Cass County public meetings in 2024

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet as a Committee of the Whole on December 19, 2024. The agenda includes approvals of minutes and the November 2024 financial report, appointments to several boards and commissions, and discussion of opioid settlement requests and a police services contract with Marcellus Township. Public comment will be limited to three minutes per person. The meeting will also recognize new sheriff deputies.

• Appointments to the Kinexus Board (Anna Murphy, Arlandar Washington) and other boards and commissions
• Opioid Settlement Request for Cass County Problem‑Solving Courts
• Opioid Settlement Request for Woodlands Behavioral Healthcare Network – Additional Distribution Boxes
• Discussion of the Marcellus Township Police Services Contract
• Approval of the November 2024 Financial Report

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting on December 19, 2024, and took no final decisions. All six appointment items, two opioid settlement funding requests, and the Marcellus Township police services contract were moved to the next regular board meeting for action. The board also approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes.

• Approved December 19, 2024 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved November 21, 2024 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Moved Kinexus Board appointments to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Van Buren/Cass District Board of Health appointment to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield appointments to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Board of Public Works appointments to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Parks & Recreation Commission appointments to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Materials Management Planning Committee appointments to next meeting (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will discuss funding for blight elimination and opioid settlement projects. The body is also deciding on a commissioner salary schedule for 2025 to 2028 and several board appointments.

• Proposed $2 million General Fund advance for CCLBA Blight Elimination Grant funding
• Proposed $13,071 from Opioid Settlement Fund for Cass Family Clinic Naloxone Vending Machines
• Resolution R-119-2024 to establish Commissioner Salary Schedule for 2025 to 2028
• Proposed allocation of $15,018 in CSLFRF Program funds toward the Robin Grant Match
• Appointment of Dwight Dyes to the Cass County Road Commission

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting on December 19, 2024. The board approved several routine items, including consent agenda items, appointments, and a budget adjustment. A resolution to increase commissioner salaries for the 2025-2028 term failed on a 4-4 roll call vote after an amendment reduced the proposed amounts. The board also discussed the performance of Market One, an economic development contractor, with some commissioners expressing dissatisfaction.

• Approved consent agenda including claims, minutes, appointment, budget amendments, and MDOT resolution (8-0)
• Approved CCLBA Blight Elimination Grant funding advance up to $2M from General Fund
• Appointed Dwight Dyes to Cass County Road Commission (term to 12/31/2030)
• Approved resolution amending Environmental Health Code for groundwater use restricted zones (8-0)
• Approved FY25 Budget Adjustment for Secondary Road Patrol
• Approved $13,071 for Naloxone vending machines from Opioid Settlement Funds
• Appointed Gerry Bundle to Cass District Library Board (term to 12/31/2026)
• Commissioner salary increase resolution R-119-2024 failed (4-4)

Cass County Planning Commission

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet on December 18, 2024. The commission will discuss a rezoning request from Pokagon Township and review the draft Cass County Master Plan prepared by McKenna. No decisions have been recorded yet.

• Pokagon Township rezoning request
• Cass County Draft Master Plan — McKenna

General

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular meeting on December 13, 2024. Commissioners will consider a motion to enter a closed session pursuant to MCL 15.268(a) and include the Clerk/Register, Administrator, Finance Director, and Human Resources/Payroll Director. The meeting will also cover routine items such as public comment limits, agenda approval, and adjournment.

• Motion to enter Closed Session under MCL 15.268(a) with specified officials
• Public comment limited to 3 minutes per person
• Approval of the meeting agenda

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved an employment agreement for an Interim Administrator, with salary set at $150,000 (amended from $125,000) and $175,000 (amended from $150,000) in Section 4. A motion to revert to the original lower salary figures failed. The board also approved a Retention and Separation Agreement for Administrator Newton, effective December 24, 2024, and held three closed sessions.

• Approved Document 2 (Retention and Separation Agreement for Administrator Newton) effective December 24, 2024 (voice vote)
• Approved Employment Agreement for Interim Administrator with salary amendments ($150,000 and $175,000) (6-2)
• Failed motion to revert salary to original amounts ($125,000 and $150,000) (3-5)
• Entered closed session #1 under MCL 15.268(a) (8-0)
• Entered closed session #2 under MCL 15.268(a) (8-0)
• Entered closed session #3 under MCL 15.268(h) (8-0)

Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Development Authority

The Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will approve the agenda and the March 27, 2024 meeting minutes. They will receive a financial report from the treasurer. New business includes a discussion of the authority's goals and objectives.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of March 27, 2024 meeting minutes
• Treasurer's financial report
• Discussion of goals and objectives

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Cass County Board of Commissioners' Appointments Committee will meet to review and likely approve nominations for various county boards and commissions, including the Road Commission, Kinexus, and the Health Department.

• Cass County Road Commission (1 appointment)
• Kinexus (2 appointments)
• Van Buren/Cass District Health Department (1 appointment)
• EDC/Brownfield (2 appointments)
• Board of Public Works (4 appointments)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several new business items, including a budget amendment for fiscal year 2025. The meeting also includes a financial report for October 2024 and a discussion on substance abuse and drug-free workplace policies.

• FY 25 Budget Amendment
• Placement of Flock Cameras
• ABM - Technical Audit LOI
• Appointment of Cade Michael Ford Stephenson to Remonumentation Peer Group
• Substance Abuse/Drug-Free Workplace discussion

The Cass County Board of Commissioners met as the Committee of the Whole on November 21, 2024, with all members present except Commissioner Ryan Laylin. The board moved several items to its next regular meeting agenda, including a commissioner compensation proposal, a Veterans Grant budget amendment, and a resolution supporting a permit application for Flock cameras on state highways. A proposed update to the Substance Abuse/Drug-Free Workplace Policy was referred back to the Policy Committee, and a technical audit from ABM will not move forward. No final decisions on these items were made at this meeting.

• Approved the November 21, 2024, Committee of the Whole agenda (voice vote)
• Approved the October 17, 2024, Committee of the Whole minutes (voice vote)
• Moved appointment of Cade Michael Ford Stephenson to the Remonumentation Peer Group to the next board meeting (voice vote)
• Referred the Substance Abuse/Drug-Free Workplace Policy update back to the Policy Committee (voice vote)
• ABM Technical Audit will not move forward; a motion to not move it to the next agenda was withdrawn after being advised it was not necessary or legal
• Moved the FY 25 Veterans Grant budget amendment to the next regular board meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved a resolution supporting a permit application for Flock cameras on state highways to the next regular board meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved commissioner compensation option 1 (one-time $1,500 increase to $20,000, plus $1,000 for Chair and $500 for Vice Chair) to the next regular board meeting agenda (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Cass County Capital Projects Committee meeting on November 20, 2024 will follow standard procedures, including call to order, roll call, public comment, and approval of minutes. The only substantive agenda item is the ABM Technical Audit listed under new business. The committee will discuss that audit and then adjourn.

• ABM Technical Audit (new business item)

Cass County Planning Commission

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet to discuss a specific application in La Grange Township and a Master Plan amendment for Jefferson Township. The commission is also scheduled to discuss a general Master Plan update.

• La Grange Township PA 116 Application
• Jefferson Township Master Plan Amendment
• Master Plan Update

Policy Committee

The Cass County Policy Committee will meet to discuss DC vesting periods and matching contributions for non-union new hires. The committee will also review old business regarding drug-free workplace policies and county building parking rules.

• Discussion on DC Vesting Periods and Matching Contribution for Non-union New Hires
• Substance Abuse/Drug-Free Workplace policy
• County Building Parking Rules

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of claims, meeting minutes, the CY 2025 annual salaries of county elected officials, annual wage adjustments for non‑union employees, and hiring authority for the undersheriff up to step 6. Additional items on the agenda are a hazard mitigation plan, an FY24 emergency management performance grant agreement, and a FY24‑25 Michigan Indigent Defense Commission grant contract. A presentation of a preliminary facilities assessment report will also be given. Public comment is limited to agenda items only.

• Resolution to approve the CY 2025 Annual Salaries of County Elected Officials (R-110-2024)
• Resolution to approve Annual Wage Adjustments for CY 2025 for Non‑Union Employees (R-112-2024)
• Resolution to authorize Cass County Administrator to approve step‑level hiring of Undersheriff up to Step 6 (R-111-2024)
• Resolution to approve Hazard Mitigation Plan (R-113-2024)
• Motion to approve FY24‑25 Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) Grant Contract (M-153-2024)

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda including 2025 salaries for elected officials, a 3% cost-of-living increase for non-union employees, and authorization for step-level hiring of an Undersheriff. They also adopted the county Hazard Mitigation Plan and made appointments to the Materials Management Planning Committee. All votes were unanimous except for an amendment to appoint James Wierman instead of Vicki Vaughn to a board, which passed 5-3.

• Approved 2025 salaries for elected officials (8-0)
• Approved 3% cost-of-living increase for non-union employees (8-0)
• Authorized administrator to hire Undersheriff up to Grade 15, Step 6 (8-0)
• Adopted Cass County Hazard Mitigation Plan (8-0)
• Appointed Commissioner Marchetti to Materials Management Planning Committee (voice vote)
• Appointed Amy Huser to Materials Management Planning Committee (voice vote)
• Approved SWMPC recommendations for Materials Management Planning Committee (voice vote)
• Amended appointment to DHS/Medica Care Facility Board to James Wierman (5-3)

General

The Cass County Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will hold its regular meeting. The board will approve the agenda, approve the March 27, 2024 meeting minutes, receive the treasurer’s financial report, receive an update on the Market One project, and discuss the board’s goals and objectives.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of March 27, 2024 meeting minutes
• Financial report by Treasurer
• Market One update (old business)
• Discussion of goals and objectives (new business)

Cass County Planning Commission

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet to discuss the Edwardsburg/Ontwa Township Master Plan review and the Decatur/Hamilton Joint Comprehensive Plan. The commission will also address old business regarding the Master Plan.

• Edwardsburg/Ontwa Township Master Plan review
• Decatur/Hamilton Joint Comprehensive Plan

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting to approve the agenda, consider any new business, and vote on a motion to enter a closed session under MCL 15.268(e). The meeting includes standard items such as call to order, invocation, pledge of allegiance, roll call, and public comment limited to three minutes per person. A closed‑session motion lists Clerk/Register McMichael, Treasurer Anderson, Administrator Newton, Finance Director Rentfrow, and Attorney Nic Spigiel as participants.

• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Consideration of any new business
• Motion to enter closed session per MCL 15.268(e) with listed officials

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on October 21, 2024, but conducted no substantive public business. The only action was a unanimous 6-0 vote to enter closed session under MCL 15.268(e), which lasted from 3:03 p.m. to 3:41 p.m. The meeting adjourned immediately after returning to open session.

• Approved special meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Entered closed session under MCL 15.268(e) (6-0)

Appointments Committee

The Cass County Appointments Committee will meet on October 17, 2024 at 4:00 PM. It will approve the September 12, 2024 meeting minutes. The committee will consider one opening on the Cass District Library Board and one opening on the Cass County Medical Care Facility/Department of Human Services Board. It will also discuss any upcoming openings.

• Approval of September 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Consideration of one opening on the Cass District Library Board
• Consideration of one opening on the Cass County Medical Care Facility/Department of Human Services Board
• Discussion of upcoming openings

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will consider Resolution R-108-2024 to approve the 2024 Cass County Apportionment Report. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, public comment, and agenda approval. The board will decide whether to adopt the apportionment report before adjourning.

• Resolution R-108-2024 – Approve the 2024 Cass County Apportionment Report

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on October 17, 2024, and approved Resolution R-108-2024, the 2024 Apportionment Report, in a 5-0 roll call vote. This report authorizes the county's 59 taxing authorities to levy property taxes for 2024. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was otherwise procedural.

• Approved 2024 Apportionment Report (R-108-2024) (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will discuss several new business items, including the salary for elected officials in 2025, a step-level hiring request for the undersheriff, a non‑union cost‑of‑living adjustment for 2025, the 2025 holiday schedule, and the appointment of a deputy medical examiner. Additional items include a furniture and facility enhancement policy, a grant budget for child and parent legal representation, and FY 2025 problem‑solving court budgets.

• 2025 elected official salary
• Undersheriff step‑level hiring request
• 2025 non‑union cost of living adjustment
• 2025 holiday schedule
• FY 2025 problem‑solving court budgets

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting on October 17, 2024, but made no final decisions. All eight new business items—including the 2025 elected official salary increase, Undersheriff step-level hiring, non-union cost-of-living adjustment, holiday schedule, Deputy Medical Examiner appointment, furniture policy, and two court grant budgets—were moved to the next regular board meeting. The board approved the agenda and minutes, and heard a presentation on Veterans Affairs office plaques.

• Approved October 17, 2024 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved September 19, 2024 minutes (voice vote)
• Moved 2025 elected official salary increase to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Undersheriff step-level hiring to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved 2025 non-union COLA to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved 2025 holiday schedule to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved Deputy Medical Examiner appointment to next meeting (voice vote)
• Moved furniture policy and grant budgets to next meeting (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Cass County Policy Committee will consider approval of the agenda and approval of the September 12, 2024 meeting minutes. The committee will discuss two old‑business items: the Furniture and Facility Improvement Policy and Substance Abuse and Testing. Public comment will be accepted before the meeting adjourns.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of September 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Furniture and Facility Improvement Policy
• Discussion of Substance Abuse and Testing
• Public comment period

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will review several appointment recommendations for county boards and commissions. The meeting includes reports on the state of the courts and materials management planning. The board will also consider approving the 2024 Special Assessment Rolls.

• Appointments to the Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Development Authority
• Reappointments to the Historical Commission
• Appointment of Barbara Grennan to the Community Corrections Advisory Board
• Approval of 2024 Special Assessment Rolls
• Approval of Cost Allocation Plan Agreement

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included claims, minutes, and multiple appointments to boards. They also approved the 2024 Special Assessment Rolls and entered a closed session to review attorney-client privileged communication.

• Approved consent agenda including claims, minutes, and appointments (8-0)
• Approved 2024 Special Assessment Rolls (voice vote)
• Entered closed session for attorney-client privileged communication (8-0)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Cass County Salary Committee is meeting to review compensation for various county roles. The body will discuss salaries for elected officials, commissioners, and chief deputies, as well as retirement and cost-of-living adjustments.

• Elected Official Salaries
• Commissioner Salaries
• Chief Deputy Salaries
• MERS Retirement for Elected Officials
• Non-union Cost of Living Adjustment

Board of Public Works

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will review the June 12, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Approval of June 12, 2024 meeting minutes

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the FY 2025 budget and vote on a resolution to adopt the FY 2025 General Appropriations Act. They will also consider motions to approve FY 2024 budget amendments, accept a cleaning and janitorial services proposal from The DM Burr Group costing up to $114,958, and purchase a new secondary road patrol vehicle with a $5,000 down payment from FY 24 funds.

• Public hearing on FY25 budget (motions to open and close)
• Resolution to adopt FY2025 General Appropriations Act
• Motion to approve FY24 budget amendments
• Acceptance of Cleaning & Janitorial Services Proposal from The DM Burr Group, cost not to exceed $114,958
• Purchase of new Secondary Road Patrol Vehicle with $5,000 down payment from FY24 and grant funds

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the FY 2025 Administrator's Recommended Budget and FY 2024 budget amendments. The meeting also includes a review of cleaning RFP bids and real property foreclosure sales.

• FY 2025 Administrator's Recommended Budget
• FY 2024 Budget Amendments
• Cleaning RFP bid review
• Foreclosing Governmental Unit Report of Real Property Foreclosure Sales
• Cost Allocation Plan Agreement

The board reviewed the FY 2025 recommended budget with a reduced deficit of $1.559 million. A motion to accept the budget and move it to the September 24 special meeting failed on a 4-3 roll call vote, but a subsequent motion to move the item to that meeting carried. Other items were moved to upcoming meetings, including cleaning services bids and appointments.

• Moved FY 2025 budget to Sept 24 special meeting with public hearing (4-3 roll call)
• Moved cleaning RFP bid review to Sept 24 special meeting (voice vote)
• Moved appointment recommendations to Oct 3 regular meeting (voice vote)
• Moved cost allocation plan agreement to Oct 3 regular meeting (voice vote)
• Moved FY 2024 budget amendments to Sept 24 regular meeting (voice vote)
• Added cost allocation plan agreement to agenda (voice vote)
• Approved Aug 15, 2024 minutes (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Cass County Policy Committee will consider and adopt policies and procedures for the Veterans Relief Fund/Peactime Veterans' Fund. The committee will also discuss furniture and facility enhancements and set priorities for the remainder of the year. Standard agenda items such as approval of the agenda, minutes, and public comment will also be addressed.

• Veterans Relief Fund/Peactime Veterans' Fund Policies and Procedures
• Furniture and Facility Enhancement (Discussion)
• Priorities for Remainder of Year
• Approval of August 8, 2024 meeting minutes

Appointments Committee

The Appointments Committee will meet to discuss appointments for several county entities. The agenda includes reviews for the Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Development Authority, the Cass County Medical Care Facility/Department of Health and Human Services, and the Cass District Library Board.

• Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Development Authority appointments
• Cass County Medical Care Facility/Department of Health and Human Services appointments
• Cass District Library Board appointments

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will hold a Truth-in-Taxation public hearing and vote on approving a revised 2024 tax rate request, upgrading the county phone system, and installing a jail duress alarm system. The meeting also includes approval of the August meeting minutes and a resolution for the FY 25 Child Care Fund Budget.

• Truth-in-Taxation public hearing and vote on revised 2024 L-4029 tax rate request
• Approval of phone system upgrades from Symplicity Communications and InDigital
• Approval of jail duress alarm system installation quote from SAS
• Approval of Dr. Lawless Park Renovation Project engineering services from OCBA
• Approval of FY 25 Child Care Fund Budget

The board approved the consent agenda, including a resolution to levy the full 6.9551 mills for 2024, which was the subject of a public hearing with no comment. They also approved the FY 25 Child Care Fund Budget, revised tax rate request, and several other items. New business included approving phone system upgrades and designating Sheriff Behnke as MERS delegate. The board entered closed session to review attorney-client privileged communication.

• Approved 2024 millage rate of 6.9551 mills (8-0)
• Approved FY 25 Child Care Fund Budget (8-0)
• Approved revised 2024 L-4029 Tax Rate Request (8-0)
• Approved Boards and Commissions Attendance Policy (8-0)
• Approved jail duress alarm system quote from SOS (8-0)
• Approved OCBA engineering & design services for Dr. Lawless Park Renovation (8-0)
• Approved TruNarc Drug Testing System quote (8-0)
• Approved phone system proposals from Symplicity Communications and InDigital (voice vote)

Cass County Planning Commission

The Commission will review the county’s Master Plan update as old business. It will also consider the Porter Township Fence Ordinance as new business. No other items are on the agenda.

• Master Plan update – review of the county comprehensive plan
• Porter Township Fence Ordinance – proposed ordinance regulating fences

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will conduct a budget workshop on August 23, 2024, beginning at 8:00 AM. The workshop includes scheduled presentations from the Prosecutor's Office, Veterans Affairs, Law & Courts, Treasurer, Clerk/Register, Sheriff's Office, Drain Commission, IT, GIS, Parks, Equalization, Administration & Finance, and Facilities, with two 15‑minute breaks. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda is for informational sessions.

• Prosecutor's Office presentation at 8:00 AM
• Veterans Affairs presentation at 8:20 AM
• Law & Courts presentation at 8:30 AM
• Treasurer presentation at 9:00 AM
• Sheriff's Office presentation at 9:45 AM

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a budget workshop, hearing departmental requests for FY 25. No formal votes were taken, but the board directed Administrator Newton to prepare an administrator-recommended budget using no more than $2 million from the fund balance and without eliminating current positions. The prosecutor withdrew a request to add a law clerk due to the deficit.

• Directed administrator to prepare recommended budget with fund balance allocation capped at $2 million
• Directed that no current positions be eliminated in the FY 25 budget
• Prosecutor withdrew request to add a Law Clerk for FY 25
• Scheduled special board meeting for September 24 to approve the budget
• Planned budget training for commissioners in January 2025

Appointments Committee

The Cass County Appointments Committee will meet on August 15, 2024 at 4:00 PM. The agenda includes standard procedural items and a discussion of new appointments to the Historical Commission, the Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Development Authority, the Cass County Medical Care Facility/DHHS, and the Community Corrections Advisory Board. No specific decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• Appointment to the Historical Commission
• Appointment to the Economic Development Corporation/Brownfield Development Authority
• Appointment to the Cass County Medical Care Facility/DHHS
• Appointment to the Community Corrections Advisory Board

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet on August 15, 2024. The meeting will include routine items such as approval of the agenda, minutes, and the July 2024 financial report. New business items include a revised L‑4029 report, appointments to the Materials Management Board, the FY 25 Child Care Fund budget, an attendance policy for boards and commissions, a duress alarm system for the jail, engineering and design services for the Dr. Lawless International Dark Sky Park, and a TruNarc drug‑testing system.

• Duress Alarm System for Jail
• Engineering/Design Services for Dr. Lawless International Dark Sky Park
• FY 25 Child Care Fund Budget
• Boards and Commissions Attendance Policy
• TruNarc Drug Testing System

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting and moved all eight new business items to the September 5, 2024 Regular Board Meeting agenda for final action. No substantive decisions were made; all motions were procedural to advance items. Items included a revised L-4029 report, materials management board appointments, FY 25 Child Care Fund budget, attendance policy, jail duress alarm system, engineering services for Dr. Lawless Park, TruNarc drug testing devices, and a budget workshop discussion.

• Moved revised L-4029 report to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Moved materials management board appointments to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Moved FY 25 Child Care Fund budget to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Moved boards and commissions attendance policy to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Moved duress alarm system for jail ($236,000) to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Moved engineering/design services for Dr. Lawless Park ($111,270) to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Moved TruNarc drug testing devices ($81,333) to Sept. 5 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved agenda with BOC Budget Workshop discussion addition (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Capital Projects Committee will review two new business items. One item concerns a duress alarm system to be installed at the county jail. The other item concerns engineering and design services for the Dr. Lawless International Dark Sky Park. The committee will also approve minutes from the July 9, 2024 meeting.

• Duress alarm system for the county jail
• Engineering/design services for Dr. Lawless International Dark Sky Park

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve a proposed consent agenda including claims, minutes, and interlocal agreements, as well as consider a budget amendment and a parks secretary appointment.

• Approval of claims dated July 6th through August 2nd
• FY 24 Budget Amendments
• CCIEA LOU #002 - Parks Secretary appointment
• Material Management Interlocal Agreement - Amendment
• Animal Control Vehicle Replacement

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved Resolution R-105-24, amending the interlocal agreement with Berrien and Van Buren counties to revise the appointment process for the Materials Management Planning Committee and add a representative from the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. The board also approved a consent agenda covering claims, minutes, appointments, and purchases, and recognized the Equalization Department for a state award.

• Approved Resolution R-105-24 amending the Materials Management Interlocal Agreement (8-0)
• Approved consent agenda including claims, minutes, and appointments (8-0)
• Approved $49,102 floor replacement at 911 Center/EOC
• Approved $1,074.84 funding for two refurbished paper boxes
• Approved purchase of two Animal Control Patrol Vehicles up to $115,000
• Approved BS&A Cloud Migration proposal with $35,000 commitment
• Approved FY 24 Budget Amendments
• Approved LOU #002 with CCIEA

Policy Committee

The Cass County Policy Committee will approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the July 11, 2024 meeting. It will also discuss the Boards and Commissions Attendance Policy. Public comment and member comments are scheduled, but no new contracts or ordinances are on the agenda.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of July 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Boards and Commissions Attendance Policy

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the FY 25 draft budget and FY 24 budget amendments. The agenda includes decisions on equipment replacements and funding for public safety initiatives.

• Discussion of FY 25 Draft Budget
• FY 24 Budget Amendments
• Opioid Funding Request for Narcan Distribution Boxes
• Animal Control Vehicle Replacement
• 911 Center/EOC Flooring

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting and voted to place eight new business items on the next regular board agenda, including a planning commission appointment, 911 center flooring purchase, opioid funding, and a cloud migration contract. They also set a budget workshop for August 23, 2024, to address a draft FY25 budget showing a $3.183 million deficit. No final decisions were made on these items; they were only moved forward for formal action.

• Approved agenda as amended (voice vote)
• Approved June 20, 2024 minutes (voice vote)
• Moved planning commission appointment of Todd Haberland to next agenda (voice vote)
• Moved 911 Center/EOC flooring purchase of $49,102 to next agenda (voice vote)
• Moved opioid funding of $1,074.84 for Narcan boxes to next agenda (voice vote)
• Moved Material Management Interlocal Agreement amendment to next agenda (voice vote)
• Moved animal control vehicle purchase up to $115,000 to next agenda (voice vote)
• Moved BS&A cloud migration proposal with $35,000 commitment to next agenda (voice vote)

Policy Committee

The Policy Committee will review the minutes from the May 9, 2024 meeting. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the attendance policy for boards and commissions.

• Approval of May 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion on Boards and Commissions Attendance Policy

Board of Commissioners

The Cass County Board of Commissioners will meet on July 11, 2024, to review several proposed motions. Key items include approvals for vehicle replacements, software agreements, and cleaning services. The board will also discuss jury fees and the dissolution of the MERS Committee.

• Squad car replacement program up to $146,000
• ESRI GIS Software 3-Year Agreement at $58,000 annually
• Interim cleaning contract with Cleanest Co. at $17,780 per month
• Service weapon replacement program costing $43,919
• Classification & Compensation Study proposal up to $60,000

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved a series of consent agenda items including a $58,000 annual GIS software agreement, $43,919 for a service weapon replacement program, and up to $146,000 for squad car replacement. In new business, the board dissolved the MERS Committee, approved $35,000 in additional jury fee funding, and approved $29,513 to replace a dispatch equipment room air conditioner. A proposed interim cleaning contract with The Cleanest Co. failed on a 3-4 roll call vote, and the board adopted an 80/20 health insurance cost split under Public Act 152 after amending a proposed hard cap.

• Approved consent agenda including claims, June 6 minutes, refusal of tax-reverted properties, FY25 Community Corrections plan, and other items (8-0)
• Approved ESRI GIS Software 3-Year Agreement at $58,000 annually (consent agenda, 8-0)
• Approved Service Weapon Replacement Program at $43,919 (consent agenda, 8-0)
• Approved squad car replacement up to $146,000 from Motor Pool Fund (consent agenda, 8-0)
• Approved Classification & Compensation Study from Municipal Consulting Services up to $60,000 (consent agenda, 8-0)
• Approved on-call stipend of $110 per day for Prosecutor's staff on weekends and holidays (voice vote)
• Dissolved the MERS Committee (voice vote)
• Approved $35,000 additional funding for Jury Fees (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Capital Projects Committee is reviewing requests to upgrade infrastructure at the 911 Center. These include replacing an air conditioning unit to ensure essential cooling for dispatch equipment and installing new flooring throughout the facility.

• Replacement of Dispatch Equipment Room AC unit for $29,513
• New flooring installation at 911 Center/EOC for $49,102

Capital Projects Committee

The Capital Projects Committee will discuss upgrades to the Dispatch Equipment Room air conditioner and 911 Center/EOC flooring. The committee will also review the minutes from the May 14, 2024, meeting.

• Dispatch Equipment Room Air Conditioner
• 911 Center/EOC Flooring

The Capital Projects Committee approved two facility improvement projects. Members also discussed the need for a formal capital projects budget and a comprehensive list of upcoming projects from department heads.

• Approved LaPine for dispatch equipment room air conditioner, pending documentation of two other solicitations
• Approved Infinium Floors for 911 Center/EOC flooring
• Approved May 14, 2024 meeting minutes

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The MERS Committee will review the minutes from the May 22, 2024, meeting. The committee will also address new business regarding defined contribution plans.

• Approval of May 22, 2024, meeting minutes
• Discussion of defined contribution plans

Board of Commissioners

The Committee of the Whole will discuss several administrative and public safety items. Topics include insurance renewals, software needs, and law enforcement equipment replacements. Additionally, officials requested pay grade changes for certain county positions.

• Employee Insurance/Benefit Renewal Plan Year 2024-2025
• FY 2025 Community Corrections Application & Plan
• Service Weapon Replacement Program and Squad Car Replacements
• Classification & Compensation Study
• Pay grade change requests for Clerk/Register, Treasurer, and Chief Judge

The Cass County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole met on June 20, 2024, and moved nine new business items to the next regular board meeting agenda by voice votes. These included an employee insurance hard cap option, a decision not to purchase tax-reverted properties, an $81,000 community corrections application, a $58,500 annual GIS software renewal, up to $5,000 in opioid settlement funds for a conference, a $17,780 monthly cleaning contract extension, a $43,919 service weapon replacement, $145,274 for two squad cars, and a $55,000 classification and compensation study. The board chose not to act on a request to reclassify employees in the Clerk/Register, Treasurer, and Courts offices, directing officials to await the classification and compensation study. No final approvals were made on these items at this meeting; they were placed on the next regular agenda.

• Moved employee insurance/benefit renewal (hard cap option) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved annual foreclosure report (recommendation not to purchase tax-reverted properties) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved FY 2025 Community Corrections Application and Plan ($81,000 request) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved ESRI GIS Software renewal ($58,500 annually for three years) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved National Opioid Crisis Management Congress request (up to $5,000 from opioid settlement funds) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved cleaning extension/interim agreement with The Cleanest Company ($17,780 per month through September 30) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved service weapon replacement program ($43,919) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)
• Moved squad car replacements ($145,274 for two Chevrolet Tahoes) to next regular meeting agenda (voice vote)

Board of Public Works

The June 12, 2024, meeting for the Cass County Board of Public Works contains only procedural boilerplate. The agenda includes approving the March 20, 2024, minutes and managing public comments.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding Truth in Taxation. The agenda also includes approving an agreement with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and funding for a jail project.

• Public hearing regarding Truth in Taxation
• $67,650.17 agreement with a Communication Company
• $13,216.90 opioid settlement funding request for Jail MAT Project
• Law Enforcement Agreement between Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians and Cass County
• Appointment of Michael Bowman to the Cass County Planning Commission

The Board approved the 2024 tax rate request and established a $34.00 per diem rate for board-appointed commissions. Several personnel policies were adopted, including new salary and conflict of interest policies. The Board also approved a law enforcement agreement with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians.

• Approved L-4029 2024 Tax Rate Request (8-0)
• Established $34.00 per diem rate for Board-appointed Boards & Commissions (8-0)
• Approved Law Enforcement Agreement with Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians (8-0)
• Approved $67,650.17 agreement with Communication Company (8-0)
• Approved $13,216.90 Opioid Settlement Funding for Jail MAT Project (8-0)
• Approved Conflict of Interest Policy (voice vote)
• Approved Elected Official and Chief Deputy Salary Policy (voice vote)
• Appointed Michael Bowman to Planning Commission through July 31, 2026 (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The MERS Committee will meet to conduct a review of a meeting with a MERS representative. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and the review of old business.

• Review of MERS representative meeting

One Time Event

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet to discuss short-term rentals in La Grange Township and a rezoning request in Milton Township. The commission will also review the county's Master Plan.

• La Grange Township short-term rentals
• Milton Township rezoning
• County Master Plan

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing several new business items, including FY 24 budget amendments and a law enforcement agreement with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi. The body is also discussing facility improvements for the Law and Courts Building and animal control fencing.

• FY 24 Budget Amendments
• Law & Courts Building camera upgrade
• Opioid Settlement Funding Application
• Law Enforcement Agreement with Pokagon Band of Potawatomi
• MSU Extension Amendment to MOA

The Cass County Board of Commissioners met as the Committee of the Whole on May 16, 2024, with all eight commissioners present. The body took no final votes on substantive matters; instead it voted by voice to place nine items on the next regular board meeting agenda, including a materials management contract and interlocal agreement, a Truth-In-Taxation hearing for the FY25 operating millage, a $60,825.17 Law & Courts Building camera upgrade, $13,216.90 in opioid settlement funding, three policy updates, an MSU Extension agreement amendment, Animal Control fencing, FY24 budget amendments, and a law enforcement agreement with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. Item 9 was removed from the agenda and sent to the Classification and Compensation Committee. The meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m.

• Placed Materials Management Planning contract and interlocal agreement on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed Truth-In-Taxation public hearing for FY25 operating millage on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed $60,825.17 Law & Courts Building camera upgrade on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed $13,216.90 opioid settlement funding request from Cass County Jail MAT Program on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed three policy updates (Elected Official & Chief Deputy Salary, Commissioner Mileage, Boards & Commissions Per Diem & Mileage) on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed MSU Extension MOA amendment on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed Animal Control fencing request of up to $11,000 on next regular board agenda (voice vote)
• Placed FY24 budget amendments on next regular board agenda (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Capital Projects Committee is meeting to discuss new business regarding camera upgrades for the Law & Courts Building. The agenda includes a detailed quotation from Communication Company for a CCTV system upgrade involving new NVR, POE switches, and various indoor and outdoor cameras.

• Law & Courts Building CCTV upgrade proposal from Communication Company
• Installation of new NVR with 32TB storage and 36 IP licenses
• Replacement and addition of 4MP and 8MP dome cameras across basement and first floors
• Installation of Cat 6e network cabling and POE switches

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Policy Committee is meeting to review old business regarding official policies. The agenda includes discussions on conflict of interest, chief deputy salaries, and mileage policies for commissioners and boards.

• Conflict of Interest Policy
• Chief Deputy Salaries
• Commissioners Mileage Policy
• Boards and Commissions Per Diem and Mileage

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider placing drug enforcement and senior services millage renewals on the August 6th primary ballot. The meeting includes votes on several facility improvement contracts and the adoption of a deficit elimination plan for specific county funds.

• Drug Enforcement and Senior Services millage renewals for the August 6th ballot
• Public Defender Office renovation contract with Elite Companies for $44,197
• Law & Courts Building chiller repairs with Trane for $62,678
• Law & Courts Building new Building Control Unit with Trane for $35,340
• Silver Creek Township Police Services Contract

The Board of Commissioners approved placing renewals for the Drug Enforcement and Senior Services millages on the August 6 primary ballot. The board also approved several facility repair contracts and a deficit elimination plan for two county funds.

• Authorized 0.4751 mill Drug Enforcement millage renewal for August 6 ballot (8-0)
• Authorized 0.9827 mill Senior Services millage renewal for August 6 ballot (8-0)
• Approved $44,197 Public Defender Office renovation via MIDC Grant (8-0)
• Approved $62,678 chiller repairs and $35,340 control unit for Law & Courts Building (8-0)
• Adopted deficit elimination plan for Community Corrections and DHS Childcare funds (8-0)
• Sent Conflict of Interest and Ethical Standards Policy back to Policy Committee (5-3)
• Approved submission of Notice of Intent for a multicounty Materials Management Plan (8-0)
• Approved Silver Creek Township Police Services Contract (8-0)

One Time Event

The Cass County Planning Commission approved changes to the Ontwa Township Zoning Ordinance, specifically removing building code references in the Residential Dwelling section. The commission also approved two rezoning applications: one for a tax parcel in Pokagon Township and another changing a parcel in Porter Township from Mobile Home Park to Lake Residential. Additionally, they set June 26 as the date for a public open house regarding the County Master Plan.

• Approved agenda with no changes
• Approved March 27, 2024 minutes
• Approved changes to Ontwa Township Zoning Ordinance (Residential Dwelling Section 3.26)
• Approved PA-116 application for tax parcel #14-110-013-230-00 in Pokagon Township
• Approved rezoning of tax parcel #14-120-209-016-00 in Porter Township from Mobile Home Park to Lake Residential
• Set June 26 as date for Master Plan open house at Road Commission building
• Set May 15 deadline for comments on Draft Survey Questionnaire

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The committee is meeting to discuss methods for increasing awareness of opioid settlement funds among potential applicants. The agenda also includes items regarding funding awards and the use of MAC evaluation tools.

• Discussion of awareness efforts including press releases, social media, and flyers at libraries and clinics
• Review of funding awards and acceptance of funding
• Evaluation of funding using MAC tools and surveys

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing several millage renewals and service contracts. The meeting includes discussions on budget amendments, facility improvements, and policy updates.

• Silver Creek Township Police Services Contract
• Drug Enforcement and Council on Aging (COA) millage renewals
• Public Defender Office and L&C Building HVAC/Mechanical improvements
• FY 24 Budget Amendments
• Animal Control improvements discussion

The Committee of the Whole advanced eight new business items to the next regular board meeting, including police contracts, millage renewals, and building repairs. The only substantive vote taken was to place a new Conflict of Interest Policy on the agenda, which passed 5-3. No final approvals of contracts, budgets, or policies occurred during this committee meeting.

• Agenda and March 21 minutes approved by voice vote
• Materials Management Planning item advanced to regular meeting
• Silver Creek Township Police Services Contract item advanced to regular meeting
• Drug Enforcement Millage Renewal item advanced to regular meeting
• Council on Aging Millage Renewal item advanced to regular meeting
• Tax Sharing Policy update item advanced to regular meeting
• Conflict of Interest Policy item advanced to regular meeting (5-3 roll call)
• Public Defender Renovation item advanced to regular meeting

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to consider a resolution to adopt the 2024 Equalization Report. This report contains recommended equalized valuations for property across 15 townships and 2 cities in Cass County.

• Resolution R-061-24: Adoption of the 2024 Equalization Report
• Total 2024 Equalized valuation of $4,621,088,055
• Residential Real Property valuation of $3,514,678,510
• Agricultural Real Property valuation of $593,305,800
• Total Personal Property valuation of $316,270,945

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several financial motions including a $308,500 loan to the Cass County Transit Authority. Other items include approving land lease agreements for Lawless Park and various survey contracts funded by state grants.

• $308,500 loan to Cass County Transit Authority at 4% interest
• $39,255 in total contracts for 2024 Survey Remonumentation
• $60,127 budget adjustment for Presidential Primary Voting Costs
• Lawless Park Cropland Lease Agreements at $201 per acre
• Reappointment of four members to the Woodlands Healthcare Board

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved a consent agenda that included increasing the Planning Commission from 9 to 11 members, a resolution supporting the Citizens for Local Choice ballot initiative, and several contracts and budget amendments. A proposed $308,500 loan to the Cass County Transit Authority at 4% interest was tabled until the next regular meeting after discussion. The board also approved three recognitions and appointed four members to the Woodlands Healthcare Board, and dissolved the Law Enforcement Millage Committee.

• Approved consent agenda (7-0, Commissioner Lawrence absent) including claims, minutes, and multiple resolutions
• Approved Resolution R-047-24 increasing Planning Commission from 9 to 11 members
• Approved Resolution R-049-24 supporting the Citizens for Local Choice ballot initiative to repeal Part 8 of Public Act 233 of 2023
• Approved 2024 Survey Remonumentation Program contracts totaling $39,255, reimbursed by a $44,599 state grant
• Approved $60,127 in expenditures and budget adjustment for Presidential Primary voting costs
• Approved Lawless Park cropland lease with Masten Farms at $201 per acre from May 1, 2024 to November 1, 2026
• Tabled motion M-055-24 to loan $308,500 to the Cass County Transit Authority at 4% interest until the next regular meeting
• Appointed Michael Grice, Robert Overholser, Ashlee Radzikowski, and Sheila Witous to the Woodlands Healthcare Board (terms expiring 3/31/2027)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Policy Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the employee handbook and per diem and mileage rates. The body will also review revised policies regarding tax sharing, chief deputy salaries, and conflicts of interest.

• Tax Sharing Policy regarding tax capture and abatement programs
• Chief Deputy Salaries policy
• Conflict of Interest Policy for elected officials and department heads
• Employee Handbook
• Commissioners and Boards/Commissions Per Diem and Mileage

One Time Event

The Commission will review several unfinished business items and new business topics. Discussions include updates on Dark Sky, LWCF, Lawless Crop Bid, and Egg-Exstravaganza.

• Dark Sky Update
• LWCF update
• Lawless Crop Bid discussion
• Egg-Exstravaganza discussion
• Turf Quotes review

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Capital Projects Committee is meeting to discuss and receive updates on several capital projects, including a broadband mapping project, heating/cooling quotes for the L&C Building, and a renovation of the Public Defenders' Office. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Broadband Mapping Project update by Chris Scharrer of DCS Technology
• Trane quotes for the L&C Building presented by Facilities Director Dave Reiff
• Public Defenders' Office Renovation discussed by County Administrator Matthew Newton

The committee reviewed quotes for a chiller and controller for the Law and Courts Building and a bid for Public Defenders' Office renovations. Both items were moved forward to the Board of Commissioners for review and voting. The committee also received a presentation on broadband mapping.

• Moved Trane quotes for Law and Courts Building chiller and controller to Board of Commissioners
• Moved Elite bid for Public Defenders' Office renovation to Board of Commissioners
• Approved meeting agenda

One Time Event

The Cass County Planning Commission will hold a public meeting on March 27, 2024, to discuss new business items. The agenda includes a master plan update for Milton Township and rezoning requests from Pokagon and Silver Creek Townships. The commission will also consider a road abandonment petition from the Cass County Road Commission and review the county Master Plan.

• Milton Township master plan update
• Pokagon Township rezoning request
• Silver Creek Township rezoning request
• Cass County Road Commission abandonment petition
• Review of the Cass County Master Plan

The Commission approved rezoning requests for Pokagon Township and Silver Creek Township, with one dissenting vote in the latter case. They also approved the Road Commission's intent to abandon undeveloped roads in Corey and set a May 10 deadline for townships to join the county Master Plan. A kick-off presentation on the Master Plan outlined a timeline for public surveys and adoption by February 2025.

• Approved agenda (voice vote)
• Approved February 28 minutes with name correction (voice vote)
• Approved Pokagon Township rezoning of 1.52 acres to Light Industrial (voice vote)
• Approved Silver Creek Township rezoning of 3 parcels to Commercial (6-1 vote)
• Approved Road Commission intent to abandon roads in Corey (voice vote)
• Set May 10, 2024 as deadline for townships to join Master Plan (voice vote)

One Time Event

The Cass County Economic Development Commission and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss strategic planning. The body will also receive an update from an ad hoc committee regarding a performance matrix for Market Van Buren.

• Ad Hoc Committee report on Market Van Buren Performance Matrix
• Strategic Planning discussion

The Economic Development Commission agreed on a reporting format for Market Van Buren to be submitted three times per year. The commission also decided to hold a dedicated strategy meeting to determine future goals and metrics.

• Agreed to receive reports from Market Van Buren every other meeting (3x per year)
• Accepted financial report as presented
• Decided to hold an EDC-only meeting to develop strategic goals and metrics

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The committee is meeting to confirm it will not propose an additional law enforcement millage and to discuss language for the CCDET millage. Members will also address prosecutor staffing concerns and the potential reestablishment of the CCDET Advisory Board.

• Confirmation of no additional law enforcement millage proposal
• Discussion of CCDET millage language
• Plan for prosecutor staffing concerns involving Prosecutor Fitz and Administrator Newton
• Potential reestablishment of the CCDET Advisory Board
• Proposed workshop to discuss the use of CCDET funds

The Law Enforcement Strategic Planning Committee voted to note that it does not approve of a millage specific to general law enforcement. Members also discussed modernizing CCDET millage language and whether the committee should continue, be paused, or be disbanded; no decision was made on those questions. The committee agreed that the Administrator, Sheriff, and Prosecutor will work together on a plan, which will return to the committee before going to the Board of Commissioners. The meeting adjourned at 2:44 p.m.

• Carried: committee does not approve of a millage specific to general law enforcement (Anderson moved, Laylin seconded)
• Carried: moved discussion of Marijuana Tax to New Business item a (Lee moved, Marchetti seconded)
• Carried: approved agenda as presented (Marchetti moved, Laylin seconded)
• Carried: approved minutes as amended to correct spelling of Westrick and clarify Commissioner Laylin was absent (Anderson moved, Laylin seconded)
• Carried: adjourned meeting at 2:44 p.m. (Laylin moved, Marchetti seconded)
• No decision recorded on pausing, disbanding, or continuing the committee; members discussed options
• No decision recorded on CCDET millage language; Sheriff Behnke and administrator's office will work with equalization on updates

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss several administrative and financial items, including a proposal to increase the Planning Commission membership to 11 people. The body will also review budget amendments and various county contracts and lease agreements.

• Resolution to increase Cass County Planning Commission to 11 members
• FY 24 Budget Amendments
• 2024 Remonumentation Contracts
• Lawless Park Cropland Lease Agreements
• Public Defender Office Renovation Project

The Board of Commissioners approved a 10% wage increase and longevity bonuses for the FOPLC. They also authorized a grant application for a $3 million radio system for local fire departments and appointed a team to research a CCDET plan.

• Approved 10% wage increase and longevity bonuses for FOPLC (voice vote)
• Authorized $3 million radio system grant application and recommendation letter (voice vote)
• Appointed Administrator Newton, Sheriff Behnke, and Prosecutor Fitz to research CCDET plan (voice vote)
• Approved preparing ballot language to renew CCDET millage for August Primary (voice vote)
• Sent county personal email use policy request to Policy Committee
• Moved Planning Commission membership increase, Master Plan agreements, and solar/wind control resolution to next regular meeting
• Moved 2024 Remonumentation Contracts, election expenditures, and Lawless Park lease bids to next regular meeting
• Moved FY24 budget amendments and Transit Authority loan request to next regular meeting

Board of Public Works

The Board of Public Works will meet to conduct business including the election of officers. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items.

• Election of Officers

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Strategic Planning Law Enforcement Committee is meeting to discuss a potential CCDET millage for August and the associated legal language. The body will also review the makeup and purpose of a CCDET Advisory Board and discuss the needs of the Prosecutor and Sheriff/Police.

• Discussion of CCDET millage language and submission date to the Board of Commissioners
• Review of CCDET Advisory Board membership and purpose
• Discussion of law enforcement needs for the Prosecutor and Sheriff/Police
• Old business regarding Lapeer Prosecutor

The committee approved the formation of a CCDET advisory team and established proxy voting rules for specific committee members. Members discussed the CCDET millage and the potential use of marijuana tax revenue for law enforcement.

• Approved allowing proxies for the County Administrator, Prosecutor, Edwardsburg/Ontwa Police Chief, Dowagiac City Manager, Sheriff, and Cassopolis Village Manager
• Approved the CCDET advisory team consisting of the Cassopolis village manager, Dowagiac city manager, Cass County sheriff, Cass County prosecutor, two Cass County commissioners, the county administrator, and the police chiefs of Edwardsburg and Cassopolis
• Approved that the village of Cassopolis and the city of Dowagiac each have one vote on the advisory team

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Policy Committee is meeting to discuss updates to the Tax Sharing Policy and the Conflict of Interest Policy. The body is also reviewing guidelines for establishing salaries for elected officials and their chief deputies.

• Chief Deputy Salaries policy review
• Tax Sharing Policy review
• Conflict of Interest Policy development
• Review of travel reimbursement guidelines

The committee approved amendments to the tax sharing policy and scheduled a final review for April. Proposed changes to the chief deputy salary and conflict of interest policies were discussed and sent back to administration for revisions.

• Approved amended agenda (CARRIED)
• Finalized tax sharing policy for final review in April (CARRIED)
• Directed administration to revise chief deputy salary policy for April meeting
• Directed administration to revise conflict of interest policy for April meeting

Historical Commission

The Historical Commission will review financial reports and bills. The body is discussing the Red Brick School preservation agreement and updates to the historic courthouse history display.

• Red Brick School Preservation Agreement update
• Historic Courthouse history display update
• Collaborative Cass County Recorded History video project
• Sugar Maple Festival participation and scheduling
• Newton House committee report

One Time Event

The commission will meet to elect officers and review reports from the director and budget. The board will discuss updates on Dark Sky, LWCF, and SWxSW CORNER CISMA, as well as new business items.

• Election of officers
• Lawless Crop Bid
• Cass County Conservation Club
• Friends of the Cass County Parks
• Egg-Exstravaganza

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Law Enforcement Millage Committee is meeting to conduct organizational business and establish a meeting schedule. The committee will discuss goals, objectives, and the drug enforcement millage to determine a timeline for recommendations.

• Selection of Chair and Vice-Chair
• Discussion of Drug Enforcement Millage
• Establishment of goals and objectives
• Determination of timeline for committee recommendations

The committee appointed Commissioner Lee as chair and Prosecutor Fitz as vice chair. The body voted to add two citizen members and renamed itself the Law Enforcement Strategic Planning Committee. Members discussed law enforcement funding, staffing challenges, and the future of CCDET.

• Appointed Commissioner Lee as chair
• Appointed Prosecutor Fitz as vice chair
• Approved adding Roger Boyer as a citizen member
• Approved adding Lynn Schantz as a citizen member
• Renamed the committee to Law Enforcement Strategic Planning Committee

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a consent agenda including budget amendments and interlocal IT agreements. The body is also deciding on the appointment of a County Medical Examiner and several Deputy Medical Examiners, as well as an Opioid Settlement Funding Plan.

• Budget amendment of $30,000.00 to fund Early Voting Election Inspectors salaries
• Appointment of Patrick Hansma as Cass County Medical Examiner
• Adoption of the Opioid Settlement Funding Plan and Request for Funding Application
• IT Services Interlocal Agreements with Cass County Medical Care Facility and Road Commission
• Creation of a Class Compensation Committee to evaluate a new compensation study RFP

The Board of Commissioners approved a series of administrative actions via a consent agenda, including budget amendments and personnel appointments. The board also passed resolutions recognizing staff achievements and financial reporting excellence.

• Approved $30,000 budget amendment for Early Voting Election Inspectors salaries
• Appointed Patrick Hansma as Cass County Medical Examiner
• Appointed five Deputy Medical Examiners
• Adopted Opioid Settlement Funding Plan and Request for Funding Application
• Approved IT Services Interlocal Agreements with Cass County Medical Care Facility and Road Commission
• Created a Class Compensation Committee to evaluate a new compensation study RFP
• Adopted a one-year term for Board Chair
• Approved FY 24 Budget Amendments

One Time Event

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss the county Master Plan and a proposal from McKenna for its update. The agenda also includes reviews of zoning ordinances for Jefferson Township and Reed Family Farms in LaGrange Township.

• Review of a $50,000 lump sum proposal from McKenna to update the Master Plan
• Jefferson Township Zoning Ordinance discussion
• Reed Family Farms — LaGrange Township review
• Election of officers
• Discussion on the inclusion of parks in planning

The Cass County Planning Commission approved the Jefferson Township Zoning Ordinance, which focuses on solar energy overlay districts in designated agricultural zones. The commission also approved a PA 116 application for Reed Family Properties, LaGrange LLC, agreed to add a focus on parks and recreation and senior housing to the Master Plan, and voted to expand the board to 11 members. The commission accepted a proposal from McKenna, with details on participating townships and cost shares expected by the next meeting. A letter from the Road Commission about intent to abandon historic roads in Newberg Township near Corey Lake was presented.

• Approved Jefferson Township Zoning Ordinance (motion passed)
• Approved PA 116 application for Reed Family Properties, LaGrange LLC, Parcel # 14-040-020-006-00 (motion carried)
• Added parks and recreation and senior housing as Master Plan focus areas (motion passed)
• Expanded Planning Commission board to 11 members (motion passed)
• Accepted McKenna proposal (motion carried)
• Re-elected Don Stutsman as Chairman (motion passed)
• Appointed Richard Palmisano as Vice Chairman (motion passed)
• Appointed Jayne Bailey as Recording Secretary (motion passed)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss the creation of a Law Enforcement Millage Committee. This committee would explore a new millage to address salary and wage concerns for the Prosecutor’s Office and the County.

• Motion M-025-24 to approve the creation of a Law Enforcement Millage Committee

The Cass County Board of Commissioners approved creating a Law Enforcement Millage Committee. The motion also directs the committee to determine what happens with the CCDET millage, set a time parameter, and allow public input. The vote carried by voice vote with six commissioners present and two absent. The meeting ran from 2:00 p.m. to 2:16 p.m.

• Approved creation of a Law Enforcement Millage Committee (voice vote)
• Directed committee to determine what happens with the CCDET millage (voice vote)
• Directed committee to establish a time parameter (voice vote)
• Directed committee to allow public time to weigh in (voice vote)
• Amended motion M-025-24 to add millage review items (voice vote)
• Approved the February 21, 2024 special meeting agenda (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review FY 24 budget amendments and various salary policies. The body will also consider appointments for the County Medical Examiner and Deputy Medical Examiners. Other items include IT interlocal agreements and board bylaws.

• FY 24 Budget Amendments
• Appointment of Patrick Hansma as Cass County Medical Examiner
• Appointment of five Deputy Medical Examiners
• Interlocal Agreements for IT Services for the Medical Care Facility and Road Commission
• Salary policies for Election Inspectors, Elected Officials, and Chief Deputies

The Board of Commissioners moved several items to the March 7 Regular Board Meeting agenda, including budget amendments and IT service agreements. The board also agreed to form committees to explore a law enforcement millage and draft an RFP for a class/comp study.

• Approved January 18, 2024, Committee of the Whole Minutes (voice vote)
• Scheduled Bylaws and Rules of Procedures for March 7 agenda
• Scheduled resolution for one-year Chair term for March 7 agenda
• Scheduled $30,000 election inspector funding request for March 7 agenda
• Scheduled IT Service Interlocal Agreements for March 7 agenda
• Scheduled mileage reimbursement policy for March 7 agenda
• Scheduled FY 24 budget amendments for March 7 agenda
• Scheduled Medical Examiner appointments for March 7 agenda

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Policy Committee will conduct organizational business including the selection of a Chair and meeting schedule. The committee is also scheduled to review several policy items.

• Selection of Chair
• Mileage/Reimbursement Policy
• Chief Deputy Salaries
• Tax Sharing Policy
• Conflict of Interest Policy

The committee agreed to move the Travel Reimbursement Policy and a Chief Deputy salary review policy forward to the Committee of the Whole. Members also decided that elected officials, department heads, and appointed board members must complete a conflict of interest form.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Agreed Commissioner Marchetti will continue as chair
• Agreed to move Travel Reimbursement Policy to Committee of the Whole
• Agreed to move Chief Deputy salary review policy to Committee of the Whole
• Decided elected officials, department heads, and appointed board members will fill out conflict of interest forms

One Time Event

The commission will review reports from the director and budget office. The board will discuss ongoing projects and new initiatives regarding environmental monitoring and conservation.

• Dark Sky update
• Discover Winter
• LWCF
• Xerces Society
• EnviroDIY Monitoring Station

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review a consent agenda including a Master Plan update proposal and a grant application. The meeting also includes the approval of claims for various county departments and the designation of a depository for the Friend of the Court.

• Master Plan Update Proposal from McKenna for $50,000.00
• CHILL Program Grant Application by Cass County Land Bank Authority
• Designation of GW Jones as Depository of Cass County Friend of the Court
• Approval of claims dated December 29th through January 25th
• ElectionSource annual license and service contract for $20,615.00

The Board approved reopening negotiations regarding wages and retirement contributions for the FOPLC Deputies/Detectives Unit. Other actions included authorizing a housing grant application and changing the bank depository for the Friend of the Court.

• Approved reopening negotiations with FOPLC Deputies/Detectives Unit on wages and retirement (Voice Vote)
• Authorized submittal of $500,000 CHILL Program grant application for the Land Bank (8-0)
• Approved $50,000 Master Plan Update Proposal from McKenna (8-0)
• Designated GW Jones Exchange Bank as depository for Friend of the Court (8-0)
• Approved claims from December 29, 2023 through January 25, 2024 (8-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from January 4, 16, and 18, 2024 (8-0)

Board of Commissioners - Standing & Ad Hoc Committees

The Appointments Committee is meeting to organize its leadership and schedule. The body will discuss applicants and reappointments for the Solid Waste Planning Commission and the Woodlands Board.

• Solid Waste Planning Commission: 2 new applicants
• Woodlands Board: 2 reappointments and 1 new applicant
• Review of current and upcoming vacancies
• Discussion on posting committee agendas to the website

The committee appointed three members to the Woodlands Behavioral commission and placed the Solid Waste Planning Commission on hiatus. The committee also changed its meeting frequency to every other month.

• Nominated Jeremiah Jones as chair (carried)
• Changed meeting schedule to every other month (February, April, June, August, October, December)
• Placed Cass County Solid Waste Planning Commission on hiatus
• Reappointed Michael Grice to Woodlands Behavioral in the at-large seat (carried)
• Reappointed Robert Overholser to Woodlands Behavioral (carried)
• Appointed Sheila Witous to Woodlands Behavioral (carried)

One Time Event

The Cass County Planning Commission will meet to review the updated zoning ordinance for the Village of Marcellus. The body will also discuss Eddies Market Park.

• Review of Marcellus Updated Zoning Ordinance
• Discussion of Eddies Market Park

One Time Event

The Cass County Economic Development Commission and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority are meeting to discuss the role of the EDC. The body will review a contract update and monitoring plans for Market Van Buren. Members will also consider publishing agendas and minutes on the County website.

• Market Van Buren contract update
• Plan for EDC reporting to Board of Commissioners
• Proposal to publish EDC agendas and minutes on County website

The commission approved the September 27, 2023 meeting minutes. A subcommittee was formed to create a performance matrix for the County Board's contract with Market Van Buren. Members discussed the need for supplemental strategic planning for county economic development.

• Approved September 27, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Formed ad-hoc subcommittee (Barrera, DeLuca, Chapman) to develop Market Van Buren performance matrix

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special meeting to discuss and approve committee assignments. The session includes a motion to finalize the 2024 appointments for various county boards, commissions, and department liaisons.

• Motion M-014-23 to approve BOC Committee Assignments
• Annual appointments for terms ending 12/31/2024
• Assignments for the Capital Project Committee
• Assignments for the Salary Committee
• Appointments to the Land Bank Authority and Planning Commission

The Cass County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on January 18, 2024, with five commissioners present and three absent. The board approved committee assignments and appropriated $76,000.00 from the General Fund's Fund Balance for the Cass County Conservation District to fund required activities of the SESC program. Both motions carried by voice vote. No unfinished business was addressed, and the meeting adjourned at 4:40 p.m.

• Approved BOC Committee Assignments as presented (voice vote)
• Approved $76,000.00 appropriation from General Fund Fund Balance for Cass County Conservation District SESC program (voice vote)
• Added Motion M-015-24 to New Business (voice vote)
• Approved amended January 18, 2024 Special Meeting Agenda (voice vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is discussing a proposal to hire McKenna to update the county's 2014 Master Plan. They are also reviewing a resolution to apply for $500,000 in MSHDA CHILL program funding for housing rehabilitation and blight removal.

• Proposed $50,000 contract with McKenna for Master Plan Update
• Proposed $500,000 grant application for MSHDA CDBG Housing Improving Local Livability (CHILL) Program
• Financial report showing total expenditures of $4,826,667 through December 31, 2023
• Discussion of MSHDA CHILL activities: homeowner rehabilitation and demolition/reconstruction/resale

The Committee of the Whole reviewed several proposals and agreed to place them on the next regular board meeting's consent agenda for final approval. The board also received an update on a new Ambulance Authority serving nine municipalities.

• Approved January 18, 2024 agenda (voice vote)
• Approved December 21, 2023 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Moved MSHDA Chill Program funding resolution to next regular board meeting
• Moved McKenna Master Plan update quote to next regular board meeting
• Moved Friend of the Court bank depository change to next regular board meeting

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a workshop to review internal procedures and specific county programs. The session includes discussions on road patrol wages and the MERS Committee.

• Road Patrol Wage Discussion
• Commissioner Bylaws / Rules of Procedure
• SESC Program
• MERS Committee
• CCDET

The Board held a workshop to discuss revisions to its bylaws and rules of procedure. No formal votes were taken, but the Board discussed road patrol pension concerns and proposed funding for the Soil Erosion Program.

• Discussed updating Commissioner Bylaws and Rules of Procedure
• Requested research on road deputy defined benefit pension plans
• Discussed proposed 6% salary increase for road deputies
• Discussed providing $76,000 in funding to the Conservation District for SESC

One Time Event

The commission will meet to elect officers and review departmental goals. The agenda includes reports on the budget and a status update regarding Dark Sky.

• Election of officers
• Budget report
• Dark Sky update
• Departmental goals
• Winter newsletter

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will conduct organizational business to elect a Chair and Vice-Chair. The body is deciding on several contracts, board reappointments, and budget adjustments for personnel.

• Election of Chair and Vice-Chair for one-year terms
• Budget amendment of $48,899.00 for two part-time Animal Control positions
• Contract between Cass County and Assessing Solutions Inc. for Appraisal Services
• Agreement for Broadband Services between Midwest Energy & Communications and Cass County
• Contract between Marcellus Township, Cass County, and the Office of Sheriff for 2024

The Board elected Commissioner Jones as Chair and Commissioner Barrera as Vice-Chair. The Board approved a budget amendment for animal control positions and several service contracts via a consent agenda. A motion to approve revised CCHC Bylaws was denied.

• Elected Commissioner Jones as Chair (voice vote)
• Elected Commissioner Barrera as Vice-Chair (5-3)
• Approved $48,899 budget amendment for two part-time Animal Control positions (voice vote)
• Approved 2024 Board of Commissioner Meeting Schedule (voice vote)
• Approved contract between Marcellus Township, Cass County, and the Office of Sheriff (voice vote)
• Approved contract with Assessing Solutions, Inc. for Appraisal Services (8-0)
• Approved broadband services agreement with Midwest Energy & Communications (8-0)
• Denied revised CCHC Bylaws (1-7)