Minutes Archive

Board of Commissioners Minutes

CALHOUN COUNTY
PROCEEDINGS OF THE
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
April 3, 2003

The Regular Session of the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners convened at 7:06 p.m., Thursday, April 3, 2003 in the Commissioners' Meeting Room, County Building, Marshall, Michigan.

Roll Call: Present: Comrs. Austin, Frederick, Ivey, Miller, Moore, Segal and Strowbridge.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

Invocation was given by Chairman Austin; followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Comr. Miller.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA:

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Ivey, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the April 3, 2003 agenda as presented.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

“Motion by Comr. Miller, supported by Comr. Ivey, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the March 6, 2003 minutes as presented.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

CITIZENS’ TIME:

Ms. Pearl Gray-McWhorther, Battle Creek resident, advised that she has requested a meeting before the Share Center Board to address issues regarding the homeless. Ms. Gray-McWhorther further advised that she has been advised by women in the community that some ministers have been making advances. Ms. Gray-McWhorther stated that she has names, and warned the ministers to cease their fornication.

SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:

Crime Victims’ Rights Week Proclamation

Chairman Austin read and presented the following proclamation to Prosecutor John Hallacy.

Res. 52-2003

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Miller, resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners adopt the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, the week of April 6 - 12, 2003 has been designated as National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, with the theme being “Fulfill the Promise”; and

WHEREAS, youth between the ages of 12 and 19 experience the highest rate of violent victimization in the United States; and

WHEREAS, of the approximately 897,000 children found to be victims of child maltreatment, 63 percent were neglected, 19 percent were physically abused, 10 percent were sexually abused, and 8 percent were psychologically maltreated; and

WHEREAS, approximately 1,200 children died of abuse or neglect in 2000 and 44 percent of the children who died from abuse were under one year of age and 85 percent of the children were younger than 6 years of age; and

WHEREAS, in America, the direct tangible cost to crime victims annually are estimated to be $105 Billion in medical expenses, lost earnings, and public program costs related to victim assistance, pain and suffering and reduced quality of life increase the cost to $450 Billion annually; and

WHEREAS, the direct cost of medical treatment for battered women annually is estimated at $1.8 Billion; and

WHEREAS, the annual cost of property crime to victims is more than $11.8 Billion and vandalism costs households a total of $1.7 Billion in damages annually.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners that April 6 - 12, 2003 is recognized as Crime Victims’ Rights Week in Calhoun County. The Calhoun County Board of Commissioners thank and recognize those Victims of Crime, members of the Calhoun County Prosecutor’s Office, the Calhoun County Sheriff Department and other Law Enforcement and Service Agencies, who, through their cooperative effort in coordinating the events of Crime Victims’ Rights Week have helped “Fulfill the Promise” to the victims of crime.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

Prosecutor Hallacy advised that this year’s focus is on the children, advising that it is extremely difficult for the Prosecuting Attorneys and law enforcement staff to see these young victims of crime. Prosecutor Hallacy thanked the Sheriff Department staff and other law enforcement agencies who assist the victims in finding a better life.

National County Government Week Proclamation

Res. 53-2003

“Motion by Comr. Moore, supported by Comr. Segal, resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners adopt the following proclamation:

WHEREAS, Americans place great faith in the county form of government, which traces its roots to the earliest days of the republic; and

WHEREAS, county government truly supports the nation’s citizenry, serving as their voice in town squares, state houses and the White House; and

WHEREAS, America’s counties are proud to be among those providing proof that local solutions can be applied throughout America to solve many of the nation’s most challenging needs; and

WHEREAS, county government’s primary concern is to assure that county leaders provide citizens with an environment that encourages all people to build strong families and strong communities; and

WHEREAS, the quality of life for all Americans is dependent upon choices that accommodate all citizens while preserving the community; and

WHEREAS, by providing county citizens with safe, healthy communities, which are necessary to ensure a high quality of life for all, counties across the nation will continue to thrive and prosper; and

WHEREAS, the arts, learning and community history go hand in hand in providing stability and well-being to all Calhoun County citizens; and

WHEREAS, community leaders, county leaders and all citizens should take steps to recognize all that is good within Calhoun County, and praise those programs and individuals who have made progress and innovation available to all within the community.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners hereby proclaim the week of April 6 - 12, 2003 National County Government Week.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

CONSENT AGENDA:

Res. 54-2003

“Motion by Comr. Ivey, supported by Comr. Moore, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the following April 3, 2003 Consent Agenda as presented:

A. Petitions, Communications, Reports:

(1) Communication received from Lee Township supporting adoption of the Calhoun County Farmland Preservation Ordinance. (Received and placed on file)

(2) Notice of a public hearing scheduled for April 1, 2003 regarding granting an Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate to Advanced Special Tools received from Battle Creek City. (Received and placed on file, with a copy remitted to Interim Equalization Director Jean Cortright)

(3) Communication received from the Michigan Department of Treasury regarding the enactment of Public Act 698 {Register of Deeds Automation Fund Fees} which becomes effective March 31, 2003. (Received and placed on file)

(4) Communication received from Convis Township indicating interest in renewal or extension of the Convis Township Law Enforcement Services Agreement. (Received and placed on file)

(5) Communication received from the Michigan Department of Consumer & Industry Services advising that Michigan Uniform Energy Code Rule Amendments will be enforced effective April 1, 2003. (Received and placed on file)

(6) Notice of a public hearing scheduled for April 7, 2003 regarding granting an Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate to Trojan Heat Treat Incorporated received from Homer Village. (Received and placed on file, with a copy remitted to Interim Equalization Director Jean Cortright)

B. Resolutions:

(1) Calhoun/Barry Voluntary Mortgage Review Board Appointment

{a} Jerry Robinson – Term Expires December 31, 2004

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

SPECIAL COMMITTEE/WORKSHOP/BOARD REPORTS:

Area Agency on Aging, Region IIIB

Comr. Segal reported that the Area Agency on Aging is seeking public comments on their multi-year services plan on Monday, April 28 at the Burnham Brook Center, and encouraged anyone wishing to comment to attend.

Metropolitan Planning Commission - Farmland Preservation Ordinance Update

Comr. Moore reported that there have been discussions with different groups and that General Counsel has worked to put together some wording and reduce the number of pages for a clearer ordinance. Comr. Moore advised that the final version of the ordinance is finished, has been emailed to the County Administrator/Controller and administration, and shall be brought back before the Board on April 15. Comr. Moore continued that there is still one organization discussing the ordinance, however, that he anticipates discussion and action on April 15.

Comr. Frederick reminded everyone that the April 15 Equalization Session falls on a Tuesday.

Criminal Justice System Workshop

Chairman Austin reported that the Workshop received an all day training session on Tuesday and additional training on Wednesday which was very beneficial. Chairman Austin advised that the sessions were attended by representatives from the local law enforcement agencies and other entities. The National Institute of Corrections consultants were very helpful in explaining the work which must be done in data collection and analysis. Chairman Austin advised that the training was provided for free, and stated that the Workshop shall be meeting again soon and is looking forward to continuing its work.

County Administrator/Controller Greg Purcell commented that he believed the training was very beneficial and he was pleased with the quality of representatives in attendance.

PETITIONS AND NEW BUSINESS:

County Administrator/Controller’s Report

Sheriff Department Byrne Memorial Formula Grant Program Subcontract

Mr. Purcell advised that the grant is for the Sheriff Department’s S.W.E.T. Team.

Sheriff Allen Byam advised that the continuation grant is included within the Department’s 2003 budget and allows the Department to fund 50 percent of the personnel costs of a deputy and a clerk. County funds pay the remainder for the deputy and the S.W.E.T. Team reimburses the county for the remaining cost of the clerk.

Sheriff Byam advised that he shall have the Team Commander come before the Board some time in the future to provide a report. Sheriff Byam stated that the Team has been very successful, and advised that methane amphetamine has come into the county and that resources shall be dedicated to the interdiction of that.

Res. 55-2003

“Motion by Comr. Miller, supported by Comr. Frederick, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the Byrne Memorial Formula Grant Program Subcontract between the Michigan Department of Community Health, Office of Drug Control Policy, and the Calhoun County Sheriff Department in the amount of $56,953 for the period commencing October 1, 2002 through September 30, 2003; further, authorize the Board Chairman to execute the Subcontract on behalf of Calhoun County and the Calhoun County Sheriff Department.”

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

Equalization Director Recruitment Signing Bonus

Mr. Purcell advised that in attempting to fill the position the Human Resource Department has advertised on two occasions and received only two applications. Only one applicant was a Level 4 assessor and none met the standards for the position. Mr. Purcell stated that the county will be conducting a salary survey this year and shall bring the survey before the Board in the Fall. Mr. Purcell continued that the pay scale for the position is not out-of-line, however, the number of Level 4 assessors is almost equal to the number of positions available in the state which is making it difficult to recruit.

Mr. Purcell requested authorization to offer up to a $10,000 signing bonus rather than alter the pay scale. Mr. Purcell advised that he anticipates payment of up to one half of the bonus within the first payroll period and the balance paid after six months with a positive evaluation for an individual with a Level 4 certification, or payment of an unspecified amount of less than one half within the first payroll period with the requirement to achieve the Level 4 certification within a specified time frame and payment of the balance upon certification for a Level 3 applicant if a Level 4 assessor cannot be recruited.

Res. 56-2003

“Motion by Comr. Moore, supported by Comr. Ivey, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners authorize the County Administrator/Controller to offer up to a $10,000 signing bonus for recruitment of an Equalization Director.”

Comr. Miller inquired whether the bonus is a one time thing. Mr. Purcell responded yes, however, advised that he believes that the salary will eventually be increased. Comr. Miller inquired whether there is any way to identify the Level 3 assessors who are presently training. Mr. Purcell responded that there probably is a way to acquire a list of those assessors. Comr. Miller noted that Jackson County contracts their assessor and inquired whether contracting someone is a consideration. Mr. Purcell pointed out that those counties that contract their services still have to pay a Level 4 assessor to come in and review the work and the report before it goes to the state, and he estimated a cost of approximately $20,000. Comr. Miller voiced concern regarding setting a precedent. Mr. Purcell pointed out that the county is supposed to have a Level 4 assessor by November.

Comr. Moore stated that while he too is concerned, he believes the Board should recognize that the issue is supply and demand.

Chairman Austin advised that he too was concerned regarding equity across the county as the issue was brought forward, however reluctantly, he believes the Board must do something; therefore, he shall support the request.

Comr. Frederick stated that she also had reservations which she shared with Chairman Austin. Comr. Frederick stated that she understands the problem and would not be in favor of contracting out the services.

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

Military Order of the Purple Heart State Convention County Appropriation

Mr. Purcell stated that Mr. Losey approached him a couple of weeks ago inquiring whether the county could offer some support for the convention. Mr. Purcell advised that he directed Mr. Losey to the Visitor and Convention Bureau, and he believes that Mr. Losey has some good news.

Veterans Affairs Director Scott Losey introduced Rick Thomas of Local Chapter 110 of the Military Order of the Purple Heart. Mr. Losey advised that he was not approached by the Chapter for the funding, that he offered the assistance. Mr. Losey further advised that he contacted the Visitor and Convention Bureau and that while they cannot offer any funding, the Bureau will provide coupons, maps and has arranged to have Tony the Tiger at the convention to meet the guests. Mr. Losey stated that the county appropriation will assist in offsetting some of the expenses incurred for the convention.

Mr. Thomas advised that Chapter 110 is located in Battle Creek and that Senator Dole was one veteran that came through the Chapter. Mr. Thomas advised that the Chapter contributes to programs and projects that have a positive effect on veterans and their communities; e.g., Santa’s Helper, the Marine Corps Toys for Tots Program, the Charitable Union, the Haven of Rest and Safe House; further in addition, Chapter members spend many hours volunteering at the Veterans Affairs Hospital.

Res. 57-2003

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Moore, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners grant the Veterans Affairs Department’s request for an appropriation of $700 to be expended from the General Fund to offset expenses to occur as a result of the Military Order of the Purple Heart State Convention in Battle Creek on May 8, 2003 through May 10, 2003.”

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

Mr. Losey requested that either the Board Chairman or a member of the Commission present the check on May 8 at the convention. Chairman Austin responded that he believes the Board can accommodate his request.

Mr. Thomas thanked the Board for their kind donation. Chairman Austin thanked the Chapter’s members for their service to the county.

CITIZENS’ TIME:

Ms. Gray-McWhorther commented that no one has said a word about her work to get the Veterans Affairs Department relocated to the third floor of the Toeller Building.

Ms. Gray-McWhorther advised that she has received nothing in writing regarding services for her son in the chapel. Ms. Gray-McWhorther addressed a letter she remitted, advising that if she does not receive a response by Wednesday, she will be petitioning for all veterans to be able to use the chapel.

Ms. Gray-McWhorther presented a bible for Ms. Wiseley’s son Brendan.

Mr. Jerry Keller, Battle Creek resident, advised regarding the Area Agency on Aging’s meeting at the Burnham Brook Center, that the Center is not open to the public. Mr. Keller stated that he is 65, yet has been told that he is not welcome at the Center.

Mr. Losey thanked Ms. Gray-McWhorther for her support in helping to get the Department relocated to the third floor of the Toeller Building.

CLAIMS PAYABLE LISTINGS:

Res. 58-2003

“Motion by Comr. Miller, supported by Comr. Segal, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve payment of the list of claims against the county in the total amount of $27,943.81 for the week of March 17, 2003; further, approve payment of the list of claims against the county in the total amount of $1,598,456.52 for the week of March 18, 2003; finally, approve payment of the list of claims against the county in the total amount of $624,895.68 for the week of March 25, 2003.”

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Comr. Frederick announced that the Senior Millage Allocation Committee and the Director are conducting forums in the community regarding the senior millage and to update citizens regarding the services and difficulties encountered regarding the prescription discount program. The first forum is in Albion at the Burnham Brook Center on April 9 at 11:30 a.m. Comr. Frederick stated that everyone is welcome to attend, and advised that the forums shall be advertised in the newspapers in Marshall and Battle Creek.

RECESS:

The meeting recessed at 8:00 p.m. at the call of the Chair.

Calhoun County
315 West Green Street
Marshall, MI 49068
Phone: (269) 781-0700
Fax: (269) 781-0140

Click here to contact the webmaster at Calhoun County
with your comments/feedback on this website.

Click here to report technical problems with this website,
i.e., broken links, pages not found, etc.

Several photos included in this
web site were provided courtesy of Scene Magazine.

DHTML Menu By Milonic JavaScript

Site Use Policy

Site Design/Development by