Board of Commissioners

The Benzie County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on August 11, 2026, which included significant procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement topics included the approval of a three-year $15,912 contract renewal with Rave Mobile Safety for Smart 911 services, supporting emergency dispatch operations. The board also approved an RFP to hire a search firm for recruiting the next county administrator, with a two-month timeline for proposals. Budget matters were prominent, with the board setting a public hearing for the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget and authorizing budget amendments, including a $26,099.35 adjustment related to the Veterans Relief Fund. The commissioners approved renewal of employee benefits with a 7.5% increase and authorized health savings account contributions. Additionally, the board approved ballot language for several millage proposals, including animal control and drug enforcement millages, and a general operating millage reset to address capital expenses and operational needs. The meeting also featured updates on road commission projects, central dispatch operations, and animal control activities. Public comments included a presentation by the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds used for emergency home repairs, and a school superintendent clarified school operating millage impacts. Overall, the meeting focused on fiscal management, contract renewals, capital project funding, and community service program support.