Macomb County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Macomb County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
HR 1 work requirements threaten mental health revenue
New federal work requirements for Healthy Michigan enrollees could cut CMH revenue by 10% as people lose coverage over paperwork. CMH is hiring a benefits specialist to help clients stay enrolled.
Health & Community Services Budget Review
The health department, Macomb Community Action, and MSU Extension budgets were presented by their directors. These programs cover public health, food and utility assistance, and extension education for residents.
2026 Countywide Millage Rates and Apportionment
The board approved the report that sets how property taxes get spread across all of Macomb County's taxing jurisdictions. Staff flagged an under-levy error at Fitzgerald Public Schools affecting about 5,000 Warren properties, plus two November ballot millage proposals that could force a December revision.
Surge in ADA accommodation requests strains county HR
ADA accommodation requests jumped from 4 in 2023 to 94 so far this year, and HR says it needs a dedicated HR consultant to keep up, meet legal obligations, and limit county liability. The committee took no vote — this request will resurface during budget deliberations.
2027 County Budget Review Process
The County Executive proposed a $1.25 billion budget with a $399 million general fund and a $3 million surplus. It includes 3% raises for county workers and $21.6 million for capital projects — but the county faces $361 million in capital needs over five years, so a long-term funding plan is coming.
Outside assessment of county IT spending and staffing
IT is asking for three new positions — a cybersecurity manager, a compliance officer, and a purchasing assistant — saying one security administrator can no longer handle the county's growing cyber and compliance workload, and software maintenance costs are climbing about $1.5 million.
$49.5M roads budget amendment and 2026 construction program
A $1.77 million MDOT project will finally add a mast-arm traffic signal and turn lanes at the chronically dangerous 26 Mile and Hayes intersection, where the road's odd skew has caused repeated crashes. The county's share is about $1.02 million, with state safety funds and local communities covering the rest.
FY2027 Executive Recommended Budget
The County Executive proposed a $1.25 billion budget with a $399 million general fund and a $3 million surplus. It includes 3% raises for county workers and $21.6 million for capital projects — but the county faces $361 million in capital needs over five years, so a long-term funding plan is coming.
Sheriff's Department Pension Reopening Costs
The sheriff department's return to the old defined benefit pension is costing the county an extra $1.04 million this year, plus part of a $2.5 million salary amendment. Officials explained the pension is now constitutionally guaranteed and the county must pay the actuary-determined rate annually.
Public Works Building water intrusion and repairs
The Public Works Building has leaked since it was built, with water now reaching the main electrical switchgear and original boilers failing. A $185,000 design contract will address waterproofing, boiler replacement, and new air conditioning, with construction likely waiting until spring.
County Capital Needs Funding Gap
The county has $361 million in capital needs over five years but only about $21 million in the FY2027 budget for capital improvements. Finance Director John Scanlon suggested it's time to build a dedicated long-term capital funding plan tied to recurring revenues.
Salt Barn Project Management Contract Postponed
Terrible soil at the Shelby Township salt barn site means nearly 80% more concrete than planned, adding $261,537. Even with the change order, the project stays under its $2.5 million budget.
Capital Outlay Funding and Process Concerns
Commissioners are fighting over a $14.5 million capital budget that's already been spent, while critical building repairs keep arriving. Three big projects were rejected and will likely resurface in the next budget cycle.
County audit material weaknesses and timeliness
The county's finances look strong — pension over 100% funded, $127 million unrestricted fund balance, AAA bond rating intact — and the long-delayed single audits are finally caught up.
Senior meals funding shift
Senior Services is moving about $204,000 out of group dining and into home-delivered meals, where demand is higher. Both changes were recommended unanimously.
Veterans' Millage on November Ballot
A proclamation recognizes Nov. 4-11 as Operation Green Light for Veterans, with green lights at county buildings and homes to show support and connect veterans with resources.
Equalization Appraisal Project and Cloud Transition
County taxable values jumped 5.73% this year, a full point more than last year, driven by high-end sales and construction in northern townships. That's good for revenue but triggers a slightly deeper millage rollback — the Headlee factor drops to 0.9900.