Board of Commissioners Rooms - Courthouse
Mason -7:30 p.m.
April 10, 2007
CALL TO ORDER:
The April 10, 2007 Statutory Equalization meeting of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners was called to order by Chairperson Thomas at 7:31 p.m. Roll was called and all Commissioners were present except Commissioners Grebner and Schafer.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Becky Bennett led the Board in the Pledge of Allegiance and a few moments of silence were observed for meditation.
APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
Moved by Commissioner Nolan, supported by Commissioner Celentino to approve the Minutes of the March 27, 2007 meeting, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. Absent: Commissioners Grebner and Schafer.
ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA:
There were no additions to the agenda.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS:
Letter from the Department of Human Services rescinding the termination of Contract #BA05-330001-4. Received and placed on file.
Letter, with attachments, from the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, forwarding the Commission’s Preliminary FY 2008 Budget. Referred to the County Services Committee.
Resolution from Van Buren County expressing opposition to Senate Bill 232. Received and placed on file.
Letter from the Ingham County Chapter of the Michigan Townships Association, inviting Commissioners to attend a potluck dinner meeting on April 25, 2007. Received and placed on file.
Notice of a public hearing from the Webberville Village Council to consider an ordinance to amend the Webberville Downtown Development Authority Plan and Tax Increment Finance Plan. Referred to the Finance Committee.
Letter from Commissioner Weatherwax-Grant, tendering her resignation from the Parks and Recreation Commission. Accepted with regrets and placed on file.
Letter from the Department of Human Services regarding the status of the Child Care Fund, DHS Sub-account. Referred to the Judiciary Committee.
Letter from Chairperson Marc Thomas, tendering his resignation from the Fair Board. Accepted with regrets and placed on file.
LIMITED PUBLIC COMMENT:
The Board acknowledged the work done by Jared Cypher as interim fair manager.
County Controller/Administrator Matthew Myers and Fair Board Vice-Chair Debbie Miller introduced the new Fair Manager, Tom Edman, who will begin his new position on April 16.
Frank Badalamente, of Holt, addressed the Board on behalf of the Greater Lansing Italian-American Club, to commend the Commissioners on the wonderful facilities and staff at Hawk Island County Park.
CONSIDERATION OF CONSENT AGENDA:
Moved by Commissioner Severino, supported by Commissioner Soule to adopt a consent agenda consisting of all items except 11, 15 and 17. Motion carried unanimously. Absent: Commissioners Grebner and Schafer. Items on the consent agenda were adopted by a unanimous roll call vote. Absent: Commissioners Grebner and Schafer. Items voted on separately are so noted in the Minutes.
COMMITTEE REPORTS AND RESOLUTIONS:
The following resolution was introduced by the County Services Committee:
RESOLUTION TO MODIFY THE CURRENT HIRING PROCESS UNDER THE COUNTY’S
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT PLAN
RESOLUTION #07-072
WHEREAS, it has been recommended by the Ingham County Equal Opportunity Committee (E.O.C.) to modify the County’s job selection process; and
WHEREAS, the E.O.C. makes the following recommended changes as listed below:
I. The Human Resources Department will be responsible for:
1. Developing hiring policies and procedures for County agencies.
2. Posting job descriptions.
3. Reviewing job applications to screen out those who do not meet the minimum qualifications.
4. Referring the most qualified applicants, based on established screening criteria, to the hiring department for review.
5. Reviewing department’s employment package for compliance with human resource guidelines, prior to hire.
II. The hiring department will be responsible for developing an employment package that includes:
1. A job description.
2. An interview panel.
3. The interview panel rating forms and standardized job related questions, for example:
a. Knowledge of job to be performed;
b. Education and experience;
c. Special training that is job related;
d. Interpersonal skills;
e. Communication skills; and
f. Personal demeanor.
4. How each interview question is weighted in the overall scoring.
5. An interview rating sheet on qualified applicants referred by the Human Resources Department.
6. The Interview Panel recommendation on the top candidates(s) to the hiring supervisors. The hiring supervisor will make the final decision.
7. Submit the total employment package with the recommended hiring decision to the Human Resources Department for review prior to any job offer.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby adopts the recommended changes in the hiring process as submitted by the Equal Opportunity Committee.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners request and encourages all Countywide Elected Officials and Chief Judges to voluntarily adopt these recommended changes in the selection process, and to continue to work towards further achievement of the stated goals of the Plan.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the County Service Committee:
RESOLUTION HONORING THOMAS G. CLINTON
RESOLUTION #07-073
WHEREAS, Thomas Clinton began his employment with Ingham County on September 27, 1977 as a Custodian, a position he held through 1978; and
WHEREAS, in November of 1978, he worked as a Maintenance Laborer with the Ingham County Purchasing and Properties Department in a number of different capacities including working on the building of two Circuit Courts; and
WHEREAS, in September of 1979, Mr. Clinton was promoted to Offset Operator in the Print Shop where Mr. Clinton received many letters of thanks and commendation for his efficient, cooperative and dependable work; and
WHEREAS, in November of 1981, he was promoted to Senior Offset Operator in the Print Shop where he received several letters of appreciation for a job well done from many departments and committees; and
WHEREAS, while in this position he was instrumental in keeping with the changes of the industry and changed the environment in the Print Shop from offset printing presses to high speed copiers; and
WHEREAS, in March 2003, due do the changes in the work environment, Mr. Clinton’s title changed to Senior Reprographics and Printing Operator; and
WHEREAS, we would like to mention that Mr. Clinton spent several years serving on the Ingham County Historical Commission of which he was recently honored; and
WHEREAS, after thirty (30) years, Thomas Clinton is retiring from his position.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby honors Thomas Clinton for his 30 years of dedicated service to the County of Ingham and the citizens of Ingham County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board wishes him continued success in all his future endeavors.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by County Services Committee:
RESOLUTION DESIGNATING APRIL 18, 2007 AS "HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY@ IN INGHAM COUNTY
RESOLUTION #07-074
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners and citizens of Ingham County recognize that the horrors of the Holocaust should never be forgotten; and
WHEREAS, the Holocaust was the state-sponsored, systematic persecution and annihilation of European Jewry by Nazi Germany and its collaborators between 1933 and 1945; and
WHEREAS, the Holocaust involved the genocide of millions of innocent Jewish men, women, and children and other minorities throughout Europe; there was an enormity of suffering inflicted on the many survivors through mistreatment, brutalization, violence, torture, slave labor, involuntary medical experimentation, death marches, and numerous other acts of cruelty that have come to be known as “crimes against humanity”; and
WHEREAS, a key date in the history of the Holocaust is April 19, 1943, the beginning of the Warsaw ghetto uprising, when Jews, using homemade bombs and stolen or bartered weapons, resisted death camp deportation by the Nazis for 27 days; and
WHEREAS, in the past 62 years, the Holocaust has provided the people of the world with a critical lesson in the importance of compassion, caring, and kindness and has served as a reminder of the dangers inherent in bigotry, racism, and intolerance in the world; and
WHEREAS, recognition of the 62nd anniversary of the end of World War II and the liberation of the concentration camps is crucial and the Board of Commissioners wishes to honor the memory of all who lost their lives and all who have and continue to suffer as a result of the Holocaust.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby designates April 18, 2007 as “Holocaust Remembrance Day” in Ingham County and encourages the citizens of Ingham County to commemorate the occasion through reflection, acts of compassionate caring, and learning about the terrible consequences and lessons of the Holocaust.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the County Services Committee:
RESOLUTION IN HONOR OF THE 2007 STATE ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION
RESOLUTION #07-075
WHEREAS, Arbor Day was first celebrated in 1872 to promote conservation efforts and has become a cherished and respected tradition in Michigan; and
WHEREAS, Arbor Day is a time to celebrate trees and their importance in our lives and represents an opportunity to emphasize that tree planting is an important personal demonstration of stewardship; and
WHEREAS, Arbor Day helps remind Ingham County residents that healthy natural resources are vital and that each of us can play a role in ensuring the quality of life in our community; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners wish to recognize the outstanding efforts of all involved with the success of Arbor Day including the Michigan Arbor Day Alliance, Michigan Forestry and Park Association, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Forest, Mineral and Fire Management Division and the City of Lansing=s Parks & Recreation and Forestry Division; and
WHEREAS, the 2007 State Arbor Day Celebration will take place Friday, April 27, 2007 at11:30 a.m. at Potter Park Zoo.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby endorses Arbor Day and extends their congratulations and best wishes to the Michigan Arbor Day Alliance, Michigan Forestry and Park Association, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Forest, Mineral and Fire Management Division and the City of Lansing=s Parks & Recreation and Forestry Division on the occasion of 2007 State Arbor Day Celebration.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the County Services and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A CONTRACT WITH GREAT LAKES WINDOW CLEANING FOR WINDOW CLEANING AT VARIOUS COUNTY FACILITIES
RESOLUTION #07-076
WHEREAS, the current contract for window cleaning will expire on July 31, 2007; and
WHEREAS, the Purchasing Department has solicited bids from qualified and experienced firms for the purpose of providing window and glass cleaning services at various County facilities on a semi-annual basis; and
WHEREAS, the funds for these services will be budgeted in the appropriate 931100 Maintenance Contractual accounts; and
WHEREAS, the Facilities Department in concurrence with the Purchasing Department has recommended that a contract be awarded to Great Lakes Window Cleaning for a three (3) year agreement period beginning on August 1, 2007 through July 31, 2010, with an option to renew for two (2) years upon the mutual written consent of both the County and Contractor, the locations and services provided will be billed to the County as follows:
|
Facility |
Cleaning Services |
Cost per Facility |
Semi-Annual |
Total Annual Cost |
|
Hilliard Bldg |
Interior/Exterior |
$1,200.00 |
2 visits |
$2,400.00 |
|
Mason Cthouse |
Interior/Exterior |
$1,575.00 |
2 visits |
$3,150.00 |
|
VMC |
Exterior |
$1,325.00 |
2 visits |
$2,650.00 |
|
GPB |
Exterior |
$1,000.00 |
2 visits |
$2,000.00 |
|
HSB |
Exterior |
$1,325.00 |
2 visits |
$2,650.00 |
|
Youth Center |
Exterior |
$ 100.00 |
2 visits |
$ 200.00 |
|
Annual Total |
|
|
|
$13,050.00 |
|
3 Year Cost |
|
|
|
$39,150.00 |
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes entering into a contract with Great Lakes Window Cleaning, 501 W. Mount Hope, Lansing, Michigan 48910, to provide semi-annual window and glass cleaning services for various County facilities for an annual cost of $13,050.00, with a total contract cost not to exceed $39,150.00.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners authorizes the option of a two (2) year extension upon the recommendation of the County Controller and approval of the County Services Committee.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Board Chairperson to sign any necessary contract documents that are consistent with this resolution and approved as to form by the County Attorney.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
FINANCE: Yeas: Celentino, Grant, Grebner, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Soule Approved 4/04/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the County Services and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION ON THE STATE BUDGET CRISIS
RESOLUTION #07-077
WHEREAS, after seven straight years of state budget deficits and four years of budget cuts, we are facing yet another $3 billion shortfall in state revenue for the current and 2007-08 fiscal years; and
WHEREAS, the Governor has already cut over $3.6 billion from the state’s budget over the past four years, has cut more from the state’s budget than any previous governor and is operating the state with fewer state employees than we had in 1970; and
WHEREAS, we have cut major taxes over 32 times in the past decade, our unemployment rate remains one of the highest in the country, and our auto industry continues to struggle; and
WHEREAS, the Single Business Tax (SBT), the primary tax paid by businesses in Michigan, will be entirely phased out by the end of the year with no replacement for the $1.9 billion in revenue generated from this tax; and
WHEREAS, higher education in Michigan has already been cut by $250 million which has resulted in college students and their families having to pay double digit tuition increases and a college education moving further out of reach for the state’s middle class; and
WHEREAS, funding for local governments has been cut by $2 billion resulting in a loss of over 1,600 police officers and 2,000 fire fighters statewide, thereby compromising the safety of our local communities; and
WHEREAS, further cuts to state safety net programs for food assistance, childcare and health care will only result in a shift of demand to already overburdened county and municipal programs.
WHEREAS, the Senate has proposed a cut of $18.4 million to the Convention Facilities Fund which is comprised of liquor tax revenues and these revenues amount to approximately 50% of this program which is divided between County revenues and the Substance Abuse Coordinating Councils for substance prevention programs, and such a cut to this program in 2007 would equate to approximately $800,000, $400,000 of which would be to the County General Fund, with the rest being cut from the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission appropriation.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Ingham cannot sustain further cuts in essential state services and that further funding cuts will result in a loss of quality of life for the citizens of this state and an inability to attract new business to our communities.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Michigan Legislature must demonstrate bipartisan leadership by:1) identifying a full replacement for the SBT and, 2) affirming their commitment to finding funding solutions to address the budget deficit in a manner that will move Michigan into a sound economic future and ensure a high quality of life for our residents.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk shall send copies of this resolution to Governor Jennifer Granholm, the Senators and Representatives for Ingham County, and the Michigan Association of Counties.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Dougan
Nays: Severino Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
FINANCE: Yeas: Celentino, Grant, Grebner, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Soule Approved 4/04/07
Moved by Commissioner De Leon, supported by Commissioner Celentino to adopt the resolution. Motion carried, with Commissioner Severino voting no, all others voting yes. Absent: Commissioners Grebner and Schafer.
The following resolution was introduced by the County Services and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A PARKS POLICE SERVICES AGREEMENT
WITH DELHI TOWNSHIP
RESOLUTION #07-078
WHEREAS, the Delhi Township Parks & Recreation Commission has requested assistance with law enforcement within Delhi Township parks; and
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Parks & Recreation Commission, in conjunction with the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, has provided law enforcement services to Aurelius Township for Columbia Creek Park on a contract basis; and
WHEREAS, an objective outlined in the 2007 Budget Strategic Plan calls for “Ingham County officials to work cooperatively with other local governments to meet the needs of the county citizens by sharing resources, eliminating duplication, and avoiding non-productive competition”; and
WHEREAS, another objective states the goal of providing “County support and involvement in activities which are focused on the protection of youth and reducing violence and preventing crime, particularly where youth are involved”; and
WHEREAS, the location of Burchfield Park within Delhi Township and Hawk Island Park, near the border of Delhi Township, will provide for the opportunity to coordinate the requested services with our existing Park Police system in an efficient and cost effective manner; and
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Parks & Recreation Commission has recommended that the agreement be approved; and
WHEREAS, Delhi Township will reimburse the County at a rate of 35% above the hourly rate of the Parks Police Officers providing the service for all hours worked; and
WHEREAS, the concept has been approved by the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes an agreement with Delhi Township to provide for law enforcement services within the Delhi Township parks at a rate of 35% above the hourly rate of the Parks Police Officers providing the service for all hours worked.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes the County Attorney to prepare the necessary documents with the Board Chairperson and the County Clerk authorized to sign the same.
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
FINANCE: Yeas: Celentino, Grant, Grebner, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Soule Approved 4/04/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the Human Services, County Services and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE PLAN OF ORGANIZATION AND AUTHORIZE REORGANIZATION IN THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT
RESOLUTION #07-079
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners establishes the Plan of Organization for the Health Department, with the concurrence of the Michigan Department of Community Health; and
WHEREAS, Bruce B. Bragg recently retired as Health Officer; and
WHEREAS, in Resolution #07-027, the Board of Commissioners appointed Dean G. Sienko, M.D., as Health Officer; and
WHEREAS, the Health Officer has reviewed the structure of the Department and has proposed a number of changes in reporting relationships and job functions; and
WHEREAS, the proposed new jobs have been evaluated by the Human Resources Department which have been made, and concurred with the recommendations that are contained in this resolution; and
WHEREAS, the Health Officer has recommended that the Board of Commissioners authorize the proposed reorganization and the resulting establishment of new positions and changes in job titles and classifications; and
WHEREAS, the Health Officer has advised that no additional funds are required to implement the proposed changes.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby amends the Ingham County Health Department Plan of Organization, effective April 16, 2007, as attached.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Board of Commissioners authorizes the following changes in job titles and classification/salary grades, effective April 16, 2007:
Position/Employee Current Grade Proposed Grade Title
601003 Jaeson Fournier MCF 14 MCF 16 Deputy Health Officer
for Community Health
Care Services
601076 Laura Peterson MCF 14 MCF 16 Deputy Health Officer
for Health Plan
Management
601004 Melany Mack MCF 13* MCF 12 Director, Planning and
Special Services
601079 Jayson Welter PRO 09 MCF 11 Manager, Health Plan
Management Services
*Current employee has been appointed as the Interim Director of Planning and Special Services
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Board of Commissioners authorizes the following new positions be established in the Health Department:
Position Title Proposed Grade
Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services MCF 15
and Special Programs
Chief Operating Officer for Health Care Services MCF 13
Assistant Deputy Health Officer MCF 10 (C: Professional)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following positions be eliminated in the Health Department:
Position Grade
601001 Health Officer (Bragg) MCF 18
601146 Public Health Nursing Supervisor (Tannenbaum) MCF 10
601059 Administrative Information Unit Manager (Dalton) MCF 10
601011 Health Analyst (Mack) PRO 10
HUMAN SERVICES: Yeas: Bahar-Cook, Schor, Tennis, Severino
Nays: None Absent: Hertel , Grebner Approved 4/09/07
COUNTY SERVICES: Yeas: De Leon, Tennis, Copedge, Severino, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Nolan Approved 4/3/07
FINANCE: Yeas: Celentino, Grant, Grebner, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Soule Approved 4/04/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
PLAN OF ORGANIZATION
INGHAM COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
March 2007
The Ingham County Health Department exists as a unit of Ingham County government. The Department is one of many departments/offices/units which operate under the direction of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners. There are sixteen Ingham County Commissioners who are elected for two year terms. The Board of Commissioners appoints the Health Officer to serve as the Director of the Health Department and establishes through its annual budget process the personnel and other resources available to the Health Department to carry out its statutory mission and any other duties assigned by the Board of Commissioners.
The Board of Commissioners has established a number of administrative policies/procedures and rules for the operation of all county departments. These include the operation of the personnel functions and the financial management functions (budgeting, general ledger, purchasing, etc.). These functions are overseen by the County Controller, who is appointed by the Board of Commissioners as the County’s Chief Administrative Officer. The Health Department is bound by these policies/procedures and rules and utilizes the resources of the Controller’s Office to implement all such functions ( that is, Human Resources Department, Financial Services Department, Purchasing Department, Budget Office and MIS Department, etc.).
Through its administrative processes, the Board of Commissioners negotiates agreements with several collective bargaining units and establishes a compensation plan for managers and confidential employees. Through these mechanisms, the job titles, classifications, wages and other terms of employment are established for all positions in the Health Department. The Board of Commissioners charges the Controller, and through him, the Human Resources Director with the responsibility of implementing the collective bargaining agreements and the managerial compensation plan. The Health Officer utilizes these documents to employ and direct the staff of the Health Department.
The Board of Commissioners appoints the Ingham County Board of Health. The Board of Health serves as an advisory body, assisting the Health Department staff and the Board of Commissioners.
The Board of Commissioners appoints the Ingham Community Health Center Board. The Community Health Center Board oversees the operation of the network of community health centers operated by the Health Department.
Board of Commissioners/Board of Health/Community Health Center Board/Administrative Staff - 2007
Ingham County Board of Commissioners
Marc Thomas, Chairperson
Dianne Holman, Vice-Chairperson
Mike Severino, Vice-Chairperson Pro Tem
Victor G. Celentino District No. 1 Curtis Hertel, Jr. District No. 9
Debbie De Leon District No. 2 Mark Grebner District No. 10
Tina Weatherwax-Grant District No. 3 Dianne Holman District No. 11
Rebecca Bahar-Cook District No. 4 Deb Nolan District No. 12
Andy Schor District No. 5 Randy Schafer District No. 13
Dale Copedge District No. 6 Steve Dougan District No. 14
Todd Tennis District No. 7 Michael Severino District No. 15
Marc Thomas District No. 8 Timothy Soule District No. 16
Human Services Committee (Board of Commissioners)
Curtis Hertel, Jr., Chairperson,
Mark Grebner, Rebecca Bahar-Cook, Andy Schor, Todd Tennis, Michael Severino
Ingham County Board of Health
George Rowan, Chairperson
Martha Adams, Jacqueline Day, Patricia Hepp, Mark Kieselbach, June Morse, Maurice Reizen, M.D., Saturnino Rodriguez, Barry Saltman, M.D., Beth Spyke
Health Department Administrative Staff
Dean G. Sienko, M.D., M.S., Health Officer/Medical Director/Chief Medical Examiner
Jaeson Fournier, D.C., M.P.H., Deputy Health Officer for Community Health Services
Laura Peterson, M.A., Deputy Health Officer for Health Plan Management Services
Vacant, Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services and Special Programs
Vacant, Assistant Deputy Health Officer
Melany Mack, Director, Planning and Special Services
James Wilson, R.S., M.S., Director of Environmental Health
John Jacobs, C.P.A., Chief Financial Officer
Anita Turner, R.N., M.A., Director of Nursing
Judy Williams, B.S.N., M.P.A., Director of Communicable Disease Control
Ingham Community Health Center Board
Margaret Beall, Willie Davis, Patricia Farrel, Angie Garza, Curtis Hertel, Jr., Lonnie Johnson, Anne Smiley, Sara Steele, Robin Turner
Health Department Mandate
The Constitution of the State of Michigan includes the following declaration:
"The public health and general welfare of the people of the State are hereby declared to be matters of primary public concern. The Legislature shall pass suitable laws for the protection and promotion of public health."
In 1978, the Public Health Code was passed by the Legislature and signed by the Governor. The "Code" establishes a State/Local system to carry out the responsibility to protect and promote public health.
The Code establishes the Michigan Department of Public Health with the responsibility to:
". . .continually and diligently endeavor to prevent disease, prolong life, and promote the public health through organized programs, including prevention and control of environmental health hazards; prevention and control of diseases; prevention and control of health problems of particularly vulnerable population groups; development of health care facilities and health services delivery systems; and regulation of health care facilities and health services delivery systems to the extent provided by law."
The Michigan Department of Public Health is charged in the Public Health Code to:
". . .promote an adequate and appropriate system of local health services throughout the state."
The Public Health Code requires every county to provide for a local health department. County Boards of Commissioners are required to organize county or district health departments.
The Public Health Code charges the local health departments with the same basic responsibilities as are given to the State:
"A local health department shall continually and diligently endeavor to prevent disease, prolong life and promote the public health through organized programs, including prevention and control of environmental health hazards, prevention and control of disease; prevention and control of health problems of particularly vulnerable population groups; development of health care facilities and health services delivery systems; and regulation of health care facilities and health care delivery systems to the extent provided by law."
The Ingham County Board of Commissioners has responded to this mandate by establishing the Ingham County Health Department as a Department of Ingham County Government. Each year, through the County budget process and through contracts established with the State, the Board of Commissioners determines which programs and services will be established and maintained to respond to the legal requirements to promote and protect the public health of the citizens of Ingham County.
Chain of Command
The Health Officer is appointed by the Board of Commissioners with the concurrence of the Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health. The Health Officer acts as the chief administrative officer and must “Have powers necessary or appropriate to perform the duties and exercise the powers given by law to the local health officer and which are not otherwise prohibited by law.” The most serious of these powers relate to the declaration of “imminent danger to health or lives” which could lead to orders to restrain a condition, practice or person, and the issuance of emergency orders and procedures to include involuntary detention and treatment of persons in the event of an epidemic.
To assure that a proper representative of the Health Department is always available to exercise the power and duties of the Health Officer, the following Chain of Command is established in the Health Department and
through the adoption of this Plan of Organization supported by the Ingham County Board of Commissioners and by the Director of the Michigan Department of Community Health.
In the event that Dean Sienko cannot be reached, or is absent from Ingham County, and there is a need to act with the authority of the Health Officer, the following chain of command shall be in effect:
1. Laura Peterson, M.A., Deputy Health Officer for Health Plan Management
2. Jaeson Fournier, Deputy Health Officer for Community Health Services
3. Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services and Special Programs (new position)
In the event that the chain of command is activated, there will be no official Acting Health Officer. However, the above list identifies the person authorized to act with the authority vested in the Health Officer via statute, rule or policy.
Organizational Structure
The Health Department (as shown in the Table of Organization) is organized into three major divisions each headed by a Deputy Health Officer. These direct service units are supported by the Director’s Office and the Financial Services Unit.
Dean Sienko, M.D., M.S. has served as the Department’s Medical Director since 1988 and was recently appointed Health Officer, effective February 2007. Dr. Sienko has served as Ingham County’s Chief Medical Examiner since 1989. In all of these capacities, he serves at the pleasure of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners.
Three other physicians provide a combined 1.0 FTE in administrative support to the Health Department’s operations. Sugandha Lowhim, M.D., M.P.H. serves as the Department’s Chief Deputy Medical Director. Dr. Lowhim is a full-time county employee; she serves half-time in administrative public health and half-time as an internal medicine physician in the Health Department’s clinics. Dennis Jurczak, M.D., serves as a Deputy Medical Director and Chief Deputy Medical Examiner; Dr. Jurczak is a part-time contractual employee who works approximately 10 hours per week. Bonta Hiscoe, M.D. is also a Deputy Medical Director and part-time contractual employee who works approximately 10 hours per week.
Jaeson Fournier, D.C., M.P.H., serves as the Deputy Health Officer for Community Health Care Services. His work area is the largest in the Health Department, with an annual budget of about $15 million and approximately 150 employees. The Clinical Services unit operates a network of Federally-Qualified Community Health Centers (FQHCs) serving people who are eligible for Medicaid; people who do not have health insurance; or people who are enrolled in the Ingham Health Plan, the Medical Access Plan or another health benefit program coordinated by the Department. This unit also houses some categorically funded programs such as family planning. Because of his leadership role for both the Health Department and our FQHCs, Dr. Fournier is jointly appointed by the Health Officer and the Community Health Center Board; he provides staff support for the Community Health Center Board. Recently, this unit took over responsibility for inmate medical services at the Ingham County Jail. Dr. Fournier reports to the Health Officer.
Laura Peterson, M.A. serves as the Deputy Health Officer for Health Plan Management (HPM). This unit operates services to provide outreach to the low-income, at-risk community and to work with this community to find health insurance or a health care benefits program. The HPM unit serves as staff to the Ingham Health Plan Corporation, and 17 County Health Plans in 53 counties in Michigan through its participation with the Ingham Health Plan. Overall the HPM unit provides the administrative services for health plans that have enrolled more than 28,000 previously uninsured persons into health coverage plans that provide primary care, specialty care physician services, a pharmacy benefit, laboratory services and radiology services. The HPM unit also operates the pharmacy programs for seven health plans, providing a discounted price for prescription drugs to uninsured persons and those whose health insurance does not provide pharmacy coverage. The Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program (BCCCP) is located within this unit.
Laura Peterson will also supervise our Environmental Health and Public Health Preparedness units. The Environmental Health (EH) unit directs the Department’s programs to prevent and control environmental hazards; it is managed by Jim Wilson, R.S., M.S. The EH unit operates three program areas: Planned Programs (which includes the food service sanitation program), Demand Program (including the water supply services and on-site sewage programs) and the Special Projects unit which includes the planning for solid waste management, environmental toxicology, lead and radon services. The Public Health Preparedness Unit was created to provide leadership within the Health Department and coordination with emergency management and medical care preparedness in the community. Sue McIntosh, M.S., R.S. is the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator.
The third major division of the Health Department will be headed by our Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services. This unit contains the following programmatic areas: Public Health Nursing, Disease Control, Immunizations, and Planning and Special Services. Virtually all pure public health nursing responsibilities are located within this unit; these responsibilities include home visits, outbreak control, infant mortality prevention, lead poisoning prevention and the hearing and vision program. Key leaders in this area include Anita Turner, R.N., M.A., Judy Williams, B.S.N., M.P.A., and Joy Maloney, R.N.
The Planning and Special Services unit, supervised by Melany Mack, M.S.W., is also located here. This unit conducts our community health assessment and health promotion, Food Bank, and tobacco cessation and control functions. Much of the effort of this unit is directed at engaging the community in learning experiences about the status of health and the causes of disease and disability with an outcome of community planning to improve health status. This Bureau represents the Department’s effort to extend beyond direct services and to engage the entire community in learning, strategy development and actions to improve the quality of life. The Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services will report to the Health Officer.
The Financial Services Unit is managed by John Jacobs, C.P.A. This unit is responsible for operating the financial aspects of the Health Department within the guidance of county policies/procedures and rules and consistent with contractual grant requirements. The Financial Services Unit provides Health Department managers with financial reports necessary to efficiently operate the Department. This unit also coordinates the internal telephone and computer support system, maintaining liaison with the County MIS Department. Mr. Jacobs reports to the Health Officer.
Local Public Health Operations (LPHO)
Annually, the appropriations bill for the Michigan Department of Community Health establishes funding for a set of public health services which are supported through a Local Public Health Operations line item. In State Fiscal Year 2007, $1,426,785 of that funding is allocated to support Ingham County services. The County is required to describe how those services will be delivered. The following statements serve as the LPHO plan for 2007:
• Immunizations – Ingham County operates a full-time Immunization Clinic in the Human Services Building and offers childhood and adult immunizations through all of the outlying community health centers. The Immunization Program operates under the supervision of the Director of Communicable Disease Control. The Director of Communicable Disease Control reports administratively to the Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services; he/she works directly with the Medical Director or Chief Deputy Medical Director on all medical matters.
• Sexually Transmitted Disease – Ingham County operates a full-time Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Clinic in the Human Services Building and provides for STI diagnosis and treatment through all of its community health centers. The dedicated STI Clinic in the Human Services Building operates within the Adult Health Clinic. The STI Program is supervised by the Deputy Health Officer for Community Health Services; medical matters are brought to the attention of the Medical Director or Chief Deputy Medical Director.
• Infectious Disease – Ingham County operates a Communicable Disease Control Office. This Office is supervised by the Disease Control Supervisor who reports to Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services on administrative matters. The Medical Director or Chief Deputy Medical Director supervise all medical matters. The Office is staffed with full-time Disease Control Nurses and support staff.
• Hearing Screening – Ingham County operates a Hearing Screening Program within the Public Health Nursing Unit. The Unit employs trained Hearing Technicians who conduct the screenings at all Ingham County schools and child care facilities. The Program is supervised by the Public Health Nursing Director who reports to the Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services.
• Vision Screening – Ingham County operates a Vision Screening Program within the Public Health Nursing Unit. The Unit employs trained Vision Technicians who conduct the screenings at all Ingham County schools and child care facilities. The Program is supervised by the Public Health Nursing Director who reports to the Deputy Health Officer for Nursing Services.
• Food Protection – Ingham County operates a Food Sanitation Program within the Bureau of Environmental Health. The Bureau utilizes Registered Sanitarians with specific training in food service sanitation to implement the plan review, education, inspection, enforcement and outbreak investigation functions of the Program. The Program operates within the Planned Program Unit of the Bureau. It operates under the direct supervision of the Planned Program Supervisor who reports to the Environmental Health Director. The EH Director reports to the Deputy Health Officer for Health Plan Management.
• Private and Public Water Supply – Ingham County operates a Drinking Water Program within the Bureau of Environmental Health. The Bureau utilizes Registered Sanitarians to implement the Program. The Program operates within the Demand Services Unit of the Bureau, under the direct supervision of the Demand Services Supervisor, who reports to the Environmental Health Director. The EH Director reports to the Deputy Health Officer for Health Plan Management.
• On-site Sewage Management – Ingham County operates an On-site Sewage Program within the Bureau of Environmental Health. The Bureau utilizes Registered Sanitarians to implement the Program. The Program operates within the Demand Services Unit of the Bureau, under the direct supervision of the Demand Services Supervisor, who reports to the Environmental Health Director. The EH Director reports to the Deputy Health Officer for Health Plan Management.
The following resolution was introduced by the Human Services and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF FUNDS TO THE MID-SOUTH SUBSTANCE ABUSE COMMISSION AND A 2007 CONTRACT FOR ACCOUNTING WITH RESPECT THERETO
RESOLUTION #07-080
WHEREAS, MCL 211.24(e), commonly known as the State Liquor Tax Law, allowed Ingham County the option of retaining the entire amount of liquor tax revenue provided that these monies be used to offset property tax revenues by an equal amount, or the option of retaining one-half of the revenues and distributing the other half to the County’s designated coordinating agency for substance abuse prevention; and
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, during the 2007 budget process, chose to retain one-half of these liquor tax revenues for the General Fund and is now required to distribute the other one-half of these revenues to the designated coordinating agency, the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission, to use said funds for substance abuse prevention and treatment programs in Ingham County; and
WHEREAS, the statute requires the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission to use said funds for substance abuse prevention and treatment programs in Ingham County; and
WHEREAS, the Department of Treasury has recommended certain accounting and/or auditing procedures to be used with respect thereto.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that a contract be entered into with the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission which provides that the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission will provide Ingham County with substance abuse services and accounting and audit reports consistent with the requirements of the Michigan Department of Treasury, demonstrating its use of funds received from Ingham County from liquor tax revenues, which use shall be in accordance with the requirements of MCL. 211.24(e).
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes an amendment to the 2007 General Fund Budget to reflect a decrease of $8,164 in anticipated revenues from the Liquor Tax distribution; and an increase of $4,082 in the projected use of Fund Balance; and a decrease of $4,082 in the appropriation to the Mid-South Substance Abuse Commission, totaling $796,385 to come from 101-63100-849000.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chairperson of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners and the County Clerk are authorized to sign any necessary contract documents consistent with this resolution and approved as to form by the County Attorney.
HUMAN SERVICES: Yeas: Schor, Tennis, Severino
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Grebner Abstain: Bahar-Cook Approved 4/09/07
FINANCE: Yeas: Celentino, Grant, Grebner, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Soule Approved 4/04/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the Human Services Committee:
RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR A CAMPAIGN FOR SMOKE FREE AIR
RESOLUTION #07-081
WHEREAS, the Environmental Protection Agency has classified secondhand smoke as a Group A Carcinogen and therefore concludes that secondhand smoke is a health risk to nonsmokers; and
WHEREAS, secondhand smoke is the third leading cause of preventable death in the country and has been proven to cause cancer, heart disease, stroke, emphysema and asthma; and
WHEREAS, studies show that children are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke, suffering more respiratory problems, ear infections and asthma, as a result of exposure to it; and
WHEREAS, worksites and public places are locations where children, members of the community and employees are exposed to secondhand smoke; and
WHEREAS, smoke free air policies have been shown to discourage kids from starting to smoke, to prompt more smokers to quit and to reduce the number of cigarettes that smokers consume; and
WHEREAS, Michigan’s Surgeon General has called on communities to work to reduce tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke; and
WHEREAS, local opinion surveys consistently demonstrate overwhelming popular demand for smoke free environments; and
WHEREAS, involuntary exposure to secondhand smoke is a serious public health hazard that is preventable by adopting regulatory policies; and
WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of local public health departments to protect the public health of their citizens.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby supports legislation that will eliminate secondhand smoke in all Michigan restaurants, bars and worksites.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk forward this resolution to Governor Granholm and legislators representing Ingham County.
HUMAN SERVICES: Yeas: Bahar-Cook, Schor, Tennis, Severino
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Grebner Approved 4/09/07
Moved by Commissioner Hertel, supported by Commissioner De Leon to adopt the resolution.
COMMISSIONER BAHAR-COOK DISCLOSED THAT SHE IS CURRENLTY IN NOGOTIATIONS WITH THE CAMPAIGN FOR SMOKE-FREE AIR.
COMMISSIONER HERTEL DISCLOSED THAT THROUGH HIS POSITION AT THE STATE, HE SERVES ON ONE OF THE CAMPAIGN FOR SMOKE-FREE AIR WEBSITE COMMITTEES.
Motion to adopt carried, with Commissioner Dougan voting no, all others voting yes. Absent: Commissioners Grebner and Schafer.
The following resolution was introduced by the Human Services Committee:
RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPOINTMENT TO THE VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
RESOLUTION #07-082
WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners created a new position on the Veterans Affairs Committee for a representative of the 21st Century Middle Eastern Conflict; and
WHEREAS, the Human Services Committee interviewed the applicant interested in serving on this Committee.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby appoints
Thomas Hetchler, Jr., 5940 Cartago Drive, Lansing, 48911
to the Veterans Affairs Committee, as the 21st Century Middle Eastern Conflict representative, to a term expiring May 8, 2011.
HUMAN SERVICES: Yeas: Bahar-Cook, Schor, Tennis, Severino
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Grebner Approved: 4/09/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the Human Services Committee:
RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR THE MICHIGAN COMMITTEE FOR EMPLOYER SUPPORT OF THE GUARD AND RESERVE (ESGR)
RESOLUTION #07-083
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners recognizes the National Guard and Reserve as essential to the strength of our nation and the well-being of our communities; and
WHEREAS, in the highest American tradition, the patriotic men and women of the Guard and Reserve serve voluntarily in an honorable and vital profession, they train to respond to their community and their country in time of need, they deserve the support of every segment of our society; and
WHEREAS, if these volunteer forces are to continue to serve our nation, increased public understanding is required of the essential role of the Guard and Reserve in preserving our national security, and their members must have the cooperation of all American employers in encouraging employee participation in Guard and Reserve.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners joins other employers in pledging that:
1. Employment will not be denied because of service in the Guard or Reserve;
2. Employee job and career opportunities will not be limited or reduced because of service in the Guard or Reserve;
3. Employees will be granted leaves of absence for military service in the Guard or Reserve, consistent with existing law;
4. This agreement and its resultant polices will be made known throughout the Ingham County organization.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Chairperson of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners is authorized to sign the attached “Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve”.
HUMAN SERVICES: Yeas: Bahar-Cook, Schor, Tennis, Severino
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Grebner Approved 4/09/07
Moved by Commissioner Hertel, supported by Commissioner De Leon to adopt the resolution. Motion carried unanimously. Absent: Commissioners Grebner and Schafer.
The following resolution was introduced by the Judiciary and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION TO CONTINUE THE JUVENILE JUSTICE
COMMUNITY AGENCY PROCESS
RESOLUTON #07-084
WHEREAS, a Juvenile Justice Millage was approved by the voters of Ingham County in November of 2002, and renewed in 2006 for the purpose of funding an increase to Ingham County’s capacity to detain and house juveniles who are delinquent or disturbed, and to operate new and existing programs for the treatment of such juveniles; and
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners established a Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process in 2006, by reserving a pool of Juvenile Justice Millage funds to seek and fund proposals from qualified vendors to increase the capacity of the County Juvenile Justice System for the treatment of delinquent and disturbed youth, which the County believes to be consistent with the provisions of the millage proposal approved by the voters; and
WHEREAS, the Ingham County Board of Commissioners desires to continue this Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners hereby continues the Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process, reserving $150,000 of Juvenile Justice Millage funds to contract with qualified vendors to increase the capacity of the county juvenile justice system for the treatment of delinquent and disturbed youth, with the intent to reduce the involvement of youth in the formal adjudication process which the County believes to be consistent with the provisions of the millage.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the time period of this second Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process will be July 1, 2007 through December 31, 2008, and that the Juvenile Justice Community Agency Process will continue through the duration of the current millage authorization to coincide with the County fiscal year, with the amount of funds to be determined in the annual budget process.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that priority consideration will be given to those proposals which most appropriately meet the adopted Ingham County Continuum of Care Model.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that priority consideration will be given to those proposals that leverage other sources of funds.
JUDICIARY: Yeas: Bahar-Cook, Schor, Holman, Nolan, Schafer
Nays: None Absent: Grant Approved 3/29/07
FINANCE: Yeas: Celentino, Grant, Grebner, Dougan
Nays: None Absent: Hertel, Soule Approved 4/04/07
Adopted as part of the consent agenda.
The following resolution was introduced by the Law Enforcement and Finance Committees:
RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE PROSECUTING ATTORNEY’S OFFICE TO ACCEPT A GRANT FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES FOR THE JUVENILE ACCOUNTABILITY BLOCK GRANT
RESOLUTION #07-085
WHEREAS, the County has since 1999 operated a Juvenile Accountability Block Grant (JABG) program to provide police and family courts with options to sanction youthful offenders at any level of the Juvenile Justice system; and
WHEREAS, the County of Ingham and the City of Lansing were allocated $33,005, to administer a juvenile justice dispute resolution program in conjunction with the Dispute Resolution Center of Central Michigan; and
WHEREAS, the grant allocation requires that 10% of program funds be contributed by the administering agency, for a $3,667 match which would result in a program budget of $36,672; and
WHEREAS, the proposed program will divert low-level youthful offenders from Family Court into dispute resolution and thus alleviate the strain on the limited resources of Family Court judges, referees and staff; and
WHEREAS, youthful offenders who do not successfully complete the program will be referred by the Prosecuting Attorney to the Family Court.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes a grant contract with the Department of Human Services for the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant in the amount of $33,005, with $3,667 in match, for a total program cost of $36,672 to continue the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant program, for the period from April 1, 2007 through March 30, 2008.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a sub-contract with the Dispute Resolution Center of Central Michigan is authorized for $36,672 to provide for a Program Coordinator position to run the program, provide training, and for other grant approved program costs for travel and supplies.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Controller is authorized to make the necessary budget adjustments to the 2007 and 2008 Prosecutor’s Office Budget.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Ingham County Prosecutor to serve as the program development coordinating body and to administer a dispute resolution program, in conjunction with the Dispute Resolution Center of Central Michigan.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Ingham County Board of Commissioners authorizes the Board Chairperson and the County Clerk to sign