Committee Meeting (Finance):2/8/2024 (Minutes)

The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners Finance Committee convened on February 8, 2024, with a primary focus on the implementation of an independent finance department. The meeting, recorded for public access, began with standard procedural items such as roll call, approval of the agenda, and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. The committee approved the meeting minutes from January 3, 2024, before moving into the core discussion regarding the administrative structure of the new finance department.

The central topic of discussion revolved around the most effective administrative structure for the independent finance department. Commissioner Rexroat presented a proposal for an Administrator/CFO position, supported by a finance department, to provide strategic guidance and implement recommendations from the Rehman report. This approach, he argued, was a departure from past unsuccessful attempts and in line with structures used in other Michigan counties. https://www.leelanau.gov/meetingdetails.asp?MAId=2691#handouts The Administrator agreed with the need for a change.

The committee members engaged in a discussion regarding the potential roles and responsibilities of the proposed Administrator/CFO position. The pros and cons of an Administrator/Controller were also discussed, however, the support leaned toward the Administrator/CFO. Commissioner Lautner expressed her preference for maintaining Board of Commissioners control, and, while Wessell indicated a desire for further discussion of the two options, the committee’s focus remained on taking the first step in the process of establishing an Administrator/CFO.

Following deliberation, the Finance Committee voted to recommend to the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners the adoption of an administrative structure featuring a County Administrator/CFO position. This recommendation represents a crucial step in the process of establishing an independent finance department and improving financial oversight within Leelanau County. The meeting concluded with public and commissioner comments, followed by adjournment.