Washtenaw commissioners approve stopgap senior-nutrition funding from millage
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Summary
The board approved single-reading emergency allocations from the older-persons millage to support senior nutrition providers and related programs, including $100,000 to a local food bank and $100,000 to the senior crisis intervention program; commissioners framed the moves as a stopgap while longer-term plans are developed.
The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners on Tuesday passed single-reading resolutions directing older-persons millage funds to shore up senior-nutrition and emergency housing supports while county staff develop longer-term plans.
Commissioners voted to allocate millage money to senior nutrition program providers through March 31, 2026, and approved two targeted $100,000 allocations: one to a local food bank and one to the Senior Crisis Intervention Program (SCIP). Roll-call votes on the single-reading items carried unanimously.
Presenters and dozens of public commenters described sharp increases in demand: Courtney Vanderlaan of Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels told the board her program had 49 more unduplicated clients from August to October (a 16% rise) and provided 5,400 more meals than the same period last year. Food Gatherers reported nearly 29,000 people—about 8% of the county—receive SNAP benefits and said charitable partners are seeing dramatic increases in calls and visits.
"This is a bridge to maintain services and stability while the county builds a long-term sustainable plan for senior nutrition," said Barbara Niesmeh, CEO of Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels, urging the board to approve the stopgap resolution.
Commissioners praised the collaborative approach among Meals on Wheels providers, Food Gatherers and senior centers, and several urged that county millage and general funds be used more flexibly to prevent homelessness and hunger. Commissioner Maciejewski urged establishing a standing contingency in future millage policy for emergency nutrition needs.
The resolutions were advanced on single reading. County staff said they will return with implementation details, including distribution formulas and reporting requirements for the emergency funds.
