Otsego County public meetings in 2025

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee will review status updates on three emergency repair projects and decide on a discharge of a paid mortgage (item #17-2010). It will also discuss new program guidelines and contractor requirements, and set the meeting schedule for 2026. The meeting includes routine items such as approvals of prior minutes and public comments.

• Emergency Roof and Furnace #01-2024
• Emergency Roof and Water Well #02-2024
• Emergency Roof #03-2024
• Discharge Paid Mortgage #17-2010
• Program Guidelines & Applicant/Contractor Requirements

The Otsego County Housing Committee unanimously approved the discharge of loan 17-2010 mortgage and will submit it to the Board of Commissioners for review and signature. It also approved changes to the program guidelines and applicant/contractor requirements. The committee accepted the minutes from its October 24 and November 4 meetings and approved filing the month‑end financial reports ending November 30, 2025. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved November 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of loan 17-2010 mortgage (unanimous)
• Approved changes to program guidelines & applicant/contractor requirements (unanimous)
• Approved receipt and filing of month‑end financial reports for November 30, 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will approve the regular minutes from the November 25, 2025 meeting and reappoint members of several committees. It will consider multiple budget and finance items, including a budget amendment for the Equipment Fund, a rate increase for the Community Center, and change orders for the Otsego Lake Drain. The board will also review and adopt new policies and bylaws amendments, and address a FOIA appeal and other new business.

• Budget Amendment – Equipment Fund
• Community Center – Hourly Rate Increase
• Otsego Lake Drain Change Orders
• ARPA Fund – Interest Transfer to 424 Facilities Planning
• Amendments to Board Bylaws: Vice‑Chairperson election, secret ballot, tie‑vote procedure

The Otsego County Board voted to dissolve the Policy Ad Hoc Committee once the pending Groen Preserve policies are finished. It also adopted three bylaw amendments governing elections and tie‑vote procedures. Unanimous approvals were made for several budget items, including a $60,000 transfer from the Marijuana Fund, and three warrants totaling $729,813.62.

• Dissolved Policy Ad Hoc Committee after Groen Preserve policies completed (5-3)
• Amended Bylaw Section 2.8.2 to require open election of Vice‑Chairperson (unanimous)
• Amended Bylaw Section 11.4 to permit secret ballot for Chairperson election (unanimous)
• Amended Bylaw Section 13.4 to add tie‑vote procedure (6-2)
• Approved December 2, 2025 warrant for $190,324.81 (unanimous)
• Approved December 9, 2025 warrant for $202,541.08 (unanimous)
• Approved December 16, 2025 warrant for $335,947.73 (unanimous)
• Allocated $60,000 from Marijuana Fund to Equipment Fund (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Otsego County Planning Commission will decide whether to amend Special Use Permit PZSU25‑009 to allow single‑family dwellings on the Hayes Rd property in the R2 General Residential zone. Commissioners also considered a text amendment to Section 21.33 of the Zoning Ordinance to clarify definitions for recreational equipment storage. The commission recommended adoption of the 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan with updated priority levels and approved the appointment of Mike Colosimo as Charlton Township’s representative.

• Special Use Permit PZSU25‑009 amendment to permit single‑family homes on Hayes Rd (R2 zone)
• Zoning Ordinance Section 21.33 Recreational Equipment text amendment (definition change to “person or entity”)
• Recommendation to adopt the 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan with Planning Commission priority levels
• Appointment of Mike Colosimo as Charlton Township representative for a three‑year term
• Battery storage language to be sent to townships for review later in the week

The commission approved the meeting minutes and a General and Specific Finding of Fact. It then approved special use permit PZSU25-009 for a 50‑unit site on Hayes Rd in Gaylord, with a condition to update the Master Deed and By‑Laws. The 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan was approved with an addendum correcting page‑6 letters, and the commission recommended Trevor Boughner as Dover Township’s representative.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Approved General Finding of Fact (unanimously)
• Approved Specific Finding of Fact (unanimously)
• Approved special use permit PZSU25-009 for 50‑unit site, condition: update Master Deed and By‑Laws (unanimously)
• Approved 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan with addendum correcting letter C and editing letter F (unanimously)
• Approved addition of public hearing comments to CIP addendum (unanimously)
• Approved composition of CIP committee (unanimously)
• Recommended appointment of Trevor Boughner to Planning Commission as Dover Township representative (unanimously)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee will review the proposed amendment to the Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve Fiscal and Property Management Policy. The amendment outlines how revenues, budgets, and capital project approvals for the preserve are to be handled, including a $200,000 threshold for Planning Commission review. The committee will discuss the policy changes before any adoption.

• Amendment to Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve Fiscal and Property Management Policy
• Capital projects over $200,000 must be presented to the Otsego County Planning Commission
• Annual budget prepared by Preserve Director, subject to County Administrator and Board approval
• Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve Fund (218) kept separate from other county funds

The committee approved the December 10, 2025 minutes without dissent. It then recommended that the Board of Commissioners adopt the amended Groen Fiscal and Property Management Policy, also unanimously. Finally, the committee approved the minutes of the December 12 meeting and adjourned, again unanimously.

• Approved December 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of amended Groen Fiscal and Property Management Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2025 minutes and adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will review unfinished business items, including a stand‑alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for County Commissioners and a policy on donated vacation leave. New business includes adopting job descriptions for a Veteran’s Services Officer Assistant and a Housing Clerk/Veteran’s Service Officer, setting the 2026 meeting calendar, and continuing the employee handbook policy review. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment periods.

• Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners (unfinished business)
• Employee Benefits review – continue with Donated Vacation Leave Policy (unfinished business)
• Job descriptions for Veteran’s Services Officer Assistant and Housing Clerk/Veteran’s Service Officer (new business)
• Veteran’s Services Assistant Step (new business)
• 2026 Personnel Committee Meeting Calendar (new business)

The Personnel Committee approved the November 14, 2025 minutes and accepted attorney recommendations to amend the County Code of Ethics. It also approved updated job descriptions for the Veterans Service Officer Assistant and the Housing/Veterans Service Officer Clerk. Finally, the committee voted to increase the merit step for the full‑time Veterans Service Officer Assistant from $17.27 to $19.38 per hour, effective Jan. 1, 2026. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved November 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted attorney’s recommended changes to Code of Ethics Section B6 (unanimous)
• Approved Veterans Service Officer Assistant and Housing/Veterans Service Officer Clerk job descriptions (unanimous)
• Approved merit step increase for Veterans Service Officer Assistant to $19.38/hr (unanimous)

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee will consider the minutes from its November 13 meeting and hear reports from the Transportation Manager, Airport Manager, and Building & Grounds Manager. Each report includes finance updates and operational items such as bus policies, airport policies, employee search, and cleaning services. The agenda also provides a brief public comment period before adjournment.

• Approval of 13 November 2025 meeting minutes
• Transportation Managers Report – finance, bus policies, bus updates
• Airport Managers Report – finance, airport policies, airport updates
• Building and Grounds Managers Report – employee search, cleaning company, FOC courtroom, updates
• Public comment – 3‑minute limit per speaker

The committee approved a motion directing the County Administrator to pursue an emergency purchase to repair the heating system in the Friend of the Court courtroom. It also adopted updates to four airport policies (Courtesy Car, Events, Conference Room Use, Sign) and three bus system policies (Passenger, Disruptive Children, Staff Dress and Appearance). Financial reports for the airport and bus system were acknowledged, and the sale of two airport vehicles for a total of $8,700 was reported.

• Emergency purchase for FOC courtroom heating repair – approved unanimously
• Adopt Courtesy Car Policy – approved unanimously
• Adopt Gaylord Regional Airport Events Policy – approved unanimously
• Adopt Conference Room Use Policy – approved unanimously
• Adopt Sign Policy – approved unanimously
• Adopt Otsego County Bus System Passenger Policy – approved unanimously
• Adopt Bus System Policy on Dealing with Disruptive Children – approved unanimously
• Adopt Bus System Staff Dress and Appearance Policy – approved unanimously

Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee on Policy Review will discuss the fiscal and property management of the Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve. The meeting includes a review of the general Parks and Recreation Policy and Ordinance No. 2012-1.

• Groen Fiscal and Property Management Policy
• Parks and Recreation Policy
• Ordinance No. 2012-1 (Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve)
• Review of $200,000 threshold for Planning Commission input on Preserve construction/repairs
• Review of Parks and Recreation Director's $500 purchase authority

The Ad Hoc Committee approved the minutes from the Dec. 3 meeting. It then unanimously recommended that the Board of Commissioners adopt the amended Groen Fiscal and Property Management Policy, the amended Parks and Recreation Policy, and the amended Ordinance 2012-1 for the Louis M. Groen Nature Preserve. All recommendations were passed without dissent.

• Approved Dec. 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of amended Groen Fiscal and Property Management Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of amended Parks and Recreation Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of amended Ordinance 2012-1 to Board (unanimous)
• Approved corrected Nov. 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will review several agenda items, including a budget amendment for the Equipment Fund, a step increase for the Veterans Service Officer assistant, and a proposed hourly rate increase for the Community Center. Additional items include change orders for the Otsego Lake Drain, an interest transfer from the ARPA Fund to the General Fund, and a letter of agreement for a Parks & Recreation trailhead. The committee will also adopt the 2026 budget calendar and discuss year‑end budget amendment authority, financial updates, and department reports.

• Equipment Fund – Budget amendment
• Veterans Service Officer (VSO) Assistant step increase
• Community Center – Hourly rate increase
• Otsego Lake Drain – Change orders
• ARPA Fund – Interest transfer to General Fund

The Budget & Finance Committee approved a $60,000 transfer from the Marijuana Fund to the Equipment Fund to pay an invoice to Cruisers. It also unanimously approved a merit step increase for the Veterans Service Officer Assistant, raised the Community Center hourly rate to $30, and authorized $15,610 in change orders for the Otsego Lake Drain. Additional actions included transferring ARPA fund interest to the Facilities Planning Fund, tabling the Iron Belle Trail Letter of Agreement, and approving the 2026 budget calendar, year‑end amendment authority, and November credit‑card statements.

• Allocate $60,000 from Marijuana Fund to Equipment Fund (unanimous)
• Approve merit step increase for VSO Assistant to $19.38 (unanimous)
• Increase Community Center hourly rate to $30 (unanimous)
• Approve Change Orders 2 & 3 for Otsego Lake Drain totaling $15,610 (unanimous)
• Transfer ARPA Fund interest to Facilities Planning Fund (unanimous)
• Table Iron Belle Trail Letter of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approve 2026 Budget & Finance Calendar (unanimous)
• Approve Year‑End Budget Amendment Authority up to $15,000 per line item (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks & Recreation Commission approved the previous meeting minutes and adopted the 2026 parks and recreation budget. It increased the community center rental rate from $25.00 to $30.00 per hour effective Jan. 1 2026 and authorized a $4,448.00 purchase of a new 4 × 8‑foot scoreboard with installation. The board also discussed limiting lake‑front campsite reservations to 15 consecutive nights and noted a need to replace dump‑station towers for approximately 8,000.000.

• Increase community center hourly rental rate to $30.00 per hour
• Purchase of 4 × 8‑foot scoreboard for $4,448.00 plus installation
• Approve 2026 parks and recreation budget
• Discuss limit of lake‑front campsite reservations to 15 nights
• Replace dump‑station towers for approximately 8,000.000

The commission voted to deny the J & K Catering DBA Little Traverse Bay Ferry boat tour request because of insufficient parking and wastewater disposal facilities. It also recommended Ryan Muntin for the at‑large commission seat and approved the 2026 meeting schedule. Additional actions included waiving the fee for the Otsego Lake Association pavilion rental and approving the Winter Co‑ed Volleyball League.

• Denied boat tour application from J & K Catering DBA Little Traverse Bay Ferry (motion carried)
• Recommended appointment of Ryan Muntin to the Parks & Recreation Commission (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule on second Monday of each month (motion carried)
• Approved bills for 10/1/25‑10/31/25 totaling $56,46307 (motion carried)
• Approved bills for 11/1/25‑11/30/25 totaling $5,123.78 (motion carried)
• Allowed Otsego Lake Association to use Henderson Pavilion on July 16 with fee waived (motion carried)
• Recommended reappointment of Justin Wing to the commission for 2026‑2028 (motion carried)
• Approved Winter Co‑ed Volleyball League budget and schedule (motion carried)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee on Policy Review will meet to discuss and review four specific county policies. This follows a previous meeting where the committee recommended the adoption of cash management, coin acceptance, counterfeit, credit card acceptance, and DTRF policies.

• Electronic Transfers Policy review
• Investment Policy review
• Partial Tax Payment Policy review
• Tax Foreclosure Financial Hardship Deferral Policy review

The committee approved the November 21, 2025 minutes and authorised a blanket correction of spelling, punctuation and grammar on all documents. It then recommended that the Board of Commissioners adopt the Electronic Transfers, Investment, Partial Tax Payment, and Tax Foreclosure Financial Hardship Deferral policies. The meeting was adjourned after setting the next meeting for December 10, 2025.

• Approved November 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized correction of all spelling, punctuation and grammar errors on documents (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Electronic Transfers Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Investment Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Partial Tax Payment Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Tax Foreclosure Financial Hardship Deferral Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a Truth in Taxation Hearing to discuss and potentially approve the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Resolution and General Appropriations Act. The meeting also includes reviews of the 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Plan and various budget amendments.

• OCR 25-28 Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Resolution and General Appropriations Act
• Capital Improvement Plan 2026-2031
• FEMA Public Assistance Grant Program Grant Agreement
• Non-Union Pay Grade 1 minimum wage effective January 1, 2026
• Budget amendments for Animal Control generator and Facilities Planning Fund (424)

The Board approved the 2026 Otsego County Budget and General Appropriations Act (OCR 25‑28) by a 6‑2 vote. It also adopted the 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan and approved several budget amendments and fund transfers unanimously. The Board approved a contract for the 2025 audit, a FEMA Public Assistance Grant agreement, and two warrants for $492,742.92 and $272,706.03, all by unanimous votes.

• Approved 2026 budget (OCR 25‑28) 6‑2 vote
• Adopted 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan 6‑2 vote
• Approved Clark Schaefer Hackett audit contract 5‑3 vote (RFP request failed 3‑5)
• Approved $65,600 budget amendment from Animal Control to Property, Machinery & Equipment (unanimous)
• Approved $13,000 transfer from Administration Fund to Housing Fund (unanimous)
• Approved FEMA Public Assistance Grant Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved November 18, 2025 warrant for $492,742.92 (unanimous)
• Approved November 25, 2025 warrant for $272,706.03 (unanimous)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Otsego County Ad Hoc Committee on Policy Review will meet on November 21, 2025. The agenda lists a series of financial policies for review, including cash management, coin acceptance, counterfeit handling, credit card acceptance, DTRF, electronic transfers, investment, partial tax payment, and tax foreclosure financial hardship deferral policies. The meeting includes a public comment period limited to agenda items. No specific decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Cash Management Policy
• Coin Acceptance Policy
• Counterfeit Policy
• Credit Card Acceptance Policy
• Electronic Transfers Policy

The Ad Hoc Committee approved the November 17 minutes and a motion to correct all document spelling, punctuation, and grammar. It then unanimously recommended that the Board of Commissioners adopt the Cash Management, Coin Acceptance, Counterfeit Money, Credit Card Acceptance, and DTRF policies. The committee also set the next meeting for December 3 to review four remaining policies.

• Approved November 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved blanket correction of spelling, punctuation, and grammar on all documents (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Cash Management Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Coin Acceptance Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Counterfeit Money Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Credit Card Acceptance Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of DTRF Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Dec 3, 2025 to review remaining policies

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will consider a series of budget amendments, including changes for animal control, facilities planning, housing administration, and the tax foreclosure fund. They will also discuss the administrative policy manual for purchasing and updates on financials, credit cards, audits, and the upcoming minimum wage for non‑union staff. Minutes from previous meetings will be approved before these new items are addressed.

• Animal Control – Generator Budget Amendment
• Facilities Planning Fund (424) – Budget Amendment/Transfer
• Housing/Admin – Administrative Transfer
• Tax Foreclosure Fund – Excess Proceeds
• Non-Union Pay Grade 1 – Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2026

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved several budget amendments, including $23,328 for Longevity payments, $65,000 for an animal‑control generator, $45,000 to the Facilities Planning Fund, $13,000 transferred to the Housing Fund, $265,000 for Tax Foreclosure excess proceeds, and a pay‑grade adjustment to meet the new minimum wage. The committee also approved the financial statements and October credit‑card statements, and recommended moving forward with Clark, Schaefer & Hackett for the 2025 audit.

• Approved Longevity budget amendment of $23,328 (unanimous)
• Allocated $65,000 from Animal Controls fund to purchase generator (unanimous)
• Transferred $45,000 from General Fund to Facilities Planning Fund (unanimous)
• Moved $13,000 from Administration Fund to Housing Fund (unanimous)
• Allocated $265,000 from Tax Foreclosure Fund balance for excess proceeds (unanimous)
• Adjusted Pay Grade 1 to align with new minimum wage (unanimous)
• Approved Financials as presented (unanimous)
• Recommended Clark, Schaefer & Hackett for the 2025 audit (unanimous)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Otsego County Veteran’s Affairs Committee will meet on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. in room 212 of the County Building. The agenda includes the outcome of the Northern MI Veterans Benefit Fair, updates on Operation Green Light, status reports on FY25 and FY26 CVSF grants, and discussion of the 2026 budget. Additional items are director, activity, financial, burial, and Soldiers Relief reports, followed by public comments.

• Northern MI Veterans Benefit Fair event outcome
• Operation Green Light
• MVAA FY25 CVSF Grant Status
• MVAA FY26 CVSF Grant – Updates
• 2026 Budgets

The Veterans Affairs Committee approved the September 16, 2025 meeting minutes and the October 31, 2025 month‑end financial reports, both with unanimous votes. The meeting was then adjourned at 10:25 a.m. by unanimous consent. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved Veteran Affairs regular minutes of September 16, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending October 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:25 a.m. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a text amendment for recreational equipment zoning and the 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Plan. The body will also review these items as advertised cases.

• Public hearing: Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment – Section 21.33 Recreational Equipment
• Public hearing: 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• BOC Recommendations: Colosimo – Charlton representative

The commission approved the October 20, 2025 minutes and recommended two ordinance amendments. It unanimously voted to recommend the Board of Commissioners adopt the 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan with the commission’s priority levels. It also unanimously recommended appointing Mike Colosimo as Charlton Township’s representative on the Zoning Board of Appeals for a three‑year term.

• Approved October 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of Section 21.33 Recreational Equipment text amendment (unanimous)
• Recommended Board adopt 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan with updated priority levels (unanimous)
• Recommended appointment of Mike Colosimo as Charlton Township representative for three‑year term (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will approve October 30, 2025 minutes, discuss unfinished business items including a stand‑alone code of ethics for commissioners, employee status, and salary structure, and continue reviewing the employee handbook policies on employment conditions, benefits, leaves, and communications.

• Approval of October 30, 2025 Personnel Committee minutes
• Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners
• Employee Status (pages 19‑20)
• Salary Structure (pages 21‑23)
• Continuation of Employee Handbook Policy Review (pages 24‑40)

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 30, 2025 meeting. It kept the stand‑alone Code of Ethics and Conduct as unfinished business and tasked Administrator Ventresco with contacting M AC/MML for legal review. The committee approved a series of wording changes to the Employee Handbook. Discussion of the Donated Vacation Leave Policy was postponed to the next regular Personnel meeting.

• Approved October 30, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Kept Code of Ethics review unfinished; Administrator Ventresco to contact M AC/MML
• Approved wording changes to Employee Handbook (e.g., replace “manager(s)” with “director(s)”, update inclement‑weather language)
• Postponed Donated Vacation Leave Policy discussion to next meeting (no motion needed)

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee will review and approve minutes from the October 9 meeting. It will hear reports from the Transportation Manager, Airport Manager and Building & Grounds Manager covering finance, policies, asset disposals, repairs and updates. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda beyond routine approvals.

• Transportation Managers Report – finance, auditing company, capital asset disposals, furnace repair, extended service hours, bus system policies
• Airport Managers Report – finance, airport policies, airport updates
• Building and Grounds Managers Report – building and grounds updates

The Transportation and Airport Committee unanimously approved the agenda and minutes, acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports, and voted to transfer the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe to the airport. It also approved a six‑month trial of extended service hours beginning Jan. 5, 2026, and agreed to forward five Zoning Board of Appeals applicants to the full board for final approval.

• Approved agenda (unanimously)
• Approved minutes (unanimously)
• Acknowledged bus financial report (unanimously)
• Approved transfer of 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe to airport (unanimously)
• Approved 6‑month trial of extended service hours (unanimously)
• Acknowledged airport financial report (unanimously)
• Approved sending Zoning Board of Appeals applicants to full board for final approval (unanimously)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a budget amendment for bus system audit fees and an increase in animal control adoption fees. The meeting also includes a review of multiple animal control ordinances and policies.

• Animal Control adoption fee increase
• Bus System budget amendment/transfer for 2024 audit fees
• Animal Control No Kill Policy Resolution
• Animal Control Ordinance review
• Review of November 4, 7, and 12, 2025 warrants

The Otsego County Board approved a $23,365 reallocation for the Bus System budget (4‑3). A unanimous vote adopted a county‑wide animal adoption fee increase. Several animal‑control ordinances and policies, including the main ordinance and adoption policy, were also approved unanimously. The board also authorized three warrants, including a $473,346.93 payment on November 12.

• Approved Bus System budget amendment and $23,365 reallocation (4-3)
• Approved adoption fee increase (unanimous)
• Approved amended Animal Control Ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved amended Animal Control adoption policy (unanimous)
• Approved amended Animal After Hours Response Policy (unanimous)
• Approved No Kill Policy resolution (unanimous)
• Approved amended Animal Body Camera Recording Devices Policy (unanimous)
• Approved November 12, 2025 warrant for $473,346.93 (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks and Recreation Commission approved bills totaling $70,240.70 for September 2025. The board also discussed a special event application for boat tours on Otsego Lake and reviewed proposed rule changes for the adult basketball league, including referee qualifications and foul limits. Additional items included a review of current park and community‑center fee rates and a presentation of the proposed 2026 budget, which was tabled for further review.

• Approval of bills dated 9/1‑9/30/2025 in the amount of $70,240.70
• Special event application for boat tours/cruises on Otsego Lake
• Basketball league rule changes: MHSAA referees, reduced foul limits, coordinator rename
• Current park fee rate $25.00 per hour; estimated employee cost $23.01 per hour
• Presentation of the 2026 budget (discussion postponed)

The commission approved the 2026 parks and recreation budget and increased the community center rental rate to $30 per hour starting Jan 1 2026. It also raised the hourly rate for trailhead cleaning to $30 plus supplies, authorized purchase of a 4 × 8‑foot scoreboard for $4,448, limited lake‑front site reservations to 15 consecutive nights, and approved the adult basketball league budget of $10,375. Discussion of two board applications was postponed to the next meeting.

• Increase community center rental rate to $30.00 per hour effective Jan 1 2026 – motion carried
• Increase trailhead cleaning hourly rate to $30.00 plus supplies – motion carried
• Approve 2026 parks and recreation budget as presented – motion carried
• Purchase 4 × 8‑foot scoreboard for $4,448.00 plus installation – motion carried
• Limit six lake‑front site reservations to 15 consecutive nights (if Itinio can accommodate) – motion carried
• Approve adult basketball league budget of $10,375.00 – motion carried (Justin Wing abstained)
• Postpone discussion of board applications #1 and #2 until next meeting – motion carried

Board of Canvassers

The Otsego County Board of Canvassers will appoint two temporary members, one Republican and one Democrat. It will also finish the canvass of the November 4, 2025 election results. The meeting includes a public comment period before adjournment.

• Appoint two temporary board members (one Republican, one Democrat)
• Complete the canvass of the November 4, 2025 election results
• Public comment period
• Adjournment

The Board appointed Mary Beth Wakulat (Democratic) and Janet Flint (Republican) as temporary members for this meeting and administered oaths of office. It reviewed Otsego Lake Township results, noting missing voter documentation. The Board completed the canvass of the November 4, 2025 election and certified the results, signing the statement of votes and certificate of determination. The meeting adjourned at 1:15 p.m.

• Appointed Mary Beth Wakulat (Democratic) as temporary board member (oath administered)
• Appointed Janet Flint (Republican) as temporary board member (oath administered)
• Certified November 4, 2025 election results (statement of votes and certificate signed)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Otsego County Ad Hoc Committee will meet to review three Animal Control policies. The items are the After Hours Response Policy, the Submission Policy, and the Audio/Visual Recording Devices Policy. The agenda lists these reviews as discussion topics, not final actions. Public comments are limited to agenda items with a three‑minute limit.

• Review of Animal Control After Hours Response Policy
• Review of Animal Control Submission Policy
• Review of Animal Control Audio/Visual Recording Devices Policy

The committee approved the November 3, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It also passed a motion to correct all spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors on all documents without separate motions. The committee reviewed and amended three animal‑control policies and unanimously recommended each amended policy to the Board of Commissioners for inclusion in the November 12, 2025 board packet. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved 11/03/2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved correction of all spelling, punctuation, and grammar errors on all documents (unanimous)
• Recommended amended Animal Control After Hours Response Policy to Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Recommended amended Animal Control After Hours Response Policy (from Animal Control Submission Policy) to Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Recommended amended Animal Control After Hours Response Policy (renamed Body Camera Device Policy) to Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee will discuss the 2026 General Fund and the 2026 Budget Appropriation Act. Members will also review funding for several specific county departments and funds.

• 2026 Budget Appropriation Act
• General Fund 2026
• 208 Parks & Recreation
• 230 Animal Control
• 253 Marijuana Fund

The committee recommended the 2026 budgets to the full Board and approved adding a 2% cost‑of‑living adjustment to the General Fund. It also approved sending the 2026 Budget Appropriation Act, with revised Tax Foreclosure Fund language, to the full board. All three motions passed unanimously.

• Recommended 2026 budgets to full Board – approved unanimously (4‑0)
• Approved 2% COLA addition to the 2026 General Fund – approved unanimously (4‑0)
• Approved sending 2026 Budget Appropriation Act with Tax Foreclosure Fund edit to full board – approved unanimously (4‑0)

Board of Canvassers

The Otsego County Board of Canvassers will meet to appoint two temporary board members from the Republican and Democrat parties. The body will then canvass the results of the November 4, 2025 election.

• Appointment of two temporary board members (one Republican, one Democrat)
• Canvassing of November 4, 2025 election results

The Board appointed Mary Beth Wakulat (Democratic) and Janet Flint (Republican) as temporary board members for this meeting and administered their oaths of office. It reviewed election results for multiple townships and precincts. The Board inspected and approved a new transfer container bag from Otsego Lake Township.

• Appointed Mary Beth Wakulat (Democratic) as temporary board member
• Appointed Janet Flint (Republican) as temporary board member
• Approved new transfer container bag from Otsego Lake Township

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee is holding an emergency meeting on November 4, 2025. The agenda includes routine items and a new business item to rebid Opening Project 02-2024 Emergency Water Well. No other decisions are listed.

• Re-bid Opening Project 02-2024 Emergency Water Well

The Otsego County Housing Committee approved the bid specifications and revised cost estimate for project #02-2024. The committee awarded the emergency water well contract to Clearwater Drilling for $12,980, using PY24 funds. The motion passed unanimously.

• Awarded emergency water well contract to Clearwater Drilling for $12,980 (unanimous)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Otsego County Ad Hoc Committee will conduct a review of several animal control ordinances and related policies. Items include the adoption policy, emergency call‑out policy, no‑kill policy, submission policy, audio/visual recording devices policy, and related forms. The meeting also covers standard procedural business such as call to order, invocation, pledge of allegiance, roll call, public comments, and approval of minutes. No final decisions are indicated; the agenda focuses on policy review.

• Resume Review of Animal Control Ordinances
• Resume Review of Animal Control Adoption Policy
• Resume Review of Animal Control Emergency Call Out Policy
• Resume Review of Animal Control No Kill Policy
• Resume Review of Animal Control Audio/Visual Recording Devices Policy

The committee approved the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously recommended the revised Animal Control Ordinance to the Board. It rescinded the existing Animal Control Adoption Policy and unanimously recommended the revised Adoption Policy to the Board. The meeting was adjourned after all motions passed unanimously.

• Approved 10/28/2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended revised Animal Control Ordinance to Board (unanimous)
• Rescinded existing Animal Control Adoption Policy for review (unanimous)
• Recommended revised Animal Control Adoption Policy to Board (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will approve two sets of meeting minutes from October 2025. It will consider unfinished business regarding advertising on I-75. New business includes a budget amendment to transfer funds for 2024 audit fees and a series of budget allocations for various county services and capital projects. The Finance Department will also provide an update.

• Approve October 22nd, 2025 Budget and Finance Committee minutes
• Approve October 23rd, 2025 Budget and Finance Committee minutes
• Unfinished Business: Advertising I-75
• Budget Amendment/Transfer – Audit Fees 2024
• Budget allocations for Friend of Court, Michigan Indigent Defense Commission, Library, American Rescue Plan Act, Child Care, Library Building Construction, Courthouse Restoration, Capital Projects, Building & Grounds

The Budget & Finance Committee approved the minutes from the October 22 and 23 meetings. It approved paying the $252.00 annual MDOT fee for the I‑75 advertising sign. The committee reallocated $23,365 from the Transportation Fund to cover the 2024 audit CPA expense. Finally, it unanimously recommended the proposed 2026 budgets for several county departments to the full Board.

• Approved October 22 & 23 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $252.00 MDOT fee for I‑75 advertising sign (unanimous)
• Reallocated $23,365 from Transportation Fund for 2024 audit CPA expense (unanimous)
• Recommended 2026 budgets for multiple departments to full Board (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will approve the September 12, 2025 meeting minutes. It will discuss a stand‑alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for County Commissioners. New business includes a proposal for a non‑union Pay Grade 1 minimum wage starting January 1, 2026 and continuation of the employee handbook policy review. The meeting will also include updates from the Human Resources Department.

• Approve September 12, 2025 Personnel Committee minutes
• Unfinished Business – Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners
• New Business – Non‑Union Pay Grade 1 Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2026
• New Business – Continue Employee Handbook Policy Review (Board/Commissioner/Committee Appointment Policy, Employment Procedures, Employee Status, Salary Structure)
• Human Resources Department Updates

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the September 12, 2025 meeting. They unanimously voted to forward the proposed changes to the County Code of Ethics—including wording changes from “shall” to “must” and a request to evaluate removing a subsection—to Attorney Kazim for review before the next meeting. They also unanimously approved sending the updated Pay Grade 1, Step 1 salary schedule, reflecting the state minimum‑wage increase to $13.73 effective January 1, 2026, to the Budget and Finance Department.

• Approved September 12, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Sent Code of Ethics language (including “shall” to “must” changes) to Attorney Kazim for review (unanimous)
• Sent updated Pay Grade 1, Step 1 minimum‑wage compliance to Budget and Finance (unanimous)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Otsego County Ad Hoc Committee will discuss several animal control policies, including ordinances, adoption, emergency call‑out, no‑kill, and audio/visual recording device policies. These items are listed under New Business on the agenda. No decisions have been recorded yet; the meeting will focus on reviewing and potentially adopting these policies.

• Animal Control Ordinances
• Animal Control Adoption Policy
• Animal Control Emergency Call Out Policy
• Animal Control No Kill Policy
• Animal Control Audio/Visual Recording Devices Policy

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 24, 2025 meeting. It continued its review of the Animal Control Ordinance, ending at Article XI, with further review scheduled for November 3, 2025. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved 10/24/2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will consider several items at its October 28 meeting, including approval of the regular minutes from October 14. A resolution will be voted on to discharge the mortgage held on the county‑owned property at 5128 Krys Road for Michael Oltersdorf. Committee reports will include budget amendments for the airport, such as purchasing a deicing truck and a snow‑blower transport, and for building and grounds, including two new snow plows. The Planning Commission will discuss a future land‑use map amendment, a rezoning recommendation, and a planned unit development called Treetops North.

• Approve regular minutes of October 14, 2025
• Discharge mortgage for Michael Oltersdorf (property at 5128 Krys Road)
• Airport budget amendment and purchase of deicing truck
• Airport budget amendment for snow‑blower transport
• Building & Grounds budget amendment and purchase of two snow plows

The Otsego County Board approved a $20,000 allocation from the General Fund to buy two snow plows, and also approved an $8,000 airport fund allocation for a deicing truck, a $2,500 airport fund allocation for travel, and awarded Bid 2025-08 to Siwecki Builders. The Board adopted updated bylaws and rules of procedure, changed land‑use designations to forest and rezoned parcels to forestry recreation, and approved a $384,125.11 warrant. A motion to remove a $12,550.50 check failed.

• Approved $20,000 from General Fund to Equipment Fund for two snow plows (unanimous)
• Approved $8,000 from Airport Fund to Machinery & Equipment Fund for deicing truck (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 from Airport Fund to Travel Fund for transport (unanimous)
• Awarded Bid 2025-08 to Siwecki Builders, Inc. with budget amendment (unanimous)
• Adopted updated Board of Commissioners ByLaws and Rules of Procedure (8 Ayes, 1 Nay)
• Changed map area to Forest on Future Land Use Map (unanimous)
• Rezoned parcels from B2/General Business to FR/Forestry Recreation (unanimous)
• Approved October 21, 2025 warrant $384,125.11 (6 Ayes, 0 Nays, 3 Abstain); motion to remove check #25218 for $12,550.50 failed (3 Ayes, 6 Nays)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee on Policy Review will meet to discuss several animal control matters. The session focuses on updating ordinances and specific operational policies for animal control.

• Animal Control Ordinances
• Animal Control Adoption Policy
• Animal Control Emergency Call Out Policy
• Animal Control No Kill Policy
• Animal Control Submission Policy

The Ad Hoc Committee added an Audio/Visual Recording Devices item and an approval of minutes item to the agenda, both passing unanimously. It approved the previous meeting minutes and made multiple amendments to the Animal Control Ordinance, including adding “/her” to Article IV, changing “Manager” to “Director” in Article XIV, and postponing further discussion until the Animal Control Director is available. The committee also approved formatting additions to the Animal Control Adoption Policy and adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Added Audio/Visual Recording Devices as agenda item F – passed unanimously
• Added Approval of Minutes to agenda – passed unanimously
• Approved 10/19/2025 meeting minutes – passed unanimously
• Amended Article IV, Section 2 to add “/her” – passed unanimously
• Changed “Manager” to “Director” in Article XIV – passed unanimously
• Postponed further discussion until Animal Control Director Fitzgerald is available – passed unanimously
• Added printed name line, date line, and footnote to Animal Control Adoption Policy – passed unanimously
• Adjourned meeting – passed unanimously

Housing Committee

The Otsego County Housing Committee is meeting to discuss bid specifications and cost estimates for three emergency projects. The body will also consider the reappointment of two members.

• Bid specifications and cost estimates for Project 01-2024 Emergency Roof and Furnace
• Bid specifications and cost estimates for Project 02-2024 Emergency Roof and Water Well
• Bid specifications and cost estimates for Project 03-2024 Emergency Roof
• Reappointment of Stefano Riozzi
• Reappointment of John LaFave

The committee discharged a paid mortgage, reappointed two members, and approved several emergency repair contracts for roofs and a furnace. All motions passed unanimously. The meeting also approved the prior meeting minutes and filed month‑end financial reports.

• Approved July 29, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discharged loan 03-2022 mortgage (unanimous)
• Reappointed Stefano Riozzi to the Housing Committee, term to 12/31/2028 (unanimous)
• Reappointed John LaFave to the Housing Committee, term to 12/31/2028 (unanimous)
• Awarded emergency roof project 01-2024 to ASAP Roofing Inc. for $12,000 (unanimous)
• Awarded emergency furnace project 01-2024 to Family Heating of Northern MI for $4,624.40 (unanimous)
• Awarded emergency roof project 02-2024 to ASAP Roofing Inc. for $9,750 (unanimous)
• Awarded emergency roof project 03-2024 to ASAP Roofing Inc. for $8,900 (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will address unfinished business items such as the Public Improvement Fund, the Administrative Policy Manual, and purchasing negotiations for 1066 Cross Street. In new business, the committee will review capital asset disposal, the 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan, award bid #2025‑08 for sheriff department interior upgrades, update travel and safety policies, and consider an airport snow‑plow transport budget amendment along with financial and departmental updates.

• Bid #2025-08 Otsego County Sheriff Dept Interior Upgrades Award
• 2026-2031 Capital Improvement Plan Review
• Airport – Snow Plow Transport Budget Amendment
• Capital Asset Disposal (2)
• 1066 Cross Street – Purchasing Negotiations

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved the sale of two county vehicles at auction. It also forwarded the 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan to the Planning Committee and the Board of Commissioners. In addition, the committee approved several budget allocations and policy updates, including a $11,376.50 award for sheriff department interior upgrades, travel policy changes, safety boot reimbursement, and a $2,000 airport fund amendment for snow‑blower transport.

• Approved sale of 2009 Chevy Equinox and 2008 GMC 3500 at auction (unanimous)
• Forwarded 2026‑2031 Capital Improvement Plan to Planning Committee and Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Awarded BID #2025‑08 for Sheriff Department interior upgrades $11,376.50 (unanimous)
• Updated travel policy: mileage $0.70 per mile and dinner $30 per meal (unanimous)
• Increased safety boot reimbursement to $100 annually (unanimous)
• Allocated $2,000 from Airport Fund for transport of new snow blower (unanimous)
• Approved credit card statements for Administration, Treasurer, and Sheriff Departments (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Executive Committee will consider three new‑business items: the 2026 Otsego Lake County Park Clean‑up Weekend, a basketball league, and the November regularly scheduled meeting time. The meeting also includes standard agenda items such as call to order, public comment, and old business.

• 2026 Otsego Lake County Park Clean‑up Weekend
• Basketball League
• November regularly scheduled meeting time

The commission voted to schedule the 2026 Otsego Lake County Park Clean‑up Weekend for April 30 – May 3. It approved a budget of up to $150 for MSHAA‑certified referees for the basketball league. It set the November regular meeting for Monday, November 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. All three motions were carried.

• Approved scheduling of 2026 Otsego Lake County Park Clean‑up Weekend (April 30–May 3) – motion carried
• Approved negotiation of basketball league referee pay up to $150 – motion carried
• Set November regular meeting for Monday, November 10, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. – motion carried

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee will approve the October 15th, 2025 minutes. It will discuss a series of new budget items such as Budget Stabilization, Groen Nature Preserve, and Opioid Fund. The meeting also includes finance department updates and a brief public comment period.

• 102 Budget Stabilization
• 218 Groen Nature Preserve
• 256 Register of Deeds Automation
• 263 Concealed Pistol Licensing
• 287 Opioid Fund

The committee approved a correction to the October 15 minutes and adopted them unanimously. It granted a request to move the 2026 budget items to a new business agenda slot and to add Phil Hofweber to the agenda. The committee then unanimously voted to recommend the proposed 2026 budget allocations to the full Board.

• Moved 2026 Budgets to New Business item B (granted)
• Added Phil Hofweber to New Business item A (granted)
• Approved correction of Fund 516 typo and adopted October 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended 2026 budget allocations to full Board (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a special use permit amendment for single-family dwellings and a zoning request for a forestry recreation district. The body will also discuss an update to the County Zoning Future Land Use Map.

• PZSU25-009: Request to allow single-family dwellings in a duplex development on Hayes Rd, Livingston Township
• PZRZ25-006: Request to rezone 1457 Mancelona Rd from General Business to Forestry Recreation District
• Public hearing for Otsego County Zoning Future Land Use (FLU) Map amendment
• Discussion on performance bond adjustment for PZSU25-005 (Rieth-Riley)
• Review of solar project update for PZSU24-017 (RWE)

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting. It then unanimously voted to postpone the Westcott Properties special use permit amendment (PZSU25-009) until an updated site plan is submitted to the Zoning Administrator. No decision was recorded on the rezoning request for 1457 Mancelona Rd (PZRZ25-006).

• Approved September 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed Westcott Properties amendment case until updated site plan received (unanimous)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee will review its purpose and objectives, discuss and approve subcommittee procedures, develop an initial work plan, and schedule the next meeting. All items are procedural and no decisions on contracts, zoning, or budgets are on the agenda.

• Overview of Purpose
• Overview of Objectives
• Discussion and Approval of Subcommittee Procedures
• Initial Work Plan Development
• Set Next Meeting Date/Time

The committee voted unanimously to conduct its business according to the Board Bylaws and Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised. It also set the next meeting for Friday, October 24, 2025 at 1:00 pm, with the location to be determined. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adopted Board Bylaws and RONR as procedural guide (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct 24 2025 at 1:00 pm (location TBD)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will review 2026 budget requests for various county departments and discuss maintenance for the Iron Belle Trail and Spongy Moth treatment. The meeting will also include updates from the Finance Department and a discussion on snow plow and airport deicing truck needs.

• Approval of October 8th, 2025 Committee minutes
• Review of 2026 budgets for Treasurer, Airport, and Delinquent Tax Fund
• Discussion on Snow Plows and Airport Deicing Truck
• Iron Belle Trail Maintenance and Spongy Moth treatment
• Finance Department updates on Recycling and General Funds

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved several 2026 budgets, including the $1,530,000 airport operations budget and funds for the Spongey Moth program and Iron Belle Trail maintenance. It also approved the purchase of two new snow plows for $20,000 and a used deicing truck for $8,000. The $260 advertising sign budget was tabled pending more information. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved 2026 budget for 260 Spongey Moth fund (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 budget for 251 Iron Belle Trail Maintenance (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two new snow plows for $20,000 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of used deicing truck for $8,000 (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation of 2026 budgets, including $1,530,000 airport operations budget (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 Airport Capital Projects appropriation (unanimous)
• Approved $270,700 Delinquent Tax Fund budget (unanimous)
• Tabled $260 advertising I‑75 sign budget pending more information (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will discuss budget amendments for radio purchases and HVAC equipment. The meeting includes presentations from the MSU Extension and the RISE substance free coalition, as well as a proclamation for veterans.

• Budget amendment and transfer for Otsego County E911 radio purchase
• Budget amendment and purchase of AC/Furnace for the Bus System
• OCR 25-25 opposing the proposed MDHHS PIHP Competitive Bid Out
• OCR 25-26 Operation Green Light for Veterans 2025 Proclamation
• Review of September 30, October 7, and October 14, 2025 warrants

The Otsego County Board approved the September 23 minutes and adopted budget amendments to purchase 20 radios ($142,550) and a furnace/air‑conditioner for the bus system ($15,000). It passed OCR 25‑25 opposing the Michigan DHHS prepaid inpatient health plans and OCR 25‑26 approving the Operation Green Light for Veterans 2025 proclamation. Three warrants totaling $569,242.98 were approved unanimously.

• Approved September 23 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved $142,550 budget amendment for 20 radios (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 budget amendment for bus furnace/air‑conditioner (unanimous)
• Approved OCR 25‑25 opposing MDHHS prepaid inpatient health plans (unanimous)
• Approved OCR 25‑26 Operation Green Light for Veterans 2025 proclamation (unanimous)
• Approved September 30, 2025 warrant for $194,109.72 and 16 void checks (unanimous)
• Approved October 7, 2025 warrant for $206,074.29 and 1 void check (unanimous)
• Approved October 24, 2025 warrant for $169,058.77 and 32 void checks (unanimous)

Ad Hoc Committee

The Ad Hoc Committee will review the proposed bylaws. It will also approve the minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting and accept public comments limited to three minutes per speaker.

• Review proposed bylaws
• Approve September 4, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comment (3‑minute limit per speaker)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to review the 2026 budget and Otsego County Parks and Recreation fees. The agenda also includes a special event application for boat tours and cruises and a discussion on a basketball league.

• 2026 Budget
• Otsego County Parks and Recreation Fees
• Boat Tours/Cruises Special Event Application
• Basketball League
• Project List

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the previous meeting minutes after correcting a spelling error, approved the executive committee minutes, and approved bills totaling $70,240.70 for September 2025. No other items were formally decided; discussions on a boat tour event, basketball league rule changes, fee adjustments, and the 2026 budget were tabled or left pending.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with correction (motion carried)
• Approved executive committee meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved bills dated 9/1/25‑9/30/25 in the amount of $70,240.70 (motion carried)

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee will review and approve the minutes from its September 15, 2025 meeting. It will receive finance, furnace repair, and auditing updates from the Transportation Manager, as well as finance, de‑ice truck, and other updates from the Airport Manager. The Building and Grounds Manager will provide updates on building and grounds matters. The meeting will conclude with a three‑minute public comment period.

• Review and approve minutes from the 15 September 2025 meeting
• Transportation Manager's finance, furnace repair, and auditing reports
• Airport Manager's finance report and de‑ice truck update
• Building and Grounds Manager's updates on facilities
• Public comment session (3‑minute limit per speaker)

The Transportation and Airport Committee approved agenda corrections and the September 15 minutes, and acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports. It sent several requests to other committees, including a furnace replacement, audit proposals, a de‑icing truck purchase, Western plow acquisition, and payroll‑system access for the Airport Office Manager. The committee also approved continuing the New Year’s Eve run from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am.

• Approved agenda corrections (unanimous)
• Approved September 15 minutes (unanimous)
• Sent furnace replacement request (est. $12,500–$12,570) to Full Board (unanimous)
• Sent FY2025 audit proposals (Gambridge & Co. $14,680; Rehmann $25,000–$35,000) to Budget and Finance (unanimous)
• Approved continuation of New Year's Eve run (6:00 pm–2:00 am) (unanimous)
• Sent request to purchase $8,000 de‑icing truck to Budget and Finance (unanimous)
• Sent request to purchase Western plows to Budget and Finance (unanimous)
• Sent payroll‑system access request for Airport Office Manager to Personnel Committee (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The committee will discuss 2026 budget proposals for 12 different county departments and programs. The meeting also includes reviews of an EMS radio purchase and a budget amendment for bus repairs.

• EMS Radio Purchase (20)
• Budget amendment for bus AC/Furnace repair
• 2026 Budget review for 225 Work Camp, 226 Recycling, and 232 Housing
• 2026 Budget review for 233 HUD and 240 Spongy Moth
• 2026 Budget review for 251 Iron Belle Trail Maintenance and 290 Social Welfare

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting. It also approved allocating $142,550 from the Marijuana Fund to the 911 Fund for twenty new E911 radios. The committee approved a $15,000 budget amendment to replace the bus garage AC/Furnace, pending Transportation Committee approval. Finally, it unanimously recommended the listed 2026 budget items, except the Spongy Moth and Iron Belle Trail Maintenance items, to the full Board.

• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $142,550 purchase of 20 E911 radios (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 budget amendment for bus garage AC/Furnace replacement (unanimous, pending Transportation Committee)
• Recommended 2026 budgets (Law Library $4,000; Legal Defense $70,000; Housing $168,634; HUD $231,289; Soldiers & Sailors Relief $5,000; Work Camp $231,500; Recycling $449,403; Public Improvement $10,000; Local Corrections Officers Training $8,000; Social Welfare $10,072) – except Spongy Moth and Iron Belle Trail Maintenance (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Otsego County Parks and Recreation Executive Committee will meet to conduct regular business. The primary new business item listed for discussion is an adult basketball league.

• Discussion of Adult Basketball League

The commission discussed recommended rule changes for the adult basketball league, including referee qualifications, foul penalties, and stat recording. No vote or formal approval was recorded for any of the proposals. The meeting concluded without any substantive actions taken.

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a proposed update to the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Commissioners. The board will also review several budget items and a tractor award.

• Proposed updates to the Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners
• Reappointment of Stephen Ralston to the Veterans’ Affairs Board
• BID 2025-12 Groen Kubota Tractor Award
• Commission on Aging 2026 Budget
• Airport Card Reader & Fuel Recovery System Grant

The Otsego County Board approved the 2026 Kirtland Capital Projects and updated the Code of Ethics (5‑2 vote). It also adopted several budget items, including a new auction‑sales revenue line, a technology fund allocation, and a $20,000 amendment to the Foreclosure Fund. Additionally, the board approved the September 23 warrant for $366,905.78 and other procurement motions.

• Updated Code of Ethics approved (5-2)
• Commission on Aging FY2026 budget approved (unanimous)
• 2026 Kirtland Capital Projects approved (unanimous)
• Created revenue/expenditure line item for auction sales (unanimous)
• Awarded 2025-12 bid for Groen Kubota Tractor to Ginop Sales (unanimous)
• Allocated $12,802.60 from Technology Fund for credit card system (unanimous)
• Amended budget $20,000 to Foreclosure Fund professional tax (unanimous)
• Approved September 23, 2025 warrant for $366,905.78 (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Otsego County Budget & Finance Committee meeting on September 17, 2025 will review several 2026 budget items. Items include the Sportsplex, Commission on Aging, and EMS budgets, as well as a budget amendment for the Tax Foreclosure Fund (Fund 617). The committee will also receive updates on the Public Improvement Fund policy, the airport card reader and fuel recovery grant, and the award of a tractor bid to Ginop Sales Inc. Additional agenda items cover a new credit‑card system for the Technology Fund, capital projects, and departmental updates.

• Sportsplex 2026 Budget
• Tax Foreclosure Fund (Fund 617) – Budget Amendment
• Airport – Card Reader & Fuel Recovery System Grant – Update
• Bid 2025-12 – Groen Tractor Award to Ginop Sales Inc.
• Technology Fund (Fund 254) – New Credit Card System

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved several 2026 budgets, including the EMS budget of $3.7 million, the Sportsplex budget, and the Commission on Aging budget of $2,484,983. It also recommended capital projects using University Center millage funds, created new accounting line items for the Motorcycle Safety program, and approved a $61,156 award for the Groen Tractor bid. Additional motions approved a $12,802.60 technology fund allocation for credit‑card upgrades and a $20,000 transfer within the Tax Foreclosure Fund.

• Approved 2026 EMS budget of $3.7 million (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Sportsplex budget (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Commission on Aging budget of $2,484,983 (unanimous)
• Recommended capital projects plan using University Center millage funds (unanimous)
• Recommended new revenue and expenditure line items for Motorcycle Safety program (unanimous)
• Recommended award of Groen Tractor bid to Ginop Sales for $61,156 (unanimous)
• Allocated $12,802.60 from Technology Fund 254 for upgraded credit‑card system (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 budget amendment transferring funds within Tax Foreclosure Fund (unanimous)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Otsego County Veteran’s Affairs Committee will meet on September 16, 2025. The agenda includes the reappointment of Stephen Ralston, updates on FY25 and FY26 CVSF grants, and planning for the Northern Michigan Veterans Benefit Fair scheduled for November 6, 2025. The meeting will also feature director, activity, and financial reports.

• Reappointment of Stephen Ralston
• FY25 CVSF grant status update
• FY26 CVSF grant updates
• Planning for Northern MI Veterans Benefit Fair on Nov 6, 2025
• Director, activity, and financial reports

The committee unanimously approved the July 15, 2025 Veterans Affairs minutes. They also unanimously reappointed Stephen Ralston to the Veterans Affairs board through September 30, 2029, with a recommendation to the County Board of Commissioners. The month‑end financial reports ending August 31, 2025 were approved unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned at 9:54 a.m.

• Approved July 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Reappointed Stephen Ralston to board, term to 9/30/2029 (unanimous)
• Recommended reappointment to County Board of Commissioners (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending Aug 31, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:54 a.m. (unanimous)

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee will review the minutes from its August 14, 2025 meeting, hear finance and asset reports from the transportation and airport managers, and consider updates on airport plow trucks. The meeting also includes a brief public comment period.

• Review and approve minutes from the 14 August 2025 meeting
• Transportation Manager finance report
• Transportation Manager capital asset disposals
• Airport Manager finance report
• Airport Manager plow truck update

The Transportation and Airport Committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting. It acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports. It voted to forward the disposal of a 2009 Chevrolet Equinox and a 2008 GMC 3500 to the Budget and Finance Committee.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 14 August 2025 (unanimous)
• Acknowledged bus financial report (unanimous)
• Forwarded two airport vehicles for auction to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Acknowledged airport financial report (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a mining operation extension and the potential revocation of a special use permit. The body will also consider a zoning ordinance text addition for EV charging stations.

• Special Use Permit/Site Plan Review for Reith-Riley Construction Co Inc mining extension at 3006 Martindale Rd
• Proposed revocation of Special Use Permit PZSU22-002 for Kent Family Farm LLC at 6500 Nicklaus Dr
• Zoning Ordinance text addition regarding EV Charging Stations
• Call for committee volunteers for the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)

The commission approved the September 15 minutes and adopted a General Finding of Fact and the applicable standards. It then unanimously approved a five‑year renewal of the special use permit for Reith‑Riley Construction Co Inc at 3006 Martindale Rd, Elmira Township, with conditions to present an updated reclamation estimate and to carry forward all prior conditions. No final action was taken on the Kent Family Farm revocation; the commission discussed postponing the matter pending a new business plan.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved General Finding of Fact for PZSU25-005 (unanimous)
• Approved Section 19.7 standards as met for PZSU25-005 (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit renewal PZSU25-005 for 5 years with conditions (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Otsego County Personnel Committee will approve the August 8, 2025 meeting minutes, review several sections of the county employee handbook, and consider a draft stand‑alone code of ethics and conduct for county commissioners. The committee will also receive updates from the Human Resources Department. Public comment will be limited to agenda items and a separate three‑minute period.

• Approval of August 8, 2025 Personnel Committee minutes
• Review of Employee Handbook policies: Board/Commission/Committee Appointment, Health and Safety, Travel and Other Official Expenditures
• Consideration of Draft Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners
• Human Resources Department updates

The Personnel Committee approved the minutes from the August 8, 2025 meeting. It voted unanimously to forward the revised Safety Boot Allowance Policy and Travel and Expense Reimbursements to the Budget and Finance Committee. It also voted unanimously to forward the updated Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Otsego County Commissioners to the full Board. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Sent updated Safety Boot Allowance Policy and Travel & Expense Reimbursements to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Sent updated Stand‑Alone Code of Ethics and Conduct for Commissioners to full Board (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review financial warrants and receive presentations from Kirtland Community College and the Otsego County Library. The body is also asked to approve the meeting minutes from August 26, 2025.

• Presentation by Dr. Gary Roberts, President of Kirtland Community College
• Presentation by Jackie Skinner, Director of Otsego County Library
• Review of September 2, 2025 Warrant
• Review of September 9, 2025 Warrant
• Approval of August 26, 2025 regular meeting minutes

The Board approved the regular minutes from August 26, 2025 by unanimous consent. A motion to approve the September 2, 2025 warrant for $90,944.98 (and one void check) passed unanimously. A motion to approve the September 9, 2025 warrant for $541,230.39 (and nine voided checks) passed with six votes in favor, two against, and one member excused.

• Approved August 26, 2025 regular minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved September 2, 2025 warrant $90,944.98 and one void check (unanimous)
• Approved September 9, 2025 warrant $541,230.39 and nine voided checks (6‑2, Jason Clement excused)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the August bills totaling $40,538.46. It also approved the written duties for both the basketball and volleyball league coordinators. The board authorized the Bear Basketball program to rent the community center and adopted the budget and schedule for the co‑ed volleyball league. The previous meeting minutes were approved as presented.

• Approved previous minutes (motion carried)
• Approved August bills totaling $40,538.46 (motion carried)
• Approved basketball league coordinator duties as written (motion carried)
• Approved volleyball league coordinator duties as written (motion carried)
• Approved Bear Basketball program rental of the community center (motion carried)
• Approved co‑ed volleyball league budget and schedule (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board of Commissioners will approve the August 12, 2025 regular meeting minutes and consider resolutions for opioid litigation settlements, including funds for Purdue/Sackler.

• Approval of August 12, 2025 Regular Meeting minutes
• Resolution for Opiate Litigation Settlement (General)
• Resolution for Opiate Litigation Settlement (Purdue/Sackler)
• Housing IT Expense budget amendment
• Capital Asset Disposals

The Board adopted the 2024 CDBG program income funding, approved a Fair Housing resolution, and authorized the 2026 MI‑REP Michigan Rider Education grant application. It also approved operational items such as disposing two vehicles, reallocating $1,600 of IT expenses, hiring two road patrol officers, and negotiating the sale of 1066 Cross St. Additional actions included adopting participation agreements, updating the land‑use map, rezoning a parcel to Forestry Recreation, and approving two warrants totaling $469,791.03.

• Adopted OCR 25-21 CDBG program income funding (unanimous)
• Adopted OCR 25-22 Fair Housing resolution (unanimous)
• Authorized MI‑REP Michigan Rider Education grant application (6-2)
• Approved hiring two Road Patrol Officers (unanimous)
• Reallocated IT expense to Veteran Affairs by $1,600 (unanimous)
• Authorized negotiations to sell 1066 Cross St. (unanimous)
• Rezoned parcel from Industrial to Forestry Recreation (unanimous)
• Approved August 26, 2025 warrant for $202,605.52 (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget and Finance Committee will discuss two opiate litigation settlements and staffing for the Sheriff Department. The body will also review housing funds, a mental health lease, and a grant for the airport.

• OCR 25-23 Opiate Litigation Settlement (General)
• OCR 25-24 Opiate Litigation Settlement (Purdue/Sackler)
• Sheriff Department staffing for Corrections Corporal and two Road Patrol Officers
• North Country Community Mental Health lease
• Airport Card Reader & Fuel Recovery System Grant

The Budget & Finance Committee recommended that the full Board approve OCR 25-23 (General) and OCR 25-24 (Purdue/Sackler) opiate litigation settlements. The motion was made by Commissioner Deming, seconded by Commissioner Weaver, and passed unanimously. All other items on the agenda were also recommended and approved unanimously.

• Recommend to Board to send two County vehicles to auction (unanimous)
• Recommend to Board to close out 2023 MSHDA CDBG grant and apply for 2024 grant (unanimous)
• Recommend to reallocate $1,600 from Housing to Veteran Affairs (unanimous)
• Recommend to Board approval of FY26 MI-REP grant for $109,188 (unanimous)
• Recommend to Board approval of Corrections Corporal position and two promotions (unanimous)
• Recommend to Board hiring of one road patrol officer and backfilling another (unanimous)
• Table airport card reader and fuel recovery grant pending future meeting (unanimous)
• Recommend to Board approval of OCR 25-23 and OCR 25-24 opiate settlements (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the meeting minutes from July 21, 2025. It then approved the General Finding of Fact and the applicable standards for the case. Finally, it unanimously approved a special use permit for a storage building at 1500 Alexander Rd in Corwith Township, with the condition that the building be used only for equipment and material storage. No action was taken on the temporary snowmobile event request.

• Approved July 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved General Finding of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved Standards as met (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for storage building at 1500 Alexander Rd (unanimous)

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from the June 12 meeting. It also acknowledged the monthly financial reports for the bus system and the airport. The committee voted to forward the disposal of two county vehicles to the Budget and Finance Committee.

• Approved agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes of 12 June 2025 (3-0)
• Acknowledged Bus financial report (3-0)
• Forwarded vehicle disposals to Budget and Finance Committee (3-0)
• Acknowledged Airport financial report (3-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board unanimously approved the County Administrator contract and three warrants totaling $947,684.53, including a $552,439.34 warrant. It also adopted amendments to the county zoning ordinance and approved the discharge of several county mortgages. Additional actions included reappointing a library board member and appointing a new alternate to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Approved County Administrator contract (unanimous)
• Approved July 29, 2025 warrant $92,084.09 (unanimous)
• Approved August 5, 2025 warrant $303,161.10 (unanimous)
• Approved August 12, 2025 warrant $552,439.34 (unanimous)
• Adopted amendments to Article 17 Schedule of Dimensions of Zoning Ordinance (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment to Article 21 Section 21.38 Signs and Billboards (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of mortgage for Judith A. Doyen et al. (OCR 25-17) (consent agenda)
• Reappointed Monica Peck to Library Board for a five‑year term (consent agenda)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss safety reviews for the Otsego Lake Splash-In and fireworks. The body is also reviewing job descriptions for basketball and volleyball coordinators and planning 2026 capital outlay projects.

• Otsego Lake Splash-In and Fireworks safety reviews
• 2026 Capital Outlay Projects planning
• Volleyball and Basketball Coordinator job descriptions
• Otsego County Parks and Recreation Commission member application
• Review of budget reports and previous meeting minutes

The commission approved the prior meeting minutes and the July bills totaling $19,523.58. It voted 5‑yes to 1‑no to suspend the Otsego Lake Splash‑In at Otsego Lake County Park indefinitely. The board also continued support for fireworks, adopted volleyball and basketball coordinator job descriptions, and approved a youth football event application.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved July bills totaling $19,523.58 (motion carried)
• Suspended Otsego Lake Splash‑In indefinitely (5‑yes, 1‑no)
• Continued support for fireworks events as in past years (motion carried)
• Adopted volleyball coordinator job description and will post position (motion carried)
• Adopted basketball coordinator job description and will post position (motion carried)
• Approved Gaylord Youth Instructional Football event application (motion carried)

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 24, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously voted to forward the sheriff’s request for two additional road‑patrol deputies to the Budget and Finance Committee. In reviewing the employee handbook, the committee decided to keep a disputed sentence and made typographical corrections. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved June 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Forwarded request for two additional sheriff deputies to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Retained disputed sentence in employee handbook (decision made)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the July 16, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously passed a motion to recommend to the full Board a County Administrator stipend at step 3, retroactive to July 26, 2025, based on actual hours worked. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended County Administrator stipend at step 3, retroactive to July 26, 2025 (unanimous)

Housing Committee

The Housing Committee unanimously approved the PY24 Community Development Block Grant application and the close‑out of the PY23 grant, submitting the documents for a public hearing on August 26, 2025. It also approved the discharge of several paid‑off project mortgages and accepted the month‑end financial reports for June 2025. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved regular housing meeting minutes of May 21, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved emergency housing meeting minutes of June 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of mortgage for Habitat project #HAB 12 (unanimous)
• discharge of mortgage for Project 006-1999 (unanimous)
• discharge of mortgage for Project 012-2003 (unanimous)
• discharge of mortgage for Project 013-2007 (unanimous)
• approve PY24 CDBG grant application and close out PY23 grant (unanimous)
• receive and file month‑end financial reports ending June 30, 2025 (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee added a Closed Session item to the agenda. It unanimously approved the minutes from the March 25 and June 13, 2025 meetings. The committee also approved sending the new Sheriff’s Department Corporal job description to the Budget and Finance Committee. Additional motions to enter and then resume a Closed Session were passed unanimously.

• Approved addition of Closed Session item C to agenda (Chair Commissioner Deming)
• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved June 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to send Sheriff Department Corporal job description to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter Closed Session at 10:00 a.m. (unanimous)
• Approved motion to resume regular meeting at 10:22 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners approved a series of contracts and funding items, such as disposing of eight motorcycles, allocating a grant for officer gloves, and awarding land‑surveying and beach‑upgrade bids, all by unanimous vote. They also approved a three‑year renewal with Teoma Systems, a housing program budget, and a $49,000 professional auditing services contract (6‑3 vote). The updated Public Improvement Fund Use Policy was tabled, and a motion to dissolve the Budget and Finance Committee failed. Additionally, the FY 2026 Region 9 Area Agency on Aging implementation plan and two warrants totaling $566,021.12 were approved unanimously.

• Approved disposal of eight motorcycles from the Motorcycle Safety Program (unanimous)
• Approved MCWCF grant allocation for officer gloves (unanimous)
• Approved award of Bid 2025-09 to Brand Land Surveying LLC ($12,350) and Wade Trim Inc. ($12,350) (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Agreement for Remonumentation County Representative services (unanimous)
• Approved Housing Program Funding (unanimous)
• Approved Teoma Systems three‑year contract renewal and budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved award to Harbor Springs Excavating, Inc. for Otsego Lake County Park Beach upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved Professional Auditing Services contract to Clark Schaefer Hackett for $49,000 (6 ayes, 3 nays)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the minutes from May 19, 2025 and unanimously adopted several recommendations. It approved the Finding of Fact and recommended that the Board of Commissioners rezone the 27‑acre parcel at 1358 Alexander Rd from Industrial to Forestry Recreation, pending an amendment to the Future Land Use Map. The commission also unanimously recommended adopting text amendments to the zoning ordinance’s Article 17 Schedule of Dimensions and Section 21.38 Signs and Billboards. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved May 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Finding of Fact for rezoning parcel 042-011-400-010-00 (unanimous)
• Recommended to Board of Commissioners approval of rezoning 1358 Alexander Rd from Industrial to Forestry Recreation (unanimous)
• Approved motion to hold public hearing at next meeting to amend Future Land Use Map (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of text amendment to Article 17 Schedule of Dimensions (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of text amendment to Section 21.38 Signs and Billboards (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved a series of recommendations to the full Board, such as disposing of eight motorcycles, accepting a grant for protective gloves, awarding several survey and construction contracts, adjusting the Housing Program payroll allocation, and adopting the 2026 budget calendar. It also tabled the PineCo debris‑site funding and the Administration Stipend items for future discussion. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Tabled PineCo debris‑site funding (unanimous)
• Tabled Administration Stipend discussion (unanimous)
• Recommend disposal of 8 motorcycles via auction (unanimous)
• Recommend accepting MCWCF grant for protective gloves (unanimous)
• Recommend payroll allocation change for Housing Program Fund (unanimous)
• Recommend $3,500 budget amendment for Teoma Systems contract renewal (unanimous)
• Recommend $45,503 bid award to Harbor Springs Excavating for County Park Beach upgrades (unanimous)
• Approve credit‑card statements as presented (unanimous)

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The Veterans Affairs Committee unanimously approved the regular minutes from the May 20, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved the month‑end financial reports ending June 30, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned at 10:20 a.m. by unanimous vote.

• Approved May 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:20 a.m. (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the June 1‑30, 2025 bills totaling $61,878.80. It recommended the $45,503.00 Harbor Springs Excavating bid for beach upgrades to the Budget and Finance Committee. The board also approved the Mark Mellon Triathlon scheduled for August 9, pending submission of the event form and insurance. Previous meeting minutes were approved as presented.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved June bills $61,878.80 (motion carried)
• Recommended Harbor Springs Excavating bid $45,503.00 for beach upgrades (motion carried)
• Approved Mark Mellon Triathlon pending paperwork (motion carried)

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the June 12 meeting. It acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports. The Committee also voted to forward the disposal of nine motorcycles to the Budget and Finance Committee.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 12 June 2025 (unanimous)
• Acknowledged bus financial report (unanimous)
• Forwarded disposal of 9 motorcycles to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Acknowledged airport financial report (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved the Chair’s motion to begin contract negotiations with the County Administrator candidate recommended by the hiring committee. The consent agenda, including four Alpenfest recognition resolutions, was approved by unanimous consent. The Board also approved the July 1, 2025 warrant for $65,548.64 (with two void checks) and the July 8, 2025 warrant for $135,203.49 (with one void check), both unanimously.

• Approved contract negotiations with County Administrator candidate (Ayes: Terra Deming, Jonathan Turnbull, Brett McVannel, Christi Sortor, Neil Drzewiecki, Dana Wingo, Rob Weaver; Nay: Henry Mason)
• Approved consent agenda, including OCR 25‑12 through OCR 25‑15 recognitions (unanimous consent)
• Approved July 1 2025 warrant for $65,548.64 and two void checks (unanimous)
• Approved July 8 2025 warrant for $135,203.49 and one void check (unanimous)

Hiring Committee

The Hiring Committee met on June 27, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Commissioner Sortor moved, and Commissioner Deming seconded, to remove Joseph LaMargo from the agenda because he withdrew from the interview process. The motion was adopted. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Removed Joseph LaMargo from agenda after withdrawal (motion passed)

Hiring Committee

The Hiring Committee voted to enter a closed session at 1:08 p.m., and the motion passed unanimously. Four minutes later, they voted to return to the open session at 1:12 p.m., also unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Entered closed session (unanimous)
• Returned to open session (unanimous)

Hiring Committee

The committee met on June 25, 2025, reviewed the agenda and listed interview candidates for County Administrator. No approvals, votes, or actions were recorded in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned at 4:04 p.m.

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board unanimously adopted the 9‑1‑1 Plan and its committee bylaws. It approved a $65,000 budget amendment for Parks and Recreation ice‑storm cleanup with a 5‑2 vote. Several other budget amendments and contracts, including a $20,799 Axon taser purchase and a $466,497.50 warrant, were also approved. The Board reopened the Budget and Finance agenda with a 4‑3 vote.

• Approved Otsego County 9‑1‑1 Plan (unanimous)
• Approved 9‑1‑1 Committee Bylaws (unanimous)
• Approved $65,000 Parks and Recreation ice‑storm cleanup amendment (5‑2)
• Approved Airport Office Manager title change and pay‑grade reclassification (unanimous)
• Approved Axon taser purchase for Sheriff's Department $20,799 from marijuana fund (unanimous)
• Approved June 17, 2025 warrant $466,497.50 (unanimous)
• Approved June 24, 2025 payment $307,326.61 (unanimous)
• Reopened Budget and Finance agenda (4‑3)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved several budget amendments covering ice‑storm cleanup, a pay‑grade change for the Airport Office Manager, and funding for the Sheriff’s Marine Patrol, taser purchase, prosecutor software, and an animal‑control donation. The administration stipend proposal was tabled for future discussion, and the credit‑card statements were approved. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $65,000 Parks & Recreation ice‑storm budget amendment (unanimous)
• Tabled administration stipend transfer of $1,200 to three department directors (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Office Manager pay‑grade reclassification to grade 8 (unanimous)
• Approved $7,500 Sheriff Marine Patrol budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $20,799 Sheriff's Department taser purchase budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $18,000 Prosecutors Karpel Software budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 Animal Control donation allocation to TNR program (unanimous)
• Approved $192,000 Public Improvement Fund amendment for PineCo (unanimous)

Hiring Committee

The Hiring Committee moved to a closed session at 10:07 a.m., and the motion was approved unanimously. The meeting returned to open session at 11:02 a.m. No other formal decisions were recorded; the committee discussed interview logistics and assigned Ms. Westenbarger to forward applications and a final recommendation to the board.

• Motion to enter closed session passed unanimously

Building Authority

The Otsego County Building Authority approved the minutes from the April 11, 2022 meeting unanimously. The board also approved payment of $11,072.69 for library bills, including an alarm system installation and tile replacement, with a unanimous vote.

• Approved April 11, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $11,072.69 in library bills (unanimous)

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 10, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously voted to refer the proposed title and salary change for the Airport Operations/Building & Grounds Specialist to the Budget and Finance Committee. The committee rescheduled the July 11 meeting to July 24, 2025 because of Alpenfest. No other actions were taken.

• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Sent airport Operations/Building & Grounds Specialist title and salary change to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Rescheduled July 11 Personnel Committee meeting to July 24, 2025

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the April 10 minutes. It acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports, and voted to forward the fuel tank disposal items to the Budget and Finance Committee and the airport pay‑increase proposal to the Personnel Committee.

• Approved agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes (3-0)
• Acknowledged bus financial report (3-0)
• Forwarded fuel tank disposals to Budget and Finance Committee (3-0)
• Acknowledged airport financial report (3-0)
• Forwarded airport pay increase proposal to Personnel Committee (3-0)

Housing Committee

The committee voted unanimously to award the emergency furnace and water‑heater contract (Project 05‑2023) to JP Heating of Northern MI for $3,477 using PY23 grant and owner funds. It also approved the discharge of the 07‑2022 mortgage, which has been paid in full, and will forward the discharge to the County Board of Commissioners for signature.

• Approved award of $3,477 to JP Heating for furnace and water‑heater repair/replacement (unanimous)
• Approved discharge of 07‑2022 mortgage, to be submitted to County Board (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved a $325,610.76 payment and a $42,220.01 warrant, both by unanimous vote. An amendment to the ORV Ordinance kept Acorn, Driftwood and Poplar roads closed, also passed unanimously. Several motions failed or were withdrawn, including the Noise Ordinance adoption and a proposal to table the County Code Ordinance.

• Approved June 3, 2025 warrant for $42,220.01 (unanimous)
• Approved June 10, 2025 payment of $325,610.76 (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to ORV Ordinance road closures: Acorn, Driftwood, Poplar remain closed (unanimous)
• Motion to adopt Noise Ordinance No 2025-01 died for lack of a second
• Motion to amend Article 26 with Noise Ordinance No 2025-01 died for lack of a second
• Motion to table County Code Ordinance withdrawn by sponsor
• Motion to create subcommittee to review policies and employee handbook withdrawn by sponsor
• Motion to return to new business approved (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the May 12, 2025 meeting minutes and the May bills totaling $30,165.53. It recommended the $29,425 Mitten Timber Tree Service LLC bid for the Irontone Springs ice‑storm repairs. It also approved advertising the beach upgrade project for bids.

• Approved May 12, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved May 1‑31, 2025 bills totaling $30,165.53 (motion carried)
• Recommended Mitten Timber Tree Service LLC bid of $29,425 for Irontone Springs cleanup (motion carried)
• Approved advertising the beach upgrade project for bids (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners adopted the MEDC Community Development Block Grant urgent‑need resolution, allocated $25,000 from opioid funds for a community assessment, approved $326,000 from the Public Improvement Fund to replace the Otsego Lake drain outlet control structure, and adopted amendments to the ORV Ordinance. They also approved two warrants totaling $456,514.78 and appointed James Heller to the County Commission on Aging Board. All motions passed, most by unanimous consent.

• Adopted MEDC CDBG urgent‑need resolution (unanimous consent)
• Allocated $25,000 opioid funds for Opioid Community Assessment Project (ayes: Deming, Turnbull, McVannel, Drzewiecki, Weaver; nays: Mason, Clement, Sortor)
• Approved $326,000 Public Improvement Fund for Otsego Lake drain outlet control structure removal and replacement (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to ORV Ordinance No. 09-03 (unanimous)
• Approved May 20, 2025 warrant for $196,393.15 (unanimous)
• Approved May 27, 2025 warrant for $260,121.63 and one void check (unanimous)
• Appointed James Heller to the Otsego County Commission on Aging Board for a 3‑year term (unanimous consent)
• Approved regular minutes of May 13, 2025 (unanimous consent)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the May 9, 2025 meeting. It recommended that the full Board allocate an additional $30,000 from the Public Improvement Fund for the Otsego Lake drain contract. It also recommended that the full Board adopt the amended Off‑Road Vehicle (ORV) ordinance. All three motions passed unanimously.

• Approved May 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended $30,000 allocation for Otsego Lake drain contract (unanimous)
• Recommended adoption of amended ORV ordinance (unanimous)

Housing Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the January 16, 2025 meeting. It awarded the emergency roof contract for project 05‑2023 to ASAP Roofing Inc. for $10,800. The CDBG program income funding was changed to a grant with no lien requirement, effective immediately. By‑law amendments were adopted to make all Housing Committee members also serve on the Emergency Housing Committee and to meet biannually.

• Approved Jan 16, 2025 meeting minutes – unanimous
• Awarded project 05‑2023 roof bid to ASAP Roofing Inc. for $10,800 – unanimous
• Changed CDBG program income to grant format with no lien requirement – unanimous
• Amended by‑laws: Housing Committee members also serve on Emergency Housing Committee and will meet biannually – unanimous
• Received and filed month‑end financial reports ending April 30, 2025 – unanimous

Veteran's Affairs Committee

The board unanimously approved the regular meeting minutes from Jan 21, 2025. It also approved a $500 donation relief payment to Payton’s Well Drilling for a veteran’s water‑well replacement (application #25‑02). Finally, the board approved the month‑end financial reports ending April 30, 2025. All motions carried unanimously.

• Approved Jan 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $500 relief aid (application #25‑02) payable to Payton’s Well Drilling – Well Repair & Service LLC (unanimous)
• Approved month‑end financial reports ending April 30, 2025 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and both the General and Specific Findings of Fact. It then conditionally approved Special Use Permit PZSU25-004 for a 45‑unit site condominium in Elmira Township, subject to several permit and documentation requirements. The required submissions include a condominium description, Health Department approval, a soil erosion permit, an MDOT permit, and a sign permit.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved General Finding of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved Specific Finding of Fact (unanimous)
• Conditionally approved special use permit PZSU25-004 (unanimous) – require condominium description, Health Department approval, soil erosion permit, MDOT permit, sign permit

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board approved several budget amendments, including a $296,000 allocation for the Otsego Lake Drain and a $72,000 state grant for business generators. All motions were carried, most by unanimous consent, with two amendments receiving recorded ayes and nays. The board also approved three warrants totaling $858,322.43 and adopted a proclamation for National Police Week.

• Approved $296,000 Otsego Lake Drain amendment (unanimous)
• Approved $72,000 state grant for private‑business generators (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 allocation from Building Inspection Fund for professional electrical inspections (unanimous)
• Approved $17,464.49 amendment for Motorcycle Safety Program (unanimous)
• Approved $2,100 purchase of new Concealed Pistol License printer (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 general‑fund amendment for 2024 audit (Ayes: Terra Deming, Jonathan Turnbull, Brett McVannel, Neil Drzewiecki, Dana Wingo, Rob Weaver; Nays: Jason Clement, Christi Sortor, Henry Mason)
• Approved $10,000 general‑fund amendment for training series (Ayes: Terra Deming, Jonathan Turnbull, Brett McVannel, Jason Clement, Neil Drewiecki, Dana Wingo, Rob Weaver; Nays: Christi Sortor, Henry Mason)
• Approved warrants: $279,677.06 (April 29), $77,750.68 (May 6), $500,894.69 (May 13) – all unanimous

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the minutes from the prior meeting and from the executive committee, and authorized $43,739.88 in April bills. It rejected the sole $49,999 bid for the Wah Soo Beach upgrade and will restart the bidding process. The board approved a basketball camp, a fireworks permit, and a $2,000 community‑foundation grant, each with required paperwork. Judi Jarecki was appointed acting secretary.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved executive committee minutes (motion carried)
• Approved April bills totaling $43,739.88 (motion carried)
• Rejected $49,999 beach upgrade bid and ordered a new bidding process (motion carried)
• Approved basketball camp pending new insurance certificate and special event permit (motion carried)
• Approved fireworks event permit as presented (motion carried)
• Approved $2,000 community foundation grant and authorized Jacob Brown to accept it (motion carried)
• Appointed Judi Jarecki as acting Secretary

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee unanimously approved several budget amendments, including a $25,000 opioid‑use assessment, $17,464.49 for the Motorcycle Safety Program, $40,000 for emergency electrical inspections, $2,100 for a CPL printer, and $296,000 to award Bid 2025‑03 to Tri County Excavating for the Otsego Lake Drain. It also approved audit and training allocations for H&S Companies, a debris‑site contract option, and a $72,000 state grant for generators. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $25,000 opioid fund allocation for community assessment (unanimous)
• Approved $17,464.49 donation‑fund allocation for Motorcycle Safety Program (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 amendment for emergency electrical inspections (unanimous)
• Approved $2,100 purchase of CPL printer (unanimous)
• Approved $296,000 award to Tri County Excavating for Otsego Lake Drain (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 audit expense and $10,000 training expense for H&S Companies (unanimous)
• Approved debris‑site contract option (Option 1, fallback Option 2) (unanimous)
• Approved $72,000 state grant application for generators (unanimous)

Board of Canvassers

The Otsego County Board of Canvassers met on May 7, 2025 and reviewed the May 6 election results. The totals matched the poll book and tabulator tape. The Board signed the statement of votes cast and the certificate of determination, formally certifying the results. The meeting adjourned at 1:05 p.m.

• Board signed statement of votes cast and certificate of determination, certifying the May 6, 2025 election results

Planning Commission

The commission approved the corrected minutes from March 17, 2025 unanimously. They adopted a General Finding of Fact and a Specific Finding of Fact, both unanimously. The commission also unanimously approved special use permit PZSU25-001 for multiple storage buildings at 676 Charles Brink Rd in Bagley Township. No decision was made on the pending special use request for the Treetops Planned Unit Development (PZSU25-002).

• Approved corrected minutes (unanimous)
• Approved General Finding of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved Specific Finding of Fact (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit PZSU25-001 for 676 Charles Brink Rd (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission voted to hire Mitten Timber LLC to clean up ice‑storm damage at the County Park, authorizing up to $40,000 for the work to begin immediately. The motion was made by Randy Stults, seconded by Bonny Miller, and all members present voted in favor. The commission also announced that Irontone Springs will remain closed until further notice because of the damage.

• Approved hiring Mitten Timber LLC for ice‑storm cleanup, up to $40,000 (unanimous)
• Closed Irontone Springs until further notice due to ice‑storm damage

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board approved several budget items, including a $40,000 increase to the Sheriff’s Department budget and a $92,000 transfer from the Marijuana Fund to the equipment fund. It also approved two warrants totaling $2.49 million ($1,637,686.41 and $853,706.83). Additional actions included accepting the 2025 Equalization report, adopting a resolution recognizing Linemen Appreciation Day, and approving the meeting minutes and a veteran‑service grant. All motions passed by unanimous consent.

• Approved Special minutes of April 4, 2025 (unanimous consent)
• Approved Regular minutes of April 8, 2025 (unanimous consent)
• Accepted 2025 Equalization report (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 budget amendment to increase Sheriff’s Dept budget (unanimous)
• Approved $92,000 transfer from Marijuana Fund to equipment fund (unanimous)
• Approved $1,637,686.41 warrant on April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved $853,706.83 warrant on April 22, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution recognizing Linemen and National Linemen Appreciation Day (unanimous)

Budget & Finance Committee

The Budget & Finance Committee approved several budget amendments and contracts, including a $92,000 transfer from the Marijuana Fund to the Equipment Fund and a $15,000 amendment to fund three vehicles. It also approved a $40,000 increase to the Sheriff’s Department budget for a state grant, a $5,000‑per‑year body‑camera contract for Animal Control, and the disposal of nine motorcycles. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved capital asset disposal of nine motorcycles (unanimous)
• Approved Axon body‑camera contract for Animal Control ($5,000/year for 3 cameras) (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 budget amendment for Animal Control vehicle acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved $6,800 budget amendment for ERV motors for Animal Control (unanimous)
• Approved $40,000 budget amendment to increase Sheriff’s Department budget for state grant (unanimous)
• Approved $92,000 transfer from Marijuana Fund to Equipment Fund and $15,000 budget amendment for vehicle purchase (unanimous)
• Approved attorney contract with Cummings, McClorey, Davis & Acho PLC for solar lawsuit (unanimous)
• Approved credit card statements as presented (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission voted to approve the beach‑upgrade project at the County Park and to issue a request for bids. It also recorded that the Board of Commissioners allocated $100,000 in emergency funds and $15,000 for tree clean‑up after the ice storm. The March bills totaling $11,801.34 were approved. The restroom remodel contract was reassigned to a new company.

• Approved March bills totaling $11,801.34 (motion carried)
• Approved beach‑upgrade project to go out for bid (motion carried)
• Noted Board allocation of $100,000 emergency funds and $15,000 for tree clean‑up
• Restroom remodel bid awarded to a new company after original bidder withdrew

Transportation and Building & Grounds Committee

The Transportation and Airport Committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the March 13 meeting, both unanimously. It acknowledged the bus and airport financial reports as presented. The committee voted to forward the nine motorcycles slated for auction to the Budget and Finance Committee.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 13 minutes (unanimous)
• Acknowledged bus financial report (unanimous)
• Forwarded 9 motorcycles for auction to Budget and Finance Committee (unanimous)
• Acknowledged airport financial report (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board approved multiple fund allocations, rezoning actions, and contract awards, and adopted several warrants totaling over $2 million. A motion to designate the elk as the county’s official wildlife mascot was rejected. All decisions were recorded with vote counts as noted in the minutes.

• Approved $80,500 for new motorcycles (5-2)
• Reallocated $50,000 from the Opioid Fund (8-1)
• Increased Correction Department budget by $35,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $1,403,521.88 supplemental warrant for March 11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Rezoned single parcel in Elmira Township to R2 residential (5-4)
• Rezoned six parcels in Bagley Township to B1 business (unanimous)
• Awarded $42,041 to Electric Klee Inc. for Parks generator (unanimous)
• Motion to designate elk as county mascot failed (6-3)

Board of Commissioners

The Otsego County Board voted to allocate $100,000 for disaster recovery related to the winter ice storm. All seven commissioners present voted aye and no one voted nay. The motion was carried and the meeting adjourned at 10:36 a.m.

• Approved $100,000 disaster‑recovery allocation (7 ayes, 0 nays)

Personnel Committee

The Personnel Committee approved a revised Earned Sick Time policy and recommended it to the full board. It also recommended the creation of a Deputy Finance Director position with a salary of $56,800 per year. The committee approved replacing two part‑time bus driver positions with one full‑time position, and it adopted a set monthly meeting schedule. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved revised Earned Sick Time policy recommendation (unanimous)
• Recommended Deputy Finance Director position at $56,800/year (unanimous)
• Recommended replacing two part‑time bus driver positions with one full‑time position (unanimous)
• Approved Personnel Committee calendar of meetings on the 2nd Friday each month (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission voted to rescind the previously approved $54,043 bid from Randy Samkowiak for the restroom and shower remodel. The commission then approved a recommendation to award a $43,071.50 bid from Rite Choice Plumbing for the same project. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Rescinded $54,043 bid from Randy Samkowiak (Bonny Miller: Yes, Randy Stults: Yes, Justin Wing: Yes)
• Approved recommendation to award $43,071.50 bid to Rite Choice Plumbing (Bonny Miller: Yes, Randy Stults: Yes, Justin Wing: Yes)