Cass County prepares for opioid summit and drug court reunification celebration

The Cass County Regular Board of Commissioners Meeting held on July 10, 2025, covered several significant topics, including updates on community engagement, infrastructure projects, and upcoming events aimed at addressing local issues.

During the meeting, the county administrator shared insights from recent activities, including attending the Market 1 annual awards banquet and touring the sheriff's department. The administrator emphasized the importance of familiarizing himself with county operations and community stakeholders, expressing a keen interest in the local history.

The drain commissioner reported on challenges related to rural development projects, noting that despite lower interest rates offered, the associated paperwork could increase construction costs. This revelation prompted a reevaluation of how the county approaches such projects.

Additionally, the commissioner announced a bid opening for improvements at Lawless Park scheduled for July 22, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance local recreational facilities. He also discussed an upcoming meeting with Eagle officials regarding a dam removal project, which aims to improve local waterways and fish habitats while addressing community concerns about redundant structures.

Judge Bealer encouraged commissioners to mark their calendars for two important events: the Southwest Michigan Opioid Summit on September 25, which will feature discussions on the opioid crisis, and a reunification day celebration for drug court programs on October 3. Both events aim to foster community engagement and provide valuable resources for addressing addiction issues.

Lastly, Treasurer Anderson announced the upcoming tax-reverted property auction set for August 27, which will be conducted online. She encouraged participation and provided details on registration and bidding procedures.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to community involvement, infrastructure improvement, and addressing pressing social issues, setting the stage for continued collaboration among local leaders and residents.