09 03 2026 Board of Commissioner Meeting Post Closed Session

The Berrien County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on September 3, 2026, to discuss an interim report concerning governance and financial irregularities related to the Barry, Cass, and Van Buren Workforce Development Board, Inc., operating as Kexus. The report highlighted significant issues including unauthorized compensation decisions, questionable financial transactions including a $1.125 million loan for a for-profit subsidiary acquisition, lack of proper approvals and ratifications, and potential misuse of federal payroll funds such as PPP and employee retention credits. The board considered three options for restructuring the workforce development board to address legal and governance deficiencies, ranging from continuing with Kexus under a new public body designation to establishing a fully public entity. The meeting included motions to acknowledge receipt of conflict disclosures and to waive attorney-client privilege on the interim report. The commissioners discussed forming an ad hoc committee with representatives from the three counties to evaluate the future relationship with Kexus and to ensure transparency and proper oversight. The board emphasized the need for further financial investigation and coordination with state and federal agencies before making final decisions.