Van Buren County public meetings in 2022

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the renewal of the VBEMS contract and the re-appointment of Zach Morris to the Land Bank Authority Board. The meeting also includes a swearing-in ceremony and a report from Veterans Services.

• VBEMS Contract Renewal
• Land Bank Authority Board Re-Appointment of Zach Morris
• Veterans Services Report
• Closed session for collective bargaining agreement strategy and negotiation

The Committee of the Whole approved a four-year contract renewal for VBEMS and the reappointment of Zach Morris to the Land Bank Authority Board. Commissioners were also sworn in for the 2023-2024 term of office.

• Approved revised four-year renewal contract with VBEMS
• Approved reappointment of Zach Morris to Land Bank Authority Board for a term expiring December 31, 2025
• Approved December 13, 2022 Committee of the Whole minutes
• Entered closed session to discuss labor negotiations (All Yes)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss multiple union bargaining agreements and compensation for non-represented employees. The body is also reviewing ARPA funding proposals for the Road Commission and the health department.

• ARPA Proposal # 029 for Road Commission CR 388
• ARPA Proposal # 031 for Van Buren Cass District Health Department
• VBEMS Contract Renewal
• Bargaining agreements for AFSCME, APA, Court Association, GELC, POLC, and Prosecuting Attorneys Legal Secretaries Association
• 2023 Marijuana Operation and Oversight Grant Program

The Board of Commissioners approved several three-year bargaining agreements for county employees and elected officials, featuring a 6% wage increase for 2023 and 3% for 2024 and 2025. The Board also authorized ARPA funding for road projects and health department revenue losses.

• Approved 3-year bargaining agreements for AFSCME, APA, Court Association, GELC, POLC, POAM, and Prosecuting Legal Secretaries (Carried)
• Approved 6% wage increase for 2023, 3% for 2024, and 3% for 2025 for non-represented employees and elected officials (Carried)
• Approved $1,200,146.86 in ARPA funds for the Road Commission CR 388 project (Carried)
• Approved $220,000 in ARPA funds for the Van Buren Cass District Health Department (Carried)
• Approved VBEMS contract renewal through December 31, 2026 (Carried)
• Appointed Zach Morris to the Land Bank Authority for a term expiring December 31, 2026 (Carried)
• Approved grant application renewal for the 2023 Marijuana Operation and Oversight Grant Program (Carried)
• Approved the Van Buren County Public Transit Vehicle Accessibility Plan (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review several American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) proposals for local infrastructure and health services. The body will also discuss the use of county property by the Battle Creek VA and review public transit operations.

• ARPA Proposal # 028: Covert Township Sanitary Sewer Improvements
• ARPA Proposal # 029: Road Commission CR 388
• ARPA Proposal # 031: Van Buren Cass District Health Department
• ARPA Proposal # 033: Red Arrow Youth Center
• ARPA Proposal # 035: Lawton Lead Service Line Replacement

The Committee of the Whole approved ARPA funding for the Road Commission and Health Department, while denying requests for Covert Township and the Red Arrow Youth Center. The board also approved a Parks Commission appointment and a vehicle accessibility plan for public transit.

• Approved appointment of Paul Garrod to the Parks Commission (Carried)
• Approved MOU for Battle Creek VA to park government vehicle on county property (Carried)
• Denied $1,058,400 ARPA funds for Covert Township Sanitary Sewer Improvements (3-4)
• Approved $1,200,146.86 ARPA funds for Road Commission CR 388 project (4-3)
• Approved $220,000 ARPA funds for Van Buren Cass District Health Department (7-0)
• Denied $745,400 ARPA funds for Red Arrow Youth Center (3-4)
• Approved $19,011 Marijuana Operation and Oversight Grant renewal application (Carried)
• Approved $23,463.50 Foster Swift invoice for NCG litigation (4-3)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review administrative appointments and property use. The agenda includes a discussion regarding the use of county property by the Battle Creek VA and a closed session for negotiation and settlement discussions.

• Use of County Property - Battle Creek VA
• Remonumentation Committee Appointment - Kate Hosier
• Road Commission Re-Appointment - Douglas Burleson
• Replacement Phone Handset Purchase Request
• Closed session for negotiation strategy and settlement discussion

The Board of Commissioners approved a settlement agreement regarding the Wayside Church, et al vs. Van Buren County civil action. Other actions included appointing members to county commissions and approving a technology purchase.

• Approved settlement agreement in Wayside Church, et al vs. Van Buren County (Civil Action No. 1:14-cv-01274)
• Approved $20,307.88 for replacement phone handsets from the Technology Improvement Fund
• Appointed Kate Hosier to the Remonumentation Committee
• Re-appointed Douglas Burleson to the Road Commission for a six-year term expiring Dec 31, 2028
• Appointed Paul Garrod to the Parks Commission
• Approved MOU with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for parking of government vehicles on county property
• Approved November 22, 2022 meeting minutes

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building and the relocation of the Administration Office. The meeting also includes a broadband progress update and various grant and budget items.

• Purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building
• Administration Office Relocation
• Broadband Progress Update from DCS Technology & Market Van Buren
• Blight Elimination Grant
• SCAO grant awards for Drug Treatment, Family Treatment, Swift and Sure Sanctions, Adult Recovery, and Sobriety Courts

The Committee of the Whole approved the purchase of a building for the Friend of the Court and authorized a $47,882 blight elimination grant for a property in Hartford. The board also approved several appointments, budget adjustments, and a $20,307.88 purchase for replacement phone handsets.

• Approved $195,000 purchase of Kelly Page Law Office Building at 203 S. Niles Street for Friend of the Court
• Approved $47,882 Blight Elimination Grant for roof and stairwell repairs at 5 West Main Street, Hartford
• Approved $20,307.88 purchase of replacement phone handsets from SHI
• Approved appointment of Kate Hosier to the Remonumentation Committee
• Approved re-appointment of Douglas Burleson to the Road Commission through December 31, 2028
• Approved use of 801 Hazen Street, Paw Paw for MVAA Holiday Food Drive on December 14, 2022
• Approved Revised 2022 Apportionment Report
• Approved FY23 grant contracts for Specialty Court Programs

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will discuss the purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building. The board is also reviewing several appointments to county boards and various finance requests including equipment for 911 dispatch and the Sheriffs Building.

• Purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building
• Appointment of Stephanie Timmer to the EDC Board
• Re-appointment of George Saleeby to Kinexus Workforce Development
• Re-appointment of Reginald Boze to the VBC Road Commission
• Purchase of portable radio for 911 Dispatch COOP

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a law office building in Paw Paw and authorized several grant acceptances and equipment purchases. The board also confirmed multiple board appointments and a wage exception for a maintenance technician.

• Approved purchase of Kelly Page Law Office building at 203 S. Niles Street for $195,000
• Approved $45,000 purchase of five portable dual band radios for 911 Dispatch
• Approved $15,450 for BDA installation in Sheriff's buildings
• Approved $23,564.85 for BeyondTrust remote control software renewal
• Approved $47,882 Blight Elimination Grant for roof and stairwell repairs at 5 West Main Street
• Approved $648,720 in SCAO grant awards for Specialty Court programs
• Approved re-appointments of George Saleeby (Kinexus) and Reginald Boze (Road Commission)
• Approved appointment of Stephanie Timmer to the Economic Development Corporation

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several administrative appointments and financial requests. The body will discuss the purchase of a law office building and various equipment acquisitions for county services.

• Purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building
• Appointment of Stephanie Timmer to the EDC Board
• Re-appointment of George Saleeby to Kinexus Workforce Development and Reginald Boze to the VBC Road Commission
• Purchase of a portable radio for 911 Dispatch COOP and BDA for Sheriffs Building
• Salary exception for Finance Director position

The Committee of the Whole approved several equipment purchases for 911 dispatch and the sheriff's office. They authorized the County Administrator to negotiate the purchase of a building at 203 S. Niles Street and designated him as the point of contact for the National Opioid Settlement. The committee also scheduled a review of remaining ARPA proposals for December 13, 2022.

• Authorized County Administrator to negotiate purchase of Kelly Page Law Office building
• Approved $45,000 purchase of 5 dual band Motorola portable radios for 911 Dispatch
• Approved $16,450 purchase and installation of BDA in the sheriff's building
• Approved County Administrator Ryan Post as authorized official for National Opioid Settlement
• Approved sale of a drug forfeited 1991 Dodge Stealth via Biddergy auction
• Approved $11,408,874.98 payment of October 2022 claims
• Rescinded July 12th decision on Labor Committee negotiation recommendation to accept Administration's wage increase
• Approved salary exception for Finance Director to start at the 2-year level

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will discuss the purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building and a salary exception for the Finance Director. The board will also review the C-PACE program and opioid settlement points of contact.

• Purchase of the Kelly Page Law Office Building
• Salary exception for Finance Director position
• Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program
• Drain and Lake Level Special Assessment Rolls for 2022 Tax Rolls
• Purchase of Automated External Defibrillators (AED)

The Board of Commissioners established a C-PACE program and district to finance energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for commercial property owners. Other actions included approving the purchase of AEDs for the Sheriff's Office and authorizing the purchase of a law office building.

• Established C-PACE Program and designated Market Van Buren as administrator (Carried)
• Named Ryan Post as authorized official for the National Opioid Settlement (Carried)
• Accepted 2022 Drain and Lake Level Special Assessment Rolls totaling $650,263.26 (Carried)
• Approved $60,945.00 purchase of 30 AEDs from Stryker for the Sheriff's Office (Carried)
• Authorized Treasurer to enter into agreement with Emphasys Software for investment software (Carried)
• Authorized County Administrator to negotiate purchase of Kelly Page Law Office building for $195,000 (Carried)
• Approved salary exception for Finance Director at $92,229.93 per year (Carried)
• Approved 10/25/2022 meeting minutes (Carried)

General

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing. The primary agenda item is a presentation on the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program.

• Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program presentation by Zach Morris and Sarah Snoeyink of Market Van Buren

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing regarding the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program. No decisions were made and no public comments were received.

• Approved the meeting agenda

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss several financial matters, including budget adjustments and the FY23 OCC and County Child Care Fund budgets. The body will also review a contract for the County Administrator and an engagement letter with Maner Costerisan.

• Fiscal Year 2023 OCC Budget
• County Child Care Fund Budget Summary FY 23
• County Administrator Contract
• Engagement Letter and Agreement with Maner Costerisan
• Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program

The Committee of the Whole approved several funding requests, including $1,000 for holiday decorations and $60,945 for 30 new AEDs. They also voted to rename the Land Management Department to the GIS Department and approved a new service agreement with Maner Costerisan for auditing services.

• Approved $1,000 for holiday lighting decorations (Carried)
• Approved $60,945 purchase of 30 Stryker AEDs from Public Safety Fund (Carried)
• Approved agreement with Emphasys Computer Solutions Inc. for investment software (Carried)
• Approved Land Bank Authority engagement in Blight Elimination Program RFP 2023-01 (Carried)
• Approved FY2023 OCC grant budget of $130,903.00 (Carried)
• Approved three-year service agreement with Maner Costerisan for auditing services (Carried)
• Approved renaming Land Management Department to GIS Department and creating GIS Director position (Carried)
• Approved County Administrator contract for Ryan Post (Carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the Fiscal Year 2023 OCC Budget and the County Administrator contract. The body is also reviewing several consent items including grant applications and equipment purchases.

• Fiscal Year 2023 OCC Budget
• County Administrator Contract
• Authority to apply for Federal EPA Grant for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
• Engagement Letter and Agreement with Maner Costerisan
• Snow Removal Bids

The Board of Commissioners approved the employment contract for Ryan Post as County Administrator and authorized $4,612,800.20 in claims for September 2022. Other actions included approving snow removal bids, IT equipment upgrades, and the rebranding of the Land Management Department to the GIS Department.

• Approved contract for Ryan Post to serve as County Administrator
• Approved $4,612,800.20 in claims for September 2022
• Approved $41,075.28 bid from MJKNet, Inc for IT switch refresh
• Approved $200,299 MSU Extension Memorandum of Agreement
• Approved $15,828.00 purchase of a traffic radar sign from All Traffic Solutions
• Approved $130,903.00 fiscal year 2023 OCC Budget
• Approved rebranding Land Management to GIS Department and creating a GIS Director position
• Authorized Brownfield Redevelopment Authority to apply for a federal EPA grant

General

The Board of Commissioners will conduct interviews with four candidates throughout the day. Following the interviews, the board will deliberate on the candidates.

• Interview of Lisa Imus at 9:00 AM
• Interview of Ryan Post at 10:15 AM
• Interview of Scott Corbin at 11:30 AM
• Interview of Charles Norton at 1:30 PM
• Deliberation of candidates

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing administrative requests, financial reports, and facility updates. The body will discuss a federal EPA grant for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and review bids for snow removal.

• Authority to apply for Federal EPA Grant for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
• Snow removal bids
• Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program
• MSU Extension Memorandum of Agreement
• Traffic radar sign purchase

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a technology proposal for broadband project management and the use of county property for a candlelight vigil. The meeting includes several consent items regarding program implementation and fund investments.

• DCS Technology Proposal for Broadband Project Management
• Funding for The Daily Recovery Zone, Inc.
• Authorization for County Treasurer to invest funds in GovMIC
• Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program
• Road Commissioner Appointment

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a Road Commissioner appointment and a technology proposal for broadband project management. The body will also discuss funding for The Daily Recovery Zone, Inc. and the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Program.

• Road Commissioner Appointment
• DCS Technology Proposal for Broadband Project Management
• FY 2023 Access & Visitation Service Contract - Circuit Court
• Van Buren Youth Fair request for cell tower income
• Authorization for County Treasurer to invest funds in GovMIC

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative and finance items, including vehicle acquisitions and grant consultants. The meeting includes discussions on a public safety millage tax rate and the County Administrator.

• Purchase of four new patrol vehicles and one new animal control vehicle
• Tax rate request for the Public Safety Millage
• Department of Natural Resources - Waverly Township Land Acquisition
• Domestic Violence Coalition Annual Agreement
• Contracted Specialty Courts Grant Consultant

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a broadband project management proposal and a tax rate request for a public safety millage. The body is also considering several vehicle purchases and administrative appointments.

• DCS Technology Proposal for Broadband Project Management
• Purchase of four new patrol vehicles and one new animal control truck
• Tax rate request for the Public Safety Millage
• Appointment of Suzanne Glomski to the Land Bank Authority
• DNR Waverly Township Land Acquisition

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the FY 22-23 budget and a salary exception for the deputy treasurer position. The board will also consider an appointment to the Land Bank Authority and a 2022 Plat Book Agreement.

• FY 22-23 Budget
• Salary Exception for the Deputy Treasurer Position
• Appointment of Suzanne Glomski to the Land Bank Authority
• 2022 Plat Book Agreement
• Police Academy Cadets

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the FY 22-23 budget and budget adjustments. The body will also discuss administrative matters including a plat book agreement and road commissioner interviews.

• FY 22-23 Budget
• Budget Adjustments
• 2022 Plat Book Agreement
• Road Commissioner Interview Scheduling
• Use of County Property for Lakeshore Harvest Ride

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review administrative, finance, and property matters. Key discussions include the sale of a building in Mattawan and approved Capital Improvement Program (CIP) items.

• Mattawan Building Sale
• Approved CIP Items
• Out of state travel for 911 training
• Use of County Property for Lakeshore Harvest Ride
• Approval of claims

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the draft budget for fiscal year 2022-23 and the sale of a building in Mattawan. The body will also review the 2022 Office of the Public Defender Annual Report and public transit financial and operations reports.

• FY 22-23 Draft Budget
• Mattawan Building Sale
• USDA Lease Application
• 2022 Office of the Public Defender Annual Report
• General Maintenance Carpenter Wage Exception

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the creation of a County Parks & Recreation Commission and the use of county property for the 2022 Vineyard Classic Bike Tour. The meeting includes several consent items regarding funding agreements, fee eliminations, and contracts.

• Creation of a County Parks & Recreation Commission
• Elimination of Cremation Permit Fees
• Children's Advocacy Center Funding Agreement
• Hartford School Resource Deputy Contract
• Use of County Property for 2022 Vineyard Classic Bike Tour

General

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to review the FY 22-23 Draft Budget. Interim County Administrator Ryan Post will present the budget details.

• Presentation of the FY 22-23 Draft Budget

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the draft FY 22-23 budget and a rural broadband study. The body is also reviewing several finance items, including the elimination of cremation permit fees and budget adjustments.

• Rural Broadband Study and Report presentation by DCS Technology
• FY 22-23 Draft Budget and budget adjustments
• Elimination of cremation permit fees
• Syndicate Park Parcel 80-17-233-026-00
• Hartford School Resource Deputy Contract

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to review claims and administrative affairs. The agenda includes a recognition for Anthony Meyaard and a correspondence item regarding a fee cap for home health providers.

• Recognition of Anthony Meyaard
• Review of claims
• Mecosta County Resolution regarding amending fee cap for home health providers

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss increasing funding for the Solid Waste & Recycling Program and a territory annexation by the Village of Lawrence. The meeting includes several personnel changes and policy updates via a consent agenda.

• Increase in Solid Waste & Recycling Program Funding
• Village of Lawrence proposal to annex certain territory
• Demo of 309 S. Kalamazoo Street
• Creation of an additional Deputy position and an additional Assistant Prosecuting Attorney position
• Use of County Property for Grape Lake 5K Race and Paw Paw Days

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss budget adjustments, claims, and a financial statement. The meeting includes a presentation on auto insurance reform for home health care and an update on storm cleanup in Hartford.

• Update on storm cleanup in Hartford
• Budget adjustments and monthly financial statement
• Knotek Law Office invoice regarding Covert Township NCG Appeal
• Commissioner per diems
• Presentation on auto insurance reform for home health care by Advisa Care

Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission is meeting to approve minutes from May 2, 2022. The body will also consider a relief fund application for Vetra Spec # 320940.

• Review of SSRF Application Vetra Spec # 320940
• Approval of May 2, 2022, SSRF minutes

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a lead service replacement agreement for SHAWSA and discuss the Bangor Train Depot. The meeting also includes a consent agenda covering county property use and various administrative appointments.

• SHAWSA Lead Service Replacement Agreement
• Bangor Train Depot discussion
• Fiber Agreement with Bloomingdale Telecom
• Termination of the Palisades Agreement with Kinexus
• Deputy Clerk Wage Exception

General

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing. The meeting features a presentation regarding the Village of Lawrence's proposal to annex certain territory.

• Presentation by Theresa Stroud on the Village of Lawrence annexing certain territory

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing proposals for new county positions and funding increases. The body is also discussing operational policies regarding remote work, county vehicles, and public transit.

• Increase in Solid Waste & Recycling Program Funding
• Creation of an additional Deputy position
• Creation of an additional Assistant Prosecuting Attorney position
• Use of County Property for the Grape Lake 5K Race
• Strategic Plan - ARPA Proposals

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive a presentation on Road Commission County Millage Funding. Members will discuss board restructuring, a strategic plan, and a search for a County Administrator. The body will also review budget adjustments and various county property use requests.

• Road Commission County Millage Funding 101 presentation
• Fiber Agreement with Bloomingdale Telecom
• County Administrator search
• Budget adjustments and claims
• Use of County Property requests for Van Buren Youth Fair and Trinity Lutheran Church Fun Run

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss financial requests and labor items. The agenda includes a tax rate request and a hazardous materials grant.

• 2022 Tax Rate Request - L4029
• 2021-2022 Hazardous Materials Emergency Planning Grant
• Juneteenth Holiday proposal
• City of South Haven Commercial Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to approve several administrative appointments and financial claims. The agenda includes a presentation from the Medical Examiner and a review of a juvenile detention bed rental agreement.

• Ottawa County Juvenile Detention Center Bed Rental Agreement
• 2022 PC Refresh
• OCC Grant Application and Budget Approval
• Appointments to the Planning Commission, Economic Development Corporation, and Community Corrections Advisory Board
• Reclassification of Research Attorney position and creation of Law Clerk position

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee is holding a public hearing to discuss Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for Mattawan Life Sciences.

• Public hearing regarding CDBG Grant Funding for Mattawan Life Sciences

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a FY2023 MVAA grant request for Veterans Services. The board will also consider a request to use county property for the Wine & Harvest Festival and an as-needed agreement with DLZ for architectural and engineering design services.

• FY2023 MVAA Grant Request for Veterans Services
• As-needed agreement with DLZ for Architectural and Engineering Design Services
• Request to use county property for the Wine & Harvest Festival

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2021 county audit and a PC refresh. The body is also reviewing several board appointments and a bed rental agreement with the Ottawa County Juvenile Detention Center.

• Van Buren County 2021 Audit presentation
• Ottawa County Juvenile Detention Center Bed Rental Agreement
• Appointments to the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, Economic Development Corporation, and Planning Commission
• Reclassification of Research Attorney position and creation of Law Clerk position
• OCC Grant Application and Budget Approval

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission will meet to discuss an updated policy and receive a financial update. The committee will also review minutes from the April 4, 2022, meeting.

• Updated Policy #D07.0001 approved by BOC
• SSRC Financial Update

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to address administrative appointments and financial contributions. The session includes setting a public hearing for CDBG grant funding and reviewing ARPA proposal deadlines.

• Public hearing for CDBG Grant Funding for Mattawan Life Sciences
• Southwest Michigan Planning Commission Annual Contribution
• South Haven Buoy Project
• ARPA Proposals Deadline of 5/31/2022
• Van Buren County Planning Commission and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority re-appointments

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a request to use county property for the Wine & Harvest Festival and an as-needed agreement with DLZ for architectural and engineering design services. The meeting also includes a presentation on county parks from MSU practicum students and reports on public transit and human resources.

• Request to use county property for the Wine & Harvest Festival
• As-needed agreement with DLZ for architectural and engineering design services
• MSU Practicum Student presentation regarding County Parks
• Negotiations regarding a countywide compensation study
• Public Transit financial and operations reports

General

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will discuss the renewal of ambulance service and public safety millages. The board is also reviewing a PCAP charter revision and the purchase of a LiveScan machine.

• Renewal of Ambulance Service Millage
• Renewal of Public Safety Millage
• PCAP Charter Revision
• Purchase of LiveScan Machine and reallocation of CIP funding

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss several ARPA funding proposals for infrastructure and community services. The body will also review budget adjustments and appointments for county commissions.

• ARPA Proposal #028: Covert Township Sanitary Sewer Improvements
• ARPA Proposal #030: Broadband for Keeler Township area - Sister Lakes Cable
• ARPA Proposal #035: Lawton Lead Service Line Replacement
• CDBG Grant Funding public hearing for Mattawan Life Sciences
• Arlington Township funding request for new voter and master cards

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss financial reports, claims, and budget adjustments. The body will also review the South Haven Buoy Project and the annual contribution to the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission.

• Budget adjustments
• Southwest Michigan Planning Commission annual contribution
• South Haven Buoy Project
• County Administrator travel reimbursement
• Commissioner per diems

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee will receive an update on ARPA funds and review four specific project proposals. The meeting includes presentations on sewer, broadband, youth services, and water line replacements.

• Proposal #028: Covert Township Sanity Sewer Improvements
• Proposal #030: Broadband for Keeler Township area - Sister Lakes Cable
• Proposal #033: Red Arrow Youth Center
• Proposal #035: Lawton Lead Service Line Replacement

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission will meet to discuss a specific financial relief request and receive a general update on veterans services. The committee will also review minutes from the February 4, 2022 meeting.

• Financial Relief for Vetra Spec # 335769
• Veterans Services Update presented by David Krzycki

Administrative Affairs Committee

The committee will hold a strategy session to discuss county facilities and commissioner compensation. The meeting also includes proposals regarding the creation and elimination of specific staff positions and pay scale adjustments.

• Discussion of County Facilities
• Review of Commissioner Compensation
• Proposal to eliminate and create an AFSCME position in Buildings and Grounds
• Proposal to add ranges to the existing non-union pay scale
• Proposal to create a Chief Operations Officer position and elevate Ryan Post to Chief Financial Officer

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee will meet to receive a Human Resources update and consider a request for out-of-state travel for sheriff deputy training.

• Human Resources update presented by Director Anna Cerven
• Out of state travel request for Sheriff Deputy Training presented by Captain Jim Charon

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The Buildings and Grounds Committee will meet to receive a general update on county facilities. The committee is also scheduled to discuss the purchase of properties on Kalamazoo Street.

• Purchase of Kalamazoo Street Properties
• Buildings & Grounds Update

General

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing regarding a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant. The item will be presented by County Administrator Frank Hardester and Marcy Hamilton of the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission.

• Public hearing on Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review proposals for renewing ambulance and public safety millages. The body will also discuss the purchase of Kalamazoo Street properties and a grant submission for the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.

• Renewal of Ambulance Service Millage
• Renewal of Public Safety Millage
• Purchase of Kalamazoo Street Properties
• Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Grant Submission
• Competitive IT Wages

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the purchase of properties on Kalamazoo Street and a utility expansion study for Lawton and Porter. The meeting includes several consent items regarding 911 dispatch, marine patrol wages, and transit contracts.

• Purchase of Kalamazoo Street Properties
• ARPA Proposal # 032 - Lawton / Porter Utility Expansion Study
• 911 Dispatch Console Integration Agreement with MPSCS
• Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Grant Submission
• MDOT Proposed Resolution of Intent 2022

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several ARPA funding proposals and the sale of a Mattawan property. The meeting includes reviews of salary exceptions for the Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and Buildings and Grounds Director, as well as a proposal for administration reorganization.

• ARPA Proposal # 023: VBC Court and Sheriff's Office File Digitization
• ARPA Proposal # 024: Caring Network Maternal Infant Health Program
• ARPA Proposal # 026: Lead Service Replacement - SHAWSA
• Mattawan Property Sale
• Public hearing setting for Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Grant

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss county claims, budget adjustments, and the monthly financial statement. The body is also considering a CESF grant extension through June 30, 2022.

• CESF Grant Extension through 6/30/2022
• Budget Adjustments
• Commissioner Per Diems
• County Administrator Travel Voucher
• Review of Claims

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee is meeting to receive an update on ARPA funds and review several funding proposals. The body will discuss requests from local infrastructure, health, and community organizations.

• Proposal # 029 - Road Commission CR 388
• Proposal # 030 Broadband - Keeler Township area - Sister Lakes Cable
• Proposal # 031 Van Buren Cass District Health Department
• Proposal # 032 - Lawton / Porter Utility Expansion
• Proposal # 033 - Red Arrow Youth Center

Veterans Services Committee

The Soldiers & Sailors Relief Commission is meeting to discuss a specific request for financial relief. The committee will also review minutes from the December 7, 2021 meeting.

• Financial Relief for Vetra Spec # 336932

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations, and Contracts Committee will review personnel and administrative updates. Discussions include competitive wages for IT and a proposal to reorganize county administration.

• Competitive IT wages presentation
• Salary exception for Family Court Administrator
• Administration reorganization proposal
• Out of state travel request

Buildings and Grounds Committee

The committee will receive an update on buildings and grounds and discuss a position vacancy. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the January 25, 2022 meeting.

• Buildings & Grounds Update presented by Jeff Hall
• Position Vacancy presented by Frank Hardester

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss three ARPA funding proposals and receive the Road Commission Annual Report. The body will also review personnel matters including a salary exception and position reclassification.

• ARPA Proposal #023: VBC Court and Sheriff's Office File Digitization
• ARPA Proposal #024: Caring Network Maternal Infant Health Program
• ARPA Proposal #026: Lead Service Replacement - SHAWSA
• Road Commission Annual Report presentation
• Policy to authorize VSD or VSO to approve burial relief funds

Board of Commissioners

The Van Buren County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss administrative and financial matters. Key agenda items include a technology proposal for a rural broadband inventory survey and the selection of an attorney firm.

• DCS Technology Proposal for Rural Broadband Inventory Survey
• Selection of Attorney Firm
• 2022-2023 911 Local Surcharge Collection
• 911 Customer Premise Equipment phone hardware replacement
• Change of Public Transit position from part-time to full-time

Veterans Services Committee

The committee will receive updates and statistics from the Veterans Services Director. Members will consider the approval of additional MVAA funds and a policy regarding the authorization of burial relief funds.

• Approval for additional MVAA funds
• Policy to authorize the VSD or VSO to approve burial relief funds
• Veterans Services statistics update

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2022 annual borrowing resolution and copier lease agreements. The meeting includes appointments to the Economic Development Corporation and Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, as well as a closed session regarding real property purchase.

• 2022 Annual Borrowing Resolution
• MDOT Contract 2022-0144 P1
• Copier Lease Agreements
• Scheduling Software Replacement for public transit
• Approval for additional MVAA funds for Veterans Services

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review claims and monthly financial statements. The body will discuss 911 local surcharge collection and phone hardware replacement. Other items include Commissioner per diems and a broadband internet survey proposal.

• 911 CPE (Customer Premise Equipment) phone hardware replacement
• 2022-2023 911 Local Surcharge Collection
• Merit Data Collection Proposal for Broadband Internet Survey
• Commissioner Per Diems
• Retirement and Adoption of K9 Aspen

Labor, Negotiations and Contracts Committee

The Labor, Negotiations, and Contracts Committee will review human resources updates and staffing changes. The body will discuss converting a part-time public transit position to full-time and the creation of a Project Director position.

• Part-time to full-time position change for Public Transit
• Creation of a Project Director position
• Position reclassification
• Public Transit Letter of Understanding

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a 2022 annual borrowing resolution and copier lease agreements. The body will also discuss a strategic plan, the Delinquent Tax Revolving Fund, and a Capital Improvement Plan abbreviated list.

• 2022 Annual Borrowing Resolution
• MDOT Contract 2022-0144 P1
• Copier Lease Agreements
• Public transit scheduling software replacement
• South Haven / Van Buren County Convention and Visitors Bureau update

ARPA Committee

The ARPA Committee is meeting to receive an update on ARPA funds and discuss several funding proposals. These include building improvements, utility replacements, and community health programs.

• Proposal #013: HVAC for Administration Building
• Proposal #014: Windows for Administration Building
• Proposal #022: Lead Service Replacement for South Haven Area Water & Sewer Authority
• Proposal #019: VBC Children's Advocacy Center
• Proposal #024: Caring Network Maternal Infant Health Program

Public Transit Committee

The Public Transit Committee will review financial, ridership, and operations reports for October and November. The body will also discuss a scheduling software replacement and an annual application for fiscal year 2023.

• MDOT Contract 2022-0144 P1
• FY 2023 Annual Application
• Scheduling Software Replacement
• October and November Financial Reports
• Ridership and Operations Reports

Administrative Affairs Committee

The Administrative Affairs Committee is meeting to discuss IT equipment and financial resolutions. The body will consider appointments to the Land Bank and Building authorities, as well as the 2021 Land Bank Annual Report.

• Emergency purchase of a replacement core network switch
• Copier lease agreements
• 2022 Annual Borrowing Resolution
• Re-appointment of Paul DeYoung to the Land Bank Authority and Building Authority
• Deputy Medical Examiner appointments

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing proposals for broadband allocation, essential worker pay, and jail facility upgrades. The body is also discussing various grants and the re-appointment of Paul DeYoung to county authorities.

• ARPA fund allocation for broadband and essential worker pay resolution
• Proposal #020 and #021 for jail privacy walls and recreation room dividers
• Re-appointment of Paul DeYoung to the Land Bank Authority and Building Authority
• COVID Mini-Grant and Access and Visitation Grant contracts
• FY 2023 Annual Application for Public Transit

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss HVAC proposals for the 911 Operations Center and Historic Courthouse. The meeting includes reviews of grant contracts and the re-appointment of Paul DeYoung to two county authorities.

• Proposal # 011 - HVAC - 911 Operations Center
• Proposal # 012 - HVAC - Historic Courthouse
• Re-Appointment of Paul DeYoung to the Land Bank Authority and Building Authority
• COVID Mini-Grant and Access and Visitation Grant contracts
• Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) Contract Renewal with Steve Smith

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to establish leadership and operational procedures for 2022. The body will elect its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson and set its meeting schedule.

• Nomination and election of Chairperson
• Nomination and election of Vice Chairperson
• Review and adoption of Board Bylaws and Procedures
• Appointment of Commissioners to outside/liaison roles
• Establishment of the 2022 Board of Commissioners meeting schedule

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss several grant-related items and financial reports. The body will review requests and contracts involving children's advocacy, COVID grants, and court awards.

• VBC Children's Advocacy Center presentation
• COVID Mini-Grant Contract
• Access and Visitation Grant
• VBC Courts Grant Awards
• Foster Swift Invoices