HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 2022.08.04 - 37499
1200 N. Telegraph Road, Bldg. 12 East, Pontiac, MI 48341
Board of Commissioners
David T. Woodward
August 4, 2022 at 7:47 PM
MINUTES
1. Call Meeting to Order
Chairperson David T. Woodward called the meeting of the Board of Commissioners to
order at 06:14 PM in 1200 N. Telegraph Road Bldg. 12E, Pontiac MI 48341.
2. Roll Call
MEMBERS PRESENT: Angela Powell, David Woodward, Marcia Gershenson,
Michael Gingell, Eileen Kowall, Kristen Nelson, Yolanda Smith Charles, Penny Luebs,
Gary McGillivray, William Miller III, Charles Cavell, Janet Jackson, Chuck Moss,
Robert Hoffman, Karen Joliat, Adam Kochenderfer, Philip Weipert, Christine Long,
Michael Spisz (19)
MEMBERS ABSENT WITH NOTICE: Thomas Kuhn, Gwen Markham. (2)
3. Invocation - Christine Long
4. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
5. Approval of Minutes
a. Clerk/Register of Deeds - Minutes dated July 19, 2022
Gary McGillivray moved approval of the Minutes dated July 19, 2022, as
presented. Seconded by Penny Luebs.
Motion Passed.
Vote Summary (19-0-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Kristen
Nelson, Eileen Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck
Moss, Marcia Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles
Cavell, Penny Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam
Kochenderfer
No: None
Abstain: None
6. Approval of Agenda
Gary McGillivray moved approval of the agenda, as presented. Seconded by Karen
Joliat.
Motion Passed.
Vote Summary (19-0-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Kristen Nelson,
Eileen Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny Luebs,
Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: None
Abstain: None
7. Communications
a. Board of Commissioners - Presentation - Salvador Salort-Pons, Ph.D.,
Director of the Detroit Institute of Arts
Chairperson David Woodward addressed the Board to introduce Salvador
Salort-Pons, Director, Detroit Institute of Arts.
Salvador Salort-Pons, Director, Detroit Institute of Arts, Julie McFarland,
Executive Director of Public Affairs and Community Engagement, Detroit
Institute of Arts, Judith Dolkart, Deputy Director of Arts, Education and
Programs, Detroit Institute of Arts, Anthony Smith, Vice President of Learning
and Audience Engagement, Detroit Institute of Arts and Thomas Guastello,
Chairman of the Art Authority, Detroit Institute of Arts addressed the Board to
give a presentation updating the residents of Oakland County on the current
and upcoming exhibitions, series and community engagement programs.
William Miller III moved to receive and file the attached Presentation. Seconded
by Christine Long.
Motion Passed.
Vote Summary (19-0-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Kristen
Nelson, Eileen Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck
Moss, Marcia Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles
Cavell, Penny Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam
Kochenderfer
No: None
Abstain: None
b. Board of Commissioners - Communications Grant Exceptions - 2022-2023
Child Nutrition Programs Coordinated Application, FY 2023 Victim Rights
and FY 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne
JAG) Program (NET)
Fred Miller, Deputy Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds addressed the
Board to read a communication from Chairperson David Woodward, notifying
the Board that he has authorized submission of the following grant applications:
Name: 2022-2023 Child Nutrition Programs Coordinated Application
Department: Children's Village
Amount: $180,000
Grant Application Deadline: June 30, 2022
Name: FY 2023 Victim Rights
Department: Prosecuting Attorney
Amount: $799,521
Grant Application Deadline: August 1, 2022
Name: FY 2023 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG)
Program (NET)
Department: Sheriff's Office
Amount: $521,648
Grant Application Deadline: July 29, 2022
William Miller III moved to receive and file the attached Grant Exceptions.
Seconded by Christine Long.
Motion Passed.
Vote Summary (19-0-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Kristen
Nelson, Eileen Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck
Moss, Marcia Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles
Cavell, Penny Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam
Kochenderfer
No: None
Abstain: None
8. Public Comment (three minutes max per speaker, related only to items on the
agenda)
The following people addressed the Board during Public Comment #1: Chris Meister
and Kathryn Kennedy.
Reports of Standing Committees
CONSENT AGENDA
9. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE – WILLIAM
MILLER
10. FINANCE COMMITTEE – GWEN MARKHAM
a. Board of Commissioners - Resolution Creating the Oakland County
Survivor to Thriver Program
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Resolution: Creating the Oakland
County Survivor to Thriver Program. Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-270
Sponsored By: Janet Jackson, Michael Spisz, Gwen Markham, Eileen Kowall,
Angela Powell
IN RE: Creating the Oakland County Survivor to Thriver Program
WHEREAS Oakland County continues its objectives to rescue human trafficking
victims, dismantle trafficking networks, help support survivors to rebuild their
lives and thrive within their community, and develop economies that create
legitimate jobs; and
WHEREAS Oakland County anti-trafficking service agencies have identified
and presented a plan to address a gap in services that currently exists for
survivors of human trafficking. By offering items or experiences for personal
and/or professional development to assist survivors to move beyond the
physiological and safety needs in the community; and
WHEREAS the County supports establishing a pilot program partnering with
Vista Maria/Michigan Abolitionist Project (MAP) to provide resources to fill the
gaps for survivors of human trafficking within Oakland County communities; and
WHEREAS Vista Maria/MAP will serve as administrator of the program and
fiscal sponsor to raise funds from private sponsorships or donations for the pilot
program, will provide fiduciary oversight, financial management, and other
administrative services to help build the capacity of the Survivor to Thriver
program in accordance with the attached proposed contract between Oakland
County and Vista Maria/MAP (see Exhibit A); and
WHEREAS Vista Maria/MAP as the program administrator of the Survivor to
Thriver program, in partnership with Oakland County, will develop controls and
metrics for an initial and ongoing assessment of the effectiveness of the pilot
program to support the physiological and safety needs of human trafficking
survivors.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners hereby authorizes the creation of the Survivor to Thriver pilot
program and authorizes the expenditure of up to $10,900 from the Board of
Commissioners Special Project account.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners approves the attached agreement between Oakland County
and Vista Maria/MAP and authorizes the Chairman of the Board of
Commissioners, or his designee, to sign and execute the agreement, subject to
review by the Purchasing Division.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this agreement does not obligate the County
to any future commitment to the program without approval by the Board of
Commissioners.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Vista Maria/Map shall provide the Board of
Commissioners with quarterly reports that detail expenditures and performance
metrics for the Survivor to Thriver program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a budget amendment is not required.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachment:
1. SurvivortoThriver.FinalContract.V3.6.28.22
b. Board of Commissioners - Sponsorship of 2022 Hazel Park Art Fair
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Sponsorship: of 2022 Hazel Park
Art Fair. Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-271
Sponsored By: Charles Cavell, Gary McGillivray
IN RE: of 2022 Hazel Park Art Fair
Motion to re-appropriate $6,000 from the non-departmental transfer of General
Fund Special Projects expenditure line item to the Board of Commissioners
General Fund Special Projects expenditure line-item budget as described in the
attached Schedule A. Further, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners
authorizes the allocation of $6,000 to Hazel Park Arts Council for the purpose of
sponsoring the 2022 Hazel Park Art Fairand requests the Purchasing Division
execute an agreement and any related documents between Oakland County
and Hazel Park Arts Council.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachment:
1. Hazel Park Art Fair Schedule A
c. Board of Commissioners - Sponsorship of 2022 Arts, Beats And Eats
Festival in Partnership with the City of Royal Oak
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Sponsorship: of 2022 Arts, Beats
And Eats Festival in Partnership with the City of Royal Oak. Seconded by
Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-255
Sponsored By: Michael Gingell, David Woodward
IN RE: of 2022 Arts, Beats And Eats Festival in Partnership with the City of
Royal Oak
WHEREAS Arts, Beats & Eats was founded in 1997 to celebrate the quality of
life in Oakland County by offering a culturally unique presentation of artists,
musicians and food exhibits, from the Metro Detroit area and throughout the
United States; and
WHEREAS Arts, Beats & Eats is held annually on Labor Day weekend in the
City of Royal Oak; and
WHEREAS Arts, Beats & Eats has a strong history of drawing significant
economic activity and interest to Oakland County, with as many as 400,000
people attending the four-day festival and raising more than $5 million for local
charities since its inception. The economic impact of the festival to the region
has been measured at $39 million, according to the event’s website; and
WHEREAS Oakland County government has a long history of active support of
the Arts, Beats and Eats festival, including partnering through sponsorship of
the event; and
WHEREAS a dollar-for-dollar matching sponsorship of Royal Oak of the 2022
Arts, Beats and Eats festival would leverage Oakland County’s funds for a
strong investment towards attracting economic and cultural activity in Oakland
County as well as measurably support the travel, tourism and hospitality
sectors; and
WHEREAS one-time funding of $50,000 is available from the non-departmental
transfers General Fund Special Projects expenditure line item and will be re-
appropriated within the Economic Development Admin expenditure line-item
budget for the sponsorship of the 2022 Arts, Beats And Eats Festival; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners authorizes sponsoring the 2022 Arts, Beats And Eats Festival in
the amount of $50,000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Economic Development
shall act as the grant administrator for the matching sponsorship of the Arts,
Beats and Eats festival. The Department shall release sponsorship funding
upon confirmation of the release of funds in an equal or greater amount by the
City of Royal Oak. The Chairperson of the Board is authorized to execute the
grant amendment, subject to review by Corporation Counsel.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED one-time funding of $50,000 is available from the
non-departmental transfers General Fund Special Projects expenditure line item
and will be re-appropriated within the Economic Development Admin
expenditure line-item budget for the sponsorship of the 2022 Arts, Beats And
Eats Festival.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the FY 2022 budget shall be amended as
reflected in the attached Schedule A – Budget Amendment.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachment:
1. FY 22 Arts Beats and Eats - Schedule A
11. LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE –
KRISTEN NELSON
a. Clerk/Register of Deeds - Grant Application with the Michigan Department
of State, Bureau of Elections for the 2022 Election Security Grant
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Grant Application: with the
Michigan Department of State, Bureau of Elections for the 2022 Election
Security Grant. Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-272
Sponsored By: Kristen Nelson
IN RE: with the Michigan Department of State, Bureau of Elections for the
2022 Election Security Grant
WHEREAS the Michigan Secretary of State, Bureau of Elections, created the
2022 Election Security Grant program; and
WHEREAS federal Help America Vote Act (HAVA) money is available on a
reimbursement basis to counties and local governments; and
WHEREAS based on the grant formula, the County Elections Division is eligible
for $76,650 in grant funding; and
WHEREAS the grant will assist the county in securing and upgrading
equipment and technology; and
WHEREAS no county match or positions are associated with this grant
application.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners hereby approves the grant application with the Michigan
Department of State, Bureau of Elections in the amount of $76,650.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that application and future acceptances of this
grant does not obligate the county to any future commitment and continuation of
this program is contingent upon continued future levels of grant funding.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that no budget amendment is required at this
time.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachments:
1. 2022 Election Security Grant
2. Election Security Reimbursement Claim Form
3. Email
4. View My Cases - Workday
b. Clerk/Register of Deeds - Resolution Opposing Michigan House Bills 4729
through 4732
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Resolution: Opposing Michigan
House Bills 4729 through 4732. Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-273
Sponsored By: Kristen Nelson
IN RE: Opposing Michigan House Bills 4729 through 4732
WHEREAS Zillow, a for-profit corporation based in Seattle, WA, has been
lobbying the Michigan Legislature to pass House Bills 4729, 4730, 4731, and
4732, which would undermine the independence of county treasurer and
register of deeds offices throughout the state; and
WHEREAS the legislation Zillow is lobbying for would mandate county treasurer
and register of deeds offices provide public records to bulk purchasers,
including out-of-state data brokers, at a significantly cheaper rate than that
charged by statute to Michigan taxpayers, creating a dynamic wherein fees paid
by Michigan residents for their own public documents subsidize the costs for
multinational corporations like Zillow; and
WHEREAS should these bills become law, Zillow and other out-of-state data
brokers will be empowered to dictate the manner and format in which county
treasurer and registers of deeds offices provide copies of official records,
saddling county offices with additional administrative burdens and procedures;
and
WHEREAS should these bills become law, new restrictions on what county
treasurer and register of deeds offices charge for parcel cards would be
imposed, limiting the ability of counties to recoup the costs of providing services
to residents; and
WHEREAS Zillow and other national data brokers not only profit by selling
Michigan’s public records but also by selling the personal data contained therein
to enhance corporate data-mining, marketing and advertising efforts; and
WHEREAS the Michigan Association of Counties, Michigan Association of
County Treasurers, Michigan Association of County Clerks, Michigan
Association of Registers of Deeds, and the Michigan Municipal League,
representing a broad bi-partisan and non-partisan coalition of leaders
throughout the state, are united in opposing Michigan House bills 4729 though
4732.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners opposes the principles behind and the passage of House Bills
4729, 4730, 4731, and 4732.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be sent to Governor
Gretchen Whitmer, Speaker of the House of Representatives, the House
Democratic Leader, Majority Leader of the Senate, Senate Democratic Leader,
the Oakland County state legislative delegation, the Michigan Association of
Counties, Michigan Association of County Treasurers, Michigan Association of
County Clerks, Michigan Association of Registers of Deeds, and the Michigan
Municipal League.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
12. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE – PENNY LUEBS
a. Sheriff’s Office - Resolution Approving the Use of Non-Departmental
General Fund for the Woodward Dream Cruise Special Event Signage by
the Road Commission for Oakland County
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Resolution: Approving the Use of
Non-Departmental General Fund for the Woodward Dream Cruise Special
Event Signage by the Road Commission for Oakland County. Seconded by
Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-274
Sponsored By: Penny Luebs
IN RE: Approving the Use of Non-Departmental General Fund for the
Woodward Dream Cruise Special Event Signage by the Road Commission
for Oakland County
WHEREAS the Sheriff’s Office performs law enforcement services and
oversight for the Woodward Dream Cruise; and
WHEREAS each year the Sheriff’s Office obtains a Traffic Control Order from
the Michigan Department of Transportation which includes the placement of
signs along the cruise route; and
WHEREAS as required by law, the Road Commission for Oakland County
(RCOC) must set up and remove the signs; and
WHEREAS the RCOC has provided a quote for 2022 services; and
WHEREAS the Sheriff’s Office is requesting use of Non-Departmental General
Fund Contingency line-item funding to provide RCOC service for this world-
renowned regional event.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners approves the use of Non-Departmental General Fund
Contingency line-item funding in the not-to-exceed amount of $10,573.60.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the FY 2022 budget is amended as detailed
in the attached Schedule A budget amendment document.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachments:
1. FY22 Woodward Dream Cruise RCOC SCHEDULE A
2. Woodward Dream Cruise RCOC Estimate 2022
b. Sheriff’s Office - Interlocal Agreement with the Renaissance Festival for
2022-2024 Law Enforcement Services
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Interlocal Agreement: with the
Renaissance Festival for 2022-2024 Law Enforcement Services. Seconded by
Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-275
Sponsored By: Penny Luebs
IN RE: with the Renaissance Festival for 2022-2024 Law Enforcement
Services
WHEREAS the Michigan Renaissance Festival, the operator of a summer
theatre facility by the same name in Groveland Township, has requested to
enter into an agreement with the Oakland County Sheriff's Office for law
enforcement services for the 2022 - 2024 seasons; and
WHEREAS the Sheriff's Office has agreed to provide such services on an
availability overtime hourly basis with the number of man-hours to be
determined by the Sheriff's Office; and
WHEREAS this agreement has been reviewed by Corporation Counsel; and
WHEREAS the County of Oakland shall be reimbursed for such services by the
Michigan Renaissance Festival at the hourly overtime rates established by
Board of Commissioners and reflected in the attached agreement.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners approves the execution of the attached agreement consistent
with provisions contained therein.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners authorizes its Chairperson to execute and enter into this
agreement on behalf of the County.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the proposed agreement will result in
revenue and expenditures of approximately $143,452 in FY 2022, $146,292 in
FY 2023 and $149,201 in FY 2024.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED a FY 2022 - FY 2024 budget amendment
is required and is detailed in the attached Schedule A.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachments:
1. 2022-2024 MI Ren Festival Patrol Services Agreement SCHEDULE A
2. MI REN FESTIVAL 2022-2024 Patrol Services Agreement FINAL
c. Sheriff’s Office - Donation of Two Support Canine Dogs - Wildcat and
Sadie
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Donation: of Two Support Canine
Dogs - Wildcat and Sadie. Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-276
Sponsored By: Penny Luebs
IN RE: of Two Support Canine Dogs - Wildcat and Sadie
WHEREAS the Sheriff’s Office has received a donation of two (2) support
canine dogs from Mission Oakland with an estimated value of $6,000; and
WHEREAS Mission Oakland is a 501(c)3 (non-profit), established in 2019, with
a mission to support the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, community
organizations within Oakland County, and to lend financial assistance to those
who are battling hardship and illness within the law enforcement community;
and
WHEREAS Wildcat will be assigned to the School Resource Officer in the
Clarkston School District and will also be available to Oxford Schools for events;
and
WHEREAS Sadie will be assigned to a Deputy at the Sheriff’s Office Pontiac
substation; and
WHEREAS the attached Memorandum of Understanding was entered into on
June 29, 2021 between the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office and the Oakland
County Deputy Sheriff’s Association (“Union”) to create a Therapy Canine
Program within the Sheriff’s Office; and
WHEREAS the Therapy Canine Handlers will be sworn and certified deputies
and the Therapy Canine Program will be supervised by the Training Unit; and
WHEREAS the Training Unit will be responsible for ensuring each Handler is up
to date on training including, but not limited to, obedience, certification, and
service/therapy training with certification from a nationally recognized therapy
training association; and
WHEREAS the Therapy Canine Program can be used for the following, but not
limited to:
Daily Duties (Extension of the Handler)
Public Events
Community Outreach and Engagement
Major/Traumatic Incidents
School Demonstrations
Grief, Loss, and/or Trauma Related Events
Natural Disaster Incidents
Victim Forensic Interviews
Criminal Investigation Interviews
Crisis Intervention for both citizens and OCSO personnel/families
Medical Facility Visits (Hospitals, Veterans Affairs (VA) Clinics, Nursing
Homes, etc.) and any use not covered by this list as deemed appropriate
by the Sheriff or their designee; and
WHEREAS the cost of food, veterinary care, grooming, boarding where
necessary, equipment, and other related items for the canines will be paid for by
the County; and
WHEREAS a budget amendment for the care of the canines will be
incorporated with the resolution adopting the collective bargaining agreement
for employees represented by the Oakland County Deputy Sheriff’s Association;
and
WHEREAS similar to the K-9 Program, if the handler or support canine retires,
the handler has the option to purchase the support canine for the value of
$1.00.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners authorizes the acceptance of the donation of two (2) support
canine dogs from Mission Oakland with an estimated value of $6,000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the cost of food, veterinary care, grooming,
boarding where necessary, equipment, and other related items for the canines
will be paid for by the County and a budget amendment will be incorporated
with the resolution adopting the bargaining agreement for employees
represented by the Oakland County Deputy Sheriff’s Association.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED if the handler or support canine retires, the
handler has the option to purchase the support canine for the value of $1.00.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachment:
1. Mission Oakland - Therapy Canine Donation - July 2022
d. Public Services - Animal Shelter & Pet Adoption Center - Donation from
Mr. Jerry Coffel
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Donation: from Mr. Jerry Coffel.
Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-277
Sponsored By: Penny Luebs
IN RE: from Mr. Jerry Coffel
WHEREAS the mission of the Oakland County Pet Adoption Center, in part, is
to provide a humane haven for animals in our care and to promote responsible
pet placement; and
WHEREAS many individuals have become involved with our shelters either
through volunteer activities or donations to support this mission; and
WHEREAS the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center
Legacy Fund was established to receive donations to assist our efforts to
provide the highest quality service and treatment to animals entrusted to our
care; and
WHEREAS Mr. Jerry Coffel is a generous and compassionate resident of
Oakland County who was married to the late Diane M. Aiello-Coffel, who was a
beloved pet parent to several dogs during their 45-year marriage; and
WHEREAS Mr. Jerry Coffel, in recognition of and on behalf of his late wife
Diane M. Aiello-Coffel, presented the Oakland County Animal Shelter a check in
the amount of $100,000.00; and
WHEREAS MR #83204 requires that gift donations with a value of $10,000 or
more, with no match or other financial obligations to the County, be reviewed by
the department's/division's liaison committee, acknowledged by the Board of
Commissioners by signed resolution, accounted for in the appropriate
departmental donation account, and recorded as a general fixed County asset.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners accepts the generous donation of $100,000.00 donated by Mr.
Jerry Coffel to the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the donation will be accounted for in the
Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center's Legacy Fund.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that no budget amendment is required at this
time.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
e. Health & Human Services - Neighborhood and Housing Development -
Grant Application with the United States Department of Housing and
Urban Development for the Program Year (PY) 2022 Annual Action Plan
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Grant Application: with the United
States Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Program Year
(PY) 2022 Annual Action Plan. Seconded by Angela Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-278
Sponsored By: Penny Luebs
IN RE: with the United States Department of Housing and Urban
Development for the Program Year (PY) 2022 Annual Action Plan
WHEREAS the Oakland County Department of Health and Human
Services/Neighborhood and Housing Development Division (N&HD) plans to
submit a Program Year (PY) 2022 Annual Action Plan to the United States
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); and
WHEREAS the PY 2022 Annual Action Plan contains a consolidated Federal
grant application for activities designed to accomplish the goals and objectives
for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, HOME
Investment Partnerships Act (HOME) Program and the Emergency Solutions
Grants (ESG) Program; and
WHEREAS Oakland County has received funding from these grants since its
inception; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
requires Oakland County to estimate Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG) Home Improvement Program (HIP) Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) and
HOME Investment Partnerships Act Grant Program Income (PI) at the time of
each Annual Action Plan application and Oakland County reconciles actual RLF
and PI at the end of each program year and at grant acceptance; and
WHEREAS the PY 2022 Annual Action Plan estimates Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) Home Improvement Program (HIP)
Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) at $1,000,000 and HOME Investment Partnerships
Act Grant Program Income (PI) at $1,200,000; and
WHEREAS HUD, by letter dated May 13, 2022, transmitted to the N&HD
Division a PY 2022 consolidated allocation of $8,444,530 including $5,202,154
for CDBG, $2,914,808 for HOME and $327,568 for ESG, for the program year
period of July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023; and
WHEREAS total program revenue for the PY 2022 CDBG Program is
$6,202,154, including $5,202,154 grant allocation and $1,000,000 in estimated
CDBG Revolving Loan Funds; and
WHEREAS the CDBG grant is 100 percent federally funded and no county
funds are required; and
WHEREAS total program revenue for the PY 2022 HOME Program is
$4,734,205 including $2,914,808 HOME grant allocation, $619,397 grant match
and $1,200,000 in estimated HOME Program Income; and
WHEREAS the HOME program requires a 25% match for all housing activities;
and
WHEREAS funding for the HOME program match is appropriated in the FY
2023-FY2025 County Executive Recommended Budget; and
WHEREAS total program revenue for the PY 2022 ESG Program is $327,568;
and
WHEREAS the ESG grant requires a 100% match, as volunteer services,
donation or cash contributions which are met by the ESG service agencies with
no County funds required; and
WHEREAS the grant funds will continue to fund the following twenty (22) Full-
Time Eligible Special Revenue (SR) positions in the Department of Health and
Human Services/Neighborhood & Housing Development Division (#1060701):
one (1) N&HD Assistant position (#05413), one (1) Grant Compliance &
Program Coordinator position (#01370), four (4) N&HD Coordinator positions
(#01279, #03231, #03430, and #06098), one (1) Supervisor N&HD
Administrative Services position (#01371), two (2) N&HD Technician positions
(# 03230 and #01768), two (2) Supervisor N&HD positions (# 00999 and
#03182), one (1) N&HD Specialist - Senior position (#03567), two (2) N&HD
Field Technician positions (#01457 and #09578), one (1) N&HD Community
Liaison position (#14811), one (1) Chief N&HD position (#14810), one (1)
Manager N&HD position (#14809), two (2) N&HD Field Technician - Senior
positions (# 02426 and #09522), one (1) Housing Counseling Supervisor
(#03354), and two (2) FTE SR funded N&H Specialist – Senior positions
(#00730 and #10806); and
WHEREAS the grant will also continue one (1) Part-Time Non-Eligible (PTNE)
1,240 hours per year student position within the N&HD Division (#1060701-
05341); and
WHEREAS the grant funds will cover 80% of one (1) General Fund/General
Purpose (GF/GP) Accountant Ill position (#1020615-02558) in the Management
& Budget/Fiscal Services Division for grant accounting services; and
WHEREAS the PY 2022 Annual Action Plan was unanimously endorsed by the
Citizen Advisory Council; and
WHEREAS at the time of the grant award, HUD requires Oakland County to
have annual Agreements with each Subrecipient with the purpose and intent of
passing those responsibilities to each subrecipient to carry out the project(s)
described in the CDBG application; and
WHEREAS the grant application has completed the Grant Review Process in
accordance with the Grants Policy approved by the Board at their January 21,
2021 meeting.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners approves submission of the Program Year 2022 Annual Action
Plan application totaling $11,263,927 to the United States Department of
Housing and Urban Development (CDBG $5,202,154, $1,000,000 Revolving
Loan Funds, HOME $2,914,808, Program Income $1,200,000, General Fund
Match $619,397, and ESG $327,568) designed to accomplish the goals and
objectives for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program,
HOME Investment Partnerships Act (HOME) Program and the Emergency
Solutions Grants (ESG) Program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this grant will continue to fund twenty-three
(23) Special Revenue (SR) positions in the Department of Health & Human
Services/Neighborhood & Housing Development division: One (1) N&HD
Assistant position (#05413), one (1) Grant Compliance & Program Coordinator
position (#01370), four (4) N&HD Coordinator positions (#01279, #03231,
#03430, and #06098), one (1) Supervisor N&HD Administrative Services
position (#01371), two (2) N&HD Technician positions (# 03230 and #01768),
two (2) Supervisor N&HD positions (# 00999 and #03182), one (1) N&HD
Specialist - Senior position (#03567), two (2) N&HD Field Technician positions
(#01457 and #09578), one (1) N&HD Community Liaison position (#14811), one
(1) Chief N&HD position (#14810), one (1) Manager N&HD position (#14809),
two (2) N&HD Field Technician - Senior positions (# 02426 and #09522), and
one (1) Housing Counseling Supervisor (#03354), one (1) Part-Time Non-
Eligible (PTNE) 1,240 hours per year student position within the N&HD Division
(#1060701-05341), and two (2) FTE SR funded N&HD Specialist – Senior
positions (#00730 and #10806).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this grant will fund 80% of one (1) General
Fund/General Purpose (GF/GP) Accountant Ill position (#1020615-02558) in the
Management & Budget/Fiscal Services Division for grant accounting services.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the application of this grant does not
obligate the county to any future commitment and continuation of the grant is
contingent upon future levels of grant funding.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that no budget amendment is required at this
time.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
Attachments:
1. Grant Application Sign-Off 2022
2. AAP PY 22
3. FY22 Formula Announcement Oakland County
4. REVISED SF 424s and Certifications for signature 070622
f. Board of Commissioners - Resolution Appropriating American Rescue
Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to Address Safety Concerns in
the School District of the City of Pontiac
Michael Gingell moved to adopt the attached Resolution: Appropriating
American Rescue Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to Address Safety
Concerns in the School District of the City of Pontiac. Seconded by Angela
Powell.
Motion Passed.
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-268
Sponsored By: Angela Powell
IN RE: Appropriating American Rescue Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery
Funds to Address Safety Concerns in the School District of the City of
Pontiac
WHEREAS the United States Treasury allocated Oakland County $244,270,949
of Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (LFRF) established under the American Rescue
Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021; and
WHEREAS under the guidance of the Department of Treasury’s Final Rule, the
County may use these funds at their discretion to support eligible investments in
public health expenditures, address negative economic impacts caused by the
public health emergency; replace lost public sector revenue; provide premium
pay for essential workers; and invest in water, sewer, and broadband
infrastructure; and
WHEREAS if students and educators are to achieve their full potential, schools
must be safe and feel safe; and
WHEREAS students who report feeling safe in school are more engaged in
class, have higher academic achievement, and have lower rates of
absenteeism, truancy, and behavioral issues; and
WHEREAS many communities seek the help of law enforcement to promote
school safety and protect schools from violence; and
WHEREAS while the pandemic impacted millions of American households and
businesses, some of its most severe impacts fell on low-income and
underserved communities, where pre-existing disparities amplified the impact of
the pandemic and where the most work remains to reach a full recovery; and
WHEREAS the U.S. Treasury Department, in the Coronavirus State & Local
Fiscal Recovery Funds: Overview of the Final Rule, states that communities
experiencing a surge in gun violence as a result of the pandemic may use the
American Rescue Plan’s funds for purposes such as: "hiring law enforcement
officials – even above pre-pandemic levels – or paying overtime where the
funds are directly focused on advancing community policing strategies in those
communities experiencing an increase in gun violence associated with the
pandemic"; and
WHEREAS to incentivize programs that provide support to communities with
the greatest needs and hit hardest by the health and economic impacts of the
COVID-19 emergency, the U.S. Treasury Department has created a list of
activities and investments that will be deemed presumptively eligible when they
are provided in a Qualified Census Tract. The City of Pontiac is the community
with the highest number of Qualified Census Tracts in Oakland County; and
WHEREAS Oakland County Sheriff's Office is requested to add one (1) School
Resource Officer for the School District of the City of Pontiac for one (1) year
period from August 1, 2022 to August 31, 2023.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Board of Commissioners
authorizes a one-time appropriation not to exceed $200,000 in American
Rescue Plan Act - Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to the Oakland County Sheriff's
Office budget to address safety concerns by creating one (1) Deputy II position
to be assigned to the School District of the City of Pontiac.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that one (1) marked patrol vehicle with cell
phone, mobile radio, prep radio, MDC, and Video Camera be added to the
County fleet.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this position will be sunset on August 31,
2023.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that approval of appropriation of American
Rescue Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for programs and services by
Oakland County shall not obligate a commitment of the General Fund unless
authorized by action of the Board of Commissioners.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a budget amendment appropriating funds for
the costs associated with adding one (1) School Resource Officer in the School
District of the City of Pontiac will be included in a subsequent quarterly forecast
resolution.
Vote Summary (18-1-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Eileen
Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck Moss, Marcia
Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles Cavell, Penny
Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam Kochenderfer
No: Kristen Nelson
Abstain: None
REGULAR AGENDA
13. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND INFRASTRUCTURE COMMITTEE – WILLIAM
MILLER
There were no items to report on the Regular Agenda for the Economic Development
and Infrastructure Committee.
14. FINANCE COMMITTEE – GWEN MARKHAM
a. Management and Budget - Staffing Modification Appointment of County
Equalization Director
Charles Cavell moved to adopt the attached Staffing Modification : Appointment
of County Equalization Director. Seconded by Robert Hoffman.
Motion Passed.
Committee Report
Sponsored By: Gwen Markham
IN RE: Appointment of County Equalization Director
Motion to recommend to Board the appoint Michael Lohmeier County
Equalization Officer position as required by state statute (MCL 211.34(3)).
Vote Summary (19-0-0)
Yes: David Woodward, Michael Gingell, Michael Spisz, Karen Joliat, Kristen
Nelson, Eileen Kowall, Christine Long, Philip Weipert, Angela Powell, Chuck
Moss, Marcia Gershenson, William Miller III, Yolanda Smith Charles, Charles
Cavell, Penny Luebs, Janet Jackson, Gary McGillivray, Robert Hoffman, Adam
Kochenderfer
No: None
Abstain: None
Attachments:
1. equalization officer memo
2. lohmeier application
15. LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS COMMITTEE –
KRISTEN NELSON
There were no items to report on the Regular Agenda for the Legislative Affairs and
Government Operations Committee.
16. PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY COMMITTEE – PENNY LUEBS
There were no items to report on the Regular Agenda for the Public Health and Safety
Committee.
17. Reports of Special Committees
18. Special Order of Business
19. Unfinished Business
20. New & Miscellaneous Business
a. Board of Commissioners - Resolution Approving Language for an
Oakland County Public Transportation Millage to Appear on the November
8, 2022, Ballot
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-279
Sponsored By: David Woodward
IN RE: Approving Language for an Oakland County Public Transportation
Millage to Appear on the November 8, 2022, Ballot
WHEREAS there is growing need to provide safe, affordable and reliable public
transport for workers to reach jobs, for patients to access health care, for
students to connect to colleges and universities, and for the general public to
have more transportation options; and
WHEREAS an Oakland County public transportation millage will support
operating, maintaining, improving and expanding transit services across
Oakland County; and
WHEREAS funding from an Oakland County public transportation millage will
support current public transportation services in Oakland County, create and
extend new routes to connect local communities and increase transportation
service for seniors, veterans and people with disabilities; and
WHEREAS an Oakland County public transportation millage will replace the
current local public transportation millage for the Suburban Mobility Authority for
Regional Transportation (SMART), and could replace other transit millages for
the North Oakland Transportation Authority (NOTA) and the Older Person’s
Commission (OPC) Transportation, and would provide additional funding to
expand public transportation services across Oakland County; and
WHEREAS revenue generated from an Oakland County public transportation
millage would be disbursed only to the County of Oakland to be used solely for
the purpose of funding transportation services to improve public transit for
Oakland County, with external audits and oversight from the Oakland County
Board of Commissioners; and
WHEREAS Oakland County Corporation Counsel has reviewed and approved
the proposed ballot language; and
WHEREAS the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approves of placing
the millage question before Oakland County voters on the November 2022
ballot to approve funding for public transportation services servicing seniors,
veterans, those with disabilities and the general public in Oakland County.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners, hereby authorizes for the purpose of placing before all voters in
Oakland County the proposition of establishing a .95 mill rate for the years 2022
through 2031 to support public transportation in Oakland County.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Commissioners recommends
the proposition language on Addendum A be placed on the November 8, 2022,
election ballot.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Clerk’s Office is
directed to perform all action required for the placing of this question on the
ballot as required by law.
The Chairperson referred the resolution to the Legislative Affairs and
Government Operations Committee. There were no objections.
Attachment:
1. ADDENDUM A
b. Board of Commissioners - Resolution Appropriating American Rescue
Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery Funds to Support Oakland Together
Senior Initiatives
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-280
Sponsored By: Kristen Nelson
IN RE: Appropriating American Rescue Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery
Funds to Support Oakland Together Senior Initiatives
WHEREAS the United States Treasury allocated Oakland County $244,270,949
of Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (LFRF) established under the American Rescue
Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021; and
WHEREAS under the guidance of the Department of Treasury’s Final Rule, the
County may use these funds at their discretion to support eligible investments in
public health expenditures, address negative economic impacts caused by the
public health emergency; replace lost public sector revenue; provide premium
pay for essential workers; and invest in water, sewer, and broadband
infrastructure; and
WHEREAS it became evident early in the coronavirus pandemic that older age
is a risk factor for becoming severely ill with COVID-19. But the virus’s impact
on older adults went beyond a higher risk for serious infection. It also included
limited access to care for all health conditions, as well as considerable social
and economic hardships; and
WHEREAS this pandemic has had detrimental impacts on the social and
emotional well-being of seniors. Most of them reported experiencing feelings of
loneliness and sadness due to self-isolation and being away from friends and
family. The inability to go to social events, attend exercise classes, and meet up
with friends has made some seniors feel detached from the world; and
WHEREAS despite becoming more computer savvy than ever, seniors continue
to lag behind younger Americans when it comes to technological adoption.
According to Pew Research Center, many seniors still remain largely
unattached from regular online life—25% of adults ages 65 and older do not use
the internet at all; and
WHEREAS one of the worst consequences of COVID-19 lockdowns was the
increase in elder abuse. In many cases, the increased dependency of seniors
on their caregivers has led to an increase in financial, physical, and verbal
abuse; and
WHEREAS since 2015, the Oakland County senior population has been greater
than our population of children, and that trend is projected to continue through
2045; and
WHEREAS the Oakland County Board of Commissioners recognizes that the
COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected senior residents and is
committed to bettering their lives and experiences.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners supports Oakland Together Senior Initiatives by authorizing an
appropriation in the amount not-to-exceed $3,555,000 and assignment in the
amount not-to-exceed $3,000,000 of American Rescue Plan Act - Local Fiscal
Recovery Funds.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the appropriation of up to $3,555,000 will be
allocated as follows:
up to $3,000,000 to offer funding opportunities for Oakland County senior
centers for capital, technology, infrastructure, equipment improvements
and/or professional development;
up to $500,000 to fund a series of educational/COVID-19 communication
pieces for Oakland County seniors;
up to $50,000 to offer funding opportunities to non-profit organizations
that provide senior centered services in Oakland County and are
interested in leveraging evidence-based volunteer management
practices;
up to $5,000 to help with administration costs to reinstate the Oakland
County Elderly Abuse Prevention Coalition.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the assignment of up to $3,000,000 will fund
development of a three-year Oakland County Chore Pilot Program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Healthy Aging Ad Hoc
Committee will serve as an oversight body for all Oakland County Senior
Initiatives and will approve senior center applications and mini-grants
applications, the design of communication pieces and develop a three-year Oakland
County Chore Program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Chairman of the Board of
Commissioners, or his designee, shall act as contract administrator for the
Oakland County Chore Pilot Program.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that approval of appropriations of American
Rescue Plan Act – Local Fiscal Recovery Funds for programs and services by
Oakland County shall not obligate a commitment of the General Fund unless
authorized by action of the Board of Commissioners.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the FY 2022 budget shall be amended as
reflected in the attached Schedule A – Budget Amendment.
The Chairperson referred the resolution to the Public Health and Safety
Committee. There were no objections.
c. Board of Commissioners - Resolution Opposing the Biden
Administration’s Policies on Addressing the Human Trafficking Crisis at
the Southern Border
MISCELLANEOUS RESOLUTION #22-281
Sponsored By: Eileen Kowall
IN RE: Opposing the Biden Administration’s Policies on Addressing the
Human Trafficking Crisis at the Southern Border
WHEREAS the Biden Administration’s policies on the human trafficking crisis at
the Southern Border is expediting the flow of migrants over the U.S.- Mexico
border; and
WHEREAS human traffickers, under this policy, are busier than ever and the
Southwest border continues to serve as the largest point of illegal entry into the
U.S., largely because traffickers have the ability to cross aliens without
documents; and
WHEREAS the policy, which places pressure on border agents to release
families and unaccompanied minors into the U.S. within 72 hours, incentivizes
impoverished Latin Americans to send their kids on the perilous journey up
north — which many of them do not survive; and
WHEREAS the southwest border has essentially become a “feeding zone” for
traffickers, as the Administration’s policy allows traffickers easier access to
these children; and
WHEREAS since the Administration has taken office, there has been an
unprecedented 2 million illegal apprehensions along the southwest border
during 2021, the largest number ever on record. The volume of unaccompanied
children also broke records with more than 150,000 (U.S. Border Patrol)
children entering the U.S. in 2021, an increase of 339 percent over 2020 figures
(American First Policy Institute)
WHEREAS when effective border security measures were eliminated early in
the Biden Administration, smugglers effectively persuaded migrant children and
parents that there is a higher prospect of being allowed to stay in the U.S. and
traffickers now pose as the parents of these children to slip them into the U.S.;
and
WHEREAS a record 18,890 unaccompanied minors crossed the U.S. - Mexico
border illegally in March of this year compared to 9,380 in March of 2019; and
WHEREAS the Director of the Latin American branch of the Coalition Against
Trafficking International, estimates that a shocking “60 percent” of Latin
American children who set to cross the border alone or with smugglers “have
been caught by the cartels and are being abused in child pornography or for
drug trafficking”; and
WHEREAS children as young as 14 years of age are shipped from the
Southwest border to New York City and are forced into prostitution with 15 to 20
men a night (New York Post) while the traffickers collect their profits; and
WHEREAS the Administration’s policy has eliminated key protective measures
to combat the heinous crime of human trafficking by eliminating (Associated
Press):
FBI fingerprint background checks for staff and volunteers directly caring
for children at the border, which allows traffickers to easily use false
identities to access children at emergency sites and lure them into
trafficking, and
FBI fingerprint background checks of caregivers at its rapidly expanding
network of emergency sites to hold thousands of immigrant teenagers,
alarming child welfare experts who say the waiver compromises safety,
and
DNA testing on adults and children to make sure they are related, has
made the problem worse; and
WHEREAS the fight against modern slavery-human trafficking was a priority of
the previous two Administrations and every day that the Biden Administration
fails to combat human trafficking, it endangers more and more lives, especially
those of the most vulnerable.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Oakland County Board of
Commissioners is committed to combating human trafficking and strongly
opposes the Biden Administration’s policies on the human trafficking crisis at
the southern border.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Commissioners urges
President Biden to prioritize the crisis at the southern border and enact the
“concrete” policies pledged in 2020 to combat this heinous crime of human
trafficking that will protect those who are vulnerable.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Oakland County Clerk is requested to
forward a copy of this adopted resolution to the President of the United States,
Senate Majority and Minority Leaders, the House Speaker and Minority Leader,
the Michigan Association of Counties, and the members of the Michigan
congressional delegation.
The Chairperson referred the resolution to the Legislative Affairs and
Government Operations Committee. There were no objections.
21. Announcements
Chairperson David Woodward addressed the Board to announce budget hearings for
the Finance Committee will begin next week.
Commissioner Angela Powell addressed the Board to announce Jim Nash, Oakland
County Water Resource Commissioner, will be hosting a Pontiac town hall meeting to
address water affordability on August 11th, at 7 p.m., at Pontiac City Hall and Mikal
Goodman, City of Pontiac Councilman, will be hosting a transit town hall located at the
Crofoot Ballrom on August 10th, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Commissioner Christine Long addressed the Board to request the resolution entitled:
Board of Commissioners - Resolution Approving Language for an Oakland County
Public Transportation Millage to Appear on the November 8, 2022 Ballot be made
available to the local community leaders.
Commissioner Yolanda Smith Charles addressed the Board to announce the Oakland
County International Airport open house and airshow will be held on August 14, 2022.
Additional information is located at the web address oakgov.com/aviation.
Commissioner Michael Gingel addressed the Board to announce the following
resolution entitled: Resolution Approving Language for an Oakland County Public
Transportation Millage to Appear on the November 8, 2022 Ballot will have revised
language before the November 8, 2022 elections.
Commissioner Marsha Gershenson addressed the Board to remind the
Commissioners that the Chaldean Community has invited them to visit their museum
on Monday, August 15th, 2022.
22. Public Comment (three minutes max per speaker, any topic)
The following people addressed the Board during Public Comment #2: Larry Gray,
Diane Scheib-Snider, Don Green, Connie Johnson, Kim Viener, Angelina Maher, Pat
Hammer, Ryan Dinkgrave, Thomas Yazbeck, Mike Mrozovich, Alex Selsly, Gerry
Riley, Steven James, Lucas Lasecki, Rick Hamill, Thomas Zerafa, Sherry Wells,
Megan Owens, Joseph - Resident, City of Ferndale, Doug Floury, Rebecca Lasecki
and Tasha Schurgin.
23. Adjournment to August 17, 2022 or the Call of the Chair
The meeting adjourned at 07:47 PM.