Minutes Archive

Board of Commissioners Minutes

CALHOUN COUNTY

PROCEEDINGS OF THE

BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

September 1, 2005

The Special Session of the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners convened at 6:30 p.m. in the Law Library, Marshall County Building, 315 West Green Street, Marshall, Michigan.

Roll call: Present: Comrs. Bolger, Moore, Segal, Solis and Todd. Temporarily Excused: Comr. Miller (Arrived at 6:35 p.m.) and Comr. Strowbridge (Arrived at 6:40 p.m.).

Also Present: Assistant County Administrator Wendee Woods, County Administrator/Controller Greg Purcell, Finance Director James Latham, Marengo Township resident Gardy Berezonsky and Road Commission Managing Director Dennis Randolph.

SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS -- Planning Services Discussion:

Road Commission Managing Director Dennis Randolph explained the various activities of the Road Commission and Community Development.

RECESS:

“Motion by Comr. Bolger, supported by Comr. Todd, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners recess at 6:57 p.m. to reconvene in regular session.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

The Board recessed at 6:57 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

The Calhoun County Board of Commissioners convened in Regular Session at 7:00 p.m. in the Commissioners' Meeting Room, County Building, Marshall, Michigan.

Roll call: Present: Comrs. Bolger, Miller, Moore, Segal, Solis, Strowbridge and Todd.

INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:

A Moment of Personal Prayer was observed; followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by Comr. Bolger.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA/ADDENDUM:

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Moore, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the September 1, 2005 agenda and addendum as presented.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS:

Hidden Children of the Holocaust Remembrance Month Resolution

Comr. Segal read the following resolution.

Res. 138-2005

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

WHEREAS, when World War II began in September 1939, there were approximately 1.6 million Jewish children living in the territories that the German armies or their allies would occupy. When the war in Europe ended in May 1945, more than 1 million and perhaps as many as 1.5 million Jewish children were dead, targeted victims in the Nazis’ calculated program of genocide; and

WHEREAS, thousands of Jewish children, however, survived this brutal carnage, many of them as hidden children. Theirs was a life in shadows, where a careless remark, a denunciation, or the murmurings of inquisitive neighbors could lead to discovery or death; and

WHEREAS, hundreds of former hidden children recounted the especially difficult pain of their survival. Many sought to recover a past that the Nazis had stolen from them-families they had never known or were only distant memories, even their own given names. Others were shocked to learn of being Jewish. By delving into the recesses of their former lives, these special survivors preserve the memory of parents who bore them, rescuers who saved them, and a time that threatened to engulf them; and

WHEREAS, the Art Center of Battle Creek will host an exhibition organized and circulated by the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum entitled, “Life in Shadows: Hidden Children and the Holocaust.” This exhibition is visiting only three American cities, Chicago, New York, and Battle Creek from September 6, 2005 to November 13, 2005; and

WHEREAS, world renowned performers and Holocaust survivors including, Pierre Sauvage, a documentary film maker and hidden child; Miriam Winter, child survivor and author of the book Trains; Rene Lichtman, child survivor and Co-Chair of the Hidden Child and Child Survivors of Michigan; Theodore Bikel, Oscar nominated and Emmy winning actor of stage, television, and film; Kate Burton, movie actress and daughter of Richard Burton; and Alisa Weilerstein, a 27-year-old accomplished cellist, will all participate in events in Battle Creek supporting the exhibition; and

WHEREAS, many members of the Battle Creek community have contributed their resources to this exhibition and its supporting events, including: the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, the Battle Creek Community Foundation, the Marshall Community Foundation, the Rotary Club of Battle Creek, the Art Center of Battle Creek, the Battle Creek Symphony, Willard Public Library, and hundreds of individual citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners will recognize and remember September 2005 as Hidden Children of the Holocaust Remembrance Month.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

Chairman Miller advised that the resolution shall be presented to the Art Center of Battle Creek Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at the event’s kickoff.

Recognition of Juvenile Home Employees Sandy Eis and Chris Hug

Res. 139-2005

“Motion by Comr. Bolger, supported by Comr. Todd, adopt the following: Resolved that the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners hereby recognize and commend Juvenile Home Employees Sandy Eis and Chris Hug on their nominations to the Michigan Juvenile Detention Association for Support Staff Worker of the Year and Child Care Worker of the Year.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

Juvenile Home Director Reggie LaGrand stated that all the staff is doing a great job and that it had not been easy to only choose two for nomination.

Recognition of Veterans Service Officer Jude Lonergan

Chairman Miller read and presented the resolution to Ms. Lonergan.

Res. 140-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Todd, resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the following commendation:

WHEREAS, a dentally uninsured veteran presented an emergent medical circumstance in that he needed assistance in financing major dental surgery to include upper and lower dentures; and

WHEREAS, after a lengthy interview that entailed a review of dental cost estimates, Jude Lonergan completed a Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Relief application requesting $2,800 in emergency assistance; and

WHEREAS, through a series of telephone calls to members of the Veterans Affairs Committee, Jude secured enough votes to support a Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Relief grant for $2,800; and

WHEREAS, realizing the unusually high expense to the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Relief Fund, Jude Lonergan engaged in yet another series of telephone calls in hopes of garnering other agency emergency assistance to offset county expense, and through her own initiative and after many hours of telephone correspondence, Jude was able to secure an unprecedented $2,000 from a litany of agency grants and donations; and

WHEREAS, Jude Lonergan’s persistence in securing these grants and donations saved the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Relief Fund $2,000.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners commend JUDE A. LONERGAN for her dedication to both the emergent need of the veteran and the fiscal well being of county taxpayer dollars.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

CONSENT AGENDA:

Res. 141-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Todd, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the following September 1, 2005 Consent Agenda as presented:

Petitions, Communications, Reports:

(1)
Copy of a communication remitted to Ms. Diane Wright, Battle Creek resident, received from the Michigan Department of Agriculture advising that the environmental complaint against her livestock and poultry facility has been abated. (Received and placed on file, with a copy remitted to Environmental Health Director Ted Havens, Manure Specialist Natalie Rector and Drain Commissioner Blaine VanSickle)

Resolutions:

(1) Calhoun County Youth Council Appointments

(Terms Expire December 31, 2006)

{a} Vikram Badarinath – Lakeview High School

{b} Ryan Bean -- Harper Creek High School

{c} Amanda Carlin -- Pennfield High School

{d} Amanda Horan – St. Phillip High School

{e} Sarah Karr – Marshall High School

{f} Charlie LaNoue – Albion High School

{g} Ruth Lincoln -- Harper Creek High School

{h} Sarah Lockton – Lakeview High School

{i} Laura Murphy -- Athens High School

{j} Christopher Walsh -- Marshall High School

(2) Jury Board Appointment

(Term Shall Expire April 30, 2008)

{a} Marlene Plassman

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

PETITIONS AND NEW BUSINESS:

County Administrator/Controller’s Report

FY 2005 Solid Waste Challenge Grant Program Agreements

County Administrator/Controller Greg Purcell stated that one grant is to the Pennfield Optimist Club in the amount of $1,200 and the other is to the City of Battle Creek in the amount of $8,800.

Solid Waste Director Tiffany Seymour stated that the Program commenced in 1997 and is designed to assist local units of government, schools and non-profit organizations in implementing new waste reduction, reuse, recycling and composting opportunities or educational programs in Calhoun County.

Ms. Seymour advised that the Solid Waste Management Planning Advisory Committee recommends the approval of an agreement for $8,800 to the City of Battle Creek for improvements to the City’s recycling program and an agreement for $1,200 for the Pennfield Optimist Club for reusable grocery bags which the Club shall be handing out at the Pennfield Felpausch Grocery Store.

Res. 142-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Todd, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the 2005 Solid Waste Challenge Grant Agreements between Calhoun County and Pennfield Optimist Club in the amount of $1,200, and between Calhoun County and the City of Battle Creek in the amount of $8,800; further, authorize the Board Chairman to execute both Agreements on behalf of Calhoun County.”

Comr. Segal inquired whether the City is expanding what they shall accept. Ms. Seymour responded that the City is just promoting their program.

Comr. Bolger inquired where the grant funds come from. Ms. Seymour responded that the funding is fees provided through the agreement with C & C Landfill.

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

County Policy Amendments, Adoption and Rescissions

Mr. Purcell advised that Ms. Bucienski distributed the policy revisions to all the department heads and made a presentation at a department head meeting.

Human Resource Director Jennifer Bucienski advised that new Policy No. 305 is to address temporary or seasonal employees; that Policy No. 306 - Job Openings has been rewritten to include the current hiring freeze process, eliminate reference to the Michigan Employment Security Commission which no longer exists, add language regarding screening, interviewing and reference checks assistance from the Human Resources Department, and remove language requiring physical examinations for certain employees.

Ms. Bucienski continued that Policy No. 307 - Workers’ Compensation has been amended to include the necessary sections of the Michigan Workers’ Compensation Disability Act; and provides detailing information regarding reporting an injury, seeking medical treatment, and wage loss benefits. Ms. Bucienski advised that Policy No. 310 - Job Classifications, Compensation System and Performance Appraisals has been rewritten combining Policy No. 310 and Policy No. 370 - Personnel Transfers and includes some language not covered in other policies.

Ms. Bucienski recommended Policy No. 320 - Filling J.T.P.A. Positions be rescinded as it is no longer applicable, and Policy No. 370 which has been incorporated into Policy No. 310.

Res. 143-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Strowbridge, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners amend the following County policies:

Policy No. 306 - Job Openings
Policy No. 307 - Workers’ Compensation
Policy No. 310 - Job Classification & Compensation System, and Performance Appraisals

FURTHER, adopt County Policy No. 305 - County Temporary/Seasonal Employees; and

FINALLY, rescind County Policy No. 320 - Filling J.T.P.A. Positions, and County Policy No. 370 - Personnel Transfers {as County Policy No. 370 has been consolidated into County Policy No. 310, as amended}.”

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

Request for Juvenile Home Position Change

Mr. Purcell stated that the request is to change an existing Youth Specialist position to that of an Activities/Recreation Coordinator.

Mr. LaGrand stated that the change shall provide consistent recreation, physical education and activities programming for the youth that will focus upon social skills and character development, and self-esteem enhancement. Mr. LaGrand advised that in the future the position may provide opportunity for some fund raising functions, as well as some community service projects or volunteer opportunities for youth once they leave the Home.

Res. 144-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Todd, adopt the following, as amended: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the Juvenile Home Director’s request to change an existing Youth Specialist position to that of an Activities/Recreation Coordinator position, with amendment of the job description from a temporary full time status to full time status.”

Chairman Miller inquired whether the Youth Specialist is an existing position. Mr. LaGrand responded Yes. Comr. Strowbridge noted that the status within the new job description provides for the position to be temporary full time. Mr. LaGrand advised that the position shall be a permanent full time position.

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

FY 2005-2006 Health Department Comprehensive Planning, Budgeting and Contract Agreement

Mr. Purcell advised that the Agreement in the amount of $1,621,452 is for the period of October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006.

Interim Health Officer Ginger Hentz stated that the agreement is the Department’s annual contract with the state that provides funding for the Department’s essential services.

Res. 145-2005

“Motion by Comr. Moore, supported by Comr. Bolger, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the FY 2005-2006 Comprehensive Planning, Budgeting and Contract Agreement between the Michigan Department of Community Health, the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners, and the Calhoun County Health Department in the amount of $1,621,452 for the period of October 1, 2005 through September 30, 2006; further, authorize the Board Chairman to execute said Agreement on behalf of the Board of Commissioners and the Calhoun County Health Department.”

Comr. Bolger inquired how the Department shall address the projected decreases. Ms. Hentz responded that the Department believes those decreases can be absorbed through all the programs. Comr. Bolger inquired whether the Department shall be seeking grants from private organizations. Ms. Hentz responded yes, advising that the Department actively seeks grants.

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

FY 2005-2006 Health Department Budget

Mr. Purcell pointed out that a revised staffing pattern is provided within the addendum. Mr. Purcell advised that the Department is multi-funded and subject to more budget changes throughout the year. Mr. Purcell reported that the budget has been approved by the Board of Health.

Ms. Hentz advised that budget preparation had been difficult this year due to the state budget process not being completed and federal funding decisions not yet being made, therefore, certain assumptions were made for uncertain items. Ms. Hentz advised that the Department shall not be receiving some United Way funding and some funding from the Department of Human Services.

Res. 146-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Moore, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve the FY 2005/2006 Calhoun County Public Health Department budget, as approved and recommended by the Board of Health at its August 15, 2005 meeting.”

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

Drug Court Grant Agreement Amendment No. 1

Mr. Purcell advised that the amendment is to extend the grant termination date from September 30, 2005 to September 30, 2006.

Drug Court Coordinator Jackie Smith stated that the Women’s Drug Court commenced in 2003 and the Men’s Drug Court commenced in 2004. Ms. Smith advised that there have been ten graduates and the birth of three drug-free babies out of 52 participates in the Programs. Ms. Smith further advised that more than half of the participants are working and that the others are either in school or performing volunteer work.

Mr. Purcell stated that the success of the Drug Courts is due to the support of Judge Garbrecht and his staff.

Res. 147-2005

“Motion by Comr. Strowbridge, supported by Comr. Segal, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners approve Amendment # 1 to the October 1, 2004 Drug Court Agreement {Contract No. SCAO-2005-39} between the Michigan Supreme Court, State Court Administrative Office, and the 37th Circuit Court extending the grant termination from September 30, 2005 to September 30, 2006; further, authorize the Board Chairman to execute said Amendment on behalf of Calhoun County and the 37th Circuit Court.”

Comr. Todd inquired whether there are any programs for the children of the participants. Ms. Smith responded that the Court has a wrap-around program with the Family Independence Agency.

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

Jail Commissary Bid Award Memorandum

Mr. Purcell advised that Mr. Wilcox has provided a memorandum to each Commissioner regarding the jail commissary bid.

CITIZENS’ TIME:

Mr. Gardy Berezonsky, Marengo Township resident, advised that he had a problem outside of the fairgrounds Saturday with three individuals who are alleged county employees, however, refused to show him their county identification. Mr. Berezonsky pointed out that the taxpayers spent $60,000 in 2002 for county employee identification. Mr. Berezonsky advised that one gentleman was on a horse and the other two were in a golf cart, and requested that the Board look into the matter.

COMMISSIONERS’ TIME:

Comr. Segal reminded everyone that Saturday is the Farmers Market in Springfield and that from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. there shall be a classic car show.

Comr. Todd commended the Sheriff Department, the Battle Creek Police and Fire Departments, and the State Police Department for the mock disaster drill.

Comr. Bolger encouraged citizens to enjoy the local establishments during the Labor Day weekend, and advised that September 10 and 11 is the Marshall Home Tour.

Chairman Miller wished Commissioner Solis a happy birthday.

Chairman Miller reminded everyone that Saturday at 8:00 a.m. is the Alzheimers Memory Walk leaving from the Binder Park Zoo. Chairman Miller advised that he shall be walking and encouraged everyone to donate or participate in the walk.

Chairman Miller congratulated Congressman Schwartz, Battle Creek City Mayor John Godfrey, Battle Creek Chamber of Commerce President Kathleen Mechum, and all the others for their work and efforts to retain the Air National Guard base. Chairman Miller thanked the Economic Development Corporation for contributing towards the expense of the BRAC hearing trip.

Comr. Todd thanked Seelye Wright Kia of Battle Creek for donating a car to a Battle Creek school senior for his good school attendance, and all the other donors.

CLAIMS PAYABLE LISTINGS:

Res. 148-2005

“Motion by Comr. Moore, supported by Comr. Bolger, 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 $890,877.94 for the week of August 16, 2005; further, approve payment of the list of claims against the county in the total amount of $428,690.80 for the week of August 23, 2005.”

Comr. Moore noted a $22,746.50 expense paid to vendor 9592 listed under Intensive Supervision on Page 6 of the claims for August 16, 2005, and inquired whether the expense is only for those listed. Finance Director James Latham responded that the line item is the monthly payment for a number of individuals in placement.

Roll call vote: Yes - 7 Motion CARRIED Unanimously

CLOSED SESSION:

Res. 149-2005

“Motion by Comr. Segal, supported by Comr. Bolger, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners meet in Closed Session for the purpose of discussing labor negotiations with the Board’s legal counsel.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

The Board convened in Closed Session commencing at 7:55 p.m. until 8:56 p.m. with County Administrator/Controller Greg Purcell, Assistant County Administrator Wendee Woods, Finance Director James Latham, Human Resource Director Jennifer Bucienski, General Counsel Nancy Mullett and Deputy Clerk Mary Lou Barrett present.

OPEN SESSION:

Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Efforts Discussion

Chairman Miller advised that the employees would like to contribute towards the disaster relief efforts, and inquired whether someone would volunteer to coordinate the effort.

Comr. Segal suggested a casual day for a $5 contribution.

Chairman Miller advised that the donations shall go to the Red Cross, and inquired whether any of the Board members have a problem with a casual day. The consensus of the Board is to hold a casual day for employees to contribute towards Hurricane Katrina disaster relief efforts.

ADJOURNMENT:

Res. 150-2005

“Motion by Comr. Bolger, supported by Comr. Segal, adopt the following: Resolved by the Calhoun County Board of Commissioners adjourn the September 1, 2005 Board of Commissioners Meeting.”

Voice Vote: Motion CARRIED

The meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.

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Marshall, MI 49068
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