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Genesee County OKs 12 seasonal marine patrol deputies; grant plus forfeiture funds to cover cost
Summary
The county approved creation and posting of 12 seasonal marine patrol deputy positions to increase coverage on waterways; officials say a federal/state grant typically provides about $27,000 and the remainder would come from the forfeiture fund if the grant does not cover all costs.
The Genesee County Finance Committee approved the creation, posting and hiring of 12 seasonal marine patrol deputies to expand safety coverage on county waterways.
A representative from the Sheriff's Office explained the unit typically fields about six deputies but has had trouble filling weekend and holiday shifts; adding deputies will allow more consistent seasonal coverage. The sheriff's representative said, "we put in for that grant and typically it's about $27,000 the grant gives us, and other than that we cover it with the forfeiture fund. We don't use any general fund money for that." He added that if the grant does not come through the forfeiture fund will cover the positions.
Commissioners asked about the budget and were told the grant amount is modest and that the county will rely on forfeiture funds to avoid drawing on the general fund. The committee approved the action by voice vote; staff said the Sheriff's Office will manage hiring and scheduling for the seasonal positions and will provide updates as staffing is filled.
This action authorizes the sheriff to post the positions and proceed with hiring for the upcoming season; no change to the county's base operating budget was reported at the committee meeting.
