-year term ending Dec 31, 2027): incumbent Gregory Carlson
• Resolution of Intent to apply for Act 51 state financial assistance for FY2026 public transportation; appoints Julie Steca as Transportation Coordinator
• Annual Landbank Report presented by Planning Director Katie Gruenberg (pages 167-179 of agenda packet)
• Consent agenda: January 2025 appropriations ($34,692.01) and fund transfers ($20,098.17) for departments including airport, child care, and recycling

The Manistee County Board of Commissioners made several appointments and approvals. Tony Merrill was appointed to the Manistee County Road Commission, and Greg Carlson was appointed to the Land Bank Authority. The board also approved a resolution of intent for state transportation funding, accepted $1.53 million in claims and payroll, and approved a vehicle bid sale and a MiSAIL agreement.

• Appointed Tony Merrill to Manistee County Road Commission (5-2)
• Appointed Greg Carlson to Manistee County Land Bank Authority (7-0)
• Approved Resolution #2025-2 for FY2026 Act 51 state transportation funding (7-0)
• Approved $1,532,247.94 in claims and payroll (7-0)
• Accepted bids for vehicle sale items 1, 2, 3 as-is (7-0)
• Approved MiSAIL agreement with State of Michigan for $529,691.84 (7-0)
• Adopted 2025 Ways & Means Committee calendar as amended (7-0)

Airport Authority

This notice posts the 2025 regular meeting schedule for the Manistee Blacker Airport Authority, with meetings held on the third Monday of most months. The notice also provides details for remote participation via Zoom. No substantive agenda items are listed; this is a procedural scheduling announcement.

• First meeting: Monday, February 10, 2025 at 12:00 PM
• Meetings held on third Monday of each month (except February on second Monday, January on second Monday 2026)
• Meetings are hybrid: in-person at Airport Conference Room, 2323 Airport Road, Manistee, and via Zoom
• Zoom meeting ID: 892 2253 8859
• Notice posted January 17, 2025

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss new business regarding Joslin Cove and Oak Grove. The body will also review old business concerning Manistee Housing and the approval of guidelines.

• Discussion of Joslin Cove
• Discussion of Oak Grove
• Review of Manistee Housing
• Approval of Guidelines

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved disbursements of tax increment financing (TIF) funds for two projects. For Joslin Cove, it retained $11,850.47 for administrative costs and disbursed $100,913.17 to the developer. For Oak Grove, it retained $5,000 for administrative costs, approved $1,500 for work plan review, and disbursed $16,206.18 in state TIF to the developer. The board also agreed to present all disbursements annually before any TIR is paid.

• Retained $11,850.47 local TIR for MCBRA administrative costs (5-0)
• Disbursed $100,913.17 to Joslin Cove developer for eligible expenses (5-0)
• Retained $5,000 of Oak Grove TIR for administrative costs (5-0)
• Retained $1,500 for Work Plan Review and Approval cost (5-0)
• Disbursed $16,206.18 state TIR to Oak Grove developer (5-0)
• Agreed all TIR disbursements must be presented annually before board approval

Brownfield Commission

The Manistee County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is holding a regular meeting on January 16, 2025. The posted notice contains only procedural boilerplate and compliance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act; no resolutions, contracts, or discussion items are named in the agenda.

Recreation Commission

This meeting notice is purely procedural. It lists the 2025 meeting dates and provides remote access instructions, but contains no discussion items, decisions, or public hearings. The agenda is only boilerplate logistics.

• Meeting schedule for 2025: 12 dates listed, mostly first Mondays at 6:15 PM at 395 Third Street, Manistee.
• Remote participation via Zoom; meeting ID 841 8272 2359, password 4153.

Manistee 911 Board

The Manistee County 911 Board will consider approving the December 2024 meeting minutes, the treasurer's report (including September profit/loss detail and budget vs. actual), and payment of November bills. They will also discuss a staffing update and interoperability conference from the director's report, and vote on 2025 board appointments as new business. All committees reported they did not meet.

• Approval of regular meeting minutes from December 18, 2024
• Approval of Treasurer's Report with September Profit & Loss Detail and Budget vs. Actual (Appendix B & C)
• Payment of November bills per Check Register (Appendix A)
• 2025 Manistee County 911 Board Appointments (new business)
• Director's Report: staffing update and interoperability conference

The Manistee County E911 Board approved the Treasurer's Report and payment of bills totaling $14,584.81. They also approved a motion allowing Dispatcher Witkowski to either receive pay for unused vacation time or carry it over per the union contract. The board moved board appointments to the February meeting and approved the amended agenda and December minutes.

• Approved Treasurer's Report (all in favor)
• Approved payment of bills totaling $14,584.81 (roll call: 4 yes)
• Approved Dispatcher Witkowski's vacation payout or carryover (roll call: 4 yes)
• Moved board appointments to February meeting (all in favor)
• Approved amended agenda (all in favor)
• Approved December 18, 2024 minutes (all in favor)

Public Safety Committee

The committee's agenda contains only the 2025 meeting schedule and remote access instructions, with no specific public-safety items, proposals, or hearings listed for discussion or decision.

• Scheduled 12 meetings from February 7, 2025 through January 9, 2026, all at 11:00 A.M. in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room and via Zoom

Ways & Means Committee

The provided document is a meeting notice and schedule for the Manistee County Ways and Means Committee. It contains no specific agenda items, proposals, or decisions for the January 13, 2025 date.

Airport Authority

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority will elect officers for the coming year, including Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary. The board will also receive a quarterly update from Contour Airlines CEO Matt Chafeitz and discuss a state air service grant application. Other business includes approval of December 2024 minutes, the treasurer's report, committee appointments, and scheduling 2025 regular meetings.

• Election of Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary
• Quarterly update by Contour Airlines CEO Matt Chafeitz
• Discussion of State Air Service Grant application
• Treasurer's report for December 2024 (General Fund and Fund 481)
• Schedule 2025 regular meetings

The Manistee County Blacker Airport Authority held its January 13, 2025 meeting, electing Adam Dontz as Chairperson, Dyllan Walker as Vice-Chairperson, Susan Zielinski as Treasurer, and George Becker as Secretary, all by unanimous vote. The board approved the December 2024 accounts payable report and financial statement, and approved budget amendments for FY 2023/24 (6-1). It also decided not to pursue a terminal study for the State Air Service Grant and authorized the airport director to submit a proposal for Cross Lake Air Service.

• Elected Adam Dontz as 2025 Chairperson (7-0)
• Elected Dyllan Walker as 2025 Vice-Chairperson (7-0)
• Elected Susan Zielinski as 2025 Treasurer (7-0)
• Elected George Becker as 2025 Secretary (7-0)
• Approved December 2024 Accounts Payable Report (7-0)
• Approved December 2024 Financial Statement (7-0)
• Approved Budget Amendments for FY 2023/24 (6-1)
• Decided not to pursue terminal study for State Air Service Grant

Public Safety Committee

The Public Safety Committee will review monthly statistics from the Sheriff's Office, 911/Central Dispatch, and Mobile Medical Response. The body is also tasked with scheduling its meeting dates for 2025.

• Review of October and November 2024 Sheriff's Office statistics
• Review of November 2024 911/Central Dispatch statistics
• Review of November 2024 Mobile Medical Response statistics
• Review of 2024 City of Manistee Fire statistics
• Scheduling of 2025 Public Safety Committee meetings

The Manistee County Public Safety Committee met on January 10, 2025, and received updates from various public safety agencies. No formal motions or votes were taken during the meeting; all items were informational reports. The committee discussed training, staffing, and statistics for the Sheriff's Office, City Police, City Fire, 911/Central Dispatch, Emergency Management, MMR, and Tribal Police.

• No formal decisions or votes taken; all items were informational reports
• Sheriff's Department purchased a steam cleaner with internal funds
• Manistee Fire Department hired final position, now at 8 full-time staff
• 911/Central Dispatch posted last open position, aiming for 11 dispatchers
• Tribal Police awarded two new positions and purchased six vehicles
• Committee scheduled future meetings for the 1st Friday of each month at 11:00 AM

Ways & Means Committee

The Ways & Means Committee will hear a finance report, review sealed bids for a vehicle sale, and consider entering into the Michigan Statewide Authoritative Imagery and Lidar Program (MiSAIL) agreement with the state. The committee will also schedule its 2025 meeting dates.

• Finance report for period December 1–31, 2024 showing $1.53M total expenditures
• Review and consideration of sealed bids for vehicle bid sale
• Consideration of MiSAIL partnership agreement with the State of Michigan
• Schedule 2025 Ways & Means Committee meetings

The Ways & Means Committee recommended approval of $1,532,247.94 in December bills, payroll, and on-demand checks. It also recommended accepting bids for three used Ford Police Interceptors and approving a $29,691.84 agreement with the State of Michigan for aerial imagery and lidar data. The 2025 meeting schedule was adopted.

• Approved $1,532,247.94 in December bills, payroll, and on-demand checks
• Accepted bids for three Ford Police Interceptors (items 1-3) sold as-is
• Approved MiSAIL imagery/lidar agreement with State of Michigan for $29,691.84
• Adopted 2025 Ways & Means meeting calendar

Recreation Commission

The Manistee County Recreation Commission will receive updates from Friends of SMARTrails and the Benzie/Manistee County Dirt Birds, along with municipal and planning staff reports. Old business includes discussion of a parking/street design document and an economic development document. No decisions or votes on funding or projects are listed on the agenda.

• Friends of SMARTrails update
• Benzie/Manistee County Dirt Birds update
• Old Business: Parking/Street Design Document
• Old Business: Economic Development Document
• Planning Department Staff Update

The Manistee County Recreation Commission approved its 2025 meeting schedule and accepted the 'Rethinking Parking & Street Design in Rural Towns' document. Officers will be elected at the February meeting. No public comment was received, and no new business was discussed.

• Approved January 6, 2025 meeting agenda (all in favor)
• Approved December 2, 2024 meeting minutes as amended (all in favor)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (all in favor)
• Accepted Rethinking Parking & Street Design in Rural Towns document (all in favor)

Board of Commissioners

This is a procedural notice establishing the 2025 regular meeting schedule for the Manistee County Board of Commissioners. No specific agenda items, decisions, or proposals are included. The notice details 12 meeting dates, with most at 9:00 AM on the third Tuesday, three at 6:00 PM, and one on the fourth Tuesday in October.

• Twelve regular meetings scheduled for 2025, starting January 21 at 9:00 AM
• Meetings will be held in the Board of Commissioners Meeting Room and livestreamed via Zoom
• Evening meetings at 6:00 PM on March 18, May 20, and September 16
• October 28 meeting is on the fourth Tuesday instead of the third
• Notice posted on January 3, 2025, in compliance with the Michigan Open Meetings Act

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to establish leadership and operational procedures for 2025. This includes electing a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson and setting the 2025 meeting schedule.

• Election of Board Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
• Determination of Chairperson term length (one year vs. two years)
• Resolution authorizing county use of financial institutions for 2025
• Appointment of 2025 Local Revenue Sharing Board representative
• Appointment of two members to Manistee County Transportation, Inc. Board of Directors

The Board of Commissioners held its organizational meeting, electing Jeff Dontz as Chairperson and Karen Goodman as Vice-Chairperson for 2025. They approved the 2025 meeting schedule, rules of order, committee assignments, and Resolution #2025-1 authorizing county use of various financial institutions. Several board and commission appointments were made, including to the Local Revenue Sharing Board and Manistee County Transportation.

• Elected Jeff Dontz as County Board Chairperson for 2025-2026 (5-0)
• Elected Karen Goodman as County Board Vice-Chairperson for 2025 (5-0)
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule (third Tuesday, with exceptions)
• Approved Rules of Order and Procedure for 2025 as amended
• Approved 2025 committee assignments and special assignments
• Approved Resolution #2025-1 authorizing county use of various financial institutions (5-0)
• Re-appointed Jeff Dontz to Manistee Local Revenue Sharing Board for 2025 (5-0)
• Appointed Janice McCraner and Richard Schmidt to Manistee County Transportation Board (5-0 each)

Planning Commission

The provided document is a meeting notice listing the scheduled dates and times for the Manistee County Planning Commission in 2025. It contains no specific agenda items for decision or discussion.