# Board of  Commissioners


**Body:** Benzie County
**Date:** November 11, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Environment, Construction & Infrastructure, Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding


The Benzie County Board of Commissioners held a study session on November 10, 2026 (the meeting metadata is dated November 11). Commissioners reviewed staffing shortages, especially in dispatch, corrections, and road patrol. Staff reported six anticipated vacancies among nine emergency communications specialists, four among 15 corrections officers, and seven among 19 road-patrol positions. Discussion focused on recruitment, retention, and regional compensation: Benzie County’s starting hourly wages were reported as $21.83 for dispatch, $23.66 for corrections, and $25.53 for road patrol, below nearby counties in several comparisons. The chair directed the Personnel Committee to examine regional compensation and benefits, including health-premium opt-out payments and possible benefit-plan options, with a report anticipated after data collection. No compensation changes or related spending were approved.

The board also received an update on a replacement Benzonia recycling site. A publicly owned village parcel is the preferred option under discussion because state material-management grant funds may support development on public property; approval, a site walk, and a detailed plan remain outstanding. The GFL recycling contract was described as drafted and ready to be sent to county counsel, but no contract award or spending approval occurred. Finally, officials reviewed the statutory tax-allocation-board process following the failed millage vote, including its timeline, membership, and township funding implications, and discussed preparing consistent written guidance and a public information opportunity. The board approved the agenda and July 14 minutes; no procurement vote was taken.

**Source:** Benzie County