April 14, 2026 Ogemaw County Equalize Assessment Roll & Committee of the Whole Meeting

The Ogemaw County Board of Commissioners held a Committee of the Whole meeting on April 14, 2026, which included extensive discussions on several procurement and budget-related topics. Key procurement-related matters included the presentation and adoption of the 2026 county equalization report, with an 8.74% increase in taxable value, and a detailed discussion on multiple millage proposals for the August and November ballots. These millages covered funding requests for the road commission, transit services, MSU extension, animal control, and the children's assessment center, with terms ranging from five to eight years. The board debated the timing of the millage votes, potential impacts on voter approval, and the inclusion of specific language related to Downtown Development Authorities (DDAs). Additionally, the road commission presented a request for a countywide road millage to address funding shortfalls exacerbated by state revenue changes and recent storm damages, emphasizing the need for sustainable road maintenance funding. The transit department also requested authorization to fill a vacant full-time dispatcher position and discussed the critical need for a transit millage to maintain current service levels amid declining fund balances. Budget amendments were reviewed, including increases related to state grants, administrator search costs, and sheriff department overtime. The board also considered establishing capital improvement and equipment replacement funds to better manage future infrastructure and vehicle needs. Discussions on courthouse security staffing and union-related issues were held, with recommendations to maintain current part-time staffing under sheriff oversight. Overall, the meeting focused heavily on financial planning, millage ballot preparations, and ensuring adequate funding for county services and infrastructure.