Committee Meeting | Ways & Means Budget Hearing - July 30, 2026

The Wayne County Commission held a Ways & Means Budget Hearing on July 30, 2026, focusing on several departmental updates and budgetary considerations. Key procurement-related discussions included the operations and funding of the Indigent Defense Services Department (IDSD), which manages legal representation for felony defendants. The department highlighted its transition to an internally developed digital system for attorney assignments, billing, and case management, emphasizing ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and compliance with Michigan Indigent Defense Commission standards. Budget discussions covered contract management for private bar attorneys and expert investigators, with pre-approved funding limits detailed for various case types. Additionally, the meeting addressed staffing challenges, recruitment efforts for key positions, and the financial stewardship of grant funds supporting legal services. The Wayne County Retirement System also presented, discussing pension funding status, retiree concerns about cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), and potential enabling legislation to address these issues. Motions to open and close the public hearing were passed without opposition, and no public comments were received during the session.