Van Buren County public meetings in 2021

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Buildings and Grounds Committee will meet to receive a departmental update and discuss Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects. The meeting includes standard procedural items and opportunities for public comment.

• Buildings & Grounds Update presented by Jeff Hall
• CIP Projects presented by Frank Hardester and Jeff Hall

The Buildings and Grounds Committee approved the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) list and moved it to the Committee of the Whole meeting on January 11, 2022. The list includes projects such as a security remodel of the Administration building, courthouse upgrades, and jail and sheriff's office updates. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included approval of the agenda and prior minutes.

• Approved CIP list and moved to 1/11/22 COW (carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (carried)
• Approved 11/23/2021 meeting minutes (carried)

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee is meeting to discuss an update on ARPA funds and an Essential Worker Pay Resolution. The body will review several funding proposals for broadband expansion, jail upgrades, and county services.

• Proposal # 009: Sheriff's Office Armored Vehicle
• Proposal # 010 & 017: Broadband projects by Bloomingdale Communications
• Proposal # 018: Midwest Energy & Communications Hamilton Twp Project
• Proposal # 019: VBC Children's Advocacy Center
• Proposal # 020 & 021: Jail improvements for privacy walls, holding cells, and recreation room

The committee approved setting aside $7 million of remaining ARPA funds for broadband and moved a resolution to the Board for adjusted essential worker pay. Several proposals were tabled for further review, including the Sheriff's armored vehicle, broadband projects, and a Children's Advocacy Center. Two jail improvement proposals were denied for ARPA funding but recommended for the CIP list.

• Set aside $7 million for broadband (carried)
• Moved adjusted essential worker pay resolution to Board (carried)
• Tabled Sheriff's armored vehicle proposal until Jan 25, 2022 (carried)
• Tabled Bloomingdale broadband proposals until Feb 8, 2022 (carried)
• Tabled Midwest Energy broadband proposal until Feb 8, 2022 (carried)
• Tabled Children's Advocacy Center proposal until Jan 11, 2022 (carried)
• Denied ARPA funding for jail privacy wall/holding cells, added to CIP list (carried)
• Denied ARPA funding for jail recreation room divider wall, added to CIP list (carried)

Veterans Services Committee

The Veterans Services Committee will meet to review a general update on veterans services. The committee will also discuss the marketing and outreach of these services.

• Veterans Services Update presented by David Krzycki
• Marketing and Outreach of Veterans Services presented by David Krzycki
• Approval of 10/12/2021 meeting minutes

The committee heard a statistical update from Veterans Services Director David Krzycki covering October and November, including contacts, claims, VA healthcare enrollment, and home visits. Krzycki also presented marketing and outreach efforts, such as the Veterans Stand Down, radio ads, and assistance to veterans in the court system. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the agenda and prior meeting minutes.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved 10/12/2021 meeting minutes

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee will discuss a USDA lease offer for a property in Hartford and the creation of a full-time mobile drug tester position. The body will also consider appointments to the Land Bank Authority and the Area Agency on Aging.

• USDA Lease Offer for 57418 CR 681, Hartord, MI
• Creation of Full-Time Mobile Drug Tester Position
• SHRM Employee Engagement Survey Proposal
• Appointment of Lisa Imus to the Land Bank Authority
• Re-Appointment of Don Hanson and Gail Patterson-Gladney to the Area Agency on Aging

The Administrative Affairs Committee approved several items, including a $8,170 employee engagement survey by SHRM, creation of a full-time mobile drug tester position for Specialty Courts (fully grant-funded), authorization for the County Administrator to negotiate a USDA lease for property on CR 681, and designation of the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum as planning agency for a Materials Management grant. Also approved were reappointments to the Area Agency on Aging, an appointment to the Land Bank Authority, and a salary exception for a Tax Adjustment Specialist.

• Approved SHRM employee engagement survey for $8,170 (motion carried)
• Approved hiring full-time mobile drug tester for Specialty Courts (motion carried)
• Authorized County Administrator to negotiate and sign USDA lease for CR 681 property (motion carried)
• Approved West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum as planning agency for Materials Management grant (motion carried)
• Re-appointed Don Hanson and Gail Patterson-Gladney to Area Agency on Aging (motion carried)
• Appointed Lisa Imus to Land Bank Authority (motion carried)
• Approved salary exception for Tax Adjustment Specialist to R23 Step C (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing several facility improvements funded by ARPA and various personnel and contract updates. The body is reviewing proposals for HVAC and window replacements at county buildings.

• USDA Lease Offer for 57418 CR 681, Hartord, MI
• ARPA proposals for HVAC at 911 Operations Center and Historic Courthouse
• ARPA proposals for windows at Annex Building and Historic Courthouse
• Appointment of Lisa Imus to the Land Bank Authority
• Approval of the Annual Child Care Fund Plan and Budget

The Van Buren County Committee of the Whole approved several items for the Board of Commissioners, including ARPA-funded HVAC projects for the 911 Operations Center ($82,000) and Historic Courthouse ($142,000), both with 5% contingencies. A window replacement request for the Annex Building died for lack of a second, and a similar request for the Historic Courthouse was tabled for more quotes and research. The committee also approved a USDA lease negotiation, appointments, salary exceptions, and other administrative actions.

• Approved HVAC project for 911 Operations Center under ARPA, $82,000 (6-1)
• Approved HVAC project for Historic Courthouse under ARPA, $142,000 (6-1)
• Tabled window replacement for Historic Courthouse for more quotes
• Window replacement for Annex Building died for lack of second
• Authorized negotiation and signing of USDA lease for CR 681 property
• Appointed Lisa Imus to Land Bank Authority for two-year term
• Approved salary exception for Tax Adjustment Specialist at R-23 Step C
• Approved auction of four forfeited vehicles via Biddergy

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to review administrative appointments, software purchases, and budget plans. Key discussions include a local state of emergency extension and a contract extension for public transit workers.

• Extension to the Local State of Emergency for Van Buren County
• One year contract extension for AFSCME Local 2628.12 (Public Transit)
• USDA Lease Offer for 57418 CR 681, Hartford, MI
• 2022 Annual Child Care Fund Plan and Budget
• MDOT Master Agreement 2022-0144

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved a series of administrative, finance, and labor resolutions at its December 14, 2021 meeting. The board extended the local state of emergency related to COVID-19 until June 30, 2022, and approved a $27,528 annual contract for a countywide web-based training program. Other actions included authorizing a lease negotiation with the USDA, creating a full-time mobile drug tester position, approving a $16.6 million claims payment, and extending a union contract with a 2% pay increase.

• Extended local COVID-19 state of emergency until June 30, 2022
• Approved 3-year Global Eagle eLearning training program at $27,528/year
• Authorized USDA lease negotiations for 57418 CR 681, Hartford, MI
• Created full-time mobile drug tester position (grant-funded)
• Approved $16,600,756.11 in November 2021 claims
• Approved one-year AFSCME Local 2628.12 contract extension with 2% pay increase
• Approved $41,263.48 Ivanti endpoint management software purchase
• Authorized Board Chair to sign National Opioid Settlement documents

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission is meeting to discuss a specific burial relief request. The body will also review minutes from the October 4, 2021 meeting.

• SSRF Burial Relief Request for Veteran Vetraspec number 301758

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission approved a $300 burial relief request for a veteran and a $1,309.29 emergency relief payment for another veteran's utility and rent costs. Both motions carried unanimously. The committee also approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, and heard an update on veteran services outreach.

• Approved $300 burial relief for Vetraspec 301758
• Approved $1,309.29 emergency relief for Vetraspec 323236
• Approved agenda with addition of item 7b
• Approved 10/04/2021 meeting minutes

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review several administrative and financial items, including the National Opioid Settlement and a software purchase. The body will also consider a payscale exception for the Chief Probation Officer and the annual Child Care Fund plan.

• National Opioid Settlement
• Ivanti Endpoint Management Software purchase
• Annual Child Care Fund Plan and Budget
• Payscale Exception for Chief Probation Officer
• Auction of Forfeited Vehicles

The Finance Committee approved several items, including the auction of forfeited vehicles, the Annual Child Care Fund Plan and Budget, a pay scale exception for the Chief Probation Officer, a three-year Ivanti Endpoint Management Software purchase, the Board Chair signing National Opioid Settlement documents, November claims of $16,600,756.11, and Commissioner Per Diems. The EPS Expense Presentation and Monthly Financial Statement were presented for information only, with no action taken.

• Approved auction of forfeited vehicles via Biddergy (carried)
• Approved Annual Child Care Fund Plan and Budget (carried)
• Approved pay scale exception for Chief Probation Officer at $66,612 (carried)
• Approved purchase of Ivanti Endpoint Management Software for $41,263.48 (carried)
• Approved Board Chair to sign National Opioid Settlement documents (carried)
• Approved November claims of $16,600,756.11 (carried)
• Approved payment of Commissioner Per Diems (carried)

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee is meeting to receive an update on ARPA funds and review 11 specific proposals. These proposals cover broadband expansion, vehicle procurement, and HVAC and window upgrades for county buildings.

• Proposal #009: Sheriff's Office Armored Vehicle
• Proposal #010 and #017: Broadband via Bloomingdale Communications (including Almena Twnshp)
• Proposal #018: Broadband via Midwest Energy & Communications (Hamilton Twp Project)
• HVAC proposals for 911 Operations Center, Historic Courthouse, and Administration Building
• Window proposals for Administration Building, Annex Building, and Historic Courthouse

The ARPA Committee reviewed multiple proposals for spending federal funds but tabled most of them pending further research on funding options. It moved four proposals—HVAC for the 911 Operations Center, Historic Courthouse, and Administration Building, plus window replacements for the Annex and Historic Courthouse—to the December 14 Committee of the Whole for full board review. No final funding decisions were made.

• Tabled Sheriff's Office armored vehicle purchase ($239,525) pending funding research
• Tabled Bloomingdale Communications broadband proposal ($2,227,168) pending funding research
• Moved 911 Operations Center HVAC proposal ($82,000) to 12/14/21 COW
• Moved Historic Courthouse HVAC proposal ($142,000) to 12/14/21 COW
• Tabled Administration Building HVAC proposal ($122,000) pending renovation decision
• Tabled Administration Building window replacement ($114,000) pending renovation decision
• Moved Annex Building window replacement ($193,713) to 12/14/21 COW (Schincariol voted no)
• Moved Historic Courthouse window replacement ($354,071) to 12/14/21 COW

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved four items: the HR update was informational only; the LEPC contract renewal with Steve Smith was approved at $20/hour for up to 100 hours (max $2,000) from Dec 1, 2021 to Sept 30, 2022; a one-year contract extension for AFSCME Local 2628.12 (Public Transit) through 2022 was approved; and the 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant ARPA agreement package from the State of Michigan was approved. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved 10/26/2021 committee meeting minutes
• Approved LEPC contract renewal with Steve Smith at $20/hour for up to 100 hours (max $2,000) from Dec 1, 2021 to Sept 30, 2022
• Approved one-year contract extension for AFSCME Local 2628.12 (Public Transit) through 2022
• Approved 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant ARPA agreement package from the State of Michigan

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Buildings & Grounds Committee approved a landscaping proposal from Lawn Boys at $59,000 plus $26,000 for extra services, and approved a janitorial services proposal at $7,875 per month ($94,500 annually). The committee tabled the CIP Projects discussion to a later date pending ARPA item outcomes. The Buildings & Grounds update was presented with no action needed.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved 10/26/2021 meeting minutes
• Tabled CIP Projects to a later date
• Approved landscaping at $59,000 plus $26,000 for extra services
• Approved janitorial services at $7,875/month ($94,500 annually)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a local state of emergency extension and a contract extension for AFSCME Local 2628.12 public transit workers. The body will also discuss various grant funds, including ARPA and CDBG housing funds, and property matters in Mattawan.

• Extension to the Local State of Emergency for Van Buren County
• One year contract extension for AFSCME Local 2628.12 (Public Transit)
• Proposal #008 for Sheriff's Office furniture mitigation purchase via ARPA
• MDOT Master Agreement 2022-0144
• Discussion of Mattawan Property and janitorial/landscaping proposals

The Committee of the Whole approved several items for the Board of Commissioners, including a $55,000 grant from Entergy to the Economic Development Strategic Fund and a 3-year, $27,528 contract with Global Eagle Company for a countywide training platform. They also approved a 6-month extension of the Local State of Emergency, a $35,000 CDBG emergency repair fund authorization, and a revised Apportionment Report. Other approvals included transitioning fiduciary responsibility for a Homeland Security Grant, re-appointing Sandy Hanson to the Library Board, and authorizing real estate agent selection for the Mattawan Property. The committee tabled a proposal for Sheriff's Office furniture until December 14, 2021.

• Approved a 3-year contract with Global Eagle Company for a training platform at $27,528.
• Approved acceptance of a $55,000 grant from Entergy to the Economic Development Strategic Fund.
• Approved a 6-month extension of the Local State of Emergency for Van Buren County.
• Approved authorization for the Board Chair to sign documents for CDBG emergency repair Program Income Funds in the amount of $35,000.
• Approved the revised Apportionment Report due to the Bloomingdale Township road millage.
• Approved transition of fiduciary responsibility for the Regional Homeland Security Grant to another county.
• Approved re-appointment of Sandy Hanson to the District Library Board for a 4-year term expiring 12/31/2025.
• Tabled Proposal #008 for Sheriff's Office furniture mitigation until December 14, 2021.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several ARPA funding proposals and requests for county property use. The meeting includes reviews of animal control and IT purchases, as well as staffing changes in the Sheriff's and Treasurer's offices.

• ARPA Proposal #001 for 5 West Main Street, Hartford - Land Bank Authority
• ARPA proposals for Essential Workers Premium Pay, Loss Revenue, and Voice Evacuation Systems
• Request to use county property for Wine & Harvest 2022
• Purchase of a new animal control truck and Microsoft Datacenter Licensing
• Elimination of a part-time position and creation of a full-time position in the Treasurer's Office

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved multiple resolutions, including accepting a $55,000 grant from Entergy for the Economic Development Strategic Fund, approving a $156,389.23 ARPA-funded premium pay plan for 148 county employees, and allocating $75,000 in ARPA funds for repairs to a building in Hartford. The board also approved a $7.3 million contract for janitorial services at the Paw Paw Courthouse and Annex, authorized the county administrator to negotiate the sale of the Mattawan property, and accepted several state grants for court programs and IT infrastructure.

• Approved application and acceptance of a $55,000 grant from Entergy to the Economic Development Strategic Fund.
• Approved the revised apportionment report including Bloomingdale's road millage.
• Approved the transition of the Regional Homeland Security Grant fiduciary role to another county.
• Approved $75,000 in ARPA funds for repairs to 5 West Main Street, Hartford.
• Approved $156,389.23 in ARPA funds for premium pay for 148 county employees.
• Approved $4,035,152 in ARPA funds for revenue loss to the Capital Improvement Fund.
• Approved $120,000 in ARPA funds for emergency voice evacuation systems in county buildings.
• Approved the use of county property for the 2022 Wine and Harvest Festival.

General

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing regarding program income for a CDBG Housing Grant. The item will be presented by County Administrator Frank Hardester.

• Public hearing on CDBG Housing Grant - Program Income

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee voted to split Bloomingdale Communications' $3.5 million broadband expansion proposal into two separate proposals for further review, and approved moving the Sheriff's Office furniture mitigation purchase to the Committee of the Whole. No final funding decisions were made.

• Motion to split broadband proposal into 2 proposals and bring back on 11/23/21 (carried)
• Motion to support Sheriff's Office furniture proposal and move to 11/23/21 COW (carried, Schincariol no)

Public Transit Committee

The Van Buren County Public Transit Committee approved the August and September 2021 financial and operations reports, and the MDOT Master Agreement 2022-0144, authorizing the Board Chairperson to sign digitally. The committee also approved an appointment application for Melanie Giddings to the Public Transit Local Advisory Council, forwarding it to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners for final approval. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 1:40 PM.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved 9/14/2021 meeting minutes
• Approved August and September 2021 financial and operations reports
• Approved MDOT Master Agreement 2022-0144 and authorized digital signature
• Approved Melanie Giddings' appointment application to Public Transit Local Advisory Council

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee approved a 3-year proposal from Global Eagle for eLearning training courses at $27,528 annually, funded from the Human Resources budget, and moved it to the 11/23/21 COW and 12/14/21 BOC for final approval. The committee also approved re-appointing Sandy Hanson to the Library Board for a four-year term (2022-2025) and approved applying for a $55,000 Economic Development Strategic Fund Grant. An employee engagement survey presentation was discussed but no decision was made; it will return with cost and paper-version details.

• Approved 3-year Global Eagle eLearning proposal at $27,528 annually (moved to COW and BOC)
• Approved re-appointment of Sandy Hanson to Library Board for 2022-2025 term
• Approved application for $55,000 Economic Development Strategic Fund Grant
• Approved agenda and prior meeting minutes (procedural)

Committee of the Whole

The Van Buren County Committee of the Whole approved several ARPA funding proposals, including $75,000 for repairs to 5 West Main St. in Hartford and $156,389.23 for $1,000 premium pay for 131 essential workers, both by 6-1 votes. They also approved transferring $4,035,152 in ARPA funds for revenue loss and $120,000 for voice evacuation systems. Several other items were approved for final action at the next regular board meeting, including a new animal control truck, grant contracts, and a Sheriff's support staff restructure.

• Approved ARPA funds for 5 West Main St. repairs ($75,000) (6-1)
• Approved $1,000 premium pay for 131 essential workers ($156,389.23) (6-1)
• Approved transfer of $4,035,152 ARPA funds to Capital Improvement Fund
• Approved $120,000 for voice evacuation systems in three county buildings (6-1)
• Sent HVAC project and window replacement proposals back to ARPA Committee
• Approved use of county property for 2022 Wine and Harvest Festival
• Approved agreement with MSUE for Veterans Horticulture Therapy Program
• Approved purchase of Animal Control truck from Tapper Ford (not to exceed $27,000)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss emergency management and hazardous mitigation grants. The meeting includes reviews of coronavirus emergency supplemental funding and proposals for veterans services.

• 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grants
• Hazardous Mitigation Grant for HazMit Plan
• Michigan Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) Grant
• Veterans Services Relief Fund Proposal
• VFW Service Agreement for the Stand Down Event

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved several resolutions, including a $150,000 CESF grant application to the Michigan State Police for remote court operations, a $32,000 hazard mitigation plan update with a $10,350 local match, and $364,218.64 in October claims. They also approved a $5,034 veteran relief fund payment and a $1,000 VFW service agreement for a Stand Down event. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved FY 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant renewal (unanimous)
• Approved Hazard Mitigation Plan update via SWMPC, $32,000 grant with $10,350 local match (unanimous)
• Approved $150,000 CESF grant application for remote court operations (unanimous)
• Approved FY 20 CESF extension request through 12/31/21, $7,481 (unanimous)
• Approved October 2021 claims of $364,218.64 (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2020/2021 credit card claims of $1,868,097.52 (unanimous)
• Approved $5,034 veteran relief fund assistance (unanimous)
• Approved $1,000 VFW service agreement for Stand Down event (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss various expenditures, grant awards, and contracts. The body will review budget adjustments, financial statements, and specific purchase requests.

• Purchase of a new animal control truck
• Pine Grove Township Sheriff's Office Contract
• Fiscal Year 2022 OCC Grant Contracts
• Michigan Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding (CESF) Grant
• Microsoft Datacenter Licensing Purchase

The Van Buren County Finance Committee approved several purchases and contracts, all subject to final approval by the Board of Commissioners. Key actions included approving a new Animal Control vehicle not to exceed $27,000, the Pine Grove Township Sheriff's Office contract, and multiple grant awards totaling over $800,000. The committee also approved claims and credit card claims for October 2021, along with various administrative expenses.

• Approved Animal Control vehicle purchase up to $27,000, moved to 11/23/21 COW and 12/14/21 BOC
• Approved Pine Grove Township Sheriff's Office contract, moved to 11/23/21 COW
• Approved FY 2022 OCC Grant of $150,000, moved to 11/9/21 COW and 11/23/21 BOC
• Approved Specialty Courts Grant Awards totaling $650,032, moved to 11/9/21 COW and 11/23/21 BOC
• Approved CESF Grant application submission of $150,000, moved to 11/9/21 COW and BOC
• Approved Microsoft Datacenter Licensing purchase at $17,466.60, moved to 11/9/21 COW and 11/23/21 BOC
• Approved October 2021 claims of $364,218.64, moved to 11/9/21 BOC
• Approved FY 2020/2021 credit card claims of $1,868,097.52, moved to 11/9/21 COW and BOC

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee will review human resources updates and specific staffing adjustments. The body will discuss a salary exception for an IT Generalist II and restructuring within the Sheriff's office and Treasurer's office.

• IT Generalist II salary exception
• Sheriff's Support Staff restructure
• Elimination of a part-time position and creation of a full-time position in the Treasurer's Office
• HR Update

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved three personnel actions: a salary exception for the IT Generalist II position, a restructure of Sheriff's support staff, and the elimination of a part-time Treasurer's Office position in favor of a full-time Tax Adjustment Specialist. All motions carried unanimously. No public comment was received.

• Approved salary exception for IT Generalist II at step C of pay scale 27, annual salary $50,680.50 (carried)
• Approved Sheriff's Support Staff Restructure with new job responsibilities and pay scales (carried)
• Approved elimination of part-time position and creation of full-time Tax Adjustment Specialist (R23) in Treasurer's Office (carried)

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Buildings and Grounds Committee will review a request to use county property for Wine & Harvest 2022. The body will also discuss Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects and an agreement for the MSUE Veterans Therapy Garden.

• Request to use county property for Wine & Harvest 2022
• Discussion of CIP Projects
• MSUE Veterans Therapy Garden Agreement

The Buildings and Grounds Committee approved a request to use county property for arts and crafts during the 2022 Wine and Harvest Festival, and approved an agreement with MSUE for a Veterans Therapy Garden at the 801 Hazen Street property, including funding for water, electrical services, and insurance. The committee also discussed CIP projects funded with ARPA funds, but deferred action until the next meeting on 11/23/21.

• Approved request to use county property for Wine & Harvest 2022 arts and crafts (motion carried)
• Approved MSUE Veterans Therapy Garden agreement at 801 Hazen Street, including funding for water, electrical, and insurance (motion carried)
• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved 9/29/2021 Buildings & Grounds meeting minutes as presented (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review updates on the Palisades decommissioning and eLearning training courses. The body will also discuss emergency management and hazardous mitigation grants, as well as a Veterans Services relief fund proposal.

• Palisades Decommissioning Update
• 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grants
• Hazardous Mitigation Grant for HazMit Plan update
• Foster Swift Invoice for New Covert Generating
• VFW Service Agreement for the Stand Down Event

The Van Buren County Committee of the Whole approved several items to be ratified by the Board of Commissioners, including grant applications, a salary exception, and payments. They also received presentations on eLearning training and the Palisades decommissioning update.

• Approved FY2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant renewal (motion carried)
• Approved applying for Hazardous Mitigation Grant with 25% county match (motion carried)
• Approved payment of $1,547 to Foster Swift for New Covert Generating litigation (motion carried)
• Approved salary exception for IT Generalist II at step 27C (motion carried)
• Approved using $5,034 from Veterans Relief Fund to cover overpayment (motion carried)
• Approved VFW Service Agreement for Stand Down Event with $1,000 payment (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review requests for new sheriff's office patrol vehicles and narcotics detection equipment. The body is also discussing drain assessment levies and public transit staffing changes.

• Purchase of five new Sheriff's Office patrol vehicles
• Purchase of Tru-Narc Scientific Narcotics Detection Device and Active Shooter Kits
• Request to approve the levy of drain assessments
• Central County Transportation Authority bus purchase agreement
• Elimination and creation of public transit positions

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved all agenda items, including $4,782,418.91 in September claims, $556,316.80 in drain assessments, and several purchases for the Sheriff's Office and facilities. All motions passed unanimously with no discussion or public comment.

• Approved $4,782,418.91 in September 2021 claims
• Approved $556,316.80 in drain assessments for December tax bills
• Approved generator purchase for South Haven facility, not to exceed $25,000
• Approved snow removal contracts for 2020-2021 season
• Approved transfer of Bangor Sheriff Substation back to City of Bangor
• Approved $194,465 MSU Extension agreement for FY 2022
• Approved purchase of Tru-Narc narcotics detection device ($30,835.99)
• Approved purchase of five new Sheriff's patrol vehicles (up to $210,000 total)

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee approved six proposals to be discussed further at the 11/9/21 Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting, including $75,000 for a Hartford building rehabilitation, $156,389.23 for essential worker premium pay, $4,035,152.00 for loss revenue, $120,000 for voice evacuation systems, $323,000 for HVAC improvements, and $550,000 for window replacement. All motions carried unanimously. No final funding decisions were made; these are recommendations for further discussion.

• Approved 5 West Main Street, Hartford rehabilitation proposal for further discussion at 11/9/21 COW
• Approved Essential Workers Premium Pay request ($156,389.23) for further discussion at 11/9/21 COW
• Approved Loss Revenue transfer ($4,035,152.00) for further discussion at 11/9/21 COW
• Approved Voice Evacuation Systems (~$120,000) for further discussion at 11/9/21 COW
• Approved HVAC Project ($323,000) for further discussion at 11/9/21 COW
• Approved Window Replacement ($550,000) for further discussion at 11/9/21 COW

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee met and heard updates on ARPA fund usage, including broadband grant coordination, premium pay for essential workers, and potential funding for building repairs and affordable housing. No formal funding decisions were made; the committee approved the agenda and previous meeting minutes.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved 9/29/2021 ARPA Committee meeting minutes

Veterans Services Committee

The Veterans Services Committee approved a service agreement with the VFW for the Stand Down event on October 15, 2021, to avoid potential audit findings. They also approved a fund transfer to the appropriate relief fund general ledger account after a request was denied by the SSRF Commission. The committee approved the amended agenda and the minutes from the August 13, 2021 meeting.

• Approved the amended agenda, adding item 7D to discuss the VFW Service Agreement.
• Approved the 8/13/2021 Veterans Services Committee Meeting Minutes as presented.
• Approved the fund transfer to the appropriate relief fund general ledger account.
• Approved the Service Agreement with the VFW for the Stand Down event on October 15, 2021.

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss human resources surveys and training. The body will also review requests regarding drain assessments and several emergency management and homeland security grants.

• Request to approve the levy of drain assessments
• SHRM Employee Engagement Survey
• Global Eagle Company (GECBTS) eLearning Training Courses
• 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grants
• Hazardous Mitigation Grant for HazMit Plan update

The Administrative Affairs Committee approved the levy of drain assessments as presented, approved the 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant, supported moving the Homeland Security Grant fiduciary to another county, and approved the Hazardous Mitigation Grant for the HazMit Plan update. The committee tabled the SHRM employee engagement survey for a future presentation and moved the Global Eagle eLearning training presentation to the 10/26/21 Committee of the Whole meeting.

• Approved the agenda and the 9/14/2021 meeting minutes.
• Tabled the SHRM Employee Engagement Survey to the next meeting for a presentation.
• Moved the Global Eagle eLearning training presentation to the 10/26/21 COW meeting.
• Approved the Levy of Drain Assessments as presented.
• Approved the 2021 Emergency Management Performance Grant.
• Supported moving the Homeland Security Grant fiduciary to another county.
• Approved the Hazardous Mitigation Grant for the HazMit Plan update.

General

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to discuss the 911 Service Plan. The plan will be presented by 911 Director Tim McGee.

• Public hearing on the 911 Service Plan

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing where the 911 Director presented an overview of the 911 Service Plan and By-laws. No formal decisions were made; the board only approved the agenda and adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion by Peat, second by Patterson-Gladney, carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole approved several items to be ratified at the next regular Board meeting, including $556,316.80 in drain and lake level assessments, a $25,000 generator for the South Haven facility, snow removal contracts, and the sale of the Bangor substation to the city for $1. They also approved various purchases and agreements, such as a narcotics detection device, active shooter kits, five patrol vehicles, and a bus purchase agreement. The Mattawan property was not listed for sale, allowing the Conservation District to explore purchasing it.

• Approved drain and lake level assessments of $556,316.80
• Approved generator purchase/installation for South Haven facility up to $25,000
• Approved snow removal contracts as recommended
• Approved sale of 14 Pine Street to City of Bangor for $1
• Approved not listing Mattawan Property, allowing Conservation District to explore purchase
• Approved Tru-Narc narcotics detection device purchase for $30,835.99
• Approved Active Shooter Kits purchase for $83,811.25
• Approved purchase of five new patrol cars from Tapper Ford

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved the 2021-2022 Domestic Violence Coalition Services Agreement for $25,000, transferred two tax-foreclosed parcels to Columbia Township, adopted the Final 911 Service Plan, and approved a janitorial services agreement for the Hazen Street facility. The board also passed a resolution requesting the state legislature to remove the sunset on remote meeting participation, and authorized a settlement in the Pruente litigation after closed session.

• Approved 2021-2022 Domestic Violence Coalition Services Agreement ($25,000)
• Transferred two parcels (Tax ID # 80-06-282-113-00 & 80-06-282-111-00) to Columbia Township
• Adopted resolution requesting state legislature to remove sunset on remote meeting participation
• Appointed Lisa Imus to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (term expires 6/1/2024)
• Adopted Final 911 Service Plan and By-Laws
• Approved janitorial services agreement for 801 Hazen Street ($1,225/month, $14,700/year)
• Authorized settlement in Pruente litigation after closed session

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to review claims, budget adjustments, and monthly financial statements. The body will discuss several equipment purchases for the Sheriff's Office and a bus purchase agreement for the Central County Transportation Authority.

• Purchase of five new Sheriff's Office patrol vehicles
• Purchase of Tru-Narc Scientific Narcotics Detection Device
• Purchase of "Active Shooter Kit" for patrol cars
• Central County Transportation Authority Bus Purchase Agreement
• MSU Extension Memorandum of Agreement Annual Renewal FY 2022

The Van Buren County Finance Committee approved September 2021 claims totaling $4,782,418.91, year-end budget adjustments, and several purchases including a narcotics detection device, active shooter kits, and five patrol vehicles. All motions carried unanimously with no recorded opposition.

• Approved September 2021 claims of $4,782,418.91
• Approved year-end budget adjustments
• Approved Foster Swift invoice for $1,547.00
• Approved MSU Extension MOA annual renewal for FY 2022 with 2% increase
• Approved Central County Transportation Authority bus purchase grant agreement (3 buses, 2021-2023)
• Approved purchase of Tru-Narc narcotics detection device for $30,835.99
• Approved purchase of 25 Active Shooter kits for $83,811.25
• Approved purchase of five sheriff's patrol vehicles

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission is meeting to discuss emergency relief and burial assistance. The body will also review minutes from the September 7, 2021 meeting.

• Emergency Relief / Burial Assistance for Theresa Hampton
• Emergency Relief / Burial Assistance for Scott Barkalow
• Approval of 09/07/2021 meeting minutes

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission denied a request to move $5,034 to emergency relief funds after an applicant was mistakenly sent and cashed a $5,334 burial check. The committee approved a re-application process for a previously approved bathroom upgrade, requiring three bids and direct payment to the contractor. Two $300 burial fund applications were approved, and one was denied due to the veteran's estate.

• Denied request to move $5,034 to emergency relief funds after overpayment error
• Approved re-application for bathroom upgrade with 3 bids and direct contractor payment
• Approved $300 burial fund for auto accident victim
• Approved $300 burial fund for guardian-appointed veteran
• Denied $300 burial fund due to $112,000 estate
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved 09/07/2021 minutes as amended

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee will meet to review and discuss an ARPA press release and receive a general update on the program. The committee will also vote on the approval of the August 24, 2021, meeting minutes.

• Approval of 8/24/2021 ARPA Committee Meeting Minutes
• Discussion of ARPA Press Release
• ARPA Update presented by County Administrator Frank Hardester

The ARPA Committee approved the agenda and the 8/24/2021 meeting minutes. Steve Schultz of Bloomingdale Communications presented two broadband projects (Reconnect Round 1 and 2) for potential ARPA funding, and discussion followed. The committee reviewed a press release announcing the acceptance of ARPA fund proposals, to be sent out soon. No final decisions were made on funding requests.

• Approved the agenda as presented
• Approved the 8/24/2021 ARPA Committee Meeting Minutes
• Heard presentation from Bloomingdale Communications on Reconnect Round 1 and 2 projects
• Reviewed ARPA press release announcing proposal acceptance; no vote taken
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:58 AM

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee is discussing personnel updates and salary exceptions. The body will review staffing changes for the Drain Commission and Public Transit, as well as a contract Letter of Understanding for Public Transit.

• Salary and PTO exception for IT Generalist III
• Salary exception for IT Generalist II
• Salary exception for Veterans Services Officer
• Elimination and creation of Drain Commission position
• Elimination and creation of Public Transit positions

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved several personnel actions, including salary exceptions for a Veterans Services Officer and two IT positions, plus a PTO exception for one IT role. It also approved eliminating and creating positions in the Drain Commission and Public Transit departments, and approved a Public Transit contract extension with a 2% increase. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved salary exception for Veterans Services Officer at R24 step E (unanimous)
• Approved salary and PTO exception for IT Generalist III at R29 D step with 6.12 hours PTO accrual (unanimous)
• Approved salary exception for IT Generalist II at R27 1-year step (unanimous)
• Approved elimination of Chief Deputy Engineer and creation of Chief Deputy Drain Commissioner position (unanimous)
• Approved Public Transit position changes: eliminate Chief Operations Officer, create Financial Coordinator, reclassify Operations Supervisor, eliminate part-time safety trainer (unanimous)
• Approved Public Transit contract extension LOU with 2% increase (unanimous)

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Buildings and Grounds Committee will review reports on county facilities and staffing. The body is discussing equipment for the West Facility, snow removal bids, and specific property matters in Kalamazoo Street, Bangor, and Mattawan.

• Generator for the Van Buren County West Facility in South Haven
• Snow removal bids
• Kalamazoo Street properties
• Bangor Sheriff Substation
• Hazen Street janitorial agreement

The Buildings and Grounds Committee approved the purchase of a backup generator for the South Haven facility, approved the transfer of the Bangor Sheriff Substation back to the City of Bangor, and approved a janitorial agreement with MTI for the Hazen Street facility. The committee also discussed snow removal bids, staffing, and property acquisitions, but took no action on those items.

• Approved purchase of backup generator for South Haven facility, not to exceed $25,000
• Approved transfer of Bangor Sheriff Substation back to City of Bangor
• Approved janitorial agreement with MTI for Hazen Street facility, funded from budget #101.0-265.00-801.905

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a property transfer to Columbia Township and a services agreement for the Domestic Violence Coalition. The body will also discuss the Palisades Decommissioning update and several personnel salary exceptions.

• Transfer of property to Columbia Township
• Domestic Violence Coalition 2021-2022 Services Agreement
• Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) and State-Licensed Marijuana Businesses
• Hazen Street Janitorial Agreement
• Appointment of Lisa Imus to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Committee of the Whole approved several items to be ratified at the next regular Board meeting, including transferring two parcels to Columbia Township, renewing the Domestic Violence Coalition services agreement for $25,000, and supporting remote participation beyond the state expiration date. They also directed research into a possible County Parks Department and approved multiple personnel salary exceptions. The committee did not adopt a policy for Brownfield Redevelopment Authority assistance involving marijuana businesses.

• Approved transfer of two parcels to Columbia Township (4-2)
• Approved $25,000 DVC services agreement for 2021-2022 (5-1)
• Directed research on creating a County Parks Department
• Approved resolution supporting remote participation beyond 12-31-2021 (5-1)
• Re-appointed William Van Tassell to Land Preservation Board
• Approved appointment of Lisa Imus to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
• Approved janitorial agreement at Hazen Street ($1,225/month)
• Approved salary exceptions for VSO, IT Generalist III, IT Generalist II, and new Drain Commissioner position

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will discuss personnel salary and PTO exceptions for IT and Veterans Services staff. The board is also reviewing appointments for the Board of Canvassers and the Land Preservation Board.

• Board of Canvassers appointment
• Re-appointment of William Van Tassell to the Land Preservation Board
• Sheriff's Department items to be auctioned
• Veterans Services Officer salary exception
• IT Generalist II and III salary and PTO exceptions

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved several personnel actions, including salary exceptions for a new Veterans Services Officer and two IT positions, and the elimination of the Chief Deputy Engineer position in favor of a new Chief Deputy Drain Commissioner role. The board also appointed two members to the Board of Canvassers and re-appointed a member to the Land Preservation Board. All motions carried unanimously.

• Appointed Janet Abshagen and Mary Ann Middaugh to Board of Canvassers (4-year term)
• Re-appointed William VanTassell to Land Preservation Board (2-year term)
• Approved auction/recycling of Sheriff Department items
• Approved salary exception for Veterans Services Officer at $48,886.50
• Approved salary and PTO exception for IT Generalist III at $65,773 annually
• Approved salary exception for IT Generalist II at $50,680.50 annually
• Approved elimination of Chief Deputy Engineer position and creation of Chief Deputy Drain Commissioner position

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Budget and various committee reports. The meeting includes reviews of health board by-laws, transit contracts, and veterans services agreements.

• 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Budget
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P12 for replacement buses
• VHF Fire/EMS Radio System Upgrade Project equipment and installation
• Pawsitively K9 Service Agreement
• Van Buren / Cass District Health Veterans Treatment and Referral Agreement

The Board of Commissioners approved the 2021-2022 fiscal year budget, including a $24,269,277 general fund and $48,170,229 in other fund expenditures, along with property tax millage rates. The board also approved several resolutions, including updates to the Van Buren/Cass District Board of Health By-Laws, a property use request for a bike event, and a $1,873,165.48 claims payment for August 2021. Additionally, the board approved a VHF Fire/EMS radio system upgrade, a contract for replacement transit buses, and several veterans' service agreements.

• Approved the 2021-2022 General Fund Budget of $24,269,277 and all other fund expenditures totaling $48,170,229.
• Approved amendments to the Van Buren/Cass District Board of Health By-Laws.
• Approved Friends of the Blue Star Trail's request to use the South Haven facility parking lot for overflow parking on September 18, 2021.
• Approved claims totaling $1,873,165.48 for August 2021.
• Approved the purchase, installation, and programming of the VHF Fire/EMS Radio System Upgrade project.
• Approved MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P12 for replacement buses, totaling $203,158.
• Accepted the 2022 MVAA Grant award of up to $86,462 for County Veteran Service Operations.
• Approved the Veterans Treatment and Referral Agreement with Van Buren/Cass District Health Department and a service agreement with Pawsitively K9.

Public Transit Committee

The Public Transit Committee will meet to review the September 2021 Director report and financial and ridership data. The committee will also discuss replacement buses under MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P12.

• MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P12 regarding replacement buses
• September 2021 Director Report
• Financial and ridership reports

The Public Transit Committee approved the agenda and minutes, and received the Director's Report. They retroactively approved an MDOT contract for replacement buses, which had been signed by Commissioner Godfrey to meet a Sept. 3 deadline. Financial reports were also approved.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved 7/13/2021 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved Financial Reports (motion carried)
• Approved MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P12 for replacement buses (retroactive, motion carried)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The committee will meet to review several appointments and service agreements. Discussions include the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority's relationship with state-licensed marijuana businesses and the county's Parks Department.

• Board of Canvassers appointment
• Transfer of property to Columbia Township
• Re-appointment of William Van Tassell to the Land Preservation Board
• Domestic Violence Coalition 2021-2022 Services Agreement
• Appointment of Lisa Imus to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Administrative Affairs Committee approved transferring county-owned parcels to Columbia Township to create buildable lots, with the item moving to the Committee of the Whole on 9/29/21 and the BOC on 10/12/21. The committee also approved the Board of Canvassers appointment vote, William Van Tassell's re-appointment to the Land Preservation Board, the Domestic Violence Coalition services agreement, Lisa Imus's appointment to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and a motion to study a County Parks Department. It decided not to create a policy regarding marijuana businesses seeking BRA assistance.

• Approved transfer of county-owned parcels to Columbia Township (moved to COW 9/29/21, BOC 10/12/21)
• Approved moving Board of Canvassers vote to Committee of the Whole today, BOC on 9/29/21
• Approved re-appointment of William Van Tassell to Land Preservation Board (term to 5/1/2023)
• Approved not creating a policy for marijuana businesses or other legal businesses regarding BRA assistance
• Approved Domestic Violence Coalition 2021-2022 services agreement (moved to COW 9/29/21, BOC 10/12/21)
• Approved appointment of Lisa Imus to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (moved to COW 9/29/21, BOC 10/12/21)
• Approved further study of costs, scope, and vision for a County Parks Department (moved to COW 9/29/21, BOC 10/12/21)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review proposals for the use of ARPA funds and budget adjustments. The meeting includes a presentation on drug-related deaths and updates on county property and transit contracts.

• Proposed ARPA Resolution and Fund Use Proposals Form
• Budget Adjustments presented by Director of Financial Services
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P12 for replacement buses
• VHF Fire/EMS Radio System Upgrade Project equipment and installation
• Board of Canvassers Appointment

The Committee of the Whole approved several items to be ratified by the full Board, including a statement on allowable uses of ARPA funds and a form for community proposals. They also approved a $31,919.48 legal payment (6-1), a $203,158 MDOT contract for two replacement buses, and a one-month delay in listing the Mattawan property. A presentation on opioid deaths was removed from the agenda.

• Approved ARPA resolution statement on allowable uses (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA fund use proposals form (unanimous)
• Approved payment to Foster Swift for legal services $31,919.48 (6-1)
• Approved MDOT contract for two replacement buses $203,158 (unanimous)
• Approved one-month extension for Mattawan property listing (unanimous)
• Approved use of South Haven facility parking lot for Lakeshore Harvest Ride (unanimous)
• Approved acknowledgment of Ray Bartles' 100th birthday (unanimous)
• Approved monthly budget adjustments (unanimous)

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission is meeting to discuss emergency relief and burial assistance forms. The body will also review specific relief requests.

• SSRF Emergency Relief and Burial Assistance Form
• Relief request from Stoney Summey
• Relief request from Sherry Swartz

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission approved the updated SSRF Emergency Relief and Burial Assistance Application, with amendments to indicate that some items can be skipped for burial assistance and to make the approval form separate from the request form. The commission also discussed a $24,000 shower installation relief request approved in May 2020 that had not been paid, which was tabled for research at the next meeting. The new Veterans Services Director, David Krzycki, was welcomed and introduced himself.

• Approved the agenda as presented
• Approved the 8/2/2021 meeting minutes
• Approved the SSRF Emergency Relief and Burial Assistance Application as amended
• Tabled discussion of a $24,000 unpaid relief request for a shower installation until the next meeting

Finance Committee

The Van Buren County Finance Committee will review claims, budget adjustments, and monthly financial statements. The body will also discuss equipment and programming for the VHF Fire/EMS Radio System Upgrade Project.

• VHF Fire/EMS Radio System Upgrade Project equipment and installation
• Budget adjustments
• Sheriff's Department items to be auctioned
• Foster Swift invoice for new covert generating
• Commissioner per diems

The Van Buren County Finance Committee approved the August 2021 claims, FY 2020-2021 budget adjustments, and several other items, including a VHF Fire/EMS radio system upgrade and payment of a Foster Swift invoice. The committee also discussed the John Hancock retirement annuity, noting funds need to be moved from the stock exchange to a county fund. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved August 2021 claims (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2020-2021 budget adjustments and authorized additional adjustments through fiscal year end (unanimous)
• Approved VHF Fire/EMS radio system upgrade and moved to COW/BOC for 9/14/21 (unanimous)
• Approved payment of Foster Swift invoice for New Covert Generating lawsuit (unanimous)
• Approved all submitted commissioner per diems (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and 8/3/2021 minutes (unanimous)

General

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to discuss the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) Community Development Block Grant.

• Public hearing regarding MEDC Community Development Block Grant

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on August 24, 2021, at which Zachary Morris presented information about the MEDC Community Development Block Grant. No public comments were made, and the board took no formal action on the grant. The meeting was adjourned after approximately two minutes.

• No formal decisions were made; the board only received a presentation on the MEDC Community Development Block Grant

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the 2021-2022 fiscal year budget and various administrative appointments. The meeting includes discussions on public transit contracts, veterans services agreements, and health board by-laws.

• 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Budget
• MDOT Contracts 2017-0136/P15 and 2017-0136/P14
• MEDC - Community Development Block Grant
• Pawsitively K9 Service Agreement
• Salary exceptions for Infrastructure Engineer and Veterans Services Director

The Van Buren County Committee of the Whole recommended approval of the 2021-2022 fiscal year budget, a MEDC Community Development Block Grant application, and several personnel actions including salary exceptions for an Infrastructure Engineer and a new Veterans Services Director. All motions carried unanimously. The recommendations will go to the full Board of Commissioners for final approval at upcoming meetings.

• Recommended approval of 2021-2022 fiscal year budget (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of MEDC Community Development Block Grant application (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of salary exception for Infrastructure Engineer at $65,773.50 annually (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of salary range adjustment for Veterans' Services Director to R30 (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of salary exception for Veterans Services Director David Krzycki at Step E ($69,732) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of MDOT contract 2017-0136/P15 for bus replacement ($128,125) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of MDOT contract 2017-0136/P14 for bus replacement ($108,846) (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of 2022 MVAA Grant, Veterans Treatment and Referral Agreement, and Pawsitively K9 Service Agreement (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several appointments to county boards and commissions. The meeting includes discussions on MDOT contracts for facility expansion and finance department staffing changes.

• Appointments for Public Transit Board, Land Preservation Board, Economic Development Corporation, and Jury Board
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P13 regarding facility expansion
• Finance Department position elimination and creation
• 2022/2025 Orthophoto & Oblique Aerial Photography (Pictometry)
• MEDC Community Development Block Grant presentation

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to submit a $570,000 Community Development Block Grant application to MEDC, supporting the Welch's Lawton plant expansion with 57 new jobs and over $26 million in investment. The board also approved several personnel actions, including creating a new Finance Operations Manager position, salary adjustments for the Infrastructure Engineer and Veterans' Services Director, and a pay scale assignment for the Public Transit Director. Multiple contracts for transit facility expansion and bus replacements were approved, along with various board appointments and an aerial photography plan.

• Approved submission of $570,000 CDBG application for Welch's Lawton expansion (unanimous)
• Approved creation of Finance Operations Manager position, eliminating Financial Services Coordinator (unanimous)
• Approved salary exception for Infrastructure Engineer at $65,773.50 annually (unanimous)
• Approved Veterans' Services Director salary range adjustment to R30 ($54,951-$74,665.50) (unanimous)
• Approved salary exception for new Veterans' Services Director David Krzycki at $69,732 (unanimous)
• Approved MDOT contract 2017-0136-P13 for transit facility expansion, $468,750 (unanimous)
• Approved MDOT contracts for bus replacements totaling $236,971 (unanimous)
• Approved 2022/2025 aerial photography plan with Eagleview for $268,710 (unanimous)

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee will meet to receive an update and review forms and a proposed resolution. These items are presented by County Administrator Frank Hardester.

• ARPA Update
• Review of forms
• Proposed ARPA Resolution

The ARPA Committee approved an updated ARPA funding form with a 'subject to change' disclaimer and a draft resolution with a 7-year retention statement, both to be presented to the full board on 9/14/21. The committee also heard a soft request for broadband funding from Bloomingdale Communications, which will submit a formal proposal later.

• Approved the 8/24/21 ARPA Committee agenda.
• Approved the 8/10/21 ARPA Committee meeting minutes.
• Approved the updated ARPA form with a 'subject to change' disclaimer, to be presented to the full board on 9/14/21.
• Approved the draft ARPA resolution with a 7-year retention statement, to be presented to the full board on 9/14/21.

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The committee will meet to review the previous meeting minutes from July 27, 2021. The agenda includes a Buildings and Grounds update presented by Director Jeff Hall.

• Approval of July 27, 2021, meeting minutes
• Buildings and Grounds Update by Jeff Hall

The Buildings and Grounds Committee met and approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting. Administrator Hardester reported on discussions with Sheriff Dan Abbott about the Sheriff's Substation in Bangor and pole barns, and discussed the possible purchase of two buildings on the southwest corner of the property adjacent to the Sheriff's parking lot in Paw Paw. He will obtain appraisals before the board makes any purchase decisions. No formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved 8/24/2021 agenda (motion carried)
• Approved 7/27/2021 minutes (motion carried)

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee will review human resources updates and personnel matters. The body is discussing salary exceptions for an Infrastructure Engineer and the Veterans' Services Director.

• Infrastructure Engineer salary exception
• Veterans' Services Director appointment or review
• Veterans Services Director salary exception
• HR Update presented by Anna Cerven

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved a salary exception to start new Infrastructure Engineer Joshua Perk at the 3-year step of the R29 salary scale. It also approved re-assigning the Veterans Services Director position from R29 to R30 on the non-union scale and approved a salary exception for new Veterans Services Director David Krzycki to be placed at Step E at the R30 scale, effective 8/19/21. The committee approved the agenda and minutes from the 7/27/2021 meeting, and received an HR update covering MERS, the Maxwell Health Benefits Portal, the OnBase Project, an engagement survey, new policies, and upcoming interviews for the Veterans Services Officer and Public Transit Director positions.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Approved the 7/27/2021 Labor, Negotiations, and Contracts Committee meeting minutes as presented.
• Approved a salary exception to start Infrastructure Engineer Joshua Perk at the 3-year step of the R29 salary scale.
• Approved re-assigning the Veterans Services Director position from R29 to R30 on the non-union scale.
• Approved a salary exception for Veterans Services Director David Krzycki to be placed at Step E at the R30 non-union scale, effective 8/19/21.
• Adjourned the meeting at 1:23 PM.

Veterans Services Committee

The Veterans Services Committee is meeting to conduct interviews with five individuals. The remainder of the meeting consists of procedural items.

• Interview with Angela Dickerson
• Interview with Karianne Thomas
• Interview with Shawn Caulder
• Interview with Richard Gilbert
• Interview with David Krzycki

The Van Buren County Veterans Services Committee met and conducted interviews with five candidates for a position. No decisions were made regarding hiring; the committee only approved the agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approved the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the 8/10/2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Veterans Services Committee

The committee will receive updates on veterans services and the MVAA Service Fund Grant. Members will discuss a transportation plan and schedule a special meeting to interview candidates for the Veterans' Services Director position.

• Veterans Services Update
• MVAA Service Fund Grant Update
• Transportation Plan
• Scheduling of interviews for Veterans' Services Director

The committee approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, and received updates on Veterans Services, the MVAA Service Fund Grant, and a transportation plan. Interviews for the Veterans' Services Director position were scheduled for Friday, August 13, 2021, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved 7/22/21 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Scheduled Veterans' Services Director interviews for Aug 13, 2021, 1:00-5:00 PM

Public Transit Committee

The Public Transit Committee will meet to discuss the Public Transit Director position. The committee will also review MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P13 regarding facility expansion.

• Public Transit Director Position
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P13 - Facility Expansion

The Public Transit Committee approved setting the Transit Director position salary at R31, pending board approval. They also approved the MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P13 for facility expansion, with a recommendation to hold the project until a pending federal grant decision is known.

• Set Transit Director salary at R31, pending board approval (motion carried)
• Approved MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P13 for facility expansion (motion carried)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The committee will review several applications for board appointments and re-appointments. The agenda also includes discussions regarding the Employee Engagement Survey, property transfers, and Community Development Block Grants.

• Van Buren / Cass District Board of Health By Laws
• Re-appointment application: Faith Dowd (Public Transit Board)
• Re-appointment application: William Lawson (Land Preservation Board)
• Appointment application: Daywi Cook (Economic Development Corporation)
• Appointment application: Judy Janssen (Jury Board)

The Administrative Affairs Committee approved updated Van Buren/Cass District Board of Health bylaws, several board appointments and re-appointments, and a MEDC Community Development Block Grant application with a public hearing set for 8/24/21. The committee tabled the Employee Engagement Survey and the property transfer to Columbia Township for more information.

• Approved Van Buren/Cass District Board of Health by-laws (carried)
• Approved re-appointment of Faith Dowd to Public Transit Board (carried)
• Approved re-appointment of William Lawson to Land Preservation Board (carried)
• Approved appointment of Daywi Cook to Economic Development Corporation (carried)
• Approved appointment of Judy Janssen to Jury Board (carried)
• Tabled Employee Engagement Survey until next meeting (carried)
• Approved MEDC Community Development Block Grant application submission (carried)
• Approved public hearing for MEDC Grant on 8/24/21 (carried)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The committee is holding a public hearing to discuss the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Budget. The budget will be presented by County Administrator Frank Hardester and Director of Financial Services Ryan Post.

• Public hearing on the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Budget

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the 2021-2022 fiscal year budget. Administrator Hardester and Finance Director Post noted that no dollar amounts were budgeted for the Capital Improvement Plan. No public comments were made, and the hearing was adjourned without any decisions or votes.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss several board appointments and a decommissioning update for Palisades. The body is also reviewing budget adjustments and personnel changes within the Finance Department.

• Palisades Decommissioning Update
• Appointments for Public Transit Board, Land Preservation Board, Economic Development Corporation, and Jury Board
• EagleView Orthophoto & Oblique Aerial Photography (Pictometry) Project
• Finance Department position elimination and creation
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136 P13 regarding facility expansion

The Van Buren County Committee of the Whole approved several appointments and contracts, including reappointments to the Public Transit and Land Preservation Boards, and new appointments to the Economic Development Corporation and Jury Board. They also approved a $262,377.20 six-year contract with EagleView Pictometry, a $468,750 MDOT transit facility expansion agreement, and various budget adjustments. The committee tabled the Mattawan property appraisal and a MERS retirement plan discussion for further review.

• Approved reappointment of Faith Dowd to Public Transit Board (4-year term)
• Approved reappointment of William Lawson to Land Preservation Board (2-year term)
• Approved appointment of Daywi Cook to Economic Development Corporation
• Approved appointment of Judy Janssen to Jury Board
• Approved setting public hearing for CDBG grant for Welch's expansion
• Approved $262,377.20 EagleView Pictometry contract (6-year)
• Approved $468,750 MDOT transit facility expansion agreement
• Tabled Mattawan property appraisal and MERS plan discussion

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss administrative appointments, committee reports, and intergovernmental agreements. The board is also setting a public hearing for a Community Development Block Grant from the MEDC.

• Intergovernmental Agreement with Berrien County for PRE Audit Services
• MEDC Community Development Block Grant public hearing scheduling
• MDOT Agreement via the Transit Committee
• Salary exception for Chief Deputy Treasurer
• Appointments to Kinexus Workforce Development Board for Luke Barber and Christopher Randall

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved all agenda items, including $1,840,278.92 in July claims, a salary exception for the Chief Deputy Treasurer, creation of a Veterans' Services Director position, and a revised MDOT transit contract adding $369,104 in federal funding. They also terminated the PRE audit agreement with Berrien County, approved the Area Agency on Aging FY 2022 plan, and scheduled a public hearing for a $570,000 CDBG grant application for Welch's Lawton plant expansion.

• Approved $1,840,278.92 in July 2021 claims
• Approved Chief Deputy Treasurer salary exception at $54,034.50 annually
• Authorized creation and posting of Veterans' Services Director and Officer positions
• Approved revised MDOT transit contract adding $369,104 in federal funds
• Terminated intergovernmental agreement with Berrien County for PRE audit services
• Approved Region IV Area Agency on Aging FY 2022 Annual Implementation Plan
• Scheduled public hearing for 8/24/2021 on $570,000 CDBG application for Welch's expansion
• Approved use of county property for Grape Lake 5K during Wine and Harvest Festival

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee will meet to review an update on ARPA and discuss forms. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from the July 27, 2021 meeting.

• Approval of 7/27/2021 ARPA Committee Meeting Minutes
• ARPA update
• Discussion of forms

The ARPA Committee approved a motion to create a resolution articulating the county's ARPA fund amount and possible uses, following discussion of similar actions by other counties. The committee also discussed updates to the ARPA request form, including changes recommended by the auditor and attorney, but deferred finalizing the form until the Treasury's final guidelines are released. No public comment was received during the initial session, but John Faul noted a broadband task force within the Economic Development Commission.

• Approved motion to create an ARPA resolution (motion carried)
• Approved agenda for 8/10/21 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from 7/27/21 ARPA meeting (motion carried)
• Discussed updates to ARPA request form, deferred finalization pending final Treasury guidelines

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the county budget, financial statements, and claims. The body will also review the Capital Improvement Plan and a request for out-of-state travel.

• County Budget 101 Presentation
• Budget Adjustments
• Capital Improvement Plan
• Board Per Diems
• EagleView Orthophoto & Oblique Aerial Photography (Pictometry) Project

The Van Buren County Finance Committee approved several routine financial items, including July claims of $1,840,278.92, budget adjustments, the monthly financial statement, and board per diems. The committee also approved a $262,377.20 six-year contract with EagleView for aerial photography, which will be forwarded to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners for final approval. A capital improvement plan was presented for information only, with a recommendation to use about $4 million in ARPA funds, but no action was taken.

• Approved July claims of $1,840,278.92
• Accepted budget adjustments as presented
• Accepted July 2021 monthly financial statement
• Accepted board per diems as presented
• Approved out-of-state travel to Portland, OR for associational convention
• Approved EagleView Pictometry project and authorized $262,377.20 payment and six-year contract

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission will meet to review specific relief requests and receive a veterans services update. The County Administrator will also present information regarding posted veterans services positions.

• Relief requests for Stoney Summey and Sherry Swartz
• Veterans Services update
• Discussion of posted Veterans Services positions

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission approved three burial relief requests of $300 each for IDs 329730, 329754, and 329755. The board also reviewed a draft financial assistance form, recommending additions like personal property and a truthfulness disclaimer, and discussed an appeals process. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Approved three $300 burial relief requests (motion carried)
• Approved 7/12/21 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Added draft financial assistance form to agenda (approved)
• Discussed electronic delivery of burial requests for future review (no decision)
• Discussed notarization of forms (no decision)
• Recommended adding personal property and disclaimer to draft form (no formal vote)

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee will meet to receive an update on American Rescue Plan Act funds. The session includes a review of forms and a discussion of proposals and ideas submitted to date.

• ARPA update presented by County Administrator Frank Hardester
• Review of forms
• Discussion of proposals and ideas to date

The ARPA Committee discussed updates on American Rescue Plan Act funds, including a draft Capital Improvement Program 5-Year Plan and an ARPA Funds Request form. No formal decisions were made on proposals or the form; approval of the final form was deferred to the next meeting. The committee also rescheduled its August 24 meeting to follow the Board of Commissioners meeting.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved 7/13/21 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Deferred approval of ARPA Funds Request form to next meeting
• Rescheduled 8/24/21 ARPA meeting to immediately follow BOC meeting

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee will review the MERS 457b Plan and a proposal to eliminate and create positions within the Finance Department. The body will also discuss resuming normal financial operations and receive human resources updates.

• MERS 457b Plan
• Finance Department position elimination and creation
• Resumption of normal financial operations
• HR update
• Personnel matter

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee voted to terminate Fidelity and transfer the 457 plan to MERS, and to eliminate the Financial Services Coordinator position and create a Finance Operations Manager position. It also rescinded financial controls adopted in April 2020, lifting the hiring freeze and purchase restrictions. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved motion to terminate Fidelity and transfer 457 plan to MERS (unanimous)
• Approved elimination of Financial Services Coordinator and creation of Finance Operations Manager (unanimous)
• Approved rescinding financial controls from 4/14/2020, lifting hiring freeze and purchase restrictions (unanimous)

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The committee will discuss the use of county property and a specific appraisal report for a property in Mattawan. Other items include a report from the Buildings and Grounds Director and plans for a 5K event.

• Mattawan Property Appraisal Report
• Request to Use County Property Form
• 5K Walk / Run during Wine and Harvest
• Buildings and Grounds Report

The Buildings and Grounds Committee approved a motion to sell the Mattawan facility, with the recommendation to be brought before the Committee of the Whole on 8/10/21 and the Board of Commissioners on 8/24/21. The committee also approved the use of restrooms and parking areas for the annual 5K Walk/Run during Wine and Harvest, and discussed a draft form for requesting county property use. No other substantive decisions were made; the remaining items were informational or procedural.

• Approved sale of Mattawan property (motion by Hanson, support by Chappell; carried)
• Approved restroom and parking use for 5K Walk/Run during Wine and Harvest (motion by Chappell, support by Doroh; carried)
• Approved agenda (motion by Chappell, support by Doroh; carried)
• Approved 6-22-2021 meeting minutes (motion by Doroh, support by Chappell; carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2021-2022 draft budget and receive updates on the Palisades decommissioning and the Southwest Michigan Solar Project. The body will also review transit policies, board appointments, and an intergovernmental agreement for audit services.

• 2021-2022 Draft Budget
• Intergovernmental Agreement with Berrien County for PRE Audit Services
• MDOT Agreement for Public Transit
• Van Buren Public Transit Drug & Alcohol Policy Revision
• Firehouse Subs Grant

The Committee of the Whole recommended several actions for the full Board, including lifting financial controls adopted in April 2020 (hiring freeze, purchase restrictions, travel ban) and creating a new Veterans Services Director position. They also approved grant applications, contract terminations, and meeting rescheduling. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution to remove finance controls from April 14, 2020 (hiring freeze, purchase restrictions, non-essential travel) (unanimous)
• Authorized creation of Veterans Services Director position at R29 wage scale and posting of both Director and Officer positions (unanimous)
• Approved application for Firehouse Subs Grant up to $50,000 for 30 AEDs (unanimous)
• Approved termination of IGA with Berrien County for PRE Audit Services (unanimous)
• Approved FY2022 Area Agency on Aging Annual Implementation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Luke Barber and reappointment of Christopher Randall to Kinexus Workforce Development Board (unanimous)
• Rescheduled September 28, 2021 board meetings to September 29, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved MDOT agreement revision for additional $369,104 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review proposals for a VHF Fire/EMS radio upgrade and the use of county property for the Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour. The body will also discuss a copy machine lease and a grant for the Office of Community Corrections.

• VHF Fire / EMS Radio Upgrade Project - Water Tower Electrical & Infrastructure Proposal
• Use of County Property for Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour
• Administration Copy Machine Lease
• Office of Community Corrections - FY 2022 Grant
• Firehouse Subs Grant

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners voted to rescind financial controls adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ending the hiring freeze, purchase restrictions, and travel ban. The board also approved several routine items, including a grant application for new AEDs, a lease for a copy machine, and a radio upgrade proposal. All decisions were made unanimously, with one commissioner absent.

• Approved Sheriff's Department grant application for up to $50,000 from Firehouse Subs for 30 AEDs (unanimous)
• Approved use of county property for Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour on Sept 12, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved lease with Applied Imaging for administration copy machine at $142/month (unanimous)
• Approved submission of FY 2022 Community Corrections Grant for $184,735 (unanimous)
• Approved out-of-state travel for specialty court team to NADCP conference (unanimous)
• Approved Roe-Comm, Inc. proposal for water tower electrical/infrastructure for VHF radio upgrade (unanimous)
• Rescinded COVID-19 financial controls, resuming normal financial operations (unanimous)
• Approved grievance settlement in closed session, subject to union approval (unanimous)

Veterans Services Committee

The Veterans Services Committee will meet to discuss several administrative and service-related items. The agenda includes reviews of a grant, a referral agreement, and personnel positions.

• MVAA Grant
• Veterans Treatment and Referral Agreement
• Veterans' Services Positions
• Pawsitively K9 Service Agreement

The Veterans Services Committee approved four items to forward to the Committee of the Whole (COW) on 7/27/21 and the Board of Commissioners (BOC) on 8/10/21: an MVAA grant application, a Veterans Treatment and Referral Agreement, posting for Veterans Services Director and Officer positions, and a Pawsitively K9 Service Agreement. The K9 agreement is contingent on grant approval. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned at 3:07 p.m.

• Approved MVAA grant application, authorizing Chairperson signature (moved to COW 7/27 and BOC 8/10)
• Approved Veterans Treatment and Referral Agreement, authorizing Chairperson signature (moved to COW 7/27 and BOC 8/10)
• Approved posting for Veterans Services Director and Officer positions, hiring subject to board approval (moved to COW 7/27 and BOC 8/10)
• Approved Pawsitively K9 Service Agreement for 3 emotional support dogs at $14,097, contingent on grant award (moved to COW 7/27 and BOC 8/10)

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee is meeting to review the guidelines for American Rescue Plan Act funds. The body will discuss the solicitation of related projects and review proposals received to date.

• Guidelines of ARPA Funds
• Solicitation of ARPA related projects and ideas
• Review of proposals received to date

The ARPA Committee met and discussed guidelines for using ARPA funds, including a lost revenue proposal. They also reviewed examples of proposal forms from other counties and discussed proposals received to date. No formal decisions were made; the committee will bring created forms back for approval.

• Approved the agenda as presented.
• Discussed ARPA fund guidelines and lost revenue proposal.
• Reviewed proposal/idea request forms from other counties; will create own form for future approval.
• Discussed proposals received to date.

Public Transit Committee

The committee will review financial reports, operations, and the director's report. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding an MDOT agreement and a revision to the drug and alcohol policy.

• Financial Review: Vendor Bills, Payroll, and Balance Sheet
• MDOT Agreement
• Van Buren Public Transit Drug & Alcohol Policy Revision

The Public Transit Committee approved revisions to the MDOT Agreement, doubling CARES Act funding from 18% to 36%. They also approved financial reports, operations, and director's reports, and discussed a federal grant of $468,750.00 with a potential RAISE grant of $5,468,750.00. The Drug & Alcohol Policy revision was discussed but not voted on, with a request for HR review.

• Approved MDOT Agreement revisions doubling CARES funding to 36%
• Approved financial review: vendor bills, payroll, balance sheet
• Approved operations report
• Approved director's report
• Approved agenda and minutes from 5-11-2021

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss an intergovernmental agreement for audit services and the Area Agency on Aging. The body will also consider appointments to the Kinexus Workforce Development Board.

• Intergovernmental Agreement with Berrien County for PRE Audit Services
• Discussion regarding Area Agency on Aging
• Appointment of Luke Barber to Kinexus Workforce Development Board
• Reappointment of Christopher Randall to Kinexus Workforce Development Board

The Administrative Affairs Committee voted to terminate the intergovernmental agreement with Berrien County for PRE audit services, citing state denials of many audits, and will forward the decision to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners. The committee also approved the Area Agency on Aging's 2022 Annual Implementation Plan and recommended appointments to the Kinexus Workforce Development Board.

• Terminated the PRE Audit Services agreement with Berrien County; motion carried.
• Approved the Area Agency on Aging 2022 Annual Implementation Plan; motion carried.
• Approved the application for appointment of Luke Barber to the Kinexus Workforce Development Board; motion carried.
• Approved the application for reappointment of Christopher Randall to the Kinexus Workforce Development Board; motion carried.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive presentations on the Palisades decommissioning and substance use disorder prevention. The body will also discuss a copy machine lease, a grant for the Office of Community Corrections, and a radio upgrade project.

• Palisades Decommissioning Update
• Use of County Property for Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour
• Administration Copy Machine Lease
• Office of Community Corrections FY 2022 Grant
• VHF Fire / EMS Radio Upgrade Project Water Tower Electrical & Infrastructure Proposal

The Committee of the Whole approved several items for action at the next regular Board of Commissioners meeting, including a resolution for the use of county property for the Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour, a lease agreement with Applied Imaging for a copy machine at $142 per month, submission of the FY2022 OCC grant to the Michigan Department of Corrections for $184,735, out-of-state travel for eight Specialty Court Team members to a conference, and a proposal from Roe-Comm Inc for water tower upgrades as part of the VHF Fire/EMS Radio Upgrade Project. The committee also approved the agenda as amended and the minutes from the June 22, 2021 meeting. Presentations were given on the Palisades decommissioning, Consumers Energy's clean energy plan, and substance abuse prevention programs, with the Historical Society presentation postponed to July 27.

• Approved agenda as amended, removing the public hearing item.
• Approved June 22, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes as presented.
• Approved resolution for use of Human Services East parking lot and restrooms for the Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour on September 12, 2021.
• Approved lease agreement with Applied Imaging for a copy machine at $142 per month.
• Approved submission of FY2022 OCC grant to Michigan Department of Corrections for $184,735.
• Approved out-of-state travel for eight Specialty Court Team members to a conference in National Harbor, MD, August 14-18, 2021.
• Approved proposal from Roe-Comm Inc for water tower upgrades on four sites for the VHF Fire/EMS Radio Upgrade Project.

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to review committee reports and administrative affairs. The agenda includes a resolution regarding the 911 Service Plan and a closed session for a reimbursement request.

• Amended 911 Service Plan Resolution
• Resolution of Appreciation for Jan Petersen
• Closed session regarding New Covert Generating Reimbursement Request from Jack VanCoevering
• Review of claims by the Finance Committee
• Correspondence from the City of South Haven and MI Department of Treasury

The Board of Commissioners approved an amended 911 Service Plan and By-Laws, setting a public hearing for October 12, 2021. It also approved $1,620,152.50 in claims for June 2021 and honored Jan Petersen for her service on the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. A closed session item on a New Covert Generating reimbursement request was removed from the agenda.

• Approved amended 911 Service Plan and By-Laws, with a public hearing scheduled for October 12, 2021
• Approved claims totaling $1,620,152.50 for June 2021
• Adopted a resolution of appreciation for Jan Petersen's 19 years on the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
• Approved the agenda as amended, adding item 4A and deleting the closed session
• Approved the minutes from the June 22, 2021 meeting
• Removed the New Covert Generating reimbursement request from the agenda

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review claims, board per diems, and the monthly financial statement. The body will also discuss an administration copy machine lease and a grant for the Office of Community Corrections.

• Administration copy machine lease
• Office of Community Corrections FY 2022 Grant
• VHF Fire / EMS Radio Upgrade Project - Water Tower Electrical & Infrastructure Proposal
• Out of State Travel request
• Board Per Diems

The Van Buren County Finance Committee approved claims for payment, per diems for six commissioners, a copy machine lease, an FY 2022 grant submission, out-of-state travel, and upgraded generators. All items were recommended to move to the full Board of Commissioners for final approval at upcoming meetings.

• Approved claims as presented, recommended to BOC 7/13/2021
• Approved per diems for Commissioners Chappell, Doroh, Godfrey, Hanson, Peat, and Patterson-Gladney
• Approved administration copy machine lease, moved to COW 7/13/21 and BOC 7/27/21
• Approved submission of Office of Community Corrections FY 2022 Grant
• Approved out-of-state travel to NADC conference with grant-funded per diem reimbursement
• Approved upgraded generators for VHF Fire/EMS Radio Upgrade Project, funded through 911 fund balance, moved to COW 7/13/21 and BOC 7/27/21

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee is meeting to review personnel changes and vacancies. Discussions include the elimination and creation of a Finance Department position and vacancies for an Information Services Operations Manager and a District Court Probation Officer.

• Finance Department position elimination and creation
• Information Services Operations Manager position vacancy
• District Court Probation Officer position vacancy
• MERS 457(b) Program discussion

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved filling two vacant positions: an Information Services Operations Manager and a District Court Probation Officer, both requiring board approval due to the hiring freeze. The committee also discussed eliminating a benefits specialist position and restructuring the Financial Services Coordinator role, pending union agreement. A presentation on the MERS 457(b) retirement plan was given, with further data gathering to continue.

• Approved hiring Information Services Operations Manager (motion carried)
• Approved hiring District Court Probation Officer (motion carried)
• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from 5/25/2021 (motion carried)

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Buildings and Grounds Committee will review updates on the Mattawan facility and Capital Improvement Plan projects. The body will also discuss the use of county property for the Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour.

• Mattawan Facility discussion
• CIP Projects / Operational Updates
• Facility Tour
• Use of County Property for Paw Paw Vineyard Classic Bike Tour

The Buildings and Grounds Committee approved moving forward with an appraisal of the Mattawan facility, after the Van Buren Conservation District expressed interest in leasing space there for about 30 staff for roughly three years. The committee also approved the use of county property for the Vineyard Classic Bike Tour and approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes. No other formal decisions were made; other items were discussions only.

• Approved moving forward with an appraisal of the Mattawan facility
• Approved use of county property for the Vineyard Classic Bike Tour
• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved the May 25, 2021, meeting minutes

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding Truth in Taxation for L-4029.

• Truth in Taxation Hearing: L-4029

The Van Buren County Committee of the Whole held a Truth in Taxation public hearing on June 22, 2021, to fulfill the requirements of P.A. 5 of 1982. No public comment was made, and the hearing was adjourned after about one minute. No decisions or votes were taken during the hearing.

• Held Truth in Taxation hearing L-4029 as required by P.A. 5 of 1982
• Adjourned hearing with no public comment

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive an update on the Palisades decommissioning and review an amended 911 service plan. The body will also discuss ARPA planning and two position vacancies.

• Palisades Decommissioning Update
• Amended 911 Service Plan Resolution
• ARPA Planning Committee discussion
• Information Services Operations Manager position vacancy
• District Court Probation Officer position vacancy

The Committee of the Whole approved several items to be ratified at the next regular Board meeting, including a resolution of appreciation for Jan Petersen, a public hearing for the 911 Service Plan on October 12, 2021, and the creation of the ARPA Planning Committee with meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays starting July 13. It also approved filling vacancies for an IT Operations Manager and a District Court Probation Officer. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved resolution of appreciation for Jan Petersen for Brownfield Redevelopment Authority service
• Approved 911 Service Plan public hearing for October 12, 2021 at 2:50 p.m.
• Approved ARPA Planning Committee name, meeting schedule, and chair/vice-chair appointments
• Approved filling IT Operations Manager vacancy
• Approved filling District Court Probation Officer vacancy and subsequent internal vacancies

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a Truth in Taxation hearing and consider a hazardous materials emergency planning grant. The meeting includes reviews of two Motorola proposals for dispatch and CAD/RMS/JMS solutions. The Board will also discuss insurance for Road Commissioners and two position vacancies.

• Truth in Taxation Hearing: L-4029
• Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant
• Motorola Proposal #1: Dispatch Console, WatchGuard, Vigilant
• Motorola Proposal #2: Flex Solution for CAD/RMS/JMS
• Position vacancies for Information Services Operations Manager and District Court Probation Officer

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to levy 7.3504 mills for the 2021-2022 fiscal year, which includes allocations for ambulance, roads, public safety, public transit, conservation, and veterans relief. The board also approved several other resolutions, including a $744,317 Motorola proposal for dispatch consoles, body cameras, and a license plate reader, and a $605,000 proposal for a new CAD/RMS/JMS system. Additionally, they approved a $3,305 hazardous materials grant, allowed road commissioners to purchase vision and dental insurance, and approved filling two vacant positions.

• Approved levying 7.3504 mills for 2021-2022, including 4.4566 allocated mills, 0.9370 for Ambulance, 0.9769 for Roads, 0.5332 for Public Safety, 0.2471 for Public Transit, 0.0996 for Conservation District, and 0.1000 for Veterans Relief.
• Approved Motorola Proposal #1 for MCC 7500E Dispatch Console ($605,671), WatchGuard Body Cameras ($211,946), and Vigilant Trailer ($26,700), totaling $744,317.
• Approved Motorola Proposal #2 for Flex Solution for CAD/RMS/JMS, with a total cost of $605,000 plus maintenance costs for years 2-5.
• Approved renewal of the Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant (HMEP) for $3,305, with a 20% in-kind match.
• Approved request by Van Buren County Road Commission for commissioners to purchase Vision and/or Dental Insurance at 100% their cost.
• Approved hiring a new Information Services Operations Manager, with no financial impact as the position is budgeted.
• Approved hiring a new District Court Probation Officer, with no financial impact as the position is budgeted.

Veterans Services Committee

The Veterans Services Committee will meet to discuss monthly statistics and a transportation plan. The body will also receive an update regarding the MVAA Service Fund Grant.

• MVAA Service Fund Grant Update
• Transportation Plan
• Monthly Statistics

The committee approved the agenda and the April 13, 2021 minutes. They discussed monthly statistics, the MVAA Service Fund Grant budget amendments, and the transportation plan, but took no formal action on these items. The meeting was procedural with no substantive decisions made.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved April 13, 2021 minutes (motion carried)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee will meet to review a hazardous materials emergency planning grant. The body will also consider a resolution of appreciation for Jan Petersen.

• Resolution of Appreciation - Jan Petersen
• Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant

The Administrative Affairs Committee approved a resolution of appreciation for Jan Petersen and voted to move forward with the Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant, as presented by Lt. Bob Kirk. Both items were recommended for further consideration by the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners. The meeting was brief, adjourning at 2:08 P.M.

• Approved Resolution of Appreciation for Jan Petersen
• Approved moving forward with Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review budget adjustments and updates on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The body will also consider proposals from Motorola for dispatch and CAD/RMS/JMS solutions.

• Motorola Proposal #1: Dispatch Console, WatchGuard, Vigilant
• Motorola Proposal #2: Flex Solution for CAD/RMS/JMS
• Budget Adjustments
• Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant
• Vision and Dental Insurance for Road Commissioners

The Committee of the Whole recommended approval of two Motorola purchases totaling about $1.7 million for dispatch consoles, body cameras, and a CAD/RMS/JMS system, to be ratified by the full Board. It also approved a $3,305 hazardous materials grant renewal, monthly budget adjustments, a $1,784 legal invoice, and set a Truth in Taxation hearing for June 22. Commissioner Chappell was appointed Vice-Chairperson of the Palisades Community Advisory Panel over a dissenting vote.

• Approved Motorola Proposal 1: $744,317 for dispatch console, body cameras, and Vigilant trailer (recommended for Board approval)
• Approved Motorola Proposal 2: $955,290.82 for Flex Solution CAD/RMS/JMS dispatch system (recommended for Board approval)
• Approved appointment of Commissioner Mike Chappell as PCAP Vice-Chairperson (6-1, Patterson-Gladney no)
• Approved HMEP grant renewal of $3,305 for hazardous materials planning
• Approved monthly budget adjustments to maintain balanced budget
• Approved payment of $1,784 Foster Swift invoice for New Covert Generating litigation
• Set Truth in Taxation public hearing for June 22, 2021 at 2:50 p.m.
• Established ARPA steering committee with 2 commissioners and county staff

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to review a 911 service plan and updates to the Sheriff's interview room equipment. The board will also appoint leadership for the Palisades Community Advisory Panel.

• 911 Service Plan
• Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair for Palisades Community Advisory Panel
• Update to Sheriff Interview Room Equipment
• Closed session regarding litigation involving New Covert Generating Co.

The Board of Commissioners adopted the amended 911 Service Plan and By-Laws, approved $12,050,492.32 in May claims, and authorized the purchase of updated sheriff interview room equipment for $17,841.00. They also appointed Robert Burr as Chair and Mike Chappell as Vice Chair of the Palisades Community Advisory Panel, and directed the attorney to file a Motion to Intervene in litigation involving New Covert Generating Co.

• Adopted amended 911 Service Plan and By-Laws (unanimous)
• Approved May 2021 claims totaling $12,050,492.32 (unanimous)
• Approved $17,841.00 for sheriff interview room equipment upgrade (unanimous)
• Appointed Robert Burr as Chair and Mike Chappell as Vice Chair of Palisades Community Advisory Panel (6-1, Patterson-Gladney no)
• Directed attorney to file Motion to Intervene in New Covert Generating litigation (5-1, Hanson no)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review various financial items including budget adjustments, claims, and monthly statements. The meeting includes discussions regarding two Motorola proposals and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) strategic funding.

• Motorola Proposal #1 - Dispatch Console, WatchGuard, Vigilant
• Motorola Proposal #2 - Flex Solution for CAD/RMS/JMS
• American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) - Strategic Funding Discussion
• Foster Swift Invoice - New Covert Generating
• Public Safety & Public Health Payroll Reimbursement Program

The Finance Committee approved claims, budget adjustments, and board per diems, and recommended several items to the Board of Commissioners, including a $1,784 Foster Swift legal invoice, two Motorola proposals for dispatch and CAD/RMS systems, and a Truth in Taxation millage reduction. The committee also discussed the county's $14,699,307 American Rescue Plan Act allocation and recommended the administrator consult with Miller Canfield before bringing a funding plan to the board. All motions carried unanimously with three members present.

• Approved claims and recommended to BOC 6-8-2021
• Approved budget adjustments and recommended to CoW 6-8-2021
• Approved board per diems
• Recommended Foster Swift legal invoice of $1,784.00 to CoW 6-8-2021/BoC 6-22-2021
• Recommended Motorola Proposal #1 (dispatch console, body cameras, LPR) to CoW 6-8-2021/BoC 6-22-2021
• Recommended Motorola Proposal #2 (Flex CAD/RMS/JMS) to CoW 6-8-2021/BoC 6-22-2021
• Recommended Truth in Taxation L-4029 millage reduction to CoW 6-8-2021/BoC 6-22-2021
• Recommended ARPA funding discussion with Miller Canfield, then to CoW 6-8-2021/BoC 6-22-2021

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review reports and updates from various administrative and finance committees. The agenda includes a public hearing and discussions on county service plans and personnel vacancies.

• 911 Service Plan
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion discussion
• Foreclosure Report
• Update to Interview Room Equipment
• Election Deputy Clerk Vacancy

The Committee of the Whole approved several items to be forwarded to the Board of Commissioners, including a proclamation for Nona Anderson, a tentative 911 Service Plan, a DEI employee survey, and the appointment of Robert Burr as PCAP Chair. They also approved funding for interview room equipment and filling an Elections Deputy Clerk vacancy. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved proclamation for Nona Anderson (unanimous)
• Approved tentative 911 Service Plan and Advisory By-Laws (unanimous)
• Approved DEI employee survey (unanimous)
• Approved Robert Burr as PCAP Chair (unanimous)
• Approved $17,841 for interview room recording equipment (unanimous)
• Approved filling Elections Deputy Clerk vacancy (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss county infrastructure projects and administrative appointments. The agenda includes reviews of the Capital Improvement Plan and various maintenance and upgrade projects.

• Brownfield Redevelopment Authority appointments and reappointments
• Capital Improvement Plan Amendment
• Fire/EMS VHF Radio Upgrade Project - Replacement Tower
• FEMA Public Assistance Grant
• Paw Paw Service League use of property

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda that included reappointing Sarah Moyer-Cale and Lisa Phillips to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, appointing John Young to fill a vacancy, and issuing a proclamation for Nona Anderson's 103rd birthday. They also approved several resolutions: allowing the Paw Paw Service League to use county property for an arts and crafts fair, amending the Capital Improvements Plan, purchasing a digital file management system for $10,500, accepting a $5,100 FEMA grant, replacing two radio towers for $347,730, authorizing parking lot maintenance for $34,355, and filling the Elections Deputy Clerk vacancy. All motions carried unanimously.

• Reappointed Sarah Moyer-Cale and Lisa Phillips to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (unanimous)
• Appointed John Young to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation honoring Nona Anderson's 103rd birthday (unanimous)
• Approved Paw Paw Service League use of county property for Arts and Crafts Fair (unanimous)
• Amended Capital Improvements Plan, removing courthouse fire escape and elevator projects (unanimous)
• Approved $10,500 digital file management system from Applied Imaging (unanimous)
• Accepted $5,100 FEMA grant for PPE reimbursement (unanimous)
• Approved $347,730 for replacement of two radio towers in Fire/EMS VHF project (unanimous)

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee is meeting to discuss an election deputy clerk vacancy and insurance for road commissioners. The committee will also receive an HR update.

• Election Deputy Clerk Vacancy
• Vision and Dental Insurance for Road Commissioners
• HR Update

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved the County Clerk's Office request to fill the Elections Deputy Clerk position. It also approved a request from the Van Buren County Road Commission allowing its commissioners to purchase Vision and/or Dental Insurance at 100% of their own cost through the Road Commission plan. The committee approved the agenda and the April 27, 2021 minutes, and received an HR update from Anna Cerven.

• Approved request to fill Elections Deputy Clerk vacancy (motion by Peat, support by Hanson)
• Approved Road Commission request for commissioners to buy Vision/Dental Insurance at 100% their cost (motion by Hanson, support by Peat)
• Approved agenda (motion by Hanson, support by Peat)
• Approved April 27, 2021 minutes (motion by Hanson, support by Peat)

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The committee is meeting to receive updates on the Sheriff Quarters and the Capital Improvement Plan. Members will also discuss vacant spaces at the Mattawan Facility, Human Services West, and the Surveyor's/Veterans Services Offices.

• Sheriff Quarters update
• Vacant spaces at Mattawan Facility, Human Services West, and Surveyor's/Veterans Services Offices
• Capital Improvement Plan update
• Facilities tour

The Buildings and Grounds Committee approved a motion to obtain an appraisal of the vacant Mattawan Facility after discussion about potential interest in purchasing the property. The committee also decided to conduct further research on funding and building plans for the Sheriff's Quarters Building, with results to be reported on June 22. Other agenda items, including updates on the capital improvement plan and facility tours, were discussed but no formal decisions were made.

• Approved motion to obtain appraisal of Mattawan Facility (moved by Chappell, seconded by Doroh)
• Decided to research funding and building plans for Sheriff's Quarters, report on June 22

Public Transit Committee

The Public Transit Committee will meet to approve previous minutes and review financial reports, including vendor bills and payroll. The body will also discuss operations and director reports.

• Review of vendor bills, payroll, and balance sheet
• Operations Report
• Directors Report
• Approval of March 09, 2021 minutes

The Van Buren County Public Transit Committee met on May 11, 2021, with three members present. They approved the agenda, the March 9, 2021 minutes, and the financial review, operations report, and director's report. The director noted ridership was increasing, and the committee discussed renegotiating with Kalamazoo Metro, applying for a RAISE grant, and the Veterans Van's growing reservations.

• Approved agenda (motion by Chappell, supported by Peat)
• Approved March 9, 2021 minutes (motion by Peat, supported by Chappell)
• Approved financial review including vendor bills, payroll, and balance sheet (motion by Chappell, supported by Peat)
• Approved operations report (motion by Peat, supported by Chappell)
• Approved director's report (motion by Peat, supported by Chappell)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss diversity, equity and inclusion with Pratt LLC. The body will also review the 911 Service Plan and handle appointments for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.

• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion discussion with Darnell Blackburn, Pratt LLC
• 911 Service Plan
• Brownfield Redevelopment Authority reappointments
• Brownfield Redevelopment Authority appointment

The Administrative Affairs Committee recommended updating the 911 service plan and advisory by-laws, delayed by COVID, to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners. It also recommended reappointing Sarah Moyer-Cale and Lisa Phillips to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and appointing John Young to fill a vacancy. All recommendations were approved by motion.

• Recommended 911 plan and by-laws update to CoW 5-25-2021/BoC 6-8-2021 (carried)
• Recommended reappointment of Sarah Moyer-Cale to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (carried)
• Recommended reappointment of Lisa Phillips to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (carried)
• Recommended appointment of John Young to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority vacancy (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hold a public hearing regarding Brownfield plans for The Lodge and Essential Storage. The body will also discuss budget adjustments, capital improvements, and various committee appointments.

• Public hearing on Brownfield Plans for The Lodge and Essential Storage
• Brownfield Redevelopment Authority appointments and reappointments
• Fire/EMS VHF Radio Upgrade Project replacement tower construction
• FEMA Grant Agreement
• Paw Paw Service League use of property

The Committee of the Whole approved several items for the next Board of Commissioners meeting, including a $347,730 first phase of the Fire/EMS VHF Radio Upgrade Project, a $10,500 digital employee file management system, and a $34,355 parking lot maintenance project. They also approved reappointments and a new appointment to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and a request from the Paw Paw Service League to use county property for the 2021 Wine and Harvest Festival. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Fire/EMS VHF Radio Upgrade first phase, $347,730 (all yes)
• Approved digital Employee File Management System purchase, $10,500 (all yes)
• Approved parking lot sealcoat/stripe/repair, $34,355 from CIP fund (all yes)
• Approved Foster Swift litigation payment, $17,030.25 (all yes)
• Approved FEMA grant closeout documents for $5,100 PPE reimbursement (all yes)
• Approved reappointment of Sarah Moyle-Cale and Lisa Phillips to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (all yes)
• Approved appointment of John Young to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (all yes)
• Approved Paw Paw Service League use of county property for Wine and Harvest Festival (all yes)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss Brownfield plans for The Lodge and Essential Storage. The meeting includes a closed session to address attorney-client privileged correspondence regarding litigation with New Covert Generating Co.

• Brownfield Plan - The Lodge
• Brownfield Plan - Essential Storage
• Sale of Victims Rights K9
• Closed session regarding New Covert Generating Co. litigation
• Introduction of Trial Court Administrator Rachel Lindley

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved the establishment of a Palisades Community Advisory Panel to prepare for the closure and decommissioning of the Palisades Power Plant, funded through the Strategic Economic Development Fund. The board also approved two brownfield redevelopment plans for properties in South Haven Charter Township, and approved $2,085,092.98 in claims for May 2021. Additionally, the board approved the sale of the Victim Advocate Dog, Dylan, to his handler, and voted to file a Motion for Reconsideration with the Michigan Supreme Court in the New Covert Generating case.

• Approved Palisades Community Advisory Panel (PCAP) resolution AA18/5-11-2021
• Approved Brownfield Plan for The Lodge at 10336 Blue Star Highway (AA19/5-11-2021)
• Approved Brownfield Plan for Essential Storage at 05585 Blue Star Highway (AA20/5-11-2021)
• Approved claims totaling $2,085,092.98 for May 2021 (C5/5-11-2021)
• Approved sale of Victim Advocate Dog Dylan to handler Maggie Hostetler (F24/5-11-2021)
• Approved filing Motion for Reconsideration with Michigan Supreme Court in New Covert Generating case (6-1, Hanson no)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to review claims, budget adjustments, and financial statements. The body will discuss specific projects including a radio tower replacement and parking lot maintenance.

• Fire/EMS VHF Radio Upgrade Project - Replacement Tower Construction
• FEMA Grant Agreement
• Parking Lot Maintenance
• Foster Swift Invoice - New Covert Generating
• Employee File Management

The Van Buren County Finance Committee met on May 4, 2021, and approved several items to recommend to the Board of Commissioners and Committee of the Whole. These included claims, budget adjustments, a digital employee filing system, a FEMA grant for PPE reimbursement, replacement of two radio towers, parking lot maintenance, and a Foster Swift invoice. The committee also adjusted Commissioner Patterson-Gladney's per diems by removing one from the 28th and 29th.

• Approved claims for recommendation to BoC 5-11-2021
• Approved budget adjustments for recommendation to CoW 5-11-2021
• Approved board per diems with removal of one from 28th and 29th for Commissioner Patterson-Gladney
• Approved digital employee filing system proposal for recommendation to CoW 5-11-2021/BoC 5-25-2021
• Approved FEMA Public Assistance Grant of $5,100 for PPE reimbursement for recommendation to CoW 5-11-2021/BoC 5-25-2021
• Approved Fire/EMS VHF radio tower replacement proposal for recommendation to CoW 5-11-2021/BoC 5-25-2021
• Approved parking lot maintenance and striping work for recommendation to CoW 5-11-2021/BoC 5-25-2021
• Approved Foster Swift invoice and raising cap to $130,000 for recommendation to CoW 5-11-2021

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee will meet to discuss personnel and administrative matters. The agenda includes a contract for Administrator Frank Hardester and a travel request for the Sheriff's Office.

• Out of State Travel Request: Sheriff's Office
• Administrator Contract: Frank Hardester
• County Vacancies
• Human Resources Update

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee approved an out-of-state travel request for Sheriff's Office training, recommended a County Administrator contract for Frank Hardester, and recommended addressing county vacancies. The recommendations were forwarded to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners for April 27, 2021. The committee also received a Human Resources update from Anna Cerven.

• Approved out-of-state travel for Dan Frattura to IACIS Mobile Device Forensics training in Orlando, FL
• Recommended County Administrator contract for Frank Hardester to CoW/BoC 4-27-2021
• Recommended addressing county vacancies to CoW/BoC 4-27-2021
• Approved agenda and March 23, 2021 minutes

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The committee will discuss property use by the Paw Paw Service League and a facility conditions assessment for the Sheriff Quarters. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding vacant building space and an update on the Capital Improvements Plan.

• Paw Paw Service League - Use of Property
• Sheriff Quarters - Facility Conditions Assessment - 2021
• Vacant Building Space discussion
• Capital Improvements Plan/Other Projects Update

The Buildings and Grounds Committee recommended allowing the Paw Paw Service League to use county property during the 2021 Wine and Harvest Festival, September 10-12, subject to no COVID-19 restrictions. The committee also recommended an updated capital improvements plan. Discussions were held on Sheriff Quarters facility conditions and vacant building space, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Recommended allowing Paw Paw Service League use of county property for Wine and Harvest Festival (motion carried)
• Recommended capital improvements plan/other project updates (motion carried)
• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved February 23, 2021 minutes (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the FY 2019-2020 audit presented by Maner Costerisan. The body will also discuss brownfield plans and various administrative contracts.

• FY 2019-2020 Audit Presentation by Maner Costerisan
• Brownfield Plan for The Lodge
• Brownfield Plan for Essential Storage
• Sale of Victim Rights K9
• Administrator Contract for Frank Hardester

The Committee of the Whole approved several items for the next regular Board of Commissioners meeting, including the administrator employment agreement with Frank Hardester (6-1, Patterson-Gladney opposed), the Palisades Community Advisory Panel charter and membership, and the sale of the victim rights K9 Dylan to his handler for $1. They also set public hearings for two brownfield plans and approved a short-term veterans services agreement with St. Joseph County.

• Approved administrator contract with Frank Hardester (6-1)
• Approved Palisades Community Advisory Panel charter and membership list
• Set public hearing for Brownfield Plan 'The Lodge' for May 11, 2021
• Set public hearing for Brownfield Plan 'Essential Storage' for May 11, 2021
• Approved adoption/purchase of K9 Dylan by handler for $1
• Approved filling vacant positions in Courts and IS Department
• Approved short-term veterans services agreement with St. Joseph County ($4,000/month director, $2,000/month VSO)
• Accepted FY 2019-2020 audit report from Maner Costerisan

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several committee reports including finance and administrative affairs. Discussions include a health benefits services agreement and a contract for Administrator Frank Hardester.

• Maxwell Health Benefits Services Agreement
• Administrator Contract for Frank Hardester
• Animal Control emergency boiler repair
• Veteran Services Contract with St. Joseph County
• Jury Board reappointments

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved a contract for Frank Hardester to serve as County Administrator, with a roll call vote of 5-1. The board also approved several consent agenda items, including emergency boiler repair at Animal Control, filling a Legal Secretary position, and a service agreement with St. Joseph County for veteran services.

• Approved Frank Hardester as County Administrator (5-1)
• Approved emergency boiler replacement at Animal Control ($24,733 plus $3,126 for water heater)
• Approved posting and filling Legal Secretary position in Prosecutor's office
• Approved $55 per diems for Plat Board
• Approved Maxwell Health benefits technology agreement
• Approved 2021 County Equalized Valuations totaling $4,548,564,950
• Approved filling multiple county vacancies, including Cari Elmore as Administrative Services Coordinator
• Approved veteran services contract with St. Joseph County (approx. $40,000)

Veterans Services Committee

The committee will review monthly statistics and discuss several veteran-related items. Discussion topics include MVAA Service Fund Grants and a Veteran Services Transportation Project.

• Monthly Statistics
• MVAA Service Fund Grants
• Veteran Services Transportation Project
• Veteran Services Organization

The committee authorized the Board Chair and Administrator to negotiate with St. Joseph County to contract their Veterans Director for interim services following the departure of the current VSO. They also approved the agenda and February minutes, and discussed monthly statistics, MVAA grant spending, and a Veterans transportation project.

• Authorized Board Chair and Administrator to negotiate with St. Joseph County for interim Veterans services (carried)
• Approved agenda (carried)
• Approved February 9, 2021 minutes (carried)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss brownfield plans for The Lodge and Essential Storage. The body will also address board term lengths and jury board reappointments.

• Board of Commissioners four year terms
• Jury Board reappointments
• Brownfield Plan for The Lodge
• Brownfield Plan for Essential Storage
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion update

The Administrative Affairs Committee recommended several items to the full Board, including a resolution to extend commissioner terms from two to four years, a citizen proclamation for Lois Jewell, and reappointments to the Jury Board. It also forwarded two Brownfield plans for further discussion and scheduled a DEI presentation.

• Recommended citizen proclamation for Lois Jewell to CoW/BoC (carried)
• Recommended resolution for four-year commissioner terms to CoW/BoC (carried)
• Recommended Jury Board reappointments for Thomas Palenick and W.C. Askew Sr. to CoW/BoC (carried)
• Recommended Brownfield Plan for The Lodge to CoW for discussion and possible public hearing (carried)
• Recommended Brownfield Plan for Essential Storage to CoW for discussion and possible public hearing (carried)
• Scheduled DEI presentation by Darnell Blackburn for May 11 committee meeting

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to review reports from various administrative and finance committees. Discussions include budget adjustments, personnel vacancies, and board term lengths.

• Budget adjustments
• Emergency boiler repair for Animal Control
• Legal Secretary vacancy
• Maxwell Health Agreement
• Plat Board Per Diem

The Committee of the Whole recommended promoting Court Administrator Frank Hardester to County Administrator, with the Labor Committee to draft a contract. The motion passed 4-3, with Patterson-Gladney, Doroh, and Schincariol voting no. The committee also approved several resolutions for the next regular Board meeting, including recognizing Lois Jewell's 100th birthday, supporting four-year terms for county commissioners, reappointing two jury board members, and various financial and administrative items.

• Approved motion to promote Frank Hardester to County Administrator (4-3)
• Approved resolution recognizing Lois Jewell's 100th birthday
• Approved resolution supporting four-year terms for county commissioners
• Approved reappointment of Thomas Palenick and Pastor W.C. Askew Sr. to jury board
• Approved budget adjustments as presented
• Approved emergency boiler replacement at Animal Control ($24,733 + $3,126)
• Approved filling legal secretary vacancy in Prosecutor's office

General

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review committee reports and administrative matters. Discussion items include hardware refreshes, property sales via auction, and various service agreements.

• 2021 Data Center Hardware Refresh
• Authorization of Sale by Auction of Property
• Palisades Recovery Plan - Employment Agreement, Faul
• Palisades Recovery Plan - VBC/Kinexus Services Agreement
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P11

The Board approved an employment agreement transitioning County Administrator John Faul to Palisades Project Director through Dec. 31, 2021, and a services agreement with Kinexus Group for Palisades closure mitigation. It also approved a $431,197.60 data center hardware refresh, $780,052.15 in claims, a property auction, and a resolution supporting four-year commissioner terms (6-1).

• Approved employment agreement for John Faul as Palisades Project Director, July 2-Dec. 31, 2021
• Approved $431,197.60 data center hardware refresh with Sentinel Technologies
• Approved $780,052.15 in claims
• Approved sale of county-owned property at April 20 auction
• Approved $190,500 services agreement with Kinexus Group for Palisades transition
• Approved $177,785 CARES Act transit funding renewal
• Approved resolution supporting four-year commissioner terms (6-1, Hanson no)
• Approved amendment to Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health agreement

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to review monthly financial statements, claims, and the 2019-2020 audit. The body is also considering budget adjustments related to marijuana tax and credit card rebates, as well as a request to fill a legal secretary vacancy in the Prosecutor's office.

• Approval of claims totaling $780,052.15
• Request to fill a Legal Secretary position in the Prosecutor's office during a hiring freeze
• Budget adjustments for marijuana tax and Fifth Third MAGIC credit card rebates
• Emergency boiler repair for Animal Services
• Review of the FY 2019-2020 Audit Finding Summary

The Finance Committee approved posting a legal secretary vacancy, reviewed and approved claims, and accepted three budget adjustments to send to the Committee of the Whole. It also recommended approval of the Equalization Report, an emergency boiler repair, Plat Board per diems, and a Maxwell Health benefits portal agreement. The 2019-2020 audit was presented and discussed, but no action was taken on it.

• Approved posting a legal secretary vacancy, recommended to CoW/BoC.
• Approved claims, recommended to BoC.
• Accepted three budget adjustments, recommended to CoW.
• Recommended the annual Equalization Report to CoW/BoC.
• Recommended emergency boiler repair at Hartford facility to CoW/BoC.
• Recommended Plat Board per diems of $55 to CoW/BoC.
• Recommended Maxwell Health benefits portal agreement to CoW/BoC.
• Approved board per diems submitted by commissioners.

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The committee is reviewing a proposal for a Palisades Recovery Plan to mitigate economic impacts following the plant's decommissioning. The plan includes an agreement with Kinexus Group and a new employment role for County Administrator John Faul as Project Director.

• Palisades Recovery Plan Agreement with Kinexus Group
• $190,500 total contract amount with Kinexus
• $37,500 allocated for operational and marketing expenses
• John Faul transition to Palisades Project Director role
• Project Director salary of $62,216.00

The committee discussed a proposal for the Palisades Recovery Plan, during which Administrator Faul stated he would resign as County Administrator to enter a contract between Van Buren County and Kinexus to serve as project director. No decision was made; further discussion was scheduled for the Committee of the Whole meeting on March 23, 2021. The committee approved the agenda and the minutes from January 26, 2021.

• Approved the agenda for the March 23, 2021 meeting.
• Approved the minutes from the January 26, 2021 meeting.
• Discussed the Palisades Recovery Plan proposal, including Administrator Faul's proposed resignation and contract with Kinexus; no action taken.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several administrative and operational items, including a critical hardware refresh for county data centers. The body is also discussing contract amendments for behavioral health services and public transit.

• 2021 Data Center Hardware Refresh for Paw Paw datacenters
• Intergovernmental Contract Amendment with Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health
• MDOT Contract 2017-0316/P11
• Authorization of property sale by auction for the Sheriff Office
• Veterans Transportation Plan

The Committee of the Whole recommended approval of several items for the full Board of Commissioners, including a $431,197.60 data center hardware refresh with Sentinel Technologies and Synology storage units, an intergovernmental contract amendment with Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health, a prosecutor's office intern hire, and the annual sale of county property at auction. The committee also moved the Palisades Recovery Plan to the April 13, 2021 board meeting. All votes were unanimous except the Palisades item, which passed 6-1.

• Approved agenda and March 9, 2021 minutes as presented.
• Recommended approval of amendment to Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health contract (Article V and VI) for board vote.
• Recommended approval of 2021 datacenter refresh with Sentinel Technologies and Synology units, total $431,197.60, for board vote.
• Recommended approval of annual sale of county-owned property at Biddergy auction on April 20, 2021, for board vote.
• Recommended approval of prosecutor's office intern hire (4 months, 20 hrs/week, $20/hr) for board vote.
• Moved Palisades Recovery Plan to April 13, 2021 board meeting (6-1, Patterson-Gladney opposed).
• Recommended approval of MDOT contract 2017-0316/P11 with additional CARES Act funds ($177,785) for board vote.
• Presented preliminary Veteran's Transit Plan (no action taken).

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners met to review several administrative and financial items. Discussions included a medical examiner contract renewal, 911 dispatch fee support, and public transit funding requests.

• Renewal of Medical Examiner contract with WMed for $82,599 plus a 2% annual escalator
• Resolution supporting local control over 911 service fees
• Approval of February 2021 claims totaling $764,435.99
• Authorization of transit intent for fiscal year 2022 with estimated expenses of $2,066,175.00
• Renewal of MDOT contract for a gas replacement bus costing $93,750

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved a $1.83 increase to the 9-1-1 surcharge, bringing the total to $3.00 per device for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022, as authorized by voters. The board also approved borrowing up to $7 million for the delinquent tax revolving fund, renewed the federal prisoner housing agreement with a higher per diem, and made several appointments and reappointments to county boards.

• Approved $3.00 monthly 9-1-1 surcharge for 2021-22 (all yes)
• Approved borrowing up to $7M for delinquent tax fund (all yes)
• Renewed U.S. Marshals prisoner housing agreement, per diem raised to $48.00 (all yes)
• Reappointed Pam Stermer and Tony Hemenway to Planning Commission (all yes)
• Reappointed 5 members to Mental Health Authority (all yes)
• Appointed Thomas Palenick to Mental Health Authority (all yes)
• Approved hiring law school intern for Prosecutor's Office, $20/hr for 4 months (all yes)
• Removed Palisades Recovery Plan items from agenda

Public Transit Committee

The Public Transit Committee is meeting to review financial reports, operations, and director reports. The body will discuss the annual application for Fiscal Year 2022 and MDOT Contract 2017-/P2/R1.

• Annual Application for Fiscal Year 2022
• MDOT Contract 2017-/P2/R1
• Review of December vendor bills totaling $26,214.55
• Financial review of payroll and balance sheets

The Van Buren County Public Transit Committee reviewed financial, operations, and director reports. It recommended approval of the annual Fiscal Year 2022 application for state and federal transit funding, and recommended signing a resolution for an expiring MDOT contract related to a bus built on an incorrect chassis. Both items go to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners on March 9, 2021. The committee also discussed a veterans transportation service, with Public Transit willing to dedicate a driver and vehicle.

• Approved agenda with added item on veterans transportation
• Approved January 12, 2021 minutes
• Approved vendor bills, payroll, balance sheet, and other financial reports
• Recommended FY2022 annual application for MDOT state/federal funding to CoW/BoC
• Recommended MDOT Contract 2017-/P2/R1 signature and certified resolution of intent to CoW/BoC

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee reviewed several items including a resolution regarding 911 dispatching communication processes. Members also discussed the formation of a community advisory panel for the Palisades Power Plant closure and potential support for a kayak launch site grant.

• 911 Support Resolution regarding FCC rules on fee diversion
• South Haven Area Recreation Authority grant application for Phoenix Street Black River Kayak launch
• Palisades Community Advisory Panel (CAP) formation discussion
• Medical Examiner - WMU Med contract renewal
• .gov email rollout process

The Committee of the Whole recommended several items to the full Board of Commissioners, including reappointments to the Planning Commission and Mental Health Authority, the appointment of Mr. Palenick to the Mental Health Authority, and an amendment to the Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health contract. All recommendations were approved by motion. The committee also discussed forming a Community Advisory Panel for Palisades and received information on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training, but took no action on these items.

• Approved the agenda and the February 9, 2021 minutes (with an amendment to Gail's location).
• Recommended Planning Commission reappointments to the full board.
• Recommended Mental Health Authority reappointments to the full board.
• Recommended the appointment of Mr. Palenick to the Mental Health Authority.
• Recommended the Southwest Michigan Behavioral Health contract amendment to the full board.
• Discussed but took no action on forming a Palisades Community Advisory Panel.
• Discussed but took no action on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training resources.

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is discussing a resolution to support a broader FCC definition of 911 fee usage to protect local funding for radio systems. The body is also reviewing grant support for a kayak launch site and various administrative appointments.

• Resolution to support a broader interpretation of 'directly related to the 911 process' for fee usage
• Support resolution for South Haven Area Recreation Authority grant for Phoenix Street Black River Kayak launch site
• 2021 DC Hardware Refresh for Information Technology
• Annual application for Public Transit Fiscal Year 2022
• Intergovernmental Agreement between Van Buren County and Federal Marshals

The Committee of the Whole approved several resolutions to be considered by the full Board, including support for broader 911 process interpretation, a $7M delinquent tax bond, and a U.S. Marshals contract to house federal prisoners. It also approved reappointments to the Planning Commission and Mental Health Authority, a salary exception for a court case manager, and transit-related items. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved resolution supporting broader 911 process interpretation (all yes)
• Approved support resolution for South Haven Area Recreation Authority grant application (all yes)
• Approved reappointment of Pam Stermer and Tony Hemenway to Planning Commission (all yes)
• Approved reappointments to Mental Health Authority Board (all yes)
• Approved appointment of Thomas Palenick to Mental Health Authority Board (all yes)
• Approved monthly budget adjustment (all yes)
• Approved authorization for $7M delinquent tax bond (all yes)
• Approved U.S. Marshals contract to house federal prisoners (all yes)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several committee recommendations, including a contract renewal for the medical examiner and a 911 support resolution. The body will also review transit applications for fiscal year 2022 and an MDOT contract.

• WMU Med Contract Renewal for Medical Examiner
• 911 Support Resolution
• Annual Application for Transit Fiscal Year 2022
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P2/R1
• Treatment Court Case Manager Salary Exception

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved a four-year contract renewal with Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) for medical examiner services, with first-year costs of $82,599 and a 2% annual escalator. The board also passed a resolution supporting local control over 911 fee usage, approved $764,435.99 in February claims, and authorized several transit-related agreements.

• Approved WMed medical examiner contract renewal, 4 years, $82,599 first year (all yes)
• Approved resolution supporting local control of 911 fee usage (all yes)
• Approved February 2021 claims totaling $764,435.99 (all yes)
• Approved salary exception for Logan Hudson at R26B, $23.36/hr for Specialty Court Case Manager (all yes)
• Authorized Board Chair to sign MDOT fiscal year 2022 transit funding forms (all yes)
• Approved MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P2/R1 for pilot bus, $93,750 (all yes)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss budget adjustments, monthly financial statements, and delinquent tax bonds. The body will also review claims for approval and the 2021 DC hardware refresh.

• Approval of claims in the amount of $764,435.99
• 2021 DC Hardware Refresh
• Annual Renewal of 911 Local Surcharge Collection for 911 Dispatch
• Review of delinquent tax bonds
• Board per diems

The Van Buren County Finance Committee met and approved the agenda and February 2, 2021 minutes. The committee approved claims, budget adjustments, board per diems, and recommended to the Board of Commissioners the delinquent tax bonds, 2021 DC hardware refresh, and 911 dispatch annual renewal. The monthly financial statement for February was presented and discussed, but no formal action was recorded on it.

• Approved the meeting agenda.
• Approved the February 2, 2021 meeting minutes.
• Approved claims reviewed by all three commissioners.
• Approved budget adjustments, recommended to Committee of the Whole on 3-9-2021.
• Approved board per diems submitted by fellow commissioners.
• Approved delinquent tax bonds annual request, recommended to CoW 3-9-2021 and BoC 3-23-2021.
• Approved 2021 DC hardware refresh with Sentinel Technologies proposal, recommended to CoW 3-9-2021 and BoC 3-23-2021.
• Approved 911 dispatch annual renewal of local surcharge collection, recommended to CoW 3-9-2021 and BoC 3-23-2021.

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Van Buren County Buildings and Grounds Committee will discuss updates on the Mattawan Facility, the Sheriff's Quarters building, and other capital improvement projects. The Mattawan Facility may be used for Friend of the Court operations, and the Sheriff's Quarters may be demolished due to structural issues. No final decisions are expected at this meeting.

• Mattawan Facility update: potential use for Friend of the Court operations
• Sheriff's Quarters update: evaluation of 100-year-old building, possible demolition (past cost ~$50,000)
• Other projects/Capital Improvement Plan update
• Approval of January 26, 2021 minutes

The Building and Grounds Committee met and approved the agenda and the January 26, 2021 minutes. Administrator Faul reported that the Friend of the Court is considering using the upcoming Mattawan facility vacancy, with minor upgrade and operating costs. He also noted the sheriff's quarters building is assumed to be in failure, and a formal assessment from DLZ was suggested. Jeff Hall provided an update on other ongoing projects.

• Approved the agenda
• Approved the January 26, 2021 minutes
• Discussed potential use of Mattawan facility by Friend of the Court
• Discussed obtaining a formal DLZ assessment of sheriff's quarters
• Received update on other projects and capital improvement plan

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss renewing the medical examiner contract with Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine (WMed) for four years, with a first-year cost of $82,599 and a 2% annual escalator. The board will also hear a tentative State of the Courts address from Judge Brickley and consider a .gov email rollout and website update. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19.

• Medical Examiner contract renewal with WMed, first year $82,599, 2% annual escalator
• State of the Courts Address by Judge Brickley (tentative)
• .gov Email Rollout and Website Update by Administration
• Approval of minutes from February 9, 2021
• Zoom meeting information for public attendance

The Committee of the Whole recommended approval of a four-year contract renewal with WMed for Medical Examiner services, at $82,599 for the first year plus a 2% annual escalator, to be formally approved by resolution at the next Board of Commissioners meeting. The board also removed a scheduled presentation by Judge Brickley from the agenda and received an update on the .gov email rollout and website update, noting no go-live date has been set. The February 9, 2021 minutes were approved as presented.

• Recommended approval of four-year WMed Medical Examiner contract renewal ($82,599 first year, 2% escalator) for action at next board meeting
• Removed Item 5 (Judge Brickley's State of the Courts Address) from the agenda
• Approved the amended agenda
• Approved the February 9, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes as presented
• Received update on .gov email rollout and website update; no go-live date set yet

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet remotely via Zoom on February 23, 2021, to consider several finance and administrative items. They will vote on a $36,824 contract for water tower engineering for the VHF Fire/EMS radio upgrade, approve the annual purchase of replacement PCs costing $50,690.52, and establish a Land Bank Authority Fund with a $5,500 startup allocation. The board will also review agreements for MERS retirement plan updates and health insurance fee-for-service contracts, and consider purchasing new vehicles for the Sheriff's Office.

• VHF Radio Upgrade Project - Water Tower Engineering ($36,824)
• Annual PC Refresh Purchase ($50,690.52)
• Land Bank Authority Fund Establishment/Budget Adjustment ($5,500)
• Sheriff's Office - Purchase of Vehicles
• MERS Defined Benefit Plan Updated Adoption Agreement

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners approved several finance and labor resolutions, including engineering for water towers for the VHF radio upgrade, annual PC refresh purchases, establishment of a Land Bank Authority Fund, purchase of sheriff's vehicles, and updates to the MERS retirement plan and benefit consulting agreements. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $36,824 for water tower engineering for VHF radio upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved $50,690.52 for annual PC refresh purchases (unanimous)
• Approved $4,107.84 for laptop replacements in Prosecutor's Office (unanimous)
• Established Land Bank Authority Fund with $5,500 transfer from Delinquent Tax Revenue Fund (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two investigative vehicles and one animal control truck (unanimous)
• Approved updated MERS Defined Benefit Adoption Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Rose Street Advisors renewal at $3,000/month through Dec 31, 2023 (unanimous)

Veterans Services Committee

The Van Buren County Veterans Services Committee will meet remotely via Zoom to review monthly statistics on veteran visits, relief fund activity, and dental program spending, and to receive an update on the MVAA Service Fund Grants, including the return of unspent FY 2019-2020 funds and the current status of the FY 2020-2021 grant. The agenda also includes approval of the December 2020 minutes and other routine items.

• Review of monthly statistics: 115 visits in January 2021, $3,380 in Soldier & Sailor Relief spending, $0 dental spending in January
• MVAA Service Fund Grant update: FY 2019-2020 returned $26,614.08 in unspent funds; FY 2020-2021 has $45,233 remaining of $56,659 budget
• Veterans Relief Fund: $24,829.80 spent on indigent assistance as of Jan 31, 2021, including $4,300 for a vehicle engine and $2,960 for a bathroom remodel
• Veterans Counselor budget: $50,000 state grant received, $29,021.79 spent as of Jan 31, 2021
• Meeting conducted via Zoom due to COVID-19

The committee reviewed MVAA Service Fund Grants, noting difficulty spending allocated funds due to COVID-19 restrictions, with some categories like oral health underused and the Veterans Appreciation dinner cancelled. Administrator Faul explained that budget amendments were required to redirect funds, and 36 counties returned a total of $625,000. No formal votes were taken on grant matters; the committee approved the agenda and December 2020 minutes.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 8, 2020 minutes (unanimous)

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Van Buren County Administrative Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss establishing a Community Advisory Panel for the Palisades Power Plant closure and to review employee engagement, inclusion, and belonging resources. They will also consider several administrative items, including a medical examiner contract renewal and a .gov email rollout.

• Palisades Community Advisory Panel (CAP) draft charter and membership list for decommissioning oversight
• Engagement, Inclusion and Belonging discussion with employee demographic data
• Medical Examiner - WMU Med Contract Renewal
• .gov Email Rollout
• Approval of January 12, 2021 minutes

The Administrative Affairs Committee recommended renewal of the Medical Examiner contract with WMU Med for another four years, forwarding it to the Committee of the Whole and Board of Commissioners for final approval. The committee also discussed forming a Community Advisory Panel for the Palisades Power Plant closure, with further discussion scheduled for March 9, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included agenda and minutes approvals.

• Recommended WMU Med contract renewal for 4 years (motion carried)
• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved January 12, 2021 minutes with typo correction (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole will discuss several financial items, including COVID hazard pay for Facilities and IT staff, a VHF radio upgrade, annual PC refresh, and Sheriff's vehicle purchases. They will also receive the Land Bank Authority's annual report and consider a MERS pension plan update.

• COVID hazard pay of $18,750 for Facilities Services and Information Services employees
• VHF Radio Upgrade Project water tower engineering for $36,824 from 911 fund
• Annual PC Refresh Purchase for Information Technology
• Sheriff's Office purchase of vehicles for Road Patrol
• Land Bank Authority annual report presentation

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to consider several administrative items, including appointments to the Economic Development Corporation and a non-attorney magistrate position, a review of LEPC bylaws, and lease agreements for a VHF radio project. They will also discuss a contract with MDOT for transit services and review claims. The meeting will be conducted remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19.

• Economic Development Corporation Reappointment
• Non-Attorney Magistrate Appointment
• LEPC Bylaws Review
• VHF Radio Project - Tower Site Lease Agreements
• MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P10

Finance Committee

The Van Buren County Finance Committee will meet remotely via Zoom to consider several agenda items, including approval of claims totaling $1,775,560.98, a VHF radio upgrade project for water towers, board per diems, the monthly financial statement, an annual PC refresh purchase, and a Land Bank Authority budget amendment/fund establishment. The meeting will also include approval of the previous meeting's minutes and any additions or deletions to the agenda.

• Claims approval totaling $1,775,560.98
• VHF Radio Upgrade Project – Water Tower Engineering for Covert, Gobles, Paw Paw, and South Haven at a cost of $36,824.00 from the 911 Fund Balance
• Annual PC Refresh Purchase
• Land Bank Authority Budget Amendment/Fund Establishment
• Board Per Diems review

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee will consider consenting to increased Sheriff's service contracts for Lawrence and Arlington Townships, which would fund a new full-time deputy position. The committee will also review an updated MERS Defined Benefit Plan Adoption Agreement and discuss agreements with Rose Street Advisors and Blue Cross Blue Shield. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19.

• Sheriff's request to increase service hours in Lawrence Township by 10 (to 20 total) and Arlington Township by 20, effective April 1, 2021
• Hiring of a full-time deputy funded by the Law Enforcement Voted Millage and then by contract revenue
• Approval of updated MERS Defined Benefit Plan Adoption Agreement, with a recommended change to the Day of Work definition
• Discussion of Rose Street Advisors and Blue Cross Blue Shield Fee for Service Agreements
• Meeting conducted remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Van Buren County Buildings and Grounds Committee will discuss several items, including a $20,000 COVID hazard pay request for Facilities and Information Services employees, the potential use of the Mattawan Facility for Friend of the Court operations, and the possible purchase of the Tattersall property at 309 S. Kalamazoo St, Paw Paw. They will also receive an update on capital improvement projects. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19.

• COVID hazard pay: $20,000 for 16 employees ($1,250 each) in Information Technology and Building & Grounds
• Mattawan Facility: potential relocation of Friend of the Court operations from Administration Building basement
• Tattersall Property: 309 S. Kalamazoo St, Paw Paw, assessed at $47,800, adjacent to Sheriff Office parking
• Capital improvements: Annex/elevator complete, Sheriff Pole Barn complete except fencing, Jail HVAC complete, 911 Call Center discussions, Treasurer/Register of Deeds security upgrades ongoing

The Buildings and Grounds Committee voted to move the COVID hazard pay discussion for Facilities Services and Information Services employees to the full Board of Commissioners meeting on February 9, 2021. The Committee also declined interest in the Tattersall property at 309 S. Kalamazoo St, Paw Paw, citing no current need for additional space. Project updates were provided, and the agenda was amended to include a discussion on the Bangor Substation.

• Moved COVID hazard pay discussion to Board meeting 2-9-2021 (carried)
• Declined interest in Tattersall property at this time
• Approved amended agenda including Bangor Substation item (carried)
• Approved November 24, 2020 minutes (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposed update to the Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan for 2021-2026. The board will also consider appointments, a 911 radio project lease, and commercial rehabilitation districts.

• Public hearing on Recreation Plan Update (2021-2026)
• Economic Development Corporation Reappointment
• Non-Attorney Magistrate Appointment
• 911 VHF Radio Project site lease agreements
• Village of Paw Paw and South Haven Charter Township Commercial Rehabilitation Districts

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will consider extending the local state of emergency related to COVID-19 through December 31, 2021, and appoint Todd Hackenberg to the Road Commission. The board will also vote on several financial items, including commercial rehabilitation districts, a software purchase, and a salary exception. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom due to the pandemic.

• Extension of local state of emergency for COVID-19 until December 31, 2021
• Appointment of Todd Hackenberg to the Van Buren County Road Commission
• Purchase of CivicClerk agenda software: $8,239 first year, $7,144.20 annually thereafter
• Commercial Rehabilitation District for Village of Paw Paw and Charter Township of South Haven
• Assistant Prosecuting Attorney starting salary exception

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners extended the local state of emergency related to COVID-19 until December 31, 2021, with a 6-1 vote (Hanson opposed). The board also approved several resolutions, including appointing Todd Hackenberg to the Road Commission, adopting the 2021-2026 Recreation Plan, and waiving the county's right to reject two Commercial Rehabilitation Districts in Paw Paw and South Haven Charter Township. All other agenda items were approved as part of the consent agenda.

• Extended local COVID-19 state of emergency to Dec. 31, 2021 (6-1, Hanson no)
• Appointed Todd Hackenberg to Road Commission, term to Dec. 31, 2024 (6-1, Patterson-Gladney no)
• Adopted Van Buren County Community Park, Recreation, Open Space and Greenway Plan 2021-2026
• Waived right to reject Paw Paw Gateway Commercial Rehabilitation District No. 1806 (all yes)
• Waived right to reject South Haven Charter Township Commercial Rehabilitation District No. 1 (all yes)
• Approved $688,788 Homeland Security Grant Program agreement (consent)
• Approved $55,564.42 for jail video arraignment/meeting rooms (consent)
• Approved $15,988.98 for jail tilt skillet purchase (consent)

Public Transit Committee

The Van Buren County Public Transit Committee is meeting remotely via Zoom to review financial reports, operations, and the director's report, and to discuss MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P10. The agenda includes approval of prior minutes and routine financial oversight. No major decisions are listed beyond standard approvals.

• Review of October and November financial reports, including vendor bills totaling $23,372.47 for October
• Discussion of MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P10
• Approval of minutes from November 10, 2020 meeting
• Operations and director's reports to be reviewed

The Van Buren County Transit Committee met on January 12, 2021, and approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes. They accepted financial reports as presented and reviewed the operations and director's reports. The committee recommended approval of MDOT Agreement 2017-0136/P10, which provides operating funds based on 36% of estimated eligible costs for FY 2021, to the full Board of Commissioners for action on February 9, 2021.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved November 10, 2020 minutes (motion carried)
• Accepted financial reports as delivered (motion carried)
• Recommended MDOT Contract 2017-0136/P10 to County Board for approval

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Van Buren County Administrative Affairs Committee will meet remotely via Zoom on January 12, 2021, to discuss several items, including reappointing Tom Stanek to the Economic Development Corporation, appointing Robyn Papaioannou as a non-attorney magistrate for the 7th District Court, updating the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) bylaws, and reviewing VHF Radio Project tower site lease agreements. The committee will also consider using CivicClerk software for agendas and minutes, and discuss the Palisades Community Advisory Panel. No final decisions are made at this meeting; recommendations will go to the Board of Commissioners.

• Reappoint Tom Stanek to Economic Development Corporation for six-year term to expire Feb 13, 2027
• Appoint Robyn Papaioannou as non-attorney magistrate for 7th District Court
• Approve LEPC bylaws update (housekeeping, posting minutes online)
• VHF Radio Project - Tower Site Lease Agreements
• CivicClerk agenda/minutes software consideration

Committee of the Whole

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will discuss replacing its current agenda software (Novus) with CivicClerk, which would cost $8,329 in the first year and $6,804 annually thereafter. The board will also consider appointing a new Road Commissioner, updating the recreation plan, and approving several financial and operational items.

• CivicClerk software purchase: $8,329 year 1, $6,804/year after
• Road Commissioner appointment to fill vacancy
• Recreation Plan update for grant eligibility
• Budget adjustments and Economic Development Strategic Fund
• Assistant Prosecuting Attorney starting salary exception

The Committee of the Whole voted unanimously to recommend several items for approval at the next regular Board of Commissioners meeting, including replacing the Novus agenda platform with CivicClerk at a cost of $8,329 for implementation and $6,804 annually. They also recommended appointing Todd Hackenberg to fill a vacancy on the County Board of Road Commissioners, with Patterson-Gladney voting no. Other recommendations included establishing an Economic Development Strategic Fund, accepting a Homeland Security grant, purchasing jail video arraignment pods for $55,564.42, a new jail kitchen tilt skillet for $15,789, a copier lease with Applied Imaging, and a salary exception for a Circuit Court Prosecutor. The committee also approved monthly budget adjustments and scheduled action on the Countywide Recreation Plan for January 26, 2021.

• Approved motion to recommend CivicClerk purchase ($8,329 implementation, $6,804/year) (all yes)
• Approved motion to recommend Todd Hackenberg for Road Commissioners vacancy (6-1, Patterson-Gladney no)
• Approved motion to take action on Countywide Recreation Plan on Jan 26, 2021 (all yes)
• Approved monthly budget adjustments (all yes)
• Approved motion to recommend establishing Economic Development Strategic Fund (all yes)
• Approved motion to recommend 2020 Homeland Security Grant agreement (all yes)
• Approved motion to recommend sale of county property at Municipal Auction on Jan 26, 2021 (all yes)
• Approved motion to recommend jail video arraignment pods purchase ($55,564.42) (all yes)

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet remotely via Zoom to discuss and vote on several items, including a recommendation on the Village of Breedsville annexation of Columbia Township property, approval of December 2020 claims totaling $974,408.00, and a municipal auction. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval and public comment.

• Village of Breedsville annexation of Columbia Township property
• Claims for December 2020 in the amount of $974,408.00
• Municipal auction discussion
• Meeting conducted remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19

Finance Committee

The Van Buren County Finance Committee will meet remotely via Zoom to consider routine financial matters, including approval of claims totaling $974,408, budget adjustments, board per diems, and the monthly financial statement. The agenda also includes several specific items such as a K9 purchase, a homeland security grant renewal, a municipal auction, jail video arraignment rooms, a tilt skillet repair, copy machines for courts, and an assistant prosecuting attorney salary exception. The meeting is largely procedural, with most items being recommendations to the full Board of Commissioners.

• Claims approval in the amount of $974,408.00
• K9 Handler Schmitt purchase of service K9 Temo
• Homeland Security Grant Renewal
• Jail Remote Video Arraignment/Meeting Rooms
• Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Starting Salary Exception