Special Board of Commissioners 08/04/26

The Kent County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on August 4, 2026, primarily to discuss and approve ballot language for a proposed renewal and increase of the Kent County Corrections and Detention Millage. The millage, originally approved in 1990 and set to expire in 2029, funds the county jail and sheriff's office operations. The sheriff requested an increase from 0.7332 mills to 1.2 mills, but the board considered a compromise increase to 0.98 mills, estimated to raise approximately $37 million in the first year. The proposal included funding for capital improvements, mental health and substance use disorder treatment facilities, and operational costs. The board debated the timing, transparency, and public engagement of the proposal, with some commissioners and public commenters expressing concern about the rushed process and tax burden, while others emphasized the necessity of funding mandated services and jail improvements. Ultimately, the board voted 11-5 to approve the resolution to place the millage renewal and increase on the November 2026 ballot. The meeting also included extensive public comment opposing the tax increase and urging more community involvement.