On the agenda: meeting — Flock Safety (May 4)

CLINTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairperson
Bruce DeLong
Vice-Chairperson
Zach Rudat
Members
Nicole Fickes
Brian Hurtekant
Robert Showers
John Andrews
Dwight Washington

COURTHOUSE
100 E. STATE STREET
ST. JOHNS, MICHIGAN 48879-1571
989-224-5120
Administrator/Controller
John F. Fuentes
Clerk of the Board
Stephanie L. Dush

AGENDA
CLINTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL MEETING
Board of Commissioners Room, Courthouse
100 E. State St., Suite 2200, St. Johns
MONDAY, MAY 4, 2026
9:00 a.m.

Call to Order
Moment of Silence
Pledge of Allegiance
Roll Call
Approval of Agenda
Approval of Minutes
• April 21, 2026 Board of Commissioners Meeting

9:05 a.m.

CLOSED SESSION:
To consider a confidential written legal opinion as permitted under the Michigan Open Meetings
Act, MCL 15.268(h)

9:20 a.m.

Appeal of Denial of FOIA Request – Munro

9:25 a.m.

Public Comments (limit of 3 minutes per speaker)

9:33 a.m.

Administrator/Controller Comments

9:35 a.m.

Commissioners’ Comments
Adjournment

PACKET INFORMATION IS CURRENT AS OF POSTING DATE. NOTE: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE PRESENTED ON
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ACCOMMODATIONS OR MATERIALS IN AN ALTERNATIVE FORMAT, PLEASE CONTACT ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AT 989224-5120 OR VIA EMAIL AT [email protected] NO LATER THAN 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.

LINK to County YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ClintonCounty-MI

CLINTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Chairperson
Bruce DeLong
Vice-Chairperson
Zach Rudat
Members
Nicole Fickes
Brian Hurtekant
Robert Showers
John Andrews
Dwight Washington

COURTHOUSE
100 E. STATE STREET
ST. JOHNS, MICHIGAN 48879-1571
989-224-5120
Administrator/Controller
John F. Fuentes
Clerk of the Board
Debra A. Sutherland

This meeting is posted to the Clinton County Meetings YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ClintonCounty-MI

DATE 04/21/2026

The Clinton County Board of Commissioners met on Tuesday, April 21, 2026
at 9:00 a.m. with Commissioner Rudat presiding.

MOMENT OF SILENCE AND
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Commissioner Rudat called for a moment of silence. The pledge of
allegiance was given to the flag of the United States of America.

ROLL CALL

Roll was called with a quorum of the members in attendance:
Nicole Fickes, Zach Rudat, Brian Hurtekant, Robert Showers, John Andrews
and Dwight Washington. Bruce DeLong excused.

COUNTY PERSONNEL

John Fuentes, Todd Campbell, Debra Sutherland, Kate Rademacher, Sheriff
Sean Dush, Phil Hanses, Eric Harger, Kyle Thornton, Rob Wooten, Facilities
Staff, Clinton County Clerk’s Office and Register of Deeds Staff, Lynn Wilson

VISITORS

Calley Green, Carol Winsor, Dawn Lawless, Brian Lawless, Anne Hill, Peter
Schoufeld, Sharon Feldman, Melany Mack, Rob Mack, Lori Bourbonais, Joe
Goodman, S. Conley, Darilyn Fraser, Josh Toft, Nathan Pesch

AGENDA

The agenda was presented for review and approval.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Showers moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington to approve the agenda as printed. Motion carried.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

The following minutes were presented for review and approval:
• March 31, 2026 Board of Commissioners Meeting
• April 16, 2026 Ways and Means Committee Meeting – Closed
Session
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Washington moved, seconded by
Commissioner Andrews to approve the minutes as printed. Motion carried.

COMMUNICATIONS

The following communications were received:
1. Montmorency County Resolution 2026-07 Supporting HB 5152 & 5153
2. Email Notice and Correction, March 31, 2026, BOC Meeting – Fred and
Lisa Boling
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Showers to acknowledge receipt of the communications and
place on file. Motion carried.

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1

RETIREMENT
RECOGNITIONS
FACILITIES
JAMES COLE
RETIREMENT
RECOGNITION

Commissioner Zach Rudat presented James Cole of Facilities with a
retirement plaque of recognition for his service to Clinton County from 2003 to
2026.

CLERK/
REGISTER OF DEEDS
DEBRA A. SUTHERLAND
RETIREMENT
RECOGNITION

Commissioner Zach Rudat presented County Clerk/Register of Deeds Debra
A. Sutherland with a retirement plaque of recognition for her service to
Clinton County from 1988 to 2026.

STATE OF MICHIGAN
TRIBUTE TO
CLERK/REGISTER OF
DEEDS
DEBRA A. SUTHERLAND

Lori Bourbonais, Director of Election Administration for the State of Michigan
Bureau of Elections, presented a tribute to Clerk/Register Debra A.
Sutherland on behalf of the Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson.

ADMINISTRATOR/
CONTROLLER’S REPORT

Administrator/Controller Fuentes reported that Administration will be rolling
out budget preparation materials to Department Heads and Elected Officials
on May 1, 2026.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Commissioner Rudat called for public comments. The following individuals
offered public comments:
• Peter Schoufeld, Victor Township
• Calley Green, Peckham
• Nathan Pesch, Victor Township

DRAIN COMMISSIONERS
ANNUAL REPORT

Drain Commissioner Phil Hanses provided the 2025 Annual Report for the
Drain Office.

ZONING

Commissioner Rudat introduced Lynn Wilson to present the following
matters:
• Lynn Wilson provided a brief overview of their office procedures and
standards

PC-04-26
ZONE MAP AMENDMENT
FROM SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL (R-1) TO
AGRICULTURE
RESIDENTIAL (A-3)
BINGHAM TOWNSHIP
SECTION 15

(PC-04-26) (OR-201-26) – Zone Map Amendment (Rezoning) submitted by
Joseph and Merdith Goodman to rezone approximately 9.57 acres from
Single Family Residential (R-1) to Agriculture/Residential Transition (A-3), in
Section 15 of Bingham Township.
• Applicant Joseph Goodman provided comments.

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Discussion followed.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Showers to approve the zone map amendment submitted by
the property owner, Joseph & Meredith Goodman, to rezone approximately
9.57 acres from Single Family Residential (R-1) to Agriculture/Residential
Transition (A-3), in Section 15 of Bingham Township. Voting on the motion
by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners Showers, Washington,
Hurtekant, Fickes, Andrews and Rudat. Six ayes, zero nays, one absent.
Motion carried.

2

PC-05-26 PROPOSED
ZONING ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT TO IMPOSE A
MORATORIUM

(PC-05-26) (OR 202-26) - Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment to amend
the county’s Zoning Ordinance to impose a moratorium on the issuance of
permits, licenses, or approvals for data centers for 12 months or until the
County’s Zoning Ordinance regulating data centers is amended, whichever
occurs first.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Showers moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington to approve to amend the county’s Zoning
Ordinance. Voting on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were
Commissioners Andrews, Washington, Fickes, Hurtekant, Showers and
Rudat. Six ayes, zero nays, one absent. Motion carried.

APPROVAL OF
COMMISSIONERS’
EXPENSE ACCOUNTS

Commissioners’ expense accounts were presented for review and approval.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

The following are reports of Committee meetings:

PUBLIC SAFETY
COMMITTEE MEETING

Commissioner Hurtekant reported on a meeting held April 16, 2026.

ATTENDANCE AT
COMMITTEE MEETING

Members Present
Zach Rudat, Public Safety Committee Chairperson
Nicole Fickes
John Andrews
Dwight Washington
Robert Showers
Brian Hurtekant
Bruce DeLong, Ex-Officio Member

BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Showers to approve the expense accounts, subject to review
by the Chair and Clerk. Motion carried.

Staff Present
John Fuentes
Todd Campbell
Penny Goerge
Neil Burt
Kate Rademacher
Tabitha Tate
Others Present
Anne Hill
Theresa Owen
Donna Graham
Ann Olson, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
Stacy Houghtaling, Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
CALL TO ORDER/APPROVAL
OF AGENDA

1.

Public Safety Committee Chairperson Rudat called the meeting to order
at 8:35 a.m. Commissioner Washington moved, seconded by
Commissioner Hurtekant, to approve the agenda. Motion carried.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

2.

Chairperson Rudat requested limited public comments. There were no
public comments.

CHILD CARE FUND
OVERVIEW

3.

Chairperson Rudat introduced Todd Campbell, Deputy Administrator, to
discuss the Child Care Fund.
• A budget summary showing the status of the Child Care Fund
was provided for the first quarter of 2026; overall the Child Care
Fund is projected to be within budget.

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No action required.
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
AND HUMAN SERVICES
(DHHS) – CHILD CARE FUND
UPDATE

4.

Chairperson Rudat introduced Stacy Houghtaling and Ann Olson from
DHHS to provide an update.
• Ms. Houghtaling provided an update on staffing, noting the
welfare side is fully staffed;
• Discussion took place regarding the importance of encouraging
clients to report financial changes as they arise, to maintain a
100% food assistance accuracy rate;
• Ms. Olson provided an update regarding the diaper program;
• Ms. Houghtaling shared that DHHS has free gun locks, Narcan,
and birth control for anyone who needs them.

No action required.
JUVENILE COURT
CHILD CARE FUND UPDATE

5.

Chairperson Rudat introduced Tabitha Tate, Greenhaven Youth Home
Manager, to provide an update on behalf of the Child Care Fund.
• Ms. Tate provided information to the members regarding juvenile
programming and treatment; data was provided regarding
caseloads and trends for the year 2025 and first quarter of 2026;
• Ms. Tate provided information regarding detention, residential
beds, and educational services at Greenhaven;
• Ms. Tate briefly discussed the community-based service
programs that are facilitated in their department.

COMMISSIONERS’
COMMENTS

6. Chairperson Rudat requested Commissioners’ comments. There
were none.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

7. Chairperson Rudat requested the administrator’s report.
• Administrator/Controller Fuentes notified the members that the
Sheriff’s Office plans to post monthly reports on the county’s
website for public viewing;
• The members discussed the possibility of adding law
enforcement updates to the agenda for future Public Safety
Committee meetings.

ADJOURNMENT OF
COMMITTEE MEETING

8.

WAYS AND MEANS
COMMITTEE MEETING

Commissioner Hurtekant reported on the Ways and Means meeting held April
16, 2026.

ATTENDANCE AT
COMMITTEE MEETING

Members Present
Zach Rudat, W&M Committee Chairperson
John Andrews
Nicole Fickes
Brian Hurtekant
Dwight Washington
Robert Showers
Bruce DeLong, Ex-Officio Member

Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by Commissioner Washington,
to adjourn the meeting at 8:53 a.m.

Staff Present
John Fuentes
Penny Goerge
Kate Rademacher
Kyle Thornton
Debra Martinez
Mike Gute
Corissa Harris
Sarah Stoltzfus

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Todd Campbell
Rob Wooten
Neil Burt
Sean Dush
Deb Sutherland
Tim McGuckin
Deb Sutherland
Stephanie Dush

4

Others Present
Theresa Owen
Donna Graham
Dillon Rush
Devon Pingel
Anne Hill
Mike Lampman

CALL TO ORDER/APPROVAL
OF AGENDA

1.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat called the meeting to
order at 9:00 a.m. Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by
Commissioner Hurtekant, to approve the agenda as amended. Motion
carried.
• Addition to Agenda: Planning Commission 5-Year Master Plan
#12A
• Discuss Animal Control Ordinance Update (Agenda Item #10)
between Agenda Items #3 and #4

PUBLIC COMMENTS

2.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat requested limited public
comments.
• The following individuals offered public comments:
 Donna Graham, Greenbush Township
 Theresa Owen, Greenbush Township
 Anne Hill, East Lansing

PROSECUTOR UPDATE

3.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Debra
Martinez, Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, to provide an update on
behalf of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.
• Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Martinez presented an
overview of the office and answered questions regarding staffing
levels, operational challenges, recent progress, and notable
successes experienced by the Clinton County Prosecuting
Attorney’s Office;
• She also noted that the State Bar Criminal Division of Michigan
has established an annual Civility Award in honor of Norman
Naimy, a respected Court Security Deputy with the Clinton
County Sheriff’s Office and former Lansing Police Officer for 25
years; Mr. Naimy passed away unexpectedly in December 2025
and is remembered for his kindness, compassion, and civility.

No action required.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE

4.

SPACE USE AGREEMENT

A. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Sheriff Dush
to discuss a proposed space use agreement.
• Grand Ledge Public Schools has space available in the old
Wacousta Elementary School Building and the Sheriff’s Office is
interested in utilizing space in this building to create a satellite
workspace for road patrol personnel;
• This arrangement would enable the Sheriff’s Office to provide
improved services and quicker response times to the southern
portion of the county, while also reducing mileage and fuel costs;
• Watertown Charter Township and Grand Ledge Public schools
have provided letters of support;
• The members reviewed a proposed lease agreement from the
school district to utilize a classroom in the building for this
purpose at an annual cost of $6,000;
• Discussion followed and it was determined the existing Sheriff’s
Office budget can absorb this annual cost if approved.

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COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Showers moved,
seconded by Commissioner Fickes, to recommend approving the Lease
Agreement with Grand Ledge Public Schools as presented for the purpose of
operating a satellite office for the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office at an annual
cost of $6,000 (using funds within current budget). Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Showers to concur with the committee recommendation.
Voting on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners
Showers, Andrews, Washington, Fickes, Rudat and Hurtekant. Six ayes,
zero nays, one absent. Motion carried.
CAPITAL REQUEST

B. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Sheriff
Dush to present a capital request.
• Sheriff Dush introduced Mike Lampman from Flock Safety and
together they presented a capital request for the purchase and
installation of ten (10) Flock Cameras to enhance the safety of
the community;
• The total cost to purchase and install the ten (10) cameras is
$80,700; the cost is structured over two years, with $45,700
required in the first year (2026) and $35,000 in the second year;
• This technology would be placed at major entry points throughout
Clinton County to keep roads and highways safe, enhance
investigative capability, and support life-saving efforts;
• Questions were asked regarding privacy implications associated
with Flock camera systems, and it was noted this system would
not be connected to any external data systems, there are strict
internal controls, and the captured data hard deletes after 30
days meaning it is not recoverable;
• Following installation, there will be an ongoing annual
maintenance fee of $35,000 to support the system which will be
incorporated into the 2027 budget request.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Commissioner Showers moved,
seconded by Commissioner Washington, to recommend approving an initial
budget expenditure of $45,700 in 2026 for the purchase and installation of ten
(10) Flock Cameras. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Showers to concur with the committee recommendation.
Voting on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners
Andrews, Washington, Fickes, Hurtekant, Showers and Rudat. Six ayes,
zero nays, one absent. Motion carried.

RESOLUTION 2026-5
AUTHORIZING BALLOT
PROPOSAL FOR SEPARATE
TAX LIMITATION

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5.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced a Resolution
authorizing a ballot proposal for separate tax limitation.
• The Clinton County Tax Allocation Board met on April 9,
2026 @ 9:00 a.m. pursuant to statute to determine how the
maximum allowable millage rate among the County, General
Law Townships and the Intermediate School District will be
allocated;
• In 2022, the Separate Tax Limitation Ballot proposal was
presented to the voters and passed with a vote of 10,213
Votes in favor and 5,918 against the proposal; as a result,
the Separate Tax Limitation was approved for the years
2023, 2024, 2025 & 2026;

6

•

•

At the April 9, 2026 Tax Allocation Board meeting, the
members approved a Resolution to Petition the Board of
Commissioners to submit Separate Tax Limitations to the
Electors of the County at the August 4, 2026 Primary
Election;
It is now up to the County Board of Commissioners to take
action to authorize the placement of the ballot proposal on
August 4, 2026 ballot.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved,
seconded by Commissioner Fickes, to recommend the adoption of a
Resolution to authorize a proposal for separate tax limitations to be placed on
the ballot at the August 4, 2026 Primary Election. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Andrews to concur with the committee recommendation.
Voting on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners
Hurtekant, Washington, Fickes, Showers, Andrews and Rudat. Six ayes,
zero nays, one absent. Motion carried.
LANSING ECONOMIC AREA
PARTNERSHIP (LEAP)
QUARTERLY UPDATE

6.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Devon
Pingel and Dillon Rush to present an update on behalf of LEAP.
• Dillon Rush and Devon Pingel from Lansing Economic Area
Partnership (LEAP) provided a brief overview and answered
questions regarding LEAP’s activities and upcoming events.

No action required.
RESOLUTION 2026-6
FINAL COUNTY
EQUALIZATION AND
APPOINTING
REPRESENTATIVES AT
STATE EQUALIZATION

7.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced
Administrator/Controller Fuentes to discuss the Resolution for Adoption of
Final County Equalization and Representation at State Equalization for
2026.
• Taxable value increased 4.60% to $4,207,649,184;
• Clinton County will be levying the millage rate of 5.7288 mills
(after millage rollback) and the 911 millage rate of 0.8280
mills (after millage rollback).

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded
by Commissioner Hurtekant, to recommend approving the Resolution for
Adoption of Final County Equalization and Appointment of Representatives at
State Equalization for 2026. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Andrews to concur with the committee recommendation.
Motion carried.
PARKS AND GREEN SPACE
RECREATION PASSPORT
GRANT AGREEMENT AND
RESOLUTION APPROVAL

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8.

Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Kyle
Thornton, Parks and Green Space Coordinator to discuss the Recreation
Passport Grant that was awarded to Clinton County.
• Parks and Green Space Coordinator Thornton informed the
members the Parks and Green Space Department has been
awarded the Recreation Passport Grant from the Michigan
Department of Natural Resources (MDNR);
• The grant will be used to help with phase one (1) development of
Clinton Trails County Park which includes non-motorized trails,
vaulted toilet, and expanding the parking lot and walkways;
• The Board is being asked to adopt a resolution approving the
MDNR Michigan Recreation Passport Grant Program
Development Project Agreement as presented and authorize the
Clinton County Administrator to Sign all necessary documents;
7

•

Based on the timing of this award, the Board is being asked to
approve a budget amendment of $50,000 within the Public
Improvement Fund for the Major Capital Project “Parks and
Green Space Grant Match”, to fulfill the FY26 matching
requirements that were originally anticipated for FY27.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded
by Commissioner Washington, to recommend approving a budget
amendment of $50,000 in the Public Improvement Fund for the Major Capital
Project “Parks and Green Space Grant Match” for the FY26 matching
requirements that were originally anticipated for FY27. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Fickes to concur with the committee recommendation. Voting
on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners Fickes,
Showers, Hurtekant, Andrews, Washington, and Rudat. Six ayes, zero nays,
one absent. Motion carried.
RESOLUTION 2026-4
MDNR MICHIGAN
RECREATION PASSPORT
GRANT PROGRAM
DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
AGREEMENT

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Commissioner Washington moved,
seconded by Commissioner Fickes, to recommend adopting a resolution
approving the MDNR Michigan Recreation Passport Grant Program
Development Project Agreement as presented and authorize the Clinton
County Administrator to sign all necessary documents. Motion carried.

FACILITY AND FLEET
SERVICES

9.

FAIRGROUNDS
ELECTRICAL
IMPROVEMENTS CIP
PROJECT

A. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Rob Wooten,
Facility and Fleet Services Director, to discuss the Fairgrounds Electrical
Improvements CIP project.
• The Fairgrounds Master Plan development process is ongoing
with a final report expected in July; this report will lead to further
discussion regarding the short and long-term plans for the
Fairgrounds, as well as provide direction regarding the priorities
of capital improvement projects at the Fairgrounds;
• There is $75,000 included in the 2026 CIP budget for
Fairgrounds electrical improvements, and pending the outcome
of the Master Plan process, there is a desire to implement a first
phase of electrical improvements prior to the 2026 4H Fair;
• This phase would include improvements to the electrical and
lighting systems in the covered show arena, lighting
improvements in Peck Hall, and minor electrical system
improvements to other Fairgrounds buildings;
• Discussion followed and Administration was asked to provide a
copy of the Fairgrounds Facility Assessment to the
Commissioners for their review.

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BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington to concur with the committee recommendation.
Motion carried.

8

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Showers moved,
seconded by Commissioner Hurtekant, to recommend authorizing up to
$25,000 for fairgrounds electrical improvements, as outlined in the capital
improvements section of the approved 2026 budget. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Fickes to concur with the committee recommendation. Voting
on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners
Washington, Fickes, Andrews, Hurtekant, Showers and Rudat. Six ayes,
zero nays, one absent. Motion carried.
JANITORIAL SERVICES
CONTRACT

B. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Rob Wooten,
Facility and Fleet Services Director, to discuss the janitorial services
contract.
• A formal RFP was issued for Clinton County Janitorial Services
on February 6, 2026 and four proposals were received in
response;
• Director Wooten recommends the contract for janitorial services
be awarded to D Squared, as this proposal is within the current
janitorial services budget;
• The members reviewed the bid comparison table and proposed
contract from D Squared; discussion followed and concerns were
raised regarding the wide range of numbers provided in the bids
overall;
• There was also discussion about the quality of service provided
by the current vendor, D Squared; Director Wooten stated he
believed each of the bidders had the capability to perform the
work and that all four vendors would similarly require ongoing
oversight and follow-up.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved,
seconded by Commissioner Fickes, to recommend authorizing
Administration to execute a contract for janitorial services with Facilities 360.
Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington to concur with the committee recommendation.
Motion carried.

JAIL REMODEL OWNER’S
REPRESENTATIVE
SERVICES RFP

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C. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Rob Wooten,
Facility and Fleet Services Director, to discuss the proposed RFP for
Owner’s Representative Services for the Jail remodel project.
• At the March 2026 Ways and Means Committee meeting, the
Committee requested that staff prepare an RFP for Owner’s
Representative professional services to support the County
during the programming and schematic design phase of the Jail
remodel project;
• The members discussed having the Owner’s Representative
participate in meetings and help ensure decisions are in the
County’s best interest;
• Discussion followed about having the consultant review
proposals, provide guidance, and evaluate whether RFPs and
bids are sufficient for the County’s needs;
• Concerns were raised about the narrow scope of the design
RFP that is focused only on the booking area, and timing issues
were discussed regarding the Owner’s Representative’s role
with the existing RFP for the booking area development and
design services.
9

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved,
seconded by Commissioner Fickes, to recommend withdrawing the existing
RFP for booking area development and design services and reevaluate the
scope for an Owners Representative RFP.
• Discussion followed, with concerns expressed about potential
inefficiencies and delays in addressing all of the Jail’s needs;
Ways and Means Chairperson Rudat acknowledged the
concerns and encouraged more timely, deliberate decisions
moving forward.
Motion carried. Commissioner Andrews voted no.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Fickes to concur with the committee recommendation. Motion
carried.
ANIMAL CONTROL
ORDINANCE UPDATE

10. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced

Administrator/Controller Fuentes to discuss a proposed Animal Control
Ordinance.
• Discussion was held regarding a proposed Animal Control
Ordinance, which was drafted in collaboration with the Sheriff’s
Office.
• It was noted that multiple ordinances were reviewed for reference
while preparing the draft, the draft is currently being reviewed by
legal counsel and will be brought back to the Committee for
feedback after the review has been completed.

No action taken.
PLANNING UPDATE

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11. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced discussion

regarding a planning and zoning update.
• Administrator/Controller Fuentes notified the members that the
following agenda items were acted upon at the April Planning
Commission Meeting:
 PC-04-26 (OR-201-26) – Map Amendment (Rezoning)
Application; the subject of the public hearing will be the
consideration of an application to rezone approximately 9.57
acres from Single Family Residential (R-1) to
Agriculture/Residential Transition (A-3); The Planning
Commission recommended approval; however, after this
recommendation was made, the Township Supervisor
provided additional input that should be considered;
therefore, the Board may wish to refer this matter back to
the Planning Commission for further review based on the
additional information;
 PC-05-26 (OR-202-26) – Proposed Zoning Ordinance
Amendment; an ordinance to amend the County’s Zoning
Ordinance to impose a moratorium on the issuance of
permits, licenses, or approvals for data centers for 12
months or until the County’s Zoning Ordinance regulating
data centers is amended, whichever occurs first; PC
recommends approval;

10

 Discussion took place about scheduling a Planning
Commission training using the “Planning & Zoning
Essentials” curriculum from the Michigan Association of
Planning; Administration is working on scheduling this
training in May.
No action required.
PLANNING COMMISSION

12.

PLANNING COMMISSION
5 YEAR MASTER PLAN
REVIEW

A. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced discussion
regarding the five-year Community Comprehensive Plan Update.
• Per the Michigan Planning Enabling Act of 2008 (MCL
125.3845(2), the Planning Commission has reviewed the current
County Comprehensive Plan (Master Plan);
• At the April 9, 2026 meeting, the Planning Commission voted
unanimously to recommend to the Ways & Means Committee to
move forward on a complete re-write of the current
Comprehensive Plan, as substantial changes are needed;
• The 2026 Major CIP budget includes $75,000 for this project and
County Administration recommends approval to develop and
issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new comprehensive
plan;
• It was acknowledged this project is a priority, but may take
additional time due to limited staffing;
• Discussion took place regarding townships interested in
developing their own master plans in conjunction with Clinton
County’s plan.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Fickes moved,
seconded by Commissioner Washington, to recommend directing County
Administration to approve the $75,000 appropriation for development of
Request for Proposals for a new Comprehensive Plan. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Fickes to concur with the committee recommendation. Voting
on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Commissioners
Showers, Washington, Hurtekant, Fickes, Andrews and Rudat. Six ayes,
zero nays, one absent. Motion carried.

PLANNING AND ZONING
COST AGREEMENT

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B. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced discussion
regarding zoning cost information.
• The members reviewed a spreadsheet that includes budgetary
information (revenues & expenses) and fee comparisons for
planning & zoning services provided by some of the
municipalities within Clinton County (Bath Charter Township,
Watertown Charter Township, DeWitt Charter Township, City of
DeWitt, and City of St. Johns) who administer their own planning
and zoning;
• The members reviewed a report comparing planning & zoning
services contracts from the three general law townships that do
not utilize County planning & zoning services (Dallas Township,
Bengal Township and Eagle Township); the spreadsheets outline
scope of services and fees being charged by the contractors for
services provided;
• Discussion followed regarding the future structure of the Planning
and Zoning Department; further discussion will take place at the
May Ways and Means Committee meeting to determine the
staffing structure to proceed with the hiring process;
11

•

In the interim, Administration will request an extension proposal
from OHM to provide adequate coverage as the department
enters into its busy season.

No action taken.
QUARTERLY BUDGET
UPDATE

13. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced Todd

Campbell, Deputy Administrator, to provide the 1st quarter budget
update.
• Overall, the 2026 general fund continues to be on target for the
approved budget;
• Expenditures as of the end of the first quarter are trending as
expected and consistent with historical patterns.

No action required.
CLOSED SESSION
TO CONSIDER AN
ATTORNEY CLIENT
PRIVILEGED AND
CONFIDENTIAL WRITTEN
LEGAL OPINION AS
PERMITTED UNDER THE
MICHIGAN OPEN MEETINGS
ACT, MCL 15.268(h)

14. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat requested a motion to

proceed to closed session, as permitted under MCL 15.268 (h) for the
purpose of considering a confidential written legal opinion.

COMMITTEE ACTION: Commissioner Rudat moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington, to proceed to closed session, as permitted under
MCL 15.268 (h) for the purpose of considering a confidential written legal
opinion at 11:53 a.m. Voting on the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye
were Showers, Rudat, Washington, Fickes, Hurtekant and Andrews. Six
ayes, zero nays. Motion carried.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by
Commissioner Showers, to return to open session at 12:39 p.m. Voting on
the motion by roll call vote, those voting aye were Andrews, Fickes,
Washington, Showers, Rudat and Hurtekant. Six ayes, zero nays. Motion
carried.
No action taken.

MAY 2026 COMMITTEE
MEETING CALENDAR

15. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced discussion

regarding the proposed May 2026 Open Meetings and Events Calendar.

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Commissioner Showers moved,
seconded by Commissioner Washington, to recommend approval of the May
2026 Open Meetings and Events Calendar. Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington to concur with the committee recommendation.
Motion carried.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
INVOICES PAID TOTALS

16. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat introduced discussion

regarding the accounts payable invoices to be paid.

COMMITTEE ACTION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington, to approve the invoices paid from March 7
through April 3, 2026, in the amount of $832,458.87. Motion carried.
COMMISSIONERS’
COMMENTS

17. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat requested

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

18. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat requested the

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Commissioners’ comments. There were no comments.

administrator’s report from Administrator/Controller Fuentes. There was
no report.
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ADJOURNMENT OF
COMMITTEE MEETING

19. Ways and Means Committee Chairperson Rudat adjourned the meeting

HUMAN RESOURCES
COMMITTEE MEETING

Commissioner Fickes, Chairperson of the Human Resources Committee,
reported on a meeting held April 16, 2026.

ATTENDANCE AT
COMMITTEE MEETING

Members Present
Nicole Fickes, HR Committee Chairperson
Brian Hurtekant
John Andrews
Robert Showers
Zach Rudat
Dwight Washington
Bruce DeLong, Ex-Officio Member

at 12:41 p.m.

Staff Present
John Fuentes
Todd Campbell
Penny Goerge
Kate Rademacher
Sean Dush
Mike Gute
Neil Burt
Others Present
Anne Hill
Donna Graham
Theresa Owen
CALL TO ORDER/APPROVE
OF AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENTS
RESOLUTION 2026-7
APPRECIATION TO
CLINTON COUNTY
CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS
AND EMPLOYEES
RESOLUTION 2026-8
APPRECIATION TO
CLINTON COUNTY
DEPUTIES AND COMMAND
OFFICERS

1. Human Resources Committee Chairperson Fickes called the meeting to
order at 12:44 p.m. Commissioner Rudat moved, seconded by
Commissioner Washington, to approve the agenda. Motion carried.
2. Human Resources Committee Chairperson Fickes requested limited
public comments. There were none.
3. Human Resources Committee Chairperson Fickes introduced discussion
regarding Resolutions of Appreciation for Police Week and Correctional
Officers Week.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Hurtekant moved,
seconded by Commissioner Showers, to recommend authorizing the
Resolution of Appreciation to Clinton County Deputies and Command
Officers during National Police Week (May 15), and Clinton County
Correctional Officers and Employees during National Correctional Officers
Week (May 3-9, 2026). Motion carried.
BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by Commissioner
Washington to concur with the committee recommendation. Motion carried.

COMMITTEE/COMMISSION
APPOINTMENTS

4. Human Resources Committee Chairperson Fickes introduced discussion
regarding committee/commission appointments.

APPOINTMENT OF
JAN MOTZ
SOLID WASTE COUNCIL
PLANNING COMMISSION
LIAISON

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Fickes moved,
seconded by Commissioner Showers, to recommend appointing Jan Motz to
the Solid Waste Council as the Planning Commission Liaison. Motion
carried.

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Brd. Mtg. Minutes

BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by Commissioner
Showers to concur with the committee recommendation. Commissioner
Rudat called for further nominations. There were none. Motion carried.
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APPOINTMENT OF
KIM WIEBER
ZONING BOARD OF
APPEALS
PLANNING COMMISSION
LIAISON

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Rudat moved, seconded
by Commissioner Washington, to recommend appointing Kim Wieber to the
Zoning Board of Appeals as the Planning Commission Liaison. Motion
carried.

APPOINTMENT OF
STEPHANIE SCHAFER
PLANNING COMMISSION
FOR A THREE (3) YEAR
TERM BEGINNING MAY 1,
2026 EXPIRING MAY 1, 2029

COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION: Commissioner Rudat moved, seconded
by Commissioner Hurtekant, to recommend appointing Stephanie Schafer to
the Planning Commission for a three (3) year term beginning May 1, 2026
expiring May 1, 2029. Motion carried.

ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

5. Human Resources Committee Chairperson Fickes requested the
administrator’s report.
•
Administrator/Controller Fuentes provided an update regarding the
status of job vacancies at Clinton County that have occurred since
the last meeting;
•
The members were notified that the Arbitration Hearing took place
this week with the command officers collective bargaining unit,
briefing will occur, prior to the arbitrator’s decision on the issues.

BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by Commissioner
Hurtekant to concur with the committee recommendation. Commissioner
Rudat called for further nominations. There were none. Motion carried.

BOARD ACTION: Commissioner Fickes moved, seconded by Commissioner
Hurtekant to concur with the committee recommendation. Commissioner
Rudat called for further nominations. There were none. Motion carried.

No action required.
COMMISSIONERS’
COMMENTS

6. Human Resources Committee Chairperson Fickes requested
Commissioners’ Comments.
• Commissioner Rudat offered comments.

ADJOURNMENT OF
COMMITTEE MEETING

7. Commissioner Rudat moved, seconded by Commissioner Washington, to
adjourn the meeting at 12:52 p.m. Motion carried.

END OF COMMITTEE
REPORTS
COMMISSIONERS’
COMMENTS

Commissioner Rudat called for Commissioners’ comments.
• Commissioner Andrews, Washington, Showers, Hurtekant and
Rudat offered comments.

ADJOURNMENT

BOARD ACTION: With no further business to come before the Board,
Commissioner Rudat made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Commissioner
Fickes. Commissioner Rudat declared the meeting adjourned at 10:22 a.m.
Stephanie L. Dush, Clerk of the Board
NOTE: These minutes are subject to approval on May 4, 2026.

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