Board Meeting 5-21-26

The Oakland County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on May 21, 2026, which included several procurement-related discussions and public concerns. Key procurement items included the approval of single source contracts for public safety and surveillance technologies, such as drone tracking devices and license plate reader software from vendors like Motorola Solutions and Flock Safety. The board approved these contracts despite some opposition citing concerns about transparency, privacy safeguards, and the increasing use of no-bid exceptions. Additionally, the board discussed grant applications exceeding $50,000 for various programs, including substance use and clean fuel infrastructure. Public comments heavily focused on issues of transparency and accountability related to sheriff's office contracts with local townships, with multiple township supervisors expressing frustration over the lack of detailed cost data and the impact of rising contract costs on taxpayers. The board also introduced a resolution to establish a countywide unmanned aircraft system (drone) policy to address concerns about surveillance and privacy. The meeting concluded with a commitment to improve communication and transparency with contracting townships and to develop a comprehensive drone policy.