Board of Commissioners Regular Meeting - July 14, 2026

The Benzie County Board of Commissioners held their regular meeting on July 14, 2026, covering a range of topics including emergency management updates, community services, and infrastructure projects. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a budget amendment to disburse $53,630 in brownfield grant funds to True North for environmental cleanup related to a convenience store and gas station project. The board also authorized the extension of a clinical affiliation agreement with West Shore Community College for EMS training. Additionally, the board approved extending a contract with Westell for central dispatch phone services despite a proposed fee increase, after reviewing alternative vendor quotes that were significantly more expensive. The meeting included the appointment of Donna Stevens as the new central dispatch director. Other discussions involved the general operating millage reset on the upcoming ballot, animal control budget increases, and ongoing infrastructure and community development projects. No formal RFPs or new contract awards were presented, but several budget allocations and contract extensions were approved to support county services and capital projects.