The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners meeting on July 14, 2025, focused on the discussion of a mutual aid agreement for emergency management among the counties in Michigan's Region 6. This agreement aims to formalize the existing informal support systems between counties during emergencies.

The mutual aid agreement has been in development for several years and is designed to enhance cooperation among the 13 counties in the region, which includes the Michigan State Police District 6. Currently, various emergency services, such as police and fire departments, have established mutual aid agreements, but emergency management has not had a specific one until now.

The proposed agreement will not change the way assistance is provided during emergencies significantly; however, it will formalize the process, requiring documentation for requests for help between counties. Additionally, it introduces a provision for cost recovery, which is not currently in place. Officials noted that even without signing the agreement, counties would still respond to calls for help, but the formal agreement would streamline the process and provide necessary documentation for reimbursement in larger emergencies.

As of the meeting, all counties in the region, except for Kent County, were expected to sign the agreement. Kent County, which initially led the effort, has been hesitant due to differing interpretations of the agreement by their legal team and county officials. The goal is to finalize the signing of the agreement by July.

The mutual aid agreement represents a significant step toward enhancing emergency preparedness and response in Montcalm County and its neighboring regions, ensuring that communities can effectively support each other during crises.