Otsego County, Michigan

Personnel Committee

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Otsego County Veteran’s Affairs Committee will hold its regular meeting on July 21, 2026. Members will review the May 19, 2026 minutes and discuss the status of the MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant. The agenda also includes a preview of the Northern MI Benefit Fair scheduled for November 5, 2026, clerk interviews, and several reports.

• MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant – Status
• Northern MI Benefit Fair – November 5, 2026
• Clerk Interviews
• Director Report
• Financial Reports – Veteran’s Affairs, Burial, Soldiers Relief

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will approve minutes, recognize Alpenfest award recipients, and hold a closed session to review a county attorney's legal opinion on a release agreement. The meeting also includes a presentation from the Health Department of Northwest Michigan and discussion of the 2027 budget calendar.

• Approval of five Alpenfest awards: Der Buergermeister (Dana Bensinger), Parade Marshal (Brian Pearson), Legacy Award (Robert Schlang), Dar Award (Anthony Bernadyn), Edelweiss Award (Kirk Miller), Honored Industry (7-Eleven, owner Jerome Kievit) - resolutions OCR 26-20 through 26-25
• Closed session under Michigan law to review legal opinion regarding a release agreement
• Presentation of 2027 Budget Calendar by Budget & Finance committee
• Approval of warrants for June 30, July 7, and July 14, 2026
• Presentation from Health Department of Northwest Michigan - Shannon Klonowski

The Otsego County Board approved its regular minutes, the FY 2027 budget calendar, three financial warrants, and a series of Alpenfest honor resolutions. A closed‑session was entered to review privileged material, and the board subsequently approved the legal recommendations from that session.

• Approved regular minutes of June 23, 2026 (unanimous consent)
• Approved Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Calendar (unanimous)
• Approved June 30, 2026 warrant for $154,704.83 and 57 voided checks (unanimous)
• Approved July 7, 2026 warrant for $192,322.56 and 13 voided checks (unanimous)
• Approved July 14, 2026 warrant for $746,630.36 and 35 voided checks (6‑2 vote)
• Approved resolutions OCR 26‑20 through OCR 26‑25 honoring Alpenfest awardees (unanimous)
• Entered closed session to consider attorney‑client privileged material (unanimous)
• Approved recommendations from legal opinion discussed in closed session (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks and Recreation Commission will consider several new business items including a fireworks report, multiple pavilion usage requests, a special event application, electrical upgrades at Otsego Lake County Park, and a county park road project. The commission will also review previous meeting minutes, budget reports, and old business such as the Wah Wah Soo Beach erosion and project list.

• Otsego Lake County Park Electrical Upgrades Project
• County Park Road Project
• Gaylord Youth Instructional Football INC Special Event Application
• EMS Regional Managers Pavilion Usage Request
• Road Commission Pavilion Usage Request

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee will review minutes from a May meeting, receive reports on transit and airport operations, and discuss facility maintenance and upcoming events.

• Review of May 2026 Transportation Committee minutes
• Airport Camera Contract discussion
• Generator Contract Signed
• Bid Process for Hangar Build
• Fuel Truck Emergency Repair

Opioid Settlement Steering Committee

The Otsego County Opioid Settlement Steering Committee will discuss posting meeting information online, review a community needs assessment, set funding priorities, and review draft Request for Proposals (RFP) documents. No votes on specific allocations are scheduled.

• Discussion of posting committee meeting information on the county website
• Review of needs assessment for opioid settlement funds
• Priority determinations for funding allocation
• Review of Request for Proposals (RFP) process and documents
• Conflict of interest disclosure and bylaws discussion

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee will review the 2027 budget calendar and discuss the Purchasing & Contracting Policy. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from June 16, 2026.

• Purchasing & Contracting Policy
• 2027 Budget Calendar

The Budget & Finance Committee approved the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Calendar. The committee also held extensive discussions regarding proposed changes to the Purchasing & Contracting Policy, which will continue at the next meeting.

• Approved June 16th meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2027 Budget Calendar (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The board will consider consent agenda items, hear presentations on an opioid assessment and economic development, discuss budget amendments for facilities and the register of deeds, and vote on the EMS millage renewal. A closed session will address a lawsuit against the prosecutor's office.

• EMS Millage Renewal (OCR 26-19)
• Closed Session for Soldan v. Otsego County Prosecutor's Office, Case# 26-20403-CZ
• Budget Amendment/Transfer for Facilities Planning Fund
• Register of Deeds Automation Firewall Upgrade budget amendment
• Region 9 Area Agency on Aging Proposed 2027 Annual Implementation Plan

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget and Finance Committee will discuss the proposed 2028 EMS millage and consider budget amendments for the Facilities Planning Fund and Capital Projects Fund for the Judicial Center. Other agenda items include a firewall upgrade for the Register of Deeds automation, financial updates, and a credit card item. The meeting includes public comments and a possible closed session.

• 2028 EMS Millage Proposal
• Register of Deeds Automation – Firewall Upgrade
• Facilities Planning Fund – Budget Amendment/Transfer
• Capital Projects Fund – Judicial Center Allocations
• Credit Card item (details not specified)

The committee approved several financial transfers related to the Judicial Center and authorized the use of funds for a firewall upgrade. The 2028 EMS millage proposal remains tabled pending further review.

• Approved June 16th meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $12,000 from Register of Deeds Automation Fund for firewall upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $29,087.70 from Facilities Planning Fund to Capital Projects Fund (unanimous)
• Approved authorization for officials to allocate Judicial Center funds (unanimous)
• Accepted credit card report (unanimous)
• Tabled 2028 EMS millage proposal until next meeting

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee will meet to discuss and potentially revise the County employee handbook policy. They will also consider approving the minutes from the May 8, 2026 meeting and receive updates from the Human Resources Department.

• Review of Employee Handbook Policy
• Approval of May 8, 2026 Personnel Committee Minutes

The Personnel Committee reviewed various edits to the Employee Handbook, including updates to vehicle usage by minors and changes to form titles. Following these discussions, the committee voted to send the handbook to legal counsel for review after final internal revisions are completed.

• Approved May 8, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved changing 'Vacation Request Form' to 'Request for Leave Form'
• Approved sending updated Employee Handbook to legal for review (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board will consider several items, including approval of the May 26 meeting minutes and two brownfield remediation contracts. The Board will also review two mortgage discharge requests, a proposed EMS millage, and upcoming financial warrants. Decisions will be made on the brownfield contracts and the EMS millage during this meeting.

• BID 2026-09: Award for Brownfield Vapor Mitigation System installation
• BID 2026-10: Award for Brownfield soil excavation, transport, and disposal
• OCR 26-19: Approval of EMS Millage
• June 2 and June 9, 2026 financial warrants
• Discharge of mortgages for G. Gault, J. Hibbs, and M. Norwick

The Board of Commissioners approved multiple mortgage discharges, contract awards for Triterra, LLC and EQ Industrial Services, Inc., and two warrants. The board also tabled an EMS millage proposal for further review.

• Approved discharge of mortgage for Gerald M. Gault and Phyllis Gault (7-0)
• Approved discharge of mortgage for Joyce Hibbs (7-0)
• Approved discharge of mortgage for Mary Ann Norwick and Allan Norwick (7-0)
• Awarded BID 2026-09 to Triterra, LLC for $105,000.00 (unanimous)
• Awarded BID 2026-10 to EQ Industrial Services, Inc. for $164,345.00 (unanimous)
• Tabled OCR 26-10 EMS millage proposal for review (unanimous)
• Approved June 2, 2026 Warrant for $278,911.58 and 1 void check (5-2)
• Approved June 9, 2026 Warrant for $382,673.19 (5-2)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will discuss a proposed 2028 EMS millage and a bid for soil excavation at the judicial center. Unfinished business includes a purchasing and contracting policy. The committee will also approve minutes from two prior meetings.

• Purchasing and Contracting Policy (unfinished business)
• 2028 EMS Millage Proposal
• Bid 2026-10: Otsego County Judicial Center – Soil Excavation, Transportation & Disposal
• Approval of April 18th and April 20th, 2026 committee minutes

The committee approved ballot language for a 2028 EMS millage renewal to be held in November 2026. Two construction-related bids for the Otsego County Judicial Center were also awarded. The committee reviewed updates to the county purchasing policy.

• Approved 2028 EMS millage ballot language for November 2026 (3-0)
• Awarded Bid 2026-10 for Judicial Center soil work to EQ Industrial Services (3-0)
• Awarded Bid 2026-09 for Judicial Center vapor mitigation system to Tri-Terra LLC (3-0)
• Approved May 18, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved May 20, 2026 minutes (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review budget reports and bills. The body is scheduled to discuss the potential sale of the Community Center and repairs to the Community Center roof.

• Discussion of Community Center sale
• Discussion of Community Center roof
• Basketball Camp
• Wah Wah Soo Beach erosion project
• Libke Fields fence and infield projects

Opioid Settlement Steering Committee

The Otsego County Opioid Settlement Steering Committee is holding an organizational meeting to define its goals, structure, and timeline. Members will receive an overview of the opioid settlements from the Michigan Association of Counties, complete conflict of interest disclosure forms, and review draft bylaws. No votes or decisions are recorded on this agenda; the session is focused on establishing the committee's framework.

• Review of committee charge: goals, structure, expectations, timeline
• Overview of opioid settlements presented by MAC's Amy Dolinky
• Completion of conflict of interest disclosure forms
• Draft bylaws review

The steering committee voted to name Matt Muladore as Chair, Taylor Johnson as Vice‑Chair, and Ellen Templeton as Secretary (6‑yes, 0‑no). Members agreed to take additional time to complete the Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form and return it at the next meeting. Ellen Templeton was assigned to revise and distribute the draft bylaws before the next meeting.

• Appointed Matt Muladore as Chair (6‑yes, 0‑no)
• Appointed Taylor Johnson as Vice‑Chair (6‑yes, 0‑no)
• Appointed Ellen Templeton as Secretary (6‑yes, 0‑no)
• Tasked members to complete Conflict of Interest Disclosure Form by next meeting
• Assigned Ellen Templeton to update and distribute revised bylaws before next meeting
• Chair Matt Muladore and Vice‑Chair Taylor Johnson to set next meeting date
• Ellen Templeton to send meeting invitations

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee will hold an emergency meeting on May 27, 2026, to address unfinished business regarding emergency roof projects and the discharge of paid mortgages. The agenda also includes the retirement of the Housing Clerk and a job posting.

• Emergency meeting scheduled for May 27, 2026
• Approval of previous Housing meeting minutes
• Unfinished business: Emergency Roof 05-2024 Completion
• Unfinished business: Emergency Roof 06-2024 Amendment
• Housing Clerk retirement and job posting

The Housing Committee unanimously approved the March 12, 2026 emergency meeting minutes. It also approved a $991 amendment for emergency roof project 06‑2024 using FY24 program income funds. The committee voted to discharge the mortgages for projects 04‑2020, HO‑0812‑128423, and 08‑2017, and to submit the discharges to the County Board of Commissioners. Finally, the month‑end financial reports ending April 30, 2026 were received and filed.

• Approved emergency meeting minutes of March 12, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved $991 amendment for emergency roof project 06‑2024, funded from FY24 program income (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of 04‑2020 mortgage, to be submitted to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of HO‑0812‑128423 mortgage, to be submitted to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of 08‑2017 mortgage, to be submitted to County Board (unanimous)
• Received and filed month‑end financial reports ending April 30, 2026 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board will vote on a proposal to contract with the Health Department of Northwest Michigan for $18,000 to coordinate Otsego County's opioid settlement fund administration. Also up for approval: a Public Improvement Fund use policy, several budget amendments (including $ for sheriff tasers, animal control vehicle repairs, lawn mower purchase), and funding commitments for the Judicial Center and trail cleanup. Special presentations from NEMCOG, Northern Michigan Children's Assessment Center, and The Refuge.

• $18,000 opioid settlement administration proposal from Health Department of Northwest Michigan
• Amended resolution OCR 26-13 to commit funds for Otsego County Judicial Center
• BID 2026-07: Groen Nature Preserve trail cleanup (7.8 miles)
• Budget amendment for Sheriff Department to purchase three Axon Tasers
• Public Improvement Fund Use Policy revision

The Otsego County Board approved the amended 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan. It also approved the Opioid Settlement Funding Administration proposal, the Public Improvement Fund Use Policy, and the OCR 26‑13 resolution to commit funds for the Judicial Center. Contracts were awarded to Bee‑2 Mulching ($68,500) and to Wade Trim Inc. and Brand Land Surveying LLC ($16,858 each). Budget amendments for animal‑control vehicle maintenance and a new lawn mower were also approved.

• Adopted amended 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan (5‑2)
• Approved Opioid Settlement Funding Administration proposal (6‑1)
• Approved Public Improvement Fund Use Policy (5‑2)
• Approved OCR 26‑13 Resolution for Judicial Center funds (5‑2)
• Awarded Bee‑2 Mulching contract for trail clean‑up, $68,500 (unanimous)
• Awarded Wade Trim Inc. and Brand Land Surveying contracts, $16,858 each (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendment for Animal Control vehicle maintenance (5‑2)
• Approved budget amendment for purchase of new lawn mower (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will discuss funding commitments for the Otsego County Judicial Center and opioid settlement administration. The body will also review several budget amendments and equipment purchases for county departments.

• Amended OCR 26-13: Resolution to commit funds for the Otsego County Judicial Center
• Health Department of Northwest Michigan opioid settlement funding administration
• Bid 2026-07: 7.8 miles of trail clean up at Groen Nature Preserve
• Bid 2026-08: Survey & Remonumentation Program
• Budget amendments for Animal Control vehicle repairs and Friend of Court personnel

The committee unanimously approved the updated Public Improvement Fund Use Policy and the proposal to administer the opioid settlement funds. It also approved several budget amendments for animal control vehicle repairs, the sheriff’s Axon Pro account and taser purchase, and awarded contracts for trail cleanup and a lawn mower. Additionally, the board voted to table a firewall upgrade pending a quote and to assess the Royal Crest property. All motions passed with three Ayes and no Nays.

• Approved updated Public Improvement Fund Use Policy (3-0)
• Approved Opioid Settlement Funding Administration proposal (3-0)
• Approved $13,000 Animal Control vehicle repairs budget amendment (3-0)
• Approved $4,712.50 sheriff’s Axon Pro account purchase (3-0)
• Approved $13,555.80 sheriff’s additional taser purchase (3-0)
• Approved award to Bee-2 Mulching for trail cleanup $68,500 (3-0)
• Approved $14,000 lawn mower purchase for Building & Grounds (3-0)
• Approved motion to assess Royal Crest property for taxable value (3-0)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Otsego County Veteran's Affairs Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss new business including Soldier Relief applications and the status of the MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant. The committee will also receive reports from the director, activity, and financial reports covering Veteran's Affairs, Burial, and Soldiers Relief.

• Soldier Relief Application(s) to be considered
• Status update on MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant
• Review of Director Report and Activity Report
• Financial reports: Veteran's Affairs, Burial, and Soldiers Relief

The Veterans Affairs Committee approved two veteran relief payments totaling $1,244.52 and authorized the Northern Michigan Veterans Benefit Fair for November 5, 2026. It also recommended that the part‑time Housing and Veteran Service Officer Clerk position be changed to full‑time and approved the month‑end financial reports. All motions were carried unanimously except the minutes approval, which passed with one abstention.

• Approved minutes of March 23, 2026 (3 ayes, 1 abstention, no nays)
• Approved soldier relief application #26-01 for $125 well repair (unanimous)
• Approved soldier relief application #26-02 for $1,119.52 property‑tax assistance (unanimous)
• Approved Northern Michigan Veterans Benefit Fair on Nov 5, 2026 at E‑Free Church (unanimous)
• Recommended to Budget and Finance board to change part‑time clerk to full‑time (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending Apr 30, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:06 a.m. (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget and Finance Committee will review and approve minutes from April 2026 and discuss updates to the Public Improvement Fund Use Policy and the Purchasing & Contracting Policy.

• Approval of April 13th, 22nd, and 27th, 2026 committee minutes
• Approval of April 15th, 2026 regular meeting minutes
• Review of Public Improvement Fund Use Policy
• Review of Purchasing & Contracting Policy

The committee clarified that the Public Improvement Fund will be depleted for the new judicial center but will remain open for future funding from sales profits. The clarification motion passed unanimously. The committee also voted to table final approval of the Public Improvement Fund Use Policy until the next meeting.

• Clarified Public Improvement Fund use for Judicial Center, keeping fund open (unanimous)
• Tabled approval of Public Improvement Fund Use Policy until next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April meetings with Treasurer-specified amendments (unanimous)
• Reviewed and revised Purchasing & Contracting Policy (discussion continued, no vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss updates regarding the RWE Solar Project. The body will also receive reports from Land Use Services and Otsego County Parks & Recreation.

• RWE Solar Project update discussion
• Otsego County Parks & Recreation report
• Land Use Services report

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee will review the February 2026 meeting minutes and hear reports from the Transportation, Airport, and Building & Grounds directors. Topics include finance updates, new positions, phone system estimates, ridership, non‑emergency medical transportation, airport fee updates, several contract items, and a future pavement project. No formal decisions are listed beyond agenda approval.

• Weather Camera Contract
• AVFUEL Truck Contract
• Pavement Future Project
• MMRC Car Agreement
• Airport Fee Updates

The Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee unanimously approved a six‑month trial of increased airport fees beginning July 1, 2026. It also authorized Department Directors to sign contracts up to one year under the Purchasing Policy and sent the new weather‑camera contract to the attorney for review. Additional unanimous actions included continuing the bus ridership trial for another six months and directing research on non‑emergency medical transportation.

• Approved 6‑month airport fee increase trial starting July 1, 2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized Department Directors to sign contracts up to 1 year subject to Purchasing Policy (unanimous)
• Sent weather camera contract to attorney for review before signature (unanimous)
• Continued bus ridership extended‑hours trial for another 6 months (unanimous)
• Moved forward with researching Non‑Emergency Medical Transportation (unanimous)
• Approved sending part‑time to full‑time position request to Personnel Committee (unanimous)
• Approved County Administrator to sign AVFUEL contract renewal (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward to obtain information on STOL competition for the airport (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve regular minutes, issue warrants, and consider a resolution to create an Opioid Settlement Steering Committee. The meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2026.

• Approval of Regular Minutes of April 28, 2026
• Warrants for May 5 and May 12, 2026
• Resolution OCR 2026-15: Opioid Settlement Steering Committee
• Proclamation OCR 2026-14: National Police Week
• Reappointment of four members to Survey & Remonumentation Peer Review Group

The Otsego County Board adopted a resolution creating an opioid settlement fund steering committee and also adopted a resolution proclaiming National Police Week. It approved two warrants—$279,536.10 on May 5 and $261,052.30 on May 12—and unanimously reappointed four members to the Survey and Remonumentation Peer Review Board. A motion to remove a $4,500 check failed, while a $2,796.50 check was removed after discussion.

• Approved May 5, 2026 warrant for $279,536.10 (vote 6‑3)
• Failed motion to remove check #27812 for $4,500 (vote 3‑6)
• Approved May 12, 2026 warrant for $261,052.30 (unanimous)
• Removed check #27935 for $2,796.50 after discussion
• Adopted OCR 26‑14 resolution proclaiming National Police Week (unanimous)
• Adopted OCR 26‑15 resolution creating opioid settlement steering committee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Jason Caverson, Scott Papineau, Brian Fullford, Carl Kiiskila to Peer Review Board (unanimous consent)
• No special presentations, department or committee reports were given

Otsego County Airport Zoning Board of Appeals

The Otsego County Airport Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a meeting on May 12, 2026. The agenda includes board member introductions and an overview of federal, state, and county zoning regulations. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Board introductions
• Overview of Federal, State, and County Zoning Regulations

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will consider new business including beach erosion at Wah Wah Soo Beach, updates on the Community Dog Park and Pontresina Park, Libke Field infield and fencing, and campground fencing. They will also review budget reports, bills, and previous meeting minutes. Public comment periods are scheduled.

• Beach erosion at Wah Wah Soo Beach
• Libke Field infield and fencing
• Community Dog Park/Pontresina Park
• Campground fencing
• Zero Turn (lawn equipment)

The commission approved bills totaling $19,450.92 for the County Parks and Community Center. It directed Jacob Brown to work with EGLE and a recommended contractor on bio‑engineering options for beach erosion. Additional actions were approved for staircase repair options, fence installation, well chlorination, and faucet upgrades.

• Approved bills dated 4/1/26–4/30/26 totaling $19,450.92 (motion carried)
• Directed Jacob Brown to work with EGLE and a contractor recommended by the Conservation District on bio‑engineering options for beach erosion (motion carried)
• Approved providing three cost‑time options for repairing or replacing the Wah Wah Soo staircase (motion carried)
• Approved contacting Backwoods Fence to install angle fence pieces at Libke Field (motion carried)
• Approved Jacob Brown to investigate chlorinating the Libke Field well and purchasing sample bottles, not to exceed $800 per year (motion carried)
• Approved Jacob Brown to look into timer‑valve faucet replacements (motion carried)
• Approved continuation of the meeting (motion carried)
• Board of Commissioners approved the department’s millage placement on the August ballot (statement)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee meeting on May 8, 2026 will address routine agenda items. Members will consider approving the minutes from the April 10, 2026 meeting. The committee will continue its review of the employee handbook policy. Updates from the Human Resources Department will be presented.

• Approve April 10, 2026 Personnel Committee minutes
• Continue employee handbook policy review
• Human Resources Department updates
• Public comment – agenda items only (3‑minute limit)
• Public comment – general (3‑minute limit)

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the April 10, 2026 meeting. It adopted several edits to the employee handbook, including adding “and/or dependent(s)” to the Medical Care Opt Out Stipend eligibility language. The committee agreed to revisit the Board/Commission/Committee Appointment Policy at the June 12 meeting and tasked Fred Ventresco with emailing the policy documents to the committee and Betty Westenbarger.

• Approved April 10, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted wording change to Medical Care Opt Out Stipend eligibility
• Decided to add “and/or dependent(s)” to stipend eligibility sentence
• Agreed to revisit Board/Commission/Committee Appointment Policy on June 12
• Tasked Fred Ventresco to email policy copies to committee and Betty Westenbarger
• Planned to send Employee Handbook to legal for review
• Scheduled a possible July meeting to continue handbook review

Board of Commissioners

The Board will decide on financial items including leasing eight sheriff vehicles and approving budget amendments for fencing repairs and ice storm food pantry funds. Resolutions for opioid settlement participation, parks and recycling millages, and committing funds for the new judicial center are up for vote. Also under consideration are rezone requests and a resolution opposing state bills that would preempt local zoning control.

• Approval of eight sheriff vehicle leases under Enterprise (five replacements, three additions; estimated Yr1 budget $109,537.60 after gains)
• Resolution OCR 26-09 authorizing participation agreements in partial settlement of National Prescription Opiate Litigation
• Resolution OCR 26-13 to commit funds for the new Otsego County Judicial Center; BID 2026-02 for judicial center awards
• Budget amendments: Airport and Groen for fencing repairs; CDBG urgent need for ice storm food pantry funds; lawsuit settlement; Public Improvement Fund
• Rezone recommendations for 220 Meecher Rd and corner of Allis and Murner, Livingston Twp; data center moratorium ordinance

The board approved a $350,000 transfer from the General Fund to the Legal Fund for a lawsuit settlement. It placed the Parks and Recreation and Recycling millage propositions on the August 4, 2025 primary ballot, with the Parks and Recreation measure passing 6-2 and the Recycling measure unanimously. Additional actions included approving a vehicle lease with Enterprise, several rezoning changes, adopting a data‑center moratorium, opposing state preemption bills, and authorizing a $1,679,727.44 warrant.

• Approved $350,000 allocation from General Fund to Legal Fund for lawsuit settlement (unanimous)
• Approved Parks and Recreation millage proposition on ballot (6-2)
• Approved Recycling Millage proposition on ballot (unanimous)
• Approved lease with Enterprise for five county vehicles and three sheriff vehicles (7-1)
• Approved rezoning of Livingston Township corner of Allis and Murner Roads to Medium‑Density Residential (unanimous)
• Adopted Data Center Moratorium Ordinance 2026-01 (unanimous)
• Adopted opposition to House Bills 5529-5532 and 5581-5585 preempting local zoning control (unanimous)
• Approved $1,679,727.44 warrant and three voided checks (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will discuss and potentially vote on a resolution to commit funds for the Otsego County Judicial Center. The agenda also includes discussion of selling the Cross St. property and reviewing the administrative purchasing policy. Public comments are permitted on agenda items.

• OCR 26-13: Resolution to Commit Funds for the Otsego County Judicial Center
• Cross St. Property – Sale Discussion
• Administrative Policy Manual – Purchasing Policy discussion
• Approval of March 23rd, 2026 Budget and Finance Committee Minutes
• Public Comments (3 minutes per speaker) on agenda items

The Budget & Finance Committee approved the March 23, 2026 minutes unanimously. It renamed the Otsego County Judicial Complex to Otsego County Judicial Center, also unanimously. The committee voted to proceed with the sale of the Cross‑Street Building to North County Community Mental Health, contingent on a two‑week public advertisement and offers. Discussion continued on revisions to the Administrative Policy Manual’s purchasing policy, with no final action taken.

• Approved March 23, 2026 Budget & Finance Committee minutes (unanimous)
• Renamed Otsego County Judicial Complex to Otsego County Judicial Center (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Cross Street Building, contingent on two‑week public advertisement (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will discuss and potentially vote on OCR 26-13, a resolution to commit funds for the new Otsego County Judicial Complex. They will also consider Bid 2026-02 for Judicial Center awards and review attorney correspondence regarding the sale of real property. Public comments are permitted at two points in the meeting.

• OCR 26-13: Resolution to Commit Funds for the New County Judicial Complex
• Bid 2026-02: Otsego County Judicial Center Awards
• Sale of Real Property – Attorney Correspondence

The Budget & Finance Committee voted to recommend the Judicial Center bid awards to the full Board, passing unanimously. It also unanimously recommended the resolution to commit funds for the new County Judicial Complex. Both recommendations were sent to the Board for final approval. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Recommended Bid 2026-02 Judicial Center awards to Board (unanimous 4‑0)
• Recommended OCR 26-13 resolution to commit funds for new Judicial Complex to Board (unanimous 4‑0)

Planning Commission

The Otsego County Planning Commission is holding public hearings on six items, including two rezoning requests, a special use permit for an 88-site campground, and amendments to existing special use permits for Treetops Resort and Kent Family Farms. Also under discussion is an update to the Future Land Use Map. The meeting includes a public participation period for non-agenda items.

• Rezone of 220 Meecher Rd from B2 to B3 (light manufacturing) – Cougar Creek Ranch LLC
• Rezone of Murner Rd from AR to R2 (general residential) – Robert Wilber
• Special Use Permit for 88-site campground at 1278 Alexander Rd – ROWM Investments
• Amendment for Treetops Resort: change from 4 duplex units to 10 single-family cluster units on Harry’s Way
• Amendment for Kent Family Farms: additional animals, buildings, and uses at 6500 Nicklaus Dr

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget and Finance Committee will discuss and potentially act on several items including a resolution authorizing participation in the national prescription opioid litigation settlement, multiple millage proposals for parks, recreation, recycling, and a children's assessment center, and various budget amendments for fencing repairs, lawsuit settlement, and ice storm food pantry funds.

• OCR 26-09: Resolution for participation in partial settlement of National Prescription Opiate Litigation
• 2026 Parks & Recreation Millage (unfinished business)
• 2026 Recycling Millage (unfinished business)
• Northern Michigan Children's Assessment Center – Millage Proposal
• CDBG Urgent Need – Ice Storm Food Pantry Funds

The Budget & Finance Committee approved several millage extensions, including a 4‑year Parks & Recreation millage and a recycling millage renewal. It also authorized a 0.05 mill millage for the Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center to appear on the November ballot. Additional actions included approving vehicle leases, FEMA fund allocations, and multiple budget amendments for infrastructure and legal settlements.

• Approved 4‑year Parks & Recreation Millage (unanimous)
• Approved Recycling Millage renewal up to 0.35 mill, kept at 0.25 mill (unanimous)
• Approved 0.05 mill millage for Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center (3‑1)
• Approved eight Enterprise vehicle leases for Sheriff’s Department (unanimous)
• Approved FEMA Category B fund allocation as presented (unanimous)
• Approved $34,200 airport fencing repair budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $232,562 Groen fencing repair budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $350,000 lawsuit settlement allocation to Legal Fund (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the March 24, 2026 regular minutes and appoint George Bradstreet to the Board of Canvassers. The meeting will also include department head reports and the approval of three warrants.

• Approval of March 24, 2026 regular minutes
• Appointment of George Bradstreet to Board of Canvassers
• Approval of three warrants: March 31, April 7, and April 14, 2026
• Otsego County Equalization department report
• Public comment on agenda items and general public comment

The Otsego County Board approved the 2026 Equalization report and the consent agenda unanimously. It adopted three warrants totaling $2.93 M, including a $2,338,736.25 warrant on April 14 passed unanimously. A motion to remove a voided check failed, and a $97,541.97 warrant on April 7 passed unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Equalization report (unanimous)
• Approved $484,733.76 March 31, 2026 warrant (6‑2)
• Failed motion to remove check #27382 payable to Integrity Construction (3‑5)
• Approved $97,541.97 April 7, 2026 warrant (unanimous)
• Approved $2,338,736.25 April 14, 2026 warrant (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will approve the March 23, 2026 meeting minutes, hear public comments, and consider updates and funding options under new business. No specific decisions or amounts are detailed in the agenda.

• Approval of March 23rd, 2026 Budget and Finance Committee minutes
• Public comments (3‑minute limit)
• Updates (new business)
• Funding options (new business)

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 23, 2026 meeting. It also unanimously approved using the profits from the Cross Street property sale to help fund the new court building. A further unanimous vote approved allocating $5 million from the General Fund, $1.9 million from the Public Improvement Fund, and the sale profits to cover the court building project's costs.

• Approved March 23rd, 2026 Budget and Finance Committee minutes (unanimous)
• Approved use of Cross Street property sale profits for court building project (unanimous)
• Approved allocation of $5M General Fund, $1.9M Public Improvement Fund and sale profits for court building project (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks and Recreation Commission approved the prior meeting minutes and $8,029.46 in bills. It authorized a $13,380.12 purchase of a 72" zero‑turn mower and adjusted the campground electrical upgrade plan to a $380,000 scope. The commission selected the Camp Life reservation system and recommended the Parks and Recreation Department millage be placed on the August ballot.

• Approve bills dated 2/1/26‑2/28/26 totaling $8,029.46
• Purchase 72" zero‑turn mower from Hutson for $13,380.12
• Pivot electrical upgrades to $380,000 covering pavilions, cabins and vault toilet
• Adopt Camp Life reservation system for parks and community center
• Recommend renewing Parks & Recreation Department millage for August ballot

The commission renewed the county parks and recreation millage at .25% for four years, despite one member opposing the motion. It also moved future meetings to the Gaylord Regional Airport and approved a $4,600 design estimate from Trinity Architecture for campground electrical upgrades. Bills for March totaling $29,957.49 were approved, and the prior meeting minutes were adopted.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved March bills totaling $29,957.49 (motion carried)
• Renewed park millage at .25% for four years (motion carried, one opposition)
• Repealed motion that meetings are held at the Otsego County Building (motion carried)
• Designated Gaylord Regional Airport as primary meeting location (motion carried)
• Approved Trinity Architecture estimate $4,000 plus $600 design drawings for campground electrical upgrades (motion carried)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will meet to continue reviewing policies in the employee handbook. The meeting also includes updates from the Human Resources Department.

• Employee Handbook Policy Review
• Human Resources Department Updates

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 10, 2026 meeting. It added discussion of the Road Commission Managing Director election to the New Business agenda. The committee adopted a series of edits to the employee handbook, including updated attendance policy language, capitalization changes, and revised wording on inclement weather, jury duty, and other sections. No final decision was made on returning the Managing Director position to an elected office.

• Approved March 10, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Added Road Commission Managing Director election discussion to New Business agenda
• Adopted employee handbook revisions (attendance policy, inclement weather wording, jury duty language, capitalization, and other edits)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of the March 10 meeting minutes. It will vote on several budget amendments, including allocating $12,500 from the Tax Foreclosure Fund for a settlement contribution, hiring a custodial worker for Building & Grounds, and reinstating a facility maintenance position for the Bus System. Additional items include a land‑use fee increase proposal, a FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending request, and updates to audit fees and library millage renewals.

• Allocate $12,500 from Tax Foreclosure Fund (Fund 617) for settlement contribution
• Hire Building & Grounds custodial worker (total cost $57,066.99)
• Reinstate Bus System facility maintenance position
• Land Use fee increase proposal
• FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending request

The Otsego County Board approved multiple budget amendments, including a $12,500 allocation from the Tax Foreclosure Fund and funds for 2024 and 2025 audit payments. It also approved hiring a custodial worker and reinstated four bus‑system positions: facility management, mechanic, dispatcher and an additional correctional officer. The board adopted the FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending request, updated the land‑use fee schedule, and approved library millage and mortgage discharge resolutions.

• Approved $12,500 Tax Foreclosure Fund allocation (unanimous)
• Approved hire of additional custodial worker (5-2)
• Reinstated Facility Management position for Bus System (5-2)
• Reinstated Mechanic position for Bus System (5-2)
• Reinstated additional Dispatcher position for Bus System (5-2)
• Approved budget amendment for additional correctional officer (5-2)
• Approved Land Use fee schedule updates (unanimous)
• Approved FY27 Congressionally Directed Spending request (5-2)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee will hold its regular meeting, covering standard items such as call to order, pledge of allegiance, agenda changes, and public comments. The only new business item is a discussion and questions about the Court Building. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Court Building – discussion and questions (new business)

The Budget & Finance Committee approved the OCR 26-08 FY2024 Budget Resolution Plan with a unanimous vote. The committee also approved a $57,000 cost for the 2025 audit, also unanimously. Both motions were passed without opposition.

• Approved FY2024 Budget Resolution Plan (4-0)
• Approved $57,000 cost for 2025 Audit (4-0)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Otsego County Veteran’s Affairs Committee will hold its regular meeting on March 23, 2026. Members will review the January 20 minutes, receive a director, activity, and financial reports, and receive a status update on the MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant. The agenda also includes additional business, public comments, and adjournment.

• MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant – status update
• Director report
• Activity report
• Financial reports (Veteran’s Affairs, Burial Report, Soldiers Relief & Donation Fund)
• Public comments

The Veterans Affairs Committee unanimously approved the regular minutes from the January 20, 2026 meeting. It also unanimously approved the month‑end financial reports ending February 28, 2026. The meeting was then adjourned at 11:38 a.m. after a unanimous vote.

• Approved Jan 20, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending Feb 28, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:38 a.m. (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget and Finance Committee will meet to discuss the Administrative Policy Manual, specifically the Purchasing Policy. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. in Room 100 of the 225 West Main St. building.

• Review Administrative Policy Manual – Purchasing Policy
• Public comments on agenda items (3 minutes each)
• Unfinished Business
• New Business

The committee approved the OCR 26-08 FY2024 Budget Resolution Plan unanimously. It also approved a $57,000 cost for the 2025 audit, also unanimously. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved OCR 26-08 FY2024 Budget Resolution Plan (unanimous)
• Approved $57,000 cost for the 2025 audit (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee will discuss budget amendments for audit fees and the Tax Foreclosure Fund. Members will review several proposed staffing positions and three millage renewals for 2026. The meeting also includes a proposal to increase Land Use fees.

• 2026 Library, Parks & Recreation, and Recycling millage renewals
• Land Use fee increase proposal
• Budget amendments for 2024 and 2025 audit fees
• Staffing positions for Building & Grounds, Bus (Maintenance, Mechanic, Dispatch), and Sheriff (Corrections Officer)
• Tax Foreclosure Fund (617) budget amendment

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved a $12,500 allocation from the Tax Foreclosure Fund and added several full‑time positions—including a custodial worker, bus facility maintenance worker, bus mechanic, bus dispatch worker, and a correctional officer. It also approved increased inspection, penalty, plan‑review and miscellaneous fees while leaving application fees unchanged. The request to add mileage funding for the Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center was denied. All other budget amendments and renewals were approved unanimously.

• Approved $12,500 Tax Foreclosure Fund allocation (unanimous)
• Approved full‑time Custodial Position for Building & Grounds (3‑0)
• Approved full‑time Facility Maintenance Worker for Bus System (3‑0)
• Approved full‑time Mechanic Position for Bus System (3‑0)
• Approved full‑time Dispatch Position for Bus System (unanimous)
• Approved eliminating Work Camp Supervisor and adding a full‑time Correctional Officer (3‑0)
• Approved increase of Inspection, Penalty, Plan Review and Miscellaneous Fees (3‑0)
• Denied mileage addition for Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center (3‑0)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Otsego County Veteran’s Affairs Committee will hold its regular meeting on March 17, 2026. The agenda includes reviewing the January 20 minutes, receiving a director report, activity report, and several financial reports. The committee will receive a status update on the MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant. The meeting will conclude with additional business, public comments, and adjournment.

• MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant – status update
• Director report
• Activity report
• Financial reports: Veteran’s Affairs, Burial Report, Soldiers Relief & Donation Fund
• Public comments

Planning Commission

The Otsego County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three land‑use applications. One request seeks to rezone 220 Meecher Rd in Livingston Township from B2 (General Business) to B3 (Business, Light Manufacturing). A second request asks to rezone a parcel on Murner Rd from an Agricultural Resource district to a Residential district. The third request is a Special Use Permit for an 88‑site campground at 1278 Alexander Rd in Corwith Township.

• PZRZ26-001 – Cougar Creek Ranch LLC & William Mason: rezone 220 Meecher Rd (B2 → B3).
• PZRZ26-002 – Robert Wilber & Dave Drews: rezone Murner Rd (AR → R1/R2 Residential).
• PZSU26-001 – ROWM Investments LLC & Robert & Olivia Smith: Special Use Permit for 88‑site campground at 1278 Alexander Rd (AR district).

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the status of two ongoing projects: the Emergency Drain Field (04‑2024) and the Emergency Roof (05‑2024). New business includes consideration of a new Emergency Roof project (06‑2024) and the discharge of a paid mortgage identified as VILL 2000‑03. The committee will also approve minutes from the February 19, 2026 emergency meeting and address other routine items.

• Approve minutes from Emergency Meeting – February 19, 2026
• Review status of Emergency Drain Field 04‑2024
• Review status of Emergency Roof 05‑2024
• Consider Project 06‑2024 Emergency Roof
• Consider Discharge Paid Mortgage VILL 2000‑03

The Otsego County Housing Committee approved the minutes from the February 19, 2026 meeting. It accepted the bid specifications and awarded the emergency roof contract (Project 06-2024) to ASAP Roofing Inc. for $14,250 using PY24 grant funding. The committee also approved discharging loan #VILL 2000-03 and filed the month‑end financial reports for February 2026.

• Approved emergency housing meeting minutes of Feb 19, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved emergency roof bid specs and awarded $14,250 contract to ASAP Roofing Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of loan #VILL 2000-03 mortgage and referral to Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Approved receipt and filing of month‑end financial reports ending Feb 28, 2026 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will meet to receive a presentation on the 2024 audit from Clark Schaefer Hackett. The board will also hear a report from the Otsego County Sheriff Department and review financial warrants.

• 2024 Audit presentation by Clark Schaefer Hackett
• Department report from Sheriff Matt Nowicki, Undersheriff Matt Muladore, and Lieutenant Scott Musall
• Review of March 3, 2026 and March 10, 2026 financial warrants
• Approval of February 24, 2026 meeting minutes

The Otsego County Board approved two financial warrants, including a $1,590,617.64 warrant on March 10 and a $344,377.96 warrant on March 3, both by unanimous vote. The board also approved a special use permit for a tattoo parlor, outdoor café permits for El Patron and Rafi’s, and hired Blake Huff as the new Police Chief with a contract starting July 1, 2026. The consent agenda, including the February 24 minutes, was approved by unanimous consent.

• Approved March 10, 2026 warrant $1,590,617.64 (unanimous)
• Approved March 3, 2026 warrant $344,377.96 (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for a tattoo parlor
• Approved outdoor café permits for El Patron and Rafi’s
• Approved hiring of Blake Huff as Police Chief, contract effective July 1, 2026
• Approved consent agenda and February 24 minutes (unanimous consent)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will approve the January 9, 2026 meeting minutes and continue its employee handbook policy review. It will also discuss new business items that include multiple hiring proposals for bus operations, airport and building maintenance, janitorial services, and a sheriff department corrections officer. No final decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Consider Bus – Facility Maintenance Position
• Consider Bus – Mechanic Position
• Consider Bus – Dispatch/Driver Position
• Consider Airport/Building & Grounds – Maintenance Position
• Consider Sheriff Department – Corrections Officer Position

The Personnel Committee approved the Bus System’s Facilities Maintenance, Mechanic, and Dispatch positions and will forward them to the Budget & Finance Committee. It also approved an Airport/Building & Grounds Maintenance position, a Building & Grounds Janitorial position, and a Sheriff’s Department Corrections Officer position, all by unanimous vote. The minutes from the January 9, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved Bus System Facilities Maintenance position (unanimous)
• Approved Bus System Mechanic position (unanimous)
• Approved Bus System Dispatch position (unanimous)
• Approved Airport/Building & Grounds Maintenance position (unanimous)
• Approved Building & Grounds Janitorial position (unanimous)
• Approved Sheriff’s Department Corrections Officer position (unanimous)
• Approved January 9, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved Unfinished Business after New Business on agenda (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee will hold a discussion and answer questions about the Court Building. The committee will also review the Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) request form for fiscal year 2027. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; these items are for discussion and consideration.

• Court Building – discussion and questions
• Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) Request Form – FY27

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will approve the minutes from the previous meeting and discuss budget reports, bills, and various park projects including electrical upgrades and a new reservation system.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Bills totaling $18,887.36
• Campground electrical upgrades to 50-amp
• Zero turn lawn mower bids ($11,703.12 - $13,380.12)
• Community Center roof repair ($9,443.00)

The commission approved $8,029.46 in bills for February. It authorized the purchase of a 72" zero‑turn mower for $13,380.12 and limited the electrical upgrades to day‑use areas. The board selected the Camp Life reservation system and recommended the millage ballot language to the budget committee and county board. It also approved the Mark Mellon Triathlon pending a legal entity, permit and insurance.

• Approved February bills totaling $8,029.46 (motion carried)
• Approved purchase of 72" zero‑turn mower from Hutson for $13,380.12 (one opposition, motion carried)
• Approved limited electrical upgrades to pavilions, cabins and boat‑launch toilet (one opposition, motion carried)
• Approved moving forward with Camp Life reservation system (motion carried)
• Recommended park millage ballot language for August ballot to budget committee and board (motion carried)
• Approved Mark Mellon Triathlon with conditions: legal entity, special event permit, insurance (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will consider several budget items, including a request to apply for $548,950 in state funding for the County Bus System for fiscal year 2027. They will also vote on a $60,000 budget amendment to allocate Public Improvement Fund money to the Materials Management Planning Committee. Additional agenda items include other budget amendments and a rezoning recommendation in Chester Township.

• Approve regular minutes of the February 10, 2026 meeting
• Approve OCR 26-04 to apply for $548,950 state funding for FY2027 bus system
• Approve $60,000 budget amendment to the Public Improvement Fund for Materials Management Planning Committee work
• Consider budget amendments for Parks & Rec grant, Airport FedEx building repairs, and Sheriff Department security upgrades
• Review Planning Commission items: rezoning recommendation in Chester Township and Data Center moratorium

The Board adopted OCR 26-04, authorizing the Otsego County Bus System to apply for FY 2027 state financial assistance. It approved several budget amendments, including $60,000 for Materials Management, $30,000 for sheriff security upgrades, $25,000 for an opioid assessment project, and other allocations, all by unanimous vote. The Board also rezoned parcel 031‑006‑400‑02‑00 to Agricultural Resource, approved a Data Center Moratorium, and approved multiple warrants totaling over $744,000, while a motion to remove an $11,000 check failed.

• Adopted OCR 26-04 Intent to Apply for FY 2027 Bus System aid (unanimous)
• Approved $60,000 Public Improvement Fund allocation to Outside Contracted Services (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 marijuana‑fund allocation for Sheriff property security improvements (unanimous)
• Approved $25,000 Opioid Fund allocation for community assessment project (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of parcel 031‑006‑400‑02‑00 from B2/General Business to Agricultural Resource (unanimous)
• Approved OCR 26-05 Data Center Moratorium (unanimous)
• Approved warrants: $51,816.48 (Feb 9) and $287,630.10 (Feb 17) (unanimous)
• Motion to remove check #26974 $11,000 from Feb 24 warrant failed (Ayes: Christi Sortor, Henry Mason; Nays: Terra Deming, Brett McVannel, Neil Drzewiecki, Dana Wingo, Rob Weaver)

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee will hold an emergency meeting on February 19, 2026. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the January 29, 2026 emergency meeting, review of the Emergency Drain Field 04-2024, and discussion of the Project 05-2024 Emergency Roof. Additional items are reports from the Director and Inspector, public comments limited to three minutes, and other business.

• Approval of minutes from the Jan 29, 2026 emergency meeting
• Unfinished Business – Emergency Drain Field 04-2024
• New Business – Project 05-2024 Emergency Roof
• Report of Director & Inspector
• Public comments (three‑minute limit)

The Otsego County Housing Committee approved the minutes from the Jan. 29, 2026 emergency meeting. It accepted the bid specifications and awarded the $12,000 emergency roof contract to ASAP Roofing Inc. The committee also received and filed the month‑end financial reports for January 31, 2026.

• Approved emergency housing meeting minutes of Jan. 29, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved emergency roof bid specifications and awarded $12,000 contract to ASAP Roofing Inc. (unanimous)
• Received and filed month‑end financial reports ending Jan. 31, 2026 (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will consider the FY2027 Budget Resolution of Intent (OCR 26-04). It will also discuss work plan approval and fund allocation for the Material Management Program, and several budget amendments for Parks & Recreation, the airport, and the Sheriff’s Department. Additional items include an opioid fund amendment and a court building funding discussion.

• OCR 26-04: OCBS FY2027 Budget Resolution of Intent
• Material Management Program – Work Plan Approval & Funds Allocation
• Parks & Recreation – Budget Amendment for Otsego Community Foundation Grant
• Airport – Budget Amendment for FedEx Repairs
• Sheriff’s Department – Security Upgrades

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved the FY2027 Budget Resolution of Intent. It also approved multiple budget amendments allocating funds for material management, a parks grant, airport repairs, sheriff security upgrades (using the Marijuana Fund), and an opioid assessment. Financial statements and credit‑card statements were accepted without dissent.

• Approved OCR 26-04 FY2027 Budget Resolution of Intent (unanimous)
• Approved $60,000 Material Management Plan amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 Parks & Recreation grant amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $9,700 Airport FedEx repair amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 Sheriff security upgrades using Marijuana Fund (unanimous after initial denial)
• Approved $12,500 Opioid Assessment amendment (unanimous)
• Approved 01/31/2026 financials as presented (unanimous)
• Approved credit card statements as presented (unanimous)

Materials Management Planning Committee (MMPC)

The Materials Management Planning Committee will meet via Microsoft Teams. The agenda includes a discussion of the public input survey questions and a period for public comment. The meeting will also cover routine items such as call to order, roll call, and setting the next meeting date.

• Discussion of Public Input Survey Questions
• Public Comment
• Set Next Meeting Date

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee will receive reports from the Transportation Directors, Airport Directors, and Building and Grounds Directors, including finance updates. The agenda includes discussion of equipment repairs such as a loader and a furnace for Fed-Ex. Several staffing requests are listed, including a new airport employee and a custodial employee for the Maintenance Department. The meeting also covers general updates and a public comment period.

• Airport equipment repair: loader
• Furnace repair for Fed-Ex
• New airport employee request
• New custodial employee request for Maintenance Dept.
• Moving offices

The Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee unanimously approved a special‑price sale of 600 gallons of Jet‑A fuel to Camp Grayling at $3.25 per gallon. It also approved the teen driver training program scheduled for July 11, 2026, and forwarded two new employee requests—one for a night‑shift airport position and one for a custodial role—to the Personnel Committee. Financial reports for the airport, building and grounds, and bus operations were formally acknowledged.

• Approved sale of 600 gallons of Jet‑A fuel to Camp Grayling at $3.25/gal (Dana Wingo – Aye, Rob Weaver – Aye)
• Approved teen driver training at the airport on July 11, 2026 (unanimous)
• Acknowledged Airport monthly financial report (unanimous)
• Forwarded request for new night‑shift airport position to Personnel Committee (unanimous)
• Forwarded request for new custodial employee to Personnel Committee (unanimous)
• Acknowledged Building & Grounds monthly financial report (unanimous)
• Acknowledged Bus monthly financial report (unanimous)
• Sent OCBS FY2027 Resolution of Intent to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)

Election Commission

The Otsego County Election Commission will meet on February 12, 2026, to review a proposed amended agreement regarding early voting between the county and townships. The meeting will be held at the Alpine Center on the third floor.

• Review proposed amended Early Voting agreement between County and Townships
• Public Comment period scheduled

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners meeting on February 10, 2026 includes a vote to approve the February 3, 2026 warrant totaling $236,688.93. The warrant contains a $50,000 architectural fee for the New Judicial Complex. The board will also consider the appointment of Kelly Draeger to the Materials Management Planning Committee for the remainder of the term ending December 17, 2029. Additional items are the approval of the January 27, 2026 meeting minutes and a Michigan Economic Development Corporation Letter of Interest.

• Approve February 3, 2026 warrant for $236,688.93, including $50,000 architectural fees for New Judicial Complex
• Approve regular minutes of the January 27, 2026 meeting
• Appoint Kelly Draeger as Environmental Interest Group designee to the Materials Management Planning Committee (term through Dec 17, 2029)
• Review Michigan Economic Development Corporation Letter of Interest
• Public comment limited to agenda items (3‑minute limit)

The Otsego County Board approved the regular minutes from January 27 and appointed Kelly Draeger to the Materials Management Planning Committee by unanimous consent. It also approved two warrants totaling $614,099.84, each with unanimous support. Finally, the Board unanimously approved signing the Letter of Interest with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

• Approved Regular Minutes of Jan 27, 2026 (consent agenda) – unanimous consent
• Appointed Kelly Draeger as Environmental Interest Group designee to Materials Management Planning Committee – unanimous consent
• Approved Feb 3, 2026 warrant for $236,680.93 – unanimous
• Approved Feb 10, 2026 warrant for $377,418.91 – unanimous
• Approved signing Letter of Interest with Michigan Economic Development Corporation – unanimous

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks and Recreation Commission approved the previous meeting minutes and authorized payment of $15,344.14 in bills covering December 2025. Commissioners also approved the 2026 fireworks special event application, set Halloween weekend dates, and created a basketball league committee. Additional discussion focused on long‑term facility planning and the possible relocation of the community dog park.

• Approval of bills dated 12/1/25 – 12/31/25 totaling $15,344.14
• Approval of 2026 fireworks special event application for Great Lakes Fireworks, LLC
• Approval of Halloween weekend dates: Sept 18‑20 and Sept 25‑27, 2026
• Establishment of a basketball league committee with commission members and staff
• Discussion of moving the community dog park during construction of the new justice complex

The commission hired Story Industries to repair insulation and vents on the Community Center roof, authorizing up to $10,000 in contingency costs. It also approved disposing of the old scoreboard through a random drawing, and authorized the engineering plan for campground electrical upgrades. The women's volleyball league schedule and budget were approved, a vote on dunking in the adult basketball league failed 3‑4, and staff were granted free season passes. Bills totaling $18,887.36 for January were also approved.

• Approved hiring Story Industries for roof insulation and vent repairs (up to $10,000 contingency)
• Approved disposal of old Community Center scoreboard via random drawing
• Approved moving forward with engineering plan for campground electrical upgrades
• Approved women's volleyball league schedule and budget
• Dunking in adult basketball league voted down (3 Yes, 4 No)
• Approved free season passes for all parks and recreation employees
• Approved payment of $18,887.36 for January bills

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings for a special use permit for a solid waste hauler and a request to rezone a property from general business to agricultural resource. The body will also receive reports from Land Use Services and Parks & Recreation.

• Public hearing for Special Use Permit PZSU25-008 for a solid waste hauler at 1245 Anna Dr, Gaylord
• Public hearing for rezone request PZRZ25-007 at 3972 M-32 East, Gaylord, from B2 General Business to AR Agricultural Resource
• Otsego County Parks & Recreation report by Judy Jarecki
• Land Use Services report

The commission approved the meeting minutes for February 5, 2026. It unanimously approved a special use permit for a solid waste hauler/transfer station at 1245 Anna Dr with specific access and buffering conditions. It also unanimously approved the rezoning of 3972 M-32 East from B2 to Agricultural Resource. Finally, the commission unanimously recommended a six‑month Data Center Moratorium to the Board of Commissioners.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Approved General Finding of Fact (unanimously)
• Approved Specific Finding of Fact (unanimously)
• Approved Special Use Permit PZSU25-008 for solid waste hauler at 1245 Anna Dr with conditions (unanimously)
• Approved rezoning PZRZ25-007 of 3972 M-32 East to Agricultural Resource District (unanimously)
• Approved recommendation for a six‑month Data Center Moratorium resolution (unanimously)

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee will hold an emergency meeting to discuss the status of an emergency roof and water well project, as well as a new emergency drain field project. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in conference room 212 of the Otsego County Building.

• Emergency Roof and Water Well #02-2024 status
• Project 04-2024 Emergency Drain Field
• Approval of December 18, 2025 Housing Meeting Minutes
• Report of Director & Inspector
• Public Comments

The Otsego County Housing Committee unanimously approved the regular meeting minutes from December 18, 2025. It also unanimously awarded the $9,500 emergency drain field contract to North Central Excavating Inc. using PY24 grant funding. Finally, the committee unanimously accepted and filed the month‑end financial reports ending December 31, 2025.

• Approved Dec 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Awarded $9,500 emergency drain field contract to North Central Excavating Inc. with PY24 grant funding (unanimous)
• Received and filed month‑end financial reports ending Dec 31, 2025 (unanimous)

Materials Management Planning Committee (MMPC)

The Otsego County Materials Management Planning Committee will discuss and approve its Materials Management Planning Work Program. The meeting will also consider recommendations for new committee members and review public input survey results. A public comment period and next‑meeting scheduling are included.

• Recommendation of committee members to be appointed
• Discussion and approval of the Materials Management Planning Work Program
• Review of public input survey(s)
• Public comment session
• Setting the next meeting date

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the consent agenda, including regular minutes, appointments to the Parks and Recreation and Planning Commissions, and financial warrants.

• Approval of Parks and Recreation Commission appointment of Casey Buckleitner
• Reappointments of Nora Corfis and Scott Sanders to Planning Commission
• Approval of January 20 and 27, 2026 Warrants
• Discussion of Tentative Agreements between the County and POLC
• Approval of bills from December 1–31, 2025 in the amount of $15,344.14

The Otsego County Board adopted a $221,000 FY 2026 Community Corrections grant. It also approved several budget amendments, including a $54,790.09 allocation for 24 generators and the Iron Belle Trailhead agreement. Additional actions included approving the Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center contract, the Friend of the Court amendment, two warrants totaling $430,652.24, and the POLC collective‑bargaining contract.

• Approved FY 2026 Community Corrections Grant $221,000 (resolution adopted)
• Adopted OCR 26-02 supporting the Community Corrections Grant (unanimous)
• Approved Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center Agreement and budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Friend of the Court budget amendment (unanimous)
• Allocated $54,790.09 for purchase of 24 generators (unanimous)
• Approved Iron Belle Trail Trailhead Letter of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Jan 20, 2026 warrant $185,290.68 and four voided checks (unanimous)
• Approved POLC bargaining unit contract for 2026‑2028 (unanimous)

Board of Canvassers

The Board of Canvassers will meet to swear in a new member and appoint leadership roles. The board will also review and approve the ballot containers used in county elections.

• Oath of office for newly appointed member Mary Beth Wakulat
• Appointment of Chairperson
• Appointment of Vice-Chair
• Approval of ballot containers used in Otsego County elections

The Otsego County Board of Canvassers met on Jan. 27, 2026 at the County Building. Mary Beth Wakulat took the oath of office. Vicky Rigney was appointed Chairperson and Sandra Pruder Vice‑Chairperson. The board inspected and approved the ballot containers used in the county elections.

• Oath of office administered to Mary Beth Wakulat (term expires 10‑31‑2029)
• Vicky Rigney appointed Chairperson
• Sandra Pruder appointed Vice‑Chairperson
• Ballot containers inspected and approved

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will consider several new business items, including a FY 2026 Community Corrections grant application, an agreement for the Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center, and a budget amendment for the Friend of Court. The committee will also review a CDBG Urgent Need Grant related to generators and discuss the Iron Belle Trail agreement. Additional updates on financials, credit cards, the treasurer, and the finance department will be presented.

• OCR 26-02: FY 2026 Community Corrections Grant Application
• Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center Agreement
• Friend of Court – Budget Amendment
• CDBG Urgent Need Grant – Generators: Budget Amendment
• Parks & Recreation – Iron Belle Trail Agreement Discussion

The Budget & Finance Committee approved several budget items, including a $54,790.08 grant to purchase 24 generators, a $10,000 agreement for the Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center, a $6,046 allocation for a new Friend of Court supervisor, and an Iron Belle Trailhead maintenance agreement. All motions passed unanimously. The committee also approved the FY 2026 Community Corrections Grant Application, the December 31 2025 financials, and the credit‑card statement.

• Approved $54,790.08 generator grant (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 Northern Michigan Children’s Assessment Center agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $6,046 Friend of Court budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Iron Belle Trailhead Letter of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2026 Community Corrections Grant Application (unanimous)
• Approved December 31 2025 financials (unanimous)
• Approved credit‑card statement (unanimous)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Veteran's Affairs Committee will meet to establish the 2026 meeting schedule. The body will also receive updates and status reports on FY25 and FY26 CVSF grants.

• 2026 Veterans Affairs Meeting Schedule
• FY25 CVSF Grant updates
• FY26 CVSF Grant status
• Financial reports for Veteran's Affairs, Burial, and Soldiers Relief & Donation Fund

The committee unanimously approved the regular minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved the month‑end financial reports ending December 31, 2025. Finally, the members unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting at 9:56 a.m. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved November 18, 2025 Veterans Affairs minutes (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending Dec 31 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 9:56 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a code of ethics and conduct. The board will also review financial warrants and a mortgage discharge.

• Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners
• OCR 26-01 Discharge of Mortgage for P. Bertges
• EMS Board Reappointment of Mary Sanders
• Financial warrants dated Dec 23, Dec 30, Jan 6, and Jan 13

The Board adopted a resolution discharging the county mortgage to Paul Bertges. Updates to the Code of Ethics were approved with one dissenting vote. Mary Sanders was reappointed to the EMS Board, also with one dissent. Four financial warrants totaling $902,852.79 were approved unanimously, and a Bylaws Committee was created.

• Approved discharge of mortgage to Paul Bertges (unanimous)
• Adopted updates to Code of Ethics (6-1)
• Reappointed Mary Sanders to EMS Board (6-1)
• Approved December 23, 2025 warrant for $245,893.16 (unanimous)
• Approved December 20, 2025 warrant for $378,997.97 (unanimous)
• Approved January 6, 2026 warrant for $53,531.25 (unanimous)
• Approved January 13, 2026 warrant for $224,530.66 (unanimous)
• Created Bylaws Committee and appointed members

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks & Recreation Commission approved its 2026 meeting schedule, waived the pavilion fee for a July 16 fireworks raffle, and approved the Winter Co-ed Volleyball League budget. It also recommended Ryan Muntin for a commission seat and denied the boat tour application from J & K Catering DBA Little Traverse Bay Ferry because of insufficient parking and wastewater disposal infrastructure.

• Denied J & K Catering DBA Little Traverse Bay Ferry boat tour application due to lack of parking and sewage disposal infrastructure (motion carried).
• Approved the regular 2026 meeting schedule for the second Monday of each month at 6:00 pm in room 100 (motion carried).
• Waived the fee for the Otsego Lake Association to use Henderson Pavilion on July 16, 2024 5:45‑7:00 pm for a fireworks raffle (motion carried).
• Approved Winter Co-ed Volleyball League budget with total player fees of $1,600.00 (motion carried).
• Recommended Ryan Muntin for appointment to the Parks & Recreation Commission for the longest open term (motion carried).

The commission approved the 2026 fireworks special event application from the Otsego Lake Association and Great Lakes Fireworks, LLC, subject to insurance and signature requirements. A recommendation was made to the County Board to appoint Casey Bucklitner as an at‑large member of the Parks and Recreation Commission. Additional actions included approving $15,344.14 in bills, setting Halloween weekend dates, and establishing a basketball league committee.

• Approved $15,344.14 bills (12/1/25‑12/31/25) – motion carried
• Approved 2026 fireworks special event application – motion carried
• Recommended appointment of Casey Bucklitner to the commission – motion carried
• Approved Halloween weekend dates (Sept 18‑20 & Sept 25‑27) – motion carried
• Established basketball league committee with specified members – motion carried
• Elected officers: Bonny Miller president, Randy Stuts vice president, Justin Wing secretary – members in favor

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will discuss unfinished business items, including a stand‑alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for County Commissioners and continued review of actions, policies, and procedures. The committee will also continue its employee handbook policy review, covering conflict of interest, general information, and several employee forms. Additional agenda items include routine updates from the Human Resources Department and public comment periods.

• Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners
• Actions, Policies and Procedures – Continue Preliminary Findings (Pg. 52)
• Employee Handbook Policy Review – Conflict of Interest (Pg. 53)
• Employee Handbook Policy Review – General Information (Pg. 58‑65)
• Employee Handbook Policy Review – Forms (Harassment Complaint, FMLA Request, Vacation Request)

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the December 12, 2025 meeting and a motion to pause the meeting before reconvening. It then unanimously voted to forward the Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners to the full Board. The committee also adopted numerous wording changes to the employee handbook and related policies, including updates to conflict‑of‑interest language, cell‑phone use, and form titles.

• Approved December 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to pause meeting (unanimous)
• Approved sending Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics to full Board (unanimous)
• Approved replacing “complainant” with “complaint” in policy draft
• Approved striking commas in policy draft sentence
• Approved replacing “manager(s)” with “director(s)” throughout employee handbook
• Approved multiple wording updates to Conflict of Interest section
• Approved updates to Cell Phone Usage policy language

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The committee will meet to review reports from the transportation, airport, and building and grounds managers. Discussions include bus policies, airport training requests, and a furnace unit at the Alpine Center.

• Bus policies and updates
• Trooper Hebner request for training
• Furnace unit at the Alpine Center

The Transportation and Airport Committee unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from the December 11, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports. The committee voted to forward both the Otsego County Dispatch Directive and the Bus System Operational Policy to the County Administrator for approval. Additionally, members agreed to study the feasibility of a Teen Driving Academy on airport property.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Dec 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Acknowledged bus financial report (unanimous)
• Sent Dispatch Directive to County Administrator for approval (unanimous)
• Sent Bus System Operational Policy to County Administrator for approval (unanimous)
• Acknowledged airport financial report (unanimous)
• Agreed to study feasibility of Teen Driving Academy on airport property

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet for its annual organizational session to elect leadership and review governing rules. The body will decide on a Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson and review the Board's bylaws and rules of procedure.

• Election of Chairperson via secret ballot
• Election of Vice-Chairperson via public nomination and voting
• Review of Otsego County Board of Commissioners Bylaws and Rules of Procedure

The Otsego County Board elected Brett McVannel as Chairman for a one‑year term ending Dec. 31, 2026, and Dana Wingo as Vice‑Chairman for the same term. Two bylaws amendments were adopted unanimously: changing section 13.3.3 to read “Transportation and Building and Grounds” and adding section 13.3.4 as a standing committee. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Elected Brett McVannel as Chairman (1‑year term ending Dec 31 2026)
• Elected Dana Wingo as Vice‑Chairman (1‑year term ending Dec 31 2026)
• Amended Bylaw section 13.3.3 to read “Transportation and Building and Grounds” – unanimous
• Added Bylaw section 13.3.4 as a Standing Committee – unanimous