Montcalm County public meetings in 2025

County Clerk

The Montcalm County Board of Canvassers will meet to conduct a Clarity Hearing. The body will review recall wording filed against two Maple Valley Township officials.

• Clarity Hearing regarding recall wording for Andi Knapp, Maple Valley Township Clerk
• Clarity Hearing regarding recall wording for Meg Booth, Maple Valley Township Treasurer

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2026 budget review and distribution agreements for opioid settlement funds. The meeting includes a resolution to recognize the Montabella Varsity Football Team and a discussion on park rules.

• Opioid Settlement Funds Distribution Agreements
• 2026 Budget Review
• Resolution 2025-14 regarding Lake Stanton Dam
• Community Corrections FY2026 Grant Agreement
• Resolution 2025-15, Recognition of the Montabella Varsity Football Team

The commissioners authorized Chairman Carr to sign the Opioid Settlement Funds and Marijuana Agreements and to have related checks mailed. They approved the updated County Expenditure Policies, several consent‑agenda items, and a series of warrants totaling over $2.8 million. The board also formed a park‑ordinance committee, declined to reconsider a $125,000 funding request from the Montcalm Prevention Collaborative, and approved settlement of the Clayton Thomas lawsuit.

• Authorized Chairman Carr to sign opioid settlement funds and marijuana agreements (motion carried)
• Approved updated County Expenditure Policies and Procedures (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers 11262025‑$1,044,318.85; 12042025‑$69,389.14; 12052025‑$815,939.37; 12112025‑$323,850.58; 12152025‑$583,074.93 (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items 8‑14, placing listed controller resolutions on file (motion carried)
• Formed park‑ordinance committee (4‑2 vote)
• Declined to reconsider Montcalm Prevention Collaborative funding request (consensus)
• Authorized settlement of Clayton Thomas v. County of Montcalm lawsuit, permitting Controller/Administrator to execute documents (6‑0 vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:03 p.m. (motion carried)

County Clerk

The Montcalm County Election Commission will hold a special meeting on December 12, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. in the Board of Commissioners Room, 3rd Floor of the Administration Building, 211 W. Main St, Stanton, Michigan. The purpose is to appoint at least one individual to the Belvidere Township Board to reach a quorum so business can be conducted. The county will provide reasonable auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities upon 14 days notice. Inquiries may be made by calling the Montcalm County Clerk’s Office at 989-831-7339.

• Appointment of at least one individual to the Belvidere Township Board to achieve a quorum
• Provision of auxiliary aids and services for individuals with disabilities upon 14‑day notice

County Clerk

The Probate Judge, County Clerk, and Prosecuting Attorney are meeting to conduct interviews for the Montcalm County Treasurer position. The body expects to appoint a replacement for JoAnne Vukin, whose resignation is effective January 2, 2026.

• Interviews for Montcalm County Treasurer
• Appointment to replace JoAnne Vukin

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Materials Management Planning Committee will review landfill and recycling reports from Republic Services and a designated planning agent, and provide a budget and grant update. It will receive updates on recycle sites, the fall household hazardous waste event, and signage. The committee will discuss the Michigan Recycle Coalition Master Recycle Program and hold a work group discussion.

• Recycle Sites Update
• Fall HHW Event Update
• Signage
• Michigan Recycle Coalition Master Recycle Program
• MMPC Work Group Discussion

The Materials Management Planning Committee approved its agenda and the September 25, 2025 minutes. It voted to hold a tire and electronics recycling event in Stanton on May 16, 2026, and a household hazardous waste event on June 13 or June 27, 2026 (location to be determined). The committee also set its meeting schedule to bi‑monthly on the fourth Thursday of odd months, with the next meeting on January 22, 2026, and adjourned at 2:59 p.m.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved September 25, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Scheduled tire and electronics event in Stanton on May 16, 2026 (motion carried)
• Scheduled household hazardous waste event for June 13 or June 27, 2026, location TBD (motion carried)
• Set meeting schedule to bi‑monthly on odd months, next meeting Jan 22, 2026 (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:59 p.m. (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Collective Bargaining Committee is meeting to conduct an executive session. The primary purpose of the session is to address an FOP grievance.

• Executive Session regarding FOP Grievance

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will review a public hearing on an appeal to the County Construction Ordinance and consider a formal amendment to that ordinance. Additional items include a repeal of the County Parks Ordinance, a FY2026 funding request for opioid and marijuana programs, a proposal for Lake Stanton dam repair or replacement, and a Community Corrections FY2026 grant agreement.

• Amendment of the County Construction Ordinance (public hearing)
• Repeal of the County Parks Ordinance
• FY2026 Opioid and Marijuana Funding Request (Opioid Task Force Committee)
• Lake Stanton Dam Repair/Replacement (Drain Commissioner Todd Sattler)
• Community Corrections FY2026 Grant Agreement

The commissioners adopted Resolution 2025-14, allowing the Drain Commissioner to spend over $10,000 annually for Lake Stanton Dam maintenance, hire consultants, and seek court approval if needed. They also approved FY2026 opioid and marijuana funding awards, reinstated a part‑time administrative aide in the County Clerk’s Office, and authorized several other items including a $250 variance fee refund and a $20,000 food‑card purchase for veterans.

• Approved Resolution 2025-14 to authorize >$10,000 Lake Stanton Dam expenditures (4-2)
• Approved FY2026 Opioid and Marijuana Funding Awards as presented
• Reinstated part‑time Administrative Aide in County Clerk’s Office, 29 hrs/week, effective Jan 1 2026
• Refunded $250 variance application fee to the Hafer’s
• Approved Grant No. CPS‑2026‑1‑21 for FY2026 Community Corrections program
• Authorized purchase of 100 food cards up to $20,000 for veterans
• Approved warrant report numbers: 11132025 $1,368,603.32; 11202025 $332,286.51; 11242025 $505,394.60
• Approved consent agenda items 8‑14 (construction ordinance amendment, parks ordinance repeal, etc.)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will meet on November 10, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. to consider an ordinance to amend the County Construction Ordinance along with several grant and agreement requests and resolutions placed on file. Old business includes a review of the Parks Ordinance and a closed‑session performance review of the Controller. Committee reports, public comments, and correspondence items will also be addressed before adjournment.

• Ordinance to Amend County Construction Ordinance
• Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Agreement Request
• Community Corrections Treatment Agreement Request
• MDOT FY2026 Operating Assistance Program Agreement
• Resolution 2025-13, Establishing Legal Lake Level for Cowden Lake (place on file)

The Board approved a $72,900 contract with Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration to replace 35 PTAC units at the Health Department and Commission on Aging building and supply one unit for the CT scanner building. It authorized a community food‑share space in the Administrative Building, adopted amendments to the County Construction Ordinance, and approved the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant and Community Corrections Treatment Agreement. The Board also repealed the County Parks Ordinance (vote 4‑2) and approved several warrant reports, consent‑agenda items and placed the collective bargaining minutes on file.

• Approved $72,900 PTAC replacement contract with Advantage Mechanical Refrigeration (motion carried)
• Approved location for community food‑share program in Administrative Building (motion carried)
• Approved amendment to Montcalm County Construction Ordinance (motion carried)
• Approved Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Agreement (motion carried)
• Approved Community Corrections Treatment Agreement (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers: $2,606,068.22 (10/30/2025), $129,383.87 (11/06/2025), $587,504.69 (11/10/2025) (motion carried)
• Approved repeal of County Parks Ordinance (ayes: Alexander, Johnston, Petersen, Carr; nays: Mahar, Murray) (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items 7‑10 and placed on file (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will meet to conduct a public roll call and allow public comments. The primary business is an executive session regarding COAM and POAM negotiations.

• Executive session for COAM and POAM negotiations
• Public comments period
• Roll call of Collective Bargaining Committee members

Commissioners motioned to enter a closed session at 1:01 p.m., then motioned to exit the closed session at 2:58 p.m. A final motion to adjourn the meeting was made at 2:59 p.m. No public comments were offered.

• Entered closed session at 1:01 p.m.
• Exited closed session at 2:58 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting at 2:59 p.m.

Opioid Committee

The Montcalm County Opioid Committee will meet on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. in the 3rd Floor Conference Room of the County Administration Building, 211 W. Main Street, Stanton, MI. The purpose of the meeting is oversight of the county’s opioid funds. The agenda contains only the meeting notice and compliance information; no specific items are listed for decision.

The Opioid Task Force reviewed $746,991 in 2026 funding requests and agreed to limit yearly spending to protect future resources. It recommended specific opioid and marijuana allocations totaling $266,786 and $202,145 respectively. The committee will present these recommendations to the Board of Commissioners on November 24, 2025. Kate Behrenwald, Liz Braddock and Jim Dimitriou will present the overview.

• Recommended $40,000 opioid funding to 8th Circuit Adult Recovery Court
• Recommended $22,758 opioid funding to Corewell Health
• Recommended $41,454 opioid funding to Have Mercy
• Recommended $75,000 opioid funding to Montcalm Care Network
• Recommended $50,000 opioid and $15,000 marijuana funding to Randy’s House
• Recommended $68,512 opioid funding to Sheridan Community Hospital
• Recommended $34,000 opioid and $26,000 marijuana funding to Outreach 419/Sober Events
• Agreed to limit yearly opioid and marijuana spending to preserve future funds

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will review several reports and resolutions, including a resolution to release MDHHS opioid settlement funds. The meeting will also cover the park ordinance review, a medical examiner reappointment, and a vacation time payout request. Additional items include the 2025 apportionment report and a proposal to establish a legal lake level for Cowden Lake.

• Grand Traverse County Resolution 2025-88 to release MDHHS opioid settlement funds
• Park Ordinance Review (old business)
• Medical Examiner Reappointment Resolution
• 2025 Apportionment Report presented by Deb Ballard & Nicole Flowers
• Establish Legal Lake Level for Cowden Lake presented by Drain Commissioner Todd Sattler

The Board adopted Resolution 2025-13, establishing a legal lake level for Cowden Lake and authorizing up to $50,000 for related activities. It reappointed Dr. Paul Wagner as County Medical Examiner for a third four‑year term. A request to pay out Eric Smith’s unused vacation time was denied. The Board also approved the 2025 Apportionment Report, warrant payments, and several consent‑agenda items.

• Approved Resolution 2025-13 to establish a legal lake level for Cowden Lake and fund up to $50,000 (motion carried)
• Reappointed Dr. Paul Wagner as County Medical Examiner for a third 4‑year term (motion carried)
• Denied Eric Smith’s request for payout of unused vacation time (3‑2 vote: Ayes Mahar, Johnson, Carr; Nays Alexander, Johnston, Petersen)
• Approved the 2025 Apportionment Report as presented (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers 10162025 ($349,456.49), 10232025 ($361,324.97), 10272025 ($462,536.59) (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items 6 through 11 (motion carried)
• Placed the October 14, 2025 Collective Bargaining minutes on file (motion carried)
• Approved the meeting agenda and the October 13, 2025 meeting minutes (motions carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners' Collective Bargaining Committee will meet on October 27, 2025. The agenda includes roll call, public comment periods, and an executive session to discuss negotiations with COAM and POAM. No formal decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Roll Call
• Public Comments
• Executive Session – COAM & POAM Negotiations
• Additional Public Comments

The Board of Commissioners motioned to enter a closed session at 1:01 p.m., which was approved. Later, a motion to come out of the closed session at 2:50 p.m. was approved. The meeting was then adjourned at 2:50 p.m. No public comments were made and no vote tallies were recorded.

• Entered closed session at 1:01 p.m. (motion passed)
• Exited closed session at 2:50 p.m. (motion passed)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:50 p.m. (motion passed)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will conduct roll call, hear public comments, and enter an executive session to discuss COAM and POAM collective bargaining negotiations. No formal decisions are listed; the session is for discussion of labor agreements.

• Roll Call
• Public Comments
• Executive Session – COAM & POAM Negotiations
• Additional Public Comments

The meeting consisted of motions to enter a closed session, to exit the closed session, and to adjourn. No public comments were offered. No vote tallies or approvals were recorded, so no substantive decisions were made.

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will review several resolutions that oppose cuts to county revenue sharing. It will also consider work agreement requests for FY2026 EMPG and the Reliance Caregiver Respite Program, as well as a State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program request. An update on 2025 road projects will be presented by Rob Putnam of the Montcalm Road Commission.

• Resolution 2025-10: Opposing budget cuts to county revenue sharing
• FY2026 EMPG Work Agreement request
• Reliance Caregiver Respite Program Agreement request
• State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program request
• Rob Putnam (Montcalm Road Commission) update on 2025 projects

The commissioners authorized the purchase of a CT scanning machine and a pre‑built shed, limiting total cost to $75,000. They approved community advancement funding awards for Pine Township, the Village of Lakeview, and Crystal Township. Several grant agreements and an appointment to the Community Advancement Committee were also approved, and a FOIA appeal was denied.

• Approved purchase of CT scanning machine and pre‑built shed, cost capped at $75,000 (motion carried)
• Approved $10,000 award to Pine Township (4‑3 vote)
• Approved $15,000 awards to Village of Lakeview and Crystal Township (4‑3 vote)
• Approved FY26 LEMP Grant Agreement (motion carried)
• Approved $8,960 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant (motion carried)
• Approved Continuation of Reliance Funding for Caregiver Respite Program (motion carried)
• Approved appointment of Andi Knapp to Community Advancement Committee, term until 12/31/2027 (motion carried)
• Denied FOIA appeal filed by Christian Lethers (motion carried)

Community Advancement Committee

The Montcalm County Community Advancement Committee will discuss follow‑up on 2025 projects, review applications for the 2026 Community Advancement program, and consider filling a committee vacancy.

• Follow‑up on 2025 Projects
• Review of Community Advancement Applications for 2026
• Committee Vacancy

The Community Advancement Committee approved funding for Pine Township, the Village of Lakeview, Crystal Township DDA, and appointed a new township representative. Each grant was approved within the $40,000 budget allocated for 2026 projects. The meeting was adjourned and the next meeting scheduled for January 14, 2026.

• Approved $10,000 Pine Township emergency sirens (motion carried)
• Approved $15,000 Village of Lakeview sign and landscaping (motion carried, Darin Dood abstained)
• Approved $15,000 Crystal Township DDA electricity and cameras (motion carried, Sarah Dailey abstained)
• Appointed Andi Knapp as township/planning commission representative (motion carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes as presented (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:36 p.m. (motion carried)
• Scheduled next meeting for January 14, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. (motion carried)

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Materials Management Planning Committee will review reports on landfill operations, recycling sites, and grant funding. The group will also discuss an upcoming household hazardous waste event and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Review of Landfill and Recycling Reports
• MMP Grant Updates and EGLE Infrastructure Grant Update
• Recycle Sites Update
• MCC Electronics Event Update
• Household Hazardous Waste Event scheduled for October 18

The Materials Management Planning Committee approved the meeting agenda as presented and approved the July 24, 2025 minutes. The committee then adjourned the meeting at 3:13 p.m. No other motions were decided.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved July 24, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:13 p.m. (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will consider FY2025 budget amendments, a resolution opposing cuts to revenue sharing, and a request for a full‑time probation officer. The meeting also includes a consent agenda item to amend the county ORV ordinance and agreements with MDOT and a recycling site. Additional items are the reappointment of Dr. Wagner as medical examiner and a Parks Capital Improvement Fund request.

• FY2025 Budget Amendments
• Resolution 2025-15, Opposing Budget Cuts to Revenue Sharing
• Ordinance to Amend the Montcalm County ORV Ordinance
• MDOT Project Authorization Services Agreement
• Reappointment of Dr. Wagner, Medical Examiner

The board approved a resolution urging the state to reject the House’s FY2026 revenue‑sharing cuts and support the Senate’s proposal. It also approved the 2026 MSU Extension agreement, a full‑time substance‑abuse probation officer, a $25,000 transfer to the Parks Capital Improvement Fund, the reappointment of the county medical examiner through Dec. 31 2025, and the FY2025 budget adjustments.

• Adopted Resolution 2025‑11 urging rejection of House FY2026 revenue‑sharing cuts (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 Memorandum of Agreement with MSU Extension (motion carried)
• Approved appointment of full‑time Substance Abuse Probation Officer effective Oct 1 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved $25,000 transfer from General Fund to Parks Capital Improvement Fund (motion carried)
• Approved reappointment of Dr. Paul Wagner as Medical Examiner through Dec 31 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved FY2025 Budget Adjustments as submitted by the County Controller (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will meet in executive session to discuss COAM and POAM negotiations. If a quorum is present, the business will be considered by the full board at the next regular meeting.

• Executive session for COAM and POAM negotiations
• Roll call and public comments
• Meeting location: 211 W. Main Street, Stanton

Commissioners motioned to enter a closed session at 1:00 p.m., which was supported. They later motioned to come out of the closed session at 2:08 p.m., also with support. Finally, a motion to adjourn the meeting at 2:09 p.m. was made and supported.

• Motion to enter closed session at 1:00 p.m. (motioned, supported)
• Motion to exit closed session at 2:08 p.m. (motioned, supported)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting at 2:09 p.m. (motioned, supported)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the 2025 budget and consider the FY2026 Budget General Appropriations Act. The meeting includes requests for board appointments and several pharmaceutical opiate settlement resolutions.

• Resolution 2025-10: FY2026 Budget General Appropriations Act
• Resolution 2025-08 and 2025-09: Purdue Pharma and multiple pharmaceutical opiate settlements
• Repeal of the County of Montcalm Junk and Rubbish Ordinance
• Amendment to the Montcalm County ORV Ordinance
• Appointment requests for Ionia/Montcalm DHHS and Montcalm Housing Commission

The Board adopted a new fund‑balance policy setting the minimum unassigned reserve at 40%‑50% of the budget. It also approved several appointments, a modification to the prosecutor’s office, an ORV ordinance amendment, and other routine actions. All motions were carried without recorded vote counts.

• Updated Fund Balance Policy to maintain a 40%-50% unassigned fund balance (motion carried)
• Approved relocation of door frame and card swipe mechanism for Victim Rights Advocate office (motion carried)
• Appointed Sandra Cook to the Ionia/Montcalm Department of Health and Human Services Board, term expires 10/31/2028 (motion carried)
• Appointed Darlene Ringler to the Montcalm County Housing Commission Board, term expires 02/15/2026 (motion carried)
• Approved job description for new EMS Confidential Aide position (motion carried)
• Approved amendment to the Montcalm County ORV Ordinance (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report payments: $1,528,767.98 (08/28/2025), $249,221.41 (09/04/2025), $284,779.09 (09/08/2025) (motion carried)
• Directed Controller/Administrator to seek RFPs for Medical Examiner services and report results in October (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY2026 budget and vote on a consent agenda containing warrants, agreements, and resolutions. The meeting also includes correspondence and committee reports.

• Public Hearing on FY2026 Proposed Budget
• Consent agenda with warrants, agreements, and resolutions
• 2025-2026 BCBC Health Insurance Rates
• FY2026 AAAWM Service Partner Agreement
• 2025 Tax Rate Request

The Board appointed Jack Johnson as the District 4 Commissioner and elected Alexander as the new Chairman. It approved the agenda, the August 11 meeting minutes, and adopted the FY 2026 General Appropriations Act, establishing a total 6.6152‑mill levy. The Board also authorized participation in the Purdue/Sackler opioid settlement agreements.

• Appointed Jack Johnson as District 4 Commissioner (unanimous 6‑0)
• Elected Alexander as new Chairman of the Board
• Approved the meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved the August 11 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑10 FY 2026 General Appropriations Act, setting a 6.6152‑mill levy (motion carried)
• Authorized entry into Purdue/Sackler opioid settlement agreements (motion carried)
• Suspended rules to move District 4 vacancy item to the top of the agenda (motion carried)
• Closed the public hearing on the FY 2026 budget (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will provide auxiliary aids and services, such as interpreters and audio tapes, for individuals with disabilities upon two weeks' notice. The meeting includes public comments and interviews for the District 4 Commissioner position.

The Committee of the Whole discussed candidates for the vacant District 4 Commissioner seat. A motion to recommend Jack Johnson for the position was introduced by Commissioner Mahar, seconded by Commissioner Petersen, and carried. No public comments were made. The meeting was adjourned at 3:18 p.m. after a motion carried.

• Recommend appointing Jack Johnson as District 4 Commissioner (motion carried)
• Adjourn meeting at 3:18 p.m. (motion carried)
• Record that no public comments were offered

Opioid Committee

The Montcalm County Opioid Committee will meet on August 14, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. in the 3rd Floor Conference Room of the Montcalm County Administration Building, 211 W. Main Street, Stanton, MI. The purpose is oversight of opioid funds. This is a procedural meeting with no specific decisions or items listed.

The Opioid Task Force decided to run an advertisement twice a month in September in the Daily News. The members voted to make no changes to the biannual progress report. They set the 2026 funding application release date for October 1 and the submission deadline for October 31. The committee scheduled its next meeting for November 4 and will present a recommendation to the Board of Commissioners on November 10.

• Approved running an ad twice a month in September in the Daily News
• Decided no changes to the biannual progress report
• Set application availability for October 1 and deadline for October 31
• Scheduled next meeting for November 4 at 8:00 a.m.
• Planned to make recommendation to Board of Commissioners on November 10

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2025 Tax Rate Request and review the FY2026 Proposed Budget. The meeting also includes a work session on budget minutes and a presentation on child care funding.

• 2025 Tax Rate Request (L4029)
• FY2026 Proposed Budget
• FY2026 Child Care Funding Request
• AAAWM Funding & Business Agreements
• District 4 Commissioner Vacancy

The Board approved a $186,000 increase to the FY2025/2026 Child Care Fund budget and authorized signatures on the Older Americans Act FY2026 contract amendment and HIPAA agreement. It voted 2/3 of members to exempt the County from Public Act 152 for FY2026. The Board also approved an audit services contract up to $157,260 with Gabridge & Co., accepted Commissioner Scott Painter’s resignation, and set a public hearing for the FY2026 General Fund budget on August 25, 2025.

• Approved FY2025/2026 Child Care Fund budget, increasing request by $186,000 (motion carried)
• Authorized signatures on Older Americans Act FY2026 Contract Amendment and HIPAA business agreement (motion carried)
• Exempted County from Public Act 152 requirements for FY2026 by a 2/3 vote (motion carried)
• Approved audit services contract with Gabridge & Co. up to $157,260 for FY2025‑2027 (motion carried)
• Accepted Commissioner Scott Painter’s resignation effective July 31, 2025 (motion carried)
• Accepted FY2026 proposed General Fund budget and scheduled public hearing for August 25, 2025 (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers: $138,689.06 (07/31/2025), $111,280.21 (08/07/2025), $559,985.68 (08/11/2025) (motion carried)
• Placed consent agenda items 6‑8 on file, including Homeland Security Grant Agreement and Regional Mutual Aid Agreement (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet for a work session to discuss the FY2025 budget. No other substantive items are listed for decision or discussion.

• FY2025 Budget Discussion

The Board approved the acquisition of a full-body CT scanner for the Medical Examiner, pending space details. It denied wage increase requests for the Crime Victim Coordinator and the Sheriff’s FOC Transport Deputy and jail nursing hours. Investigator wage increases were approved, and the Law Enforcement Fund requests were approved after determining they were not tie‑barred. The Board also decided not to collect a full millage for the upcoming budget year.

• Approved full-body CT scanner for Medical Examiner (pending space details)
• Denied Crime Victim Coordinator wage increase (union issue)
• Approved Investigator wage increases for all levels
• Denied FOC Transport Deputy request (Sheriff could not fund from Law Enforcement millage)
• Denied jail nursing hours increase (Sheriff could not fund from Law Enforcement millage)
• Approved Law Enforcement Fund requests (not tie‑barred)
• Decided not to collect a full millage for the budget year
• Motion to adjourn carried

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will review several administrative items and correspondence. The board is considering the repeal of the Junk and Rubbish Ordinance and reviewing bids for a dishwasher replacement.

• Proposal to repeal the Junk and Rubbish Ordinance
• Dishwasher replacement bids presented by Doug Gietzen
• Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board appointments
• Community Corrections Grant Change Notice 1 Request
• Houghton County Resolution 2025-08 opposing federal Medicaid cuts

The Board approved a change to Community Corrections Grant No. CPS-2025-1-20, raising its budget from $9,900 to $105,954. It also approved new appointments to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board. The Board voted 6‑1 to repeal the County Junk and Rubbish Ordinance of 1973. Additional actions included approving warrant reports, accepting a $23,082 dishwasher bid for the jail, and placing several controller items on the file.

• Approved increase of Community Corrections Grant to $105,954 (motion carried)
• Approved Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board appointments (motion carried)
• Repealed the County Junk and Rubbish Ordinance, 6‑1 vote
• Approved warrant reports totaling $1,024,743.16 (motion carried)
• Accepted Douglas Equipment bid of $23,082 for jail dishwasher (motion carried)
• Placed controller items (litigation settlement, grant agreements, reports) on file (motion carried)

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Materials Management Planning Committee will review reports on landfill and recycling operations and grant updates. The body will also discuss the recap of the May tire and electronic waste event and plan a fall household hazardous waste event.

• Landfill and Recycling Reports from Republic Services
• Kent County Flow Control Program Update
• EGLE Infrastructure Grant Update
• Recycle Sites Update
• Fall HHW Event planning

The committee approved the FY2026 Materials Management Planning Committee budget as presented. It also approved the agenda, the May 29, 2025 minutes, and the June 26, 2025 work group notes. Additionally, the committee authorized a fall Household Hazardous Waste event in Stanton. The meeting was adjourned at 3:14 p.m.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved May 29, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved June 26, 2025 work group notes (motion carried)
• Accepted proposed FY2026 budget (motion carried)
• Authorized fall Household Hazardous Waste event in Stanton (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:14 p.m. (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will meet for a work session to discuss the FY2025 budget. No other formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• FY2025 Budget Discussion

During the budget work session, the board approved the Emergency Services Fund request to hire a full‑time confidential administrative aide and to purchase four ambulance remounts. Several wage increase requests, including those for the Deputy Treasurer, Sheriff's staff, and the Medical Examiner investigators, were not approved. The board tentatively approved the Commission on Aging’s three van requests and the full body CT scanner for the Medical Examiner program, pending space allocation. The scheduled budget workshop for July 23 was cancelled.

• Approved hiring a full-time confidential administrative aide for Emergency Services Fund
• Approved purchase of four ambulance remounts for Emergency Services Fund
• Did not approve wage increase for Deputy Treasurer (Treasurer’s Office)
• Did not approve wage increases for Sheriff's Undersheriff, Jail Administrator, Administrative Assistant
• Tentatively approved part-time FOC Transport Deputy and jail nursing hour increase, to be funded from Law Enforcement Millage
• Did not approve Animal Control new vehicle request ($65,000)
• Tentatively approved Commission on Aging three van requests
• Approved full body CT scanner for Medical Examiner program (space allocation to be discussed)

Plat Board

The Montcalm County Plat Board will meet to perform a final review of a specific land plat. This process determines if the proposed subdivision layout meets county requirements.

• Final review of Edgewood Pines South Plat, City of Greenville

Montcalm Brownfield Authority

The Montcalm County Brownfield Authority will meet to review updates on the Lakeview Development and the rules of brownfield redevelopment. The board will also address term expiration dates and elect officers.

• Lakeview Development update
• Rules of Brownfield Redevelopment
• Term expiration dates
• Election of officers

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review the FY2026 budget and FY2025 budget adjustments. The meeting includes a discussion on the Region 6 Mutual Aid Agreement with Emergency Services Director Eric Smith.

• FY2026 Budget
• FY2025 Budget Adjustments
• Region 6 Mutual Aid Agreement
• Homeland Security Grant Intergovernmental Agreement
• AAAWM Amendment to Contract 61.76-FY25.2

The Montcalm County Board approved several items, including the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and participation in the Region 6 Emergency Management Mutual Aid Agreement. It also approved the FY24 Homeland Security Grant Intergovernmental Agreement and a resolution authorizing entry into the Sandoz opioid settlement for a one‑time payment of $135,456.92. FY2025 budget adjustments, four warrant report payments, and consent‑agenda items 8‑10 were likewise approved.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved participation in Region 6 Emergency Management Mutual Aid Agreement (motion carried)
• Approved FY24 Intergovernmental Agreement with West Michigan Regional Medical Consortium for Homeland Security Grant (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑06 authorizing participation in Sandoz Settlement ($135,456.92) (motion carried)
• Approved FY2025 Budget Adjustments (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers: $437,781.50; $282,471.34; $346,648.60; $687,879.33 (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items 8‑10 and placed on file (motion carried)

Community Advancement Committee

The Community Advancement Committee will meet to discuss current project progress and receive an update on a funding application. The meeting includes a review of previous minutes from April 9, 2025.

• Follow up on projects (Attachment A)
• Update of Community Advancement Funding Application (Attachment B)

The committee approved an amended agenda that added a seat replacement item. It approved the April 9, 2025 minutes as presented. The members approved specific changes to the Community Advancement Funding Application, including wording and cost fields. A motion to seek a replacement for Larry Hummel was carried, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved amended agenda adding seat replacement item (motion carried)
• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes as presented (motion carried)
• Approved changes to the Community Advancement Funding Application (motion carried)
• Approved seeking a replacement for Larry Hummel representing a township or planning commission member (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 2:26 p.m. (motion carried)

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Materials Management Planning Committee will hold a work group meeting. The agenda consists of procedural items and a discussion of Attachment A.

• Discussion of MMPC Work Group – Attachment A

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a construction ordinance appeal by Marty and Sarah Delo. The board will also consider a staffing request from Friend of the Court representatives Monica Tissue-Daws and Lisa Peterson.

• Public hearing: Construction Ordinance appeal by Marty & Sarah Delo
• Staffing request from Friend of the Court
• MSHN Substance Use Disorder Board Appointments
• FY2024-25 HMEP Grant Agreement Request
• MGT Impact Solutions Service Agreement

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners approved a variance request from Marty and Sarah Delo to build a 32'x72' garage at 560 Richard Drive, Crystal, MI, with a one-foot setback from the property line, despite the Building Department's objection. The board also approved adding an Enforcement Clerk position at the Friend of the Court, appointed Charlie Mahar to the Mid-State Health Network Substance Use Disorder Oversight Policy Board, and approved several grants and agreements.

• Approved variance for 560 Richard Drive garage with 1-foot setback (5-2)
• Approved addition of one Enforcement Clerk position at Friend of the Court
• Appointed Charlie Mahar to Mid-State Health Network Substance Use Disorder Oversight Policy Board, Christa Merritt as alternate
• Approved submission of FY24-25 HMEP grant
• Approved Complaint to Amend Plat for Skinner's Resort Lots 9 & 10
• Approved Site Hosting Agreements for recycling compactors in Carson City, Crystal Township, Edmore, Howard City, Lakeview
• Approved warrant reports totaling $1,476,520.71
• Approved consent agenda items 8-14

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a public meeting to discuss a request for an appeal to the Construction Ordinance. Marty and Sarah Delo are seeking a variance for their property in Crystal, Michigan.

• Variance request for property at 560 Richard Drive, Crystal, Michigan

The commissioners approved a variance allowing a one‑foot setback for a garage at 560 Richard Drive in Crystal. They also added an Enforcement Clerk position, appointed Charlie Mahar to a substance‑use oversight board, and approved several grant submissions and site‑hosting agreements. Additional actions included approving three warrant reports totaling $1,476,520.71 and authorizing a complaint to amend the Skinner’s Resort plat.

• Approved variance for 560 Richard Drive, one‑foot setback (5‑2 vote)
• Approved addition of one Enforcement Clerk at the Friend of the Court (motion carried)
• Approved appointment of Charlie Mahar to the Mid‑State Health Network Substance Use Disorder Oversight Policy Board and Christa Merritt as alternate (motion carried)
• Approved submission of FY24‑25 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness Planning Grant (motion carried)
• Approved Site Hosting Agreements for recycling compactor units in multiple municipalities (motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers: $501,762.41, $141,849.82, $832,908.48 (motion carried)
• Approved complaint to amend Skinner’s Resort plat for Lots 9 & 10 (motion carried)
• Allowed Kevin Everingham to apply for the FY26 Community Corrections Grant (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will review the Tamarack Meadows Brownfield Plan and PA 116 Farmland Agreements for Day and Ferris Townships. The board will also consider appointments to the Substance Use Disorder Advisory Council and various warrant reports.

• Resolution 2025-05: Tamarack Meadows Brownfield Plan
• PA 116 Farmland Agreements for Day & Ferris Townships
• Substance Use Disorder Advisory Council Appointment
• Resolution 2025-1789: Recognizing June 2025 as Pride Month
• Resolution 2025-1808: Recognizing June 19 as Juneteenth

Commissioners approved the meeting agenda as presented. They also approved the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting. Both motions were carried. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Materials Management Planning Committee will review landfill and recycling reports from Republic Services and updates on the Kent County Flow Control Program. The body will discuss the budget and the draft Materials Management Plan due to EGLE in 12 months.

• Landfill and Recycling Reports from Republic Services
• EGLE Infrastructure Grant Update
• Recycle Site Host Agreement Update
• Materials Mgmt. Planning Program Grant Agreement
• Residential Recycling Support/Education

The Materials Management Planning Committee approved the meeting agenda, the March 27, 2025 minutes, and the April 24, 2025 work group notes. It also approved the Recycle Site Hosting Agreement (Attachment A). The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved March 27, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved April 24, 2025 work group notes (motion carried)
• Approved Recycle Site Hosting Agreement (attachment A) (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:02 p.m. (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding a Brownfield Residential Redevelopment Project in Lakeview. The body is also considering a tax rate request and an ordinance to repeal the Montcalm County Parks Ordinance.

• Public hearing: Brownfield Residential Redevelopment Project, 9640 North Greenville Road, Lakeview
• Proposed ordinance to repeal the Montcalm County Parks Ordinance
• 2025 Tax Rate Request, L-4029
• Resolution 2025-03 regarding Mental Health Funding Shortfall
• Resolution 2025-04 regarding procurement process for PIHPS

The commissioners approved the Brownfield Plan for the residential redevelopment project at 9640 North Greenville Road. They also approved the County Animal Shelter’s use of the Pandemic Readiness Building for spay‑and‑neuter clinics and placed the ordinance to repeal the County Parks Ordinance on file. A committee of Commissioners Petersen, Mahar and Controller Taeter was formed to meet with the Pride 2025 organizers. The board approved three warrant report payments totaling $1,274,696.35 and adopted the consent agenda items.

• Approved agenda addition for Drain Commissioner Request (motion carried)
• Approved May 12, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Brownfield Plan for 9640 N. Greenville Road residential redevelopment (motion carried)
• Approved Animal Shelter use of Pandemic Readiness Building for spay & neuter clinics (motion carried)
• Placed Ordinance to Repeal County Parks Ordinance on file (motion carried)
• Formed committee (Petersen, Mahar, Taeter) to meet with Pride 2025 organizers (Carr nay, others yea; motion carried)
• Approved warrant report numbers: $599,054.02, $317,550.71, $358,091.62 (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items 4‑13 and placed them on file (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to decide whether to adopt a Brownfield Plan for a 37.36-acre property at 9640 North Greenville Road in Lakeview. The plan would allow a developer to seek reimbursement for eligible costs to prepare the site for residential redevelopment under Michigan’s Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act.

• Public hearing on adopting a Brownfield Plan for 9640 North Greenville Road, Lakeview (37.36 acres)
• Reimbursement for eligible environmental, non-environmental, and housing development costs under Act 381 of 1996
• Tax parcel 042-715-001-30 included in the plan

The commissioners approved the Brownfield Plan for the 9640 North Greenville Road site, allowing residential redevelopment. They also approved the animal shelter’s use of the Pandemic Readiness Building for spay‑and‑neuter clinics and placed the repeal of the County Parks Ordinance on file. Additional actions included creating a committee to meet with Pride 2025 organizers, approving three warrant reports, and moving several consent‑agenda items to the record.

• Approved Brownfield Plan for 9640 N. Greenville Road residential redevelopment (motion carried)
• Approved Animal Shelter’s use of Pandemic Readiness Building for spay & neuter clinics (motion carried)
• Placed repeal of Montcalm County Parks Ordinance on file (motion carried, Commissioner Alexander voted no)
• Created committee of Petersen, Mahar, and Taeter to meet with Pride 2025 organizers (motion carried, Commissioner Carr voted nay)
• Approved warrant report numbers: 05152025 $599,054.02; 05222025 $317,550.71; 05272025 $358,091.62 (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda items 4‑13 and placed them on file (motion carried)
• Approved agenda with addition of Drain Commissioner Request (motion carried)
• Approved May 12, 2025 meeting minutes as written (motion carried)

Montcalm Brownfield Authority

The Montcalm County Brownfield Authority will meet to consider a TIF Housing Plan for Lakeview Terrace. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from March 12, 2025, and public comment periods. No other substantive business is listed.

• Consideration of TIF Housing Plan for Lakeview Terrace (Attachment A)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will consider the 2025 tax rate request (L4029) and hear a presentation on mental health funding and privatization from Montcalm Care Network. Additional discussions include a partnership between Animal Control and the Central Michigan Correctional Facility, and resolutions supporting Amtrak service from Flint and Grand Rapids to Mackinaw City. The board will also hold a closed session to review attorney-client privileged communications.

• 2025 Tax Rate Request (L4029)
• Mental Health Funding and Privatization presentation by Montcalm Care Network
• Animal Control Director and MDOC partnership with Central Michigan Correctional Facility
• Resolution 2025-06 and 2025-07 supporting Amtrak service to Mackinaw City
• Closed session for review of attorney/client privileged communication

The Board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 28 meeting. It then adopted Resolution 2025‑03 urging the state to address the public mental‑health funding shortfall. Finally, the Board adopted Resolution 2025‑04 opposing the competitive procurement process for Prepaid Inpatient Health Plans.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved April 28, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑03 urging action on public mental‑health funding shortfall (motion carried)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑04 opposing competitive procurement of Prepaid Inpatient Health Plans (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will review the 2024 County Audit Report and the 2025 County Equalization Report. The board will also consider a contract renewal request from Prosecuting Attorney Thomas Ginster and a roofing bid request from the Director of Building & Grounds.

• 2024 County Audit Report presented by Joe Verlin of Gabridge & Company
• Contract renewal request from Prosecuting Attorney Thomas Ginster
• Roofing bid request from Director of Building & Grounds Doug Gietzen
• 2025 County Equalization Report presented by Deb Ballard and Nicole Flowers
• Approval of 2025 Remonumentation Grant Application

The Board approved and adopted Resolution 2025‑02, the 2025 County Equalization Report, setting the equalized value of real and personal taxable property at $4,338,568,480. It also approved a one‑year renewal of Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Betsy Hartley’s part‑time contract at $75 per hour, hired Weather Shield to replace three roof sections on the Public Safety Building for up to $199,214, accepted the 2024 County Audit Report, and authorized a $93,307 EGLE Materials Management Planning Grant and a $4,000 electronic recycling event contract.

• Adopted 2025 County Equalization Report (equalized value $4.34 B) – motion carried
• Approved L‑4024 Equalized Valuations – motion carried
• Renewed Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Betsy Hartley’s contract (part‑time, $75/hr, ≤100 hrs/mo) – motion carried
• Hired Weather Shield for Public Safety Building roof replacement (up to $199,214) – motion carried
• Accepted 2024 County Audit Report – motion carried
• Approved warrant report numbers totaling $882,724.62 – motion carried
• Authorized EGLE Materials Management Planning Grant ($93,307) – motion carried
• Authorized electronic recycling event contract with Valley City Recycling (up to $4,000) – motion carried

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Montcalm County Materials Management Planning Committee is holding a work group meeting. The agenda consists only of procedural items: roll call, public comments, and a work group discussion. No specific proposals, contracts, or decisions are listed for this meeting.

• Only procedural items on the agenda: roll call, public comments, and work group discussion.

Board of Commissioners

The Board will hear proposals on a fall electronics recycling event, amendments to police protection agreements, and a correction to the chief deputy's salary. They will also consider several bid requests, funding requests, and BEAD grant support applications, along with routine reports and a proclamation.

• Proposed Fall 2025 Electronics Recycle Event
• Amendments to Police Protection Agreements with Sheriff Williams
• Incorrect salary for Chief Deputy in Treasurer's office
• Ford Lincoln Park Asphalt Project Bid Request
• Community Advancement Reinvestment Funding Request

The commissioners approved Amendment #1 to the Eureka Township and Crystal Township police contracts. They accepted a $12,400 asphalt bid to repave Camp Ford Lincoln. The board authorized four Community Advancement Reinvestment grants totaling $16,395. Additional motions approved warrant report numbers and a series of consent‑agenda items.

• Approved Amendment #1 to Eureka Township police contract (motion carried, all commissioners voted aye)
• Approved Amendment #1 to Crystal Township police contract (motion carried, all commissioners voted aye)
• Accepted Murray’s Asphalt bid for $12,400 to repave Camp Ford Lincoln (motion carried)
• Authorized Community Advancement Reinvestment grants: Winfield Township $5,000, White Pine District Library $5,000, Lakeview Area Museum $5,000, Crystal Township Historical Society $1,395 (motion carried, one nay vote)
• Approved warrant report numbers: 03272025 $229,332.89; 04032025 $215,314.44; 04102025 $585,872.82; 04142025 $1,486,047.19 (motion carried)
• Approved consent‑agenda items 7 through 17, placing each on file (motion carried)
• Placed County Treasurer information on file regarding Chief Deputy pay scale (motion carried)
• Recorded and accepted the $10,000 signing bonus receipt for tower lease (informational, no vote required)

Community Advancement Committee

The Montcalm County Community Advancement Committee will meet to review funding applications. The session includes reports and a review of old and new business.

• Review of Community Advancement Funding Applications

The Community Advancement Committee approved its agenda and the February 12, 2025 minutes. It reviewed five grant applications and recommended four of them for funding, totaling $16,395. The recommendations will be sent to the Board of Commissioners on April 14, 2025. The committee noted a fund balance of $32,817.79 and discussed allocating up to 75% of that balance.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved February 12, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Recommended $1,395 to Crystal Historical Society (motion carried; Sarah Daily abstained)
• Recommended $5,000 to Lakeview Museum (motion carried; Darin Dood abstained)
• Recommended $5,000 to White Pine Library (motion carried; Brenda Taeter and Adam Petersen voted no)
• Recommended $5,000 to Winfield Township (motion carried)

Materials Management Planning Committee

The Materials Management Planning Committee will discuss landfill and recycling reports and provide updates on the Kent County Flow Control Program. The body will also review an agreement for recycling site hosting and an alternative recycle/waste guide.

• Agreement for Recycling Site Hosting
• Alternative Recycle/Waste Guide
• EGLE Infrastructure Grant Update
• Tire & Electronics event scheduled for May 17
• Household Hazardous Waste event scheduled for May 31

The committee approved the meeting agenda (with the election of officers removed) and ratified the January 23 minutes and February 27 work‑group notes. It placed the January and February reports on file and approved the locations for two May recycling events. The members also accepted the amended site‑host agreement, which will be sent to legal and later require Board of Commissioners approval.

• Approved agenda as amended (Election of Officers removed) – motion carried
• Approved Jan 23 2025 minutes and Feb 27 2025 work‑group notes – motion carried
• Placed January and February reports on file – motion carried
• Approved May 17 tire & electronics event at 615 N. State St., Stanton – motion carried
• Approved May 31 household hazardous waste event at 9223 Airport Dr., Lakeview – motion carried
• Accepted amended site‑host agreement – motion carried

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a public meeting to discuss a request for an appeal to the Construction Ordinance. Daniel and Chari Kenyon are seeking a variance for their property in Crystal, Michigan.

• Variance request for property at 2167 Straight Tow Blvd., Crystal, Michigan

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a construction ordinance appeal for Daniel and Chari Kenyon. The board will also hear funding requests for the Commission on Aging and project requests for the Jail and COA.

• Public hearing on construction ordinance appeal for Daniel & Chari Kenyon
• FY2026 funding request from Pamela Shock, Commission on Aging Director
• Jail & COA project requests from Doug Gietzen, Director of Bldg. & Grounds
• FY2025 budget adjustments request
• Community Spay & Neuter grant request

The Board approved a variance to the Montcalm County Construction Ordinance for 2167 Straight Tow Blvd, Crystal, MI, allowing an accessory dwelling unit above a garage (vote 4‑1). It also approved contracts for jail countertop replacement ($22,021.00), Commission on Aging flooring ($23,565.25), and the purchase of 14 Hamilton ventilators at $18,703.20 each. In addition, the FY2025 budget adjustments and amendments were adopted.

• Approved variance for 2167 Straight Tow Blvd, Crystal, MI (4-1)
• Accepted Leonardo’s Marble and Granite bid up to $22,021.00 for jail countertops (4-1)
• Contracted with Millard’s Furniture up to $23,565.25 for Commission on Aging flooring
• Authorized purchase of 14 Hamilton ventilators at $18,703.20 each using fund balance
• Approved FY2025 Budget Adjustments as presented
• Approved FY2025 Budget Amendments as presented
• Approved AAAWM FY2026 Continuation of Funding Request
• Approved Community Spay & Neuter grant agreement

Montcalm Brownfield Authority

The Montcalm County Brownfield Authority will hold a regular meeting with mostly procedural items. Old business includes updates on the 1720 Washington Street property and a business properties update. New business consists of an appointment renewal. No votes on ordinances, contracts, or fee changes are scheduled.

• Update on 1720 Washington Street property
• Business properties update
• Appointment renewal for authority membership

The Montcalm County Brownfield Authority approved its agenda and prior minutes, and confirmed Mark Borden's appointment to the committee. No substantive decisions were made; a Farm Building Conversion & TIF project in Fairplains Township was discussed, with a presentation planned for the December meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 12, 2024 as presented (unanimous)
• Confirmed Mark Borden's appointment to the committee
• Adjourned meeting at 1:40 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative requests and financial reports. Key items for consideration include the FY2026 budget calendar and a tower lease agreement amendment.

• FY2026 Budget Calendar Approval Request
• Tower Lease Agreement Amendment Request
• DUO Multi-Factor Authentication Request
• FY2025 Budget Review
• Livingston County Support Local Control & Claim of Appeal Against Public Service Commission Order

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners approved the 2026 Budget Calendar and authorized the County Controller to implement multi-factor authentication for all county computers with LEIN access. The board also approved a lease amendment with Verizon Wireless, approved warrant reports totaling over $1.3 million, and directed staff to develop a full-day rental contract for McCarthy Park at double the normal rate on a trial basis for 2025.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Approved the February 24, 2025, regular meeting minutes as written.
• Authorized the County Controller to accept the second option for DUA Multi-Factor Authentication on all county computers with LEIN access.
• Approved and adopted the 2026 Budget Calendar as presented.
• Approved the First Amendment to Lease Agreement with Alltel Corporation d/b/a Verizon Wireless.
• Approved warrant reports 02272025 ($537,815.93), 03062025 ($309,761.73), and 03102025 ($488,680.32).
• Approved consent agenda items 7 through 8, placing the Controller Geographic Name Proposal and FY2025 Budget Review on file.
• Allowed the Controller and staff to develop a full-day rental contract for McCarthy Park on a trial basis for 2025, with the rate double the normal rental fees.

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners holds a work session to discuss the process for hiring a director. The agenda includes public comment periods but no voting items or financial decisions.

• Discussion on director hiring process

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners held a work session to discuss and ultimately approve a policy for hiring appointed department directors. The policy was amended during discussion, with commissioners expressing varying views on board involvement in the hiring process. The motion to approve the amended policy carried.

• Approved County of Montcalm Hiring of Appointed Department Directors Policy as amended

Materials Management Planning Committee

This is a procedural meeting of the Materials Management Planning Committee Work Group. The agenda includes roll call, public comments, and a work group discussion with no specific items listed. No decisions or proposals are detailed.

The Materials Management Planning Committee met and reviewed Section One of the EGLE Format for Preparing Materials Management Plans, covering population, waste generation sources, infrastructure, and recycling rates. Members discussed how to gather required information, with Matt Biolette providing helpful links and consideration of using SurveyMonkey to collect data from local municipalities. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Reviewed EGLE Section One: Planning Area Profile
• Discussed using SurveyMonkey for municipal data collection
• Noted links provided by Matt Biolette for data sources

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will consider several action items, including a request to hire an additional assistant prosecuting attorney, a wage increase for the chief deputy treasurer, a jail counter replacement, and the 2024 annual medical examiner report. The board will also act on consent agenda items such as funding requests and warrant reports.

• Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Request (4:35 p.m.)
• Chief Deputy Wage Increase Request (4:05 p.m.)
• Jail Counter Replacement (4:15 p.m.)
• 2024 Annual Medical Examiner Report (4:20 p.m.)
• Consent agenda includes Community Advancement Committee funding request, creation of Law Enforcement CPE Fund, and multiple warrant reports

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners approved hiring Catherine R. Ginster, sister of Prosecuting Attorney Thomas Ginster, as interim Chief Assistant Prosecutor at the current salary without health benefits, following Gale Benda's resignation. The board also approved the Community Advancement Committee's Reinvestment Funding program guidelines, created Fund 232 for Law Enforcement CPE with a $33,000 transfer, and voted to name a creek 'Newcosta Creek'. A request to move Chief Deputy Treasurer Lisa Hayward to a higher wage step was denied.

• Approved hiring Catherine R. Ginster as interim Chief Assistant Prosecutor (no health benefits)
• Denied Treasurer's request to move Chief Deputy Lisa Hayward to 4-year step (2-3)
• Approved Community Advancement Committee Reinvestment Funding guidelines
• Created Fund 232 for Law Enforcement CPE and transferred $33,000 from General Fund
• Voted to name creek 'Newcosta Creek'
• Appointed Charlie Mahar as alternate to Substance Use Disorder Oversight Policy Board
• Approved warrant reports totaling $920,686.60
• Approved consent agenda items 8-12

Community Advancement Committee

The Montcalm County Community Advancement Committee will meet to discuss the Community Foundation Plan/Process/Application as an old business item. Other agenda items are procedural, including approval of minutes and public comments. No new business items are listed.

• Discussion of Community Foundation Plan/Process/Application
• Approval of minutes from January 8, 2025
• Public comments period
• Possible quorum of Board of Commissioners present

The Community Advancement Committee approved the Community Advancement Reinvestment Funding Application as presented. They also voted to request the Board of Commissioners allow the committee to use $20,000 from the fund for a test run this year, accepting applications from March 1-31, with reviews in April. The annual application process was set for August 1-September 30, offering 75% of available funds.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved January 8, 2025 minutes as presented
• Approved Community Advancement Reinvestment Funding Application
• Requested Board of Commissioners allow use of $20,000 for test run with March 1-31 application window
• Set annual application process for August 1-September 30, offering 75% of funds

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting with public comments, committee reports, and new business. Scheduled presentations include a jail painting request from the Building & Grounds director and a wage increase request for an administrative aide. The board will also consider several items on the consent agenda, including contract amendments, lease agreements, and budget review items.

• Jail painting request (Doug Gietzen, Building & Grounds)
• Administrative aide wage increase request (Kristen Millard, County Clerk)
• Canteen Services Food Agreement Amendment
• Cannonsville Road Tower Lease Agreement
• Creation of PA 302 Justice Training Fund

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners approved a $27,516.36 painting contract for jail pods, moved an administrative aide to a higher pay step, accepted a food services amendment, approved updated wage scales, and authorized a tower lease extension. They also created a special fund for justice training grants and approved multiple warrants.

• Awarded Great Lakes Painting contract for jail pods E1-E6, E8, D5 at $27,516.36
• Moved Laura Delamater to 2-year step at $20.37/hour effective immediately
• Accepted Amendment Four to Food Services Agreement with Canteen Services (meal cost $1.81 to $1.88)
• Approved updated 2025 wage scales
• Authorized Tower Alliance LLC lease extension option #2: $9,600/year starting 2031, 2% annual increase, $10,000 signing payment
• Created Fund 230-PA 302 Justice Training Funds and transferred $15,194.96 from General Fund
• Approved warrants totaling $1,258,109.70
• Approved consent agenda items 8-11 (place on file)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will discuss a wage study as old business and consider several items under board correspondence, including a reclassification request and a new position request from the prosecuting attorney, as well as appointments to the Stanton DDA and Community Advancement board. The consent agenda includes a resolution recognizing years of service and multiple grant and service agreements. Public comments are scheduled.

• Wage study discussion
• Prosecuting attorney reclassification request (Tom Ginster)
• Prosecuting attorney new position request (Tom Ginster)
• Stanton DDA appointment request
• Community Advancement appointment request

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners approved the nonunion wage study increases as presented, with the Pretrial Agent hourly wage set to $24.50 retroactive to January 1, 2025. The board also approved reclassifying the Victim Rights Coordinator to Victim Rights Advocate at $25.30/hour and creating a new Office Manager/Legal Secretary position in the Prosecutor's Office at $22.58/hour, despite union opposition. Minutes from January 13 were amended to remove the $58,000 Chief Deputy Register of Deeds wage reference.

• Approved nonunion wage study increases with Pretrial Agent at $24.50/hr retroactive to 1/1/2025
• Approved reclassifying Victim Rights Coordinator to Victim Rights Advocate at $25.30/hr ($49,335/yr)
• Approved creating Office Manager/Legal Secretary position at $22.58/hr ($44,031/yr)
• Amended January 13 minutes to remove $58,000 Chief Deputy Register of Deeds wage
• Approved warrant reports totaling $1,255,644.17
• Approved appointment of Dave Bee to Community Advancement Committee
• Approved letter to Kent County about landfill material redirection
• Approved consent agenda items 8-16

Materials Management Planning Committee

The committee will elect officers for the coming term, review reports on landfill and recycling from Republic Services, and receive updates from the designated planning agent including budget and EGLE grant. Old business includes updates on recycle sites, electronics recycling containers, a letter to the Kent County Board of Commissioners, and Howard City volume. New business includes setting meeting dates and forming a plan writing subcommittee.

• Election of officers
• Letter to Kent County Board of Commissioners (Attachment A)
• 2025 event dates: Tire & Electronics (May 17) and Household Hazardous Waste (May 31)
• Updates on recycle sites and electronics recycling container
• Budget review and EGLE Infrastructure Grant update

The Materials Management Planning Committee elected Roger Rockburn as Chair, Jake Borton as Vice Chair, and AJ Johnson as Secretary, all unanimously. They approved sending a letter to the Kent County Board of Commissioners regarding the Flow Control Program's impact, and set a schedule for regular meetings and plan-writing sessions. No major policy decisions were made beyond these administrative actions.

• Elected Roger Rockburn as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Jake Borton as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected AJ Johnson as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved December 5, 2024 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved sending letter to Kent County Board of Commissioners regarding Flow Control Program (motion carried)
• Approved meeting schedule: 4th Thursday of odd months for business, even months for plan writing (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners will discuss a wage study and consider a special prosecuting attorney request. The consent agenda includes resolutions to set board compensation for 2025–2028, support local control against the Public Service Commission, and approve several contracts (Republic Services recycling renewal, prosecution services with Greenville). Other items include appointments to the Montcalm Care Network Board and opioid settlement fund agreements.

• Resolution 2024-14 establishing BOC compensation for 2025 to 2028
• Resolution 2024-15 supporting local control and claim against PSC
• Republic Services Recycle Renewal Contract
• Contract for Prosecution Services with the City of Greenville
• Wage Study Discussion under Old Business

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners approved hiring Mitchell J. Wood as a Special Prosecutor at $75 per hour for up to 60 hours per month for six months to handle pending appeals. The board also adopted an amended apportionment report, approved appointments to the Montcalm Care Network Board, authorized signing opioid settlement and marijuana fund agreements, and set wage adjustments for county positions based on the 2025 14-county average. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved hiring Mitchell J. Wood as Special Prosecutor at $75/hr, max 60 hrs/month for 6 months
• Adopted amended Apportionment Report due to Home Township fire millage
• Approved Montcalm Care Network Board appointments (Hamilton, Johansen, Kellenberger, Stump) to 3/31/2028
• Authorized Chairman to sign Opioid Settlement and Marijuana Funds agreements
• Approved female cognitive class contract for FY2025-2026
• Adopted Resolution 2025-01 recognizing Mark Christensen's service
• Approved warrant reports totaling $2,264,563.67
• Set wage adjustments for county positions based on 2025 14-county average

Community Advancement Committee

The Montcalm County Community Advancement Committee meets to handle routine procedural business, including election of officers, approval of minutes, and committee vacancies. The committee will also discuss the Community Foundation Plan/Process/Application and receive an update on Everything Montcalm.

• Election of officers for the committee
• Discussion on Community Foundation Plan/Process/Application
• Update on Everything Montcalm initiative
• Consideration of meeting dates and times for 2025
• Review of committee vacancies

The Community Advancement Committee elected Darin Dood as chair, Mike Falcon as vice chair, and Brenda Taeter as secretary. Members reached consensus on guidelines for a community foundation grant program, including limiting applicants to townships, cities, and villages, requiring a match, and handling as reimbursement. They also approved appointing Dave Bee to fill a vacancy and scheduled quarterly meetings plus two special meetings.

• Elected Darin Dood as chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Mike Falcon as vice chair (unanimous)
• Elected Brenda Taeter as secretary (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved October 9, 2024 minutes as presented
• Reached consensus on grant program guidelines (applicants limited to townships/cities/villages, match required, reimbursement basis)
• Approved appointment of Dave Bee to fill committee vacancy
• Agreed to meet quarterly on second Wednesday (April 9, July 9, October 8) plus special meetings Feb 11 and Mar 12

Board of Commissioners

This is the organizational meeting for the new board term. The board will elect a chairperson and vice-chairperson, set meeting dates for the year, make appointments to various committees and collective bargaining positions, and adopt by-laws and rules of procedure.

• Election of Chairperson
• Election of Vice-Chairperson
• Setting of meeting dates/times for 2025 (Attachment A)
• Appointments to collective bargaining and board committees (Attachments B, C, D)
• Adoption of By-Laws & Rules of Procedure (Attachment E)

The board elected Patrick Q. Carr as Chairperson for a two-year term and Adam Petersen as Vice Chair for 2025 after multiple tie votes. The board also approved the 2025 meeting schedule, committee assignments, by-law changes, and created an ad hoc committee for department head hiring policy.

• Elected Patrick Q. Carr as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Adam Petersen as Vice Chair after four rounds of voting
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule with one December meeting on Dec 15
• Appointed Collective Bargaining Committee members
• Approved 2025 Committee Assignments for Board of Commissioners
• Adopted 2025 Committee Appointments for external boards
• Approved By-Laws and Rules of Procedure changes
• Created Ad Hoc Committee for department head hiring/firing policy