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Berrien County commissioners approve retainer after split vote on outside lobbying services
Summary
The Berrien County Board of Commissioners approved resolution P2502126 by a 9-1 vote after a lengthy debate over renewing outside lobbying and grant‑assistance services, with opponents citing cost and overlap with existing associations.
Berrien County commissioners voted 9-1 to approve resolution P2502126 after extended debate over the county's use of outside lobbying and grant‑assistance services supplied by Midwest Strategy.
The vote capped a discussion in which critics questioned the cost and whether the county receives unique value from the consultant, while supporters said Midwest Strategy has helped secure grants and arrange face‑to‑face meetings with state legislators and agency staff. Commissioner Tyler said, "I will be voting no on it," citing cost concerns and overlap with other organizations. Administrator Brian DeSette told the board, "Midwest assisted us with securing the Silver Beach grant," and described the firm's role arranging legislator meetings and preparing customized packets to advocate for county projects.
Why it matters: the contract covers lobbying and…
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