Eaton County administration presented a plan Nov. 14 to address the county’s unfunded pension liability by adding cash to the Municipal Employees’ Retirement System (MERS) and extending the amortization schedule by five years.

Ben, deputy administrator, described the proposal as a measured step to reduce long‑term personnel costs. "It's almost like adding five years to your mortgage," he said, adding that the change would reduce employer pension contribution rates beginning Oct. 1, 2026. Administration estimates notable percentage reductions for affected groups under the plan and said it negotiated pension changes as part of recent labor agreements.

The county’s funded ratio stands around 61% (administration’s presentation), and staff said the upfront contributions aim to buy time and let investment returns help close the gap. The plan was presented as part of a multi‑pronged financial stability effort; commissioners asked for follow‑up analyses and expressed support for a strategy that avoids state intervention.

What happens next: administration will forward the detailed plan and required documents to MERS and the full Board of Commissioners for formal adoption and implementation steps. Final employer rate changes and exact fiscal impacts will be determined by MERS once the county’s submission is processed.