ARENAC COUNTY—During the Arenac County Board of Commissioners’ meeting-of-the-whole on Aug. 8, Matt Taylor from MERS presented the Annual Actuarial Valuation Report for Arenac County as of Dec. 31, 2022. The county’s funded ratio was reported at 78 percent. Strategies to secure federal and state funding resources for entities with lower funded ratios were examined.
Emergency Manager Mike Bowers provided an update to the board on the ongoing cybersecurity assessment. The findings and recommendations were being reviewed for system enhancements. A meeting was scheduled Aug. 9. to discuss findings and determine the next steps. The decision was made to continue with the assessment, with the associated costs being fully reimbursable.
A discussion was had regarding Arenac County veterans, regarding PA 235 of 1911, specifically addressing funeral expenses for veterans. This statute defines a cap of not exceeding $40,000 in estate value.
The Arenac County Veterans Association, ACVA, introduced a resolution to the board which would allow commissioners to pass the resolution through a majority vote, granting an exemption to the county from the stipulations outlined in the subsection. During the regular portion of the meeting, the board decided to table the item, as more information was needed from the ACVA committee.
It was also noted that efforts were underway to develop the grant budget for 2024. ACVA is proposing an enhancement in the burial amount for eligible veterans, raising it from $300 to $1,000. The matter will be subjected to legal review for clarification.
It was noted there is a new director for the Arenac Public Transportation Authority, APTA, in that of William Francis and that retiring director, Denise Dunn, is assisting in ensuring a smooth transition.
The APTA Board has three seats whose terms are concluding on Sept. 30, 2023. These positions are currently occupied by Sally Mrozinski, Michael Bowers and Nancy Selle. Individuals interested in these positions must submit their letters of interest before Sept. 26, to be considered during the ACBC meeting.
It was noted during the meeting that Arenac County Animal Control has yet to fill the two available part-time positions at the shelter. Commissioner Sally Mrozinski has offered to assist with interviews if required, and all applications have been submitted to the supervisor for evaluation.
Commissioner Bobbe Burke participated in a tour of the Standish Maximum Security Facility, organized by Representative Mike Hoadley. The tour aimed to explore potential property uses.
The Au Gres Car Cruiser’s Car Show Weekend was celebrated as a success, with over 350 participants engaging in the annual car cruise event held in Au Gres.
The State of Michigan Sanitary Code Resolution #2023-11, which was adopted, and the NetSource One Engagement Letter dated July 18, were among the action items during the meeting’s regular session.
The proposal from Consumers Energy for installation at Oasis Lake Park, totaling $4,914.50, was approved; as was the Pierson Plumbing invoice for a sewage pump replacement, to be funded from Marihuana Tax Revenue Funds.
