Commissioners approve one-year medical examiner contract with Michigan State University and appoint deputy medical examiner

The Kent County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt a one-year contract with Michigan State University for medical examiner services and to appoint a deputy medical examiner at a regular meeting.

Commissioner Al Hennessy moved adoption of Resolution 78, the contract for medical examiner services, and noted the county received notice from the previous provider (MPS) that it would not continue the contract. Hennessy identified Michigan State University as the county—s new partner and thanked MSU officials and county staff for negotiating the agreement. He described the proposed county contract as similar to the prior MPS contract and said the board would revisit the arrangement after one year to address any operational issues.

Hennessy said Dr. Stephen Cole has signed on with Michigan State University and that Dr. David Start has retired; Hennessy said Dr. Joyce DeJonge agreed to step into the deputy medical examiner role and that MSU would perform autopsy services for the county. Hennessy described the MSU partnership as a "game changer" that will provide closer ties to the medical school and students, and he recommended the board approve the contract.

Commissioner Stack said the partnership is a strong opportunity but raised the need for a robust conflict-of-interest policy in the agreement because the university relationship could increase potential conflicts. Other commissioners thanked MSU for stepping forward.

The resolution for the contract passed in a roll-call vote recorded as 21 yeas, 0 nays. Later in the meeting Commissioner Hennessy moved Resolution 82 to appoint Dr. DeJonge as deputy medical examiner; the appointment carried by voice vote.

County staff and MSU representatives were present to answer commissioner questions during the discussion.