Crawford County
Grayling, Michigan

Crawford County Board of Commissioners
Regular Board Meeting of July 16th, 2008

The Regular Meeting of the Crawford County Board of Commissioners was called to order by Chairman, Dave Stephenson, at 9:31 a.m. in the Crawford County Building, Grayling, Michigan the 16th day of July, 2008.
Invocation by Chairman Stephenson.
Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner Hanson.
Roll Call: Stephenson, Anderson, Beardslee, Hanson, Lange, Pinkelman, and Rogers.
Absent – None.
Sandra Moore, County Clerk - Present.
Paul Compo, County Controller - Present.
Others present at various times: Linda Cronk, Greg Paffhouse, Janet Allen, Monte Burmeister, Tom Haskel, Ilene Geiss-Wilson, John Huss, and Dave Sabin.

Approval of the Regular Board Minutes

Motion by Hanson, second by Beardslee, to approve the Minutes for the June 18, 2008 Regular Board Meeting as presented. Ayes (7) seven, nays (0) none, absent (0) none, Motion Carried.

Approval of the Agenda

Motion by Lange, second by Rogers, to approve the agenda as presented. Ayes (7) seven, nays (0) none, absent (0) none, Motion Carried.

Brief Public Comment – Grayling resident Bob Houghton introduced himself and indicated he is here to join Greg Paffhouse in the Mental Health report.

Open Invoice Report and Prepaid Vouchers

MMotion by Lange, second by Pinkelman, to authorize payment of the folfollowing claims:

General Fund:
Balance from "Open Invoice Rep"
Prepaid Invoices                                 157,369.91
Gross Payroll                                     279,922.36
Total General Fund                        437,292.27

Millage/Road Patrol Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 2,470.79
Gross Payroll                                     24,033.06
Total Millage Fund                         26,503.85

Tri-County 46th Trial Court
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 12,991.03
Gross Payroll
Total Tri-County Court                   12,991.03

Friend of the Court
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 1,414.86
Gross Payroll                                     15,706.82
Total Friend of the Court              17,121.68

Enforcement/Recycle Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                               12,992.77
Gross Payroll                                     5,910.38
Total Enforcement Fund              18,903.15

COPS in Schools Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 403.76
Gross Payroll                                     5,429.30
Total COPS Fund                             5,833.06

Building & Zoning Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 1,948.36
Gross Payroll                                       7,948.80
Total Building & Zoning Fund       9,897.16

D.A.R.E. Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 605.67
Gross Payroll
Total DARE Fund                              605.67

Remonumentation Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 2,800.00
Gross Payroll
Total Remonumentation Fund         2,800.00

MSU Cooperative Extension Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 5,279.61
Gross Payroll                                     1,314.03
Total MSU Fund                               6,593.64

Central Dispatch Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 230.76
Gross Payroll                                     30,102.21
Total Central Dispatch Fund       30,332.97

Family/Probate Court
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 8,796.42
Gross Payroll                                     8,377.06
Total Family/Probate Court              17,173.48

Fish Hatchery Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 59.52
Gross Payroll
Total Fish Fund                                59.52

Animal Shelter Debt Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 57,856.57
Gross Payroll
Total Animal Shelter Debt Fund      57,856.57

Law Library Fund
Balance from "Open Invoice Report"
Prepaid Invoices                                 1,139.10
Gross Payroll
Total Library Fund                           1,139.10

Roll Call: Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson - aye, Motion Carried.

Approval Correspondence

Motion by Lange, second by Rogers, to accept correspondence as submitted. Ayes (7) seven, nays (0) none, absent (0) none, Motion Carried.

Correspondence

1. Lake County Board – Resolution opposing Compulsory Arbitration for County Corrections Officers.

2. Livingston County Board – Resolution opposing Compulsory Arbitration for County Corrections Officers.

3. LMPOA – The Ripples Newsletter. Commissioner Lange advised the lake levels continue to be an issue and discussion followed regarding fund availability for our share of expense.

4. Committee for Better Crawford County Roads – Support for Road Millage Campaign.

5. MAC – Legislative Updates for June 20 & 27, and July 11, 2008. MSU Extension will offer a Workshop on performance measurement and management for government scheduled here at Grayling Township from 10 – 12.

6. CRAM – Road Updates. It was noted that Representative Sheltron is sponsoring a bill for gas tax and Genessee County is trying to abolish the Road Commission.

7. State Department of Labor & Economic Growth – Notification of mediation in process.

8. Gourdie-Fraser – DEQ application for permit to drill for BreitBurn Operating.

9. Markur Communications, Inc. – Notice of Hearing for July 29, 2008 @ 9:00 a.m.

10. DNR – Invite for public comment on proposed management areas.

11. DNR – 5 public meetings across Michigan to discuss regional bear issues.

12. Department of Military & Veterans Affair – Annual Training Special Events. Commissioner Anderson is planning to attend. Commissioner Pinkelman indicated she will try to attend.

13. RC & D – Conservation Expo and Amateur Photo Contest.

14. Gaila Gilliland – NRC Meeting August 14^th.

15. COA – Chicken BBQ July 22, 2008 from 4 – 6 p.m.

Department Reports

County Clerk Sandra Moore advised the Brownfield Advertisement was in the local paper and unfortunately no one has applied. Jamie Cox is no longer interested in being reappointed, however, Bruce Patrick and Lynn McConnell may still be interested. The issue to be placed on the Personnel & Labor August Meeting.

Unfinished Business

Special Events Ordinance

Chairman Stephenson requested Commissioners review and offer comment at the Ways & Means August Meeting.

New Business

Resolution for a Regional Response Coordination Plan

County Controller reminded commissioners that the County has a mutual aid agreement.

Motion by Anderson, second by Pinkelman, to adopt a Resolution for a Regional Response Coordination Plan as presented. Roll Call: Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Motion Carried.

Point of Sale Evaluation of on-site & Sewer Disposal

Commissioner Anderson remarked that the purchaser carries the responsibility of due diligence in home buying, and they already have the option to evaluate at the point of sale. Commissioner Rogers advised some counties are in favor of the document and each of the 10 counties must adopt this before it becomes effective. Commissioner Hanson reminded members that the Health Department keeps track of how many septic systems go bad and adoption is a mute point. No action was taken on the document.

Northern Michigan Community Mental Health Update

NMCMH Chief Executive Officer, Greg Paffhouse presented a Northern Community Mental Health video “To See What I See” which covers the Stigma of Mental Illness as well as a photo biographic collection. Bob Houghton shared his life story “My Life from Recovery” and the affect that Northern Michigan Community Mental Health has offered along his journey. The Ambassador Handbook submitted outlined the five (5) principles of self-determination as: Freedom, Authority, Support, Responsibility, and Confirmation. Mr. Paffhouse advised NMCMH organization struggles with ownership as it belongs to the elected officials from six (6) different counties. Mr. Paffhouse reviewed the 2007 Annual Report with Commissioners and requested the survey be completed so they know how they are doing in each of the six (6) counties. Commissioner Hanson questioned how does someone seek services. Mr. Paffhouse advised make a call first, and from those questions the department can make a decision on how to proceed. A wellness check is made and the www.northernlakescmh.org website is available to educate people. The department employs 16 individuals that have a mental issue themselves, which makes it easier to deal with folks that you can relate to. Board member, Jack Mahank indicated that Northern Lakes is continually growing and therapy groups work hard to be hope givers & not hope stealers. Members were encouraged to answer the survey as it is critical to see how each community is doing.

Recess at 10:26 a.m. and reconvened at 10:34 a.m.

MSU Extension Budget Presentation and Program Update

MSU Extension Director, Linda Cronk appeared to present a MSU Extension Budget request and review the accomplishments and program development within the past year. Ms. Cronk advised there are 530 duplicated participants in their 4H/Youth Development programs, Horticulture, Community Development, and Community Partnership Development program. Ms. Cronk requested a Juvenile Probation/Parole Family Education Program employee for the 2008/09 fiscal year in the amount of $9,864.00. Juvenile Officer Tom Haskel advised the participants would come to the program through a court order or through Human Services and there is an innovative funding mechanism that can share in the funding of the program, which will be held 2 times per year. Ms. Cronk expressed appreciate to the Board for their support this past year.

Recess at 11:25 a.m. and reconvened at 11:32 a.m.

Concurrent Jurisdiction Plan Application

Judges Janet Allen and Monte Burmeister addressed new structure changes have occurred within the 46^th Judicial Court which started when Public Act 137 of 2008 was signed to divide the 87^th District Court into three (3) district courts along county lines. Judge Allen advised she will be Chief Judge of Crawford County Circuit Court and Judge Burmeister of Probate Court. Policy & procedure are to be consistent and they will convene meetings when necessary. Judge Allen advised she has initiated a Circuit Court Collections program to assist in collections of old closed files that have monetary funds owning, and will continue to have good communications with all county offices. The Judge reviewed the news release for implementing a new information program to bring court information to the public using electronic communication. Members can sign up for an electronic newsletter at www.circuit46.org. Judge Allen referenced the recent resolution requesting state funding for the court and indicated the state should pick up funding, however, Michigan ranks 44^th in the nation for funding and they simply don’t want the responsibility. Judge Allen encouraged Commissioners to watch the prisoner issue as housing prisoners is one of the largest court expenses.

Department Reports Continued

Controller Compo advised the Fish Hatchery is short funding and the county fund balance will have to be used for the $13,000 grant match.

Animal Shelter Paving Project

Compo received bids – we have $15,000 of the bond left and $50,000 in the sports fund. We are however short $7,000 ($1,000 to Wakefield and $6,000 to NorthWest Design). Discussion followed on only paving the entrance and parking area and leaving the drive for a later date.

Commissioner Hanson out at 12:26 p.m. and returned at 12:29 p.m.

Motion by Lange, second by Hanson, to accept the low bid paving project in the amount of $45,147.40 for the paving project with Pyramid Paving Company for the Animal Shelter entrance and parking area. Discussion followed relative to the county missing the project discount by not doing paving the drive into the shelter. Roll Call: Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Motion Carried.

Controller Compo advised the 911 Grant for $14,000,000 nation wide is still being pursued. The 911 consolidation project has been delayed due to commitments in personnel changes.

Commissioner Anderson excused at 12:30 p.m.

MERS – Request to Purchase Generic Time

The Board reviewed the purchase of MERS time that was done by policy on February 01, 2002.

Motion by Hanson, second by Pinkelman, to authorize Captain Arthur E. Clough purchase 1 year and 2 months in generic time through the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System of Michigan by allowing it to be shared with the employee and amortized in the amount of $19,986.00.

Motion Amended by Hanson, second by Pinkelman, to authorize Captain Arthur E. Clough purchase 1 year and 2 months in generic time through the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System of Michigan pay a one time payment in the amount of $9,993.00. Roll Call: Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Motion Carried.

Motion by Hanson, second by Pinkelman, to rescind the County policy to purchase MERS time that was adopted on February 1, 2002. Roll Call: Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Motion Carried.

POAM union negotiations are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on July 29^th and August 11^th, 2008.

The Controller advised the Youth Booster Club has agreed to take possession of the dunk tank. Chairman Stephenson requested a volunteer for the Relay for Life event this weekend. Commissioner Lange offered to attend.

Commissioner’s Report

Commisioner Rogers – The Commissioner advised she has nothing to report.

Commissioner Hanson - The Commissioner advised there were no Personnel & Labor Committee recommendations to report. The Commissioner indicated the ORV bill is sitting on the Governor’s desk, and stated he is collecting data regarding the issue if anyone wants to add remarks.

Commissioner Pinkelman - The Commissioner reported her Law Enforcement Committee recommendation.

Motion by Pinkelman, second by Lange, to request the Emergency Management Director, Larry Akers send a letter of intent to Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division indicating an interest in the Fiscal Year Emergency Operations Center Grant Program. Ayes (6) six, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried.

Commissioner Lange – The Commissioner reported his Ways & Means Committee recommendations.

Compensation Committee Salary Recommendations

Motion by Lange, second by Hanson, to accept the recommendations of the Compensation Committee for 2009 & 2010 salary increases for all elected officials. Roll Call: Rogers – aye, Stephenson – nay, Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Motion Carried.

Library Board Communication File

Motion by Lange, second by Hanson, to establish a Library file for written complaints. Ayes (6) six, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried.

NorthWest Design Group – Building Renovation - Phase I

Motion by Lange, second by Pinkelman, to authorize NorthWest Design Group to proceed with design development, final design, bidding and contract award recommendations in an amount not to exceed $79,700 for phase I of building improvements that will allow Crawford County to become completely ADA compliant. Roll Call: Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Motion Carried.

County Controller/Administor Employment Contract

Motion by Lange, second by Pinkelman, to accept the County Controller/Administrator Employment Contract for the 2009 – 2011 fiscal years. Roll Call: Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Motion Carried.

GASB 43 & 45 Compliance

Motion by Lange, second by Pinkelman, to request the Controller advise the actuary to use a 15 year amortization and indicate the Board will not be able to fund our Post Retiree Health Care obligation. Roll Call: Beardslee – aye, Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Motion Carried.

MERS Conference

Motion by Lange, second by Hanson, to designate Paul Compo as the MERS Delegate and Joe Wakeley as the MERS Alternate for Crawford County. Ayes (6) six, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried.

Motion by Lange, second by Hanson, to authorize $185.00 for the MERS registration for employee delegate to the MERS September 30^th, 2008 conference in Traverse City. Roll Call: Hanson – aye, Lange – aye, Pinkelman – aye, Rogers – aye, Stephenson – aye, Anderson – aye, Beardslee – aye, Motion Carried.

Executive Session Minutes

Motion by Lange, second by Pinkelman, to approve the Executive Session Minutes of 7-01-08. Ayes (6) seven, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried.

Commissioner Stephenson – The Commissioner advised he had nothing to report.

Commissioner Anderson – The Commissioner was absent.

Commissioner Beardslee – The Commissioner advised he has nothing to report.

Executive Session

Motion by Lange, second by Hanson, to close the Regular Meeting to review pending litigation at 1: 08 p.m. Ayes (6) six, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried.

Executive Session began at 1:08 p.m. and concluded at 1:24 p.m.

Motion by Beardslee, second by Lange, to accept the minutes of the executive session as read. Ayes (6) six, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried.

Extended Public Comment – None.

Announcements

Commissioner Lange reminded members to attend the Rotary Chicken BBQ at the American Legion on Saturday, July 26, 2008.

Adjournment

Motion by Hanson, second by Lange, to adjourn the board meeting at 1:29 p.m. Ayes (6) six, nays (0) none, absent (1) one, Motion Carried

____________________________
Dave Stephenson, Chairman
Board of Commissioners

____________________________
Sandra Moore
County Clerk

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