Finance, Ways & Means Committee Meeting 06/09/2026

The Alpena County Finance, Ways & Means Committee met on June 9, 2026, to discuss several procurement and budget-related matters. A key procurement decision was the motion and subsequent vote to end negotiations with Blackwater regarding the fairgrounds property, reflecting community opposition to the contract. The committee also approved several grant applications, including a $6,700 DNR Marine Safety Program grant and a $97,500 Stone Garden grant for the Sheriff's Office, both with no county match. Additionally, a contract for pressure washing the courthouse was awarded for $9,450 with a $4,720 deposit. Budget adjustments were reviewed, including an increase of $468,033 for victim's advocate services funded by a donation. The committee debated opioid funding allocations, approving $10,000 for Reborn Rescue with conditions on reporting, but rejecting a $30,000 request for the Humane Society due to concerns about animal intake restrictions. Finally, the committee discussed the county administrator's contract and salary, opting to defer a decision to allow further review. Public comments focused heavily on the fairgrounds' future and transparency issues. Overall, the meeting involved multiple procurement approvals, grant awards, and budget discussions impacting county services and facilities.