Muskegon County commissioners approve five‑month trial of twice‑monthly full‑board schedule

Muskegon County commissioners voted to try a revised 2026 meeting calendar that moves many committee discussions into two full‑board meetings per month, approving the change on a 150‑day trial that the board will revisit in early June.

The proposal, introduced by a commissioner who said they were the original proponent, argued the new schedule would ‘‘responsible use of time’’ by reducing duplicative meetings and increasing transparency for the public. ‘‘Under our current structure…motions are only referred to by number and are usually voted on in groups,’’ the commissioner said, adding that the present pattern often means the public ‘‘misses out on real work we and staff are doing at committee meetings.’’

Opponents warned the shift could increase staff workload and risk rushed decisions. One commissioner said consolidating discussion into fewer formal sessions would require more staff time for one‑on‑one briefings and phone calls to prepare commissioners, and said they preferred the current structure because it gives officials more time to review items. The board amended the motion before the vote to make the change temporary: the schedule will expire 150 days after adoption unless the board votes to continue it.

County officials and department directors cited practical benefits. Angela Koschevsky, the county finance director, said holding two full‑board meetings monthly ‘‘gives us the opportunity to get something in front of the board twice a month’’ for time‑sensitive items such as grant applications. Matt Keller, the county IT director, said the additional meeting reduces last‑minute work and helps staff present higher‑quality motions.

On the recorded roll call, Commissioners Herman, Hayes Camp, Vice Chair Cook and Commissioner Raegan voted in favor; Commissioner Cyr and Chair Nash voted no. The motion passed 4–2. The board set the expiration about 150 days out (target date June 5) and will take the change back up at that meeting. The board also instructed staff to bring any necessary rule updates and implementation details to facilitate the revised schedule.

The board’s action shifts how the county staffs and sequences policy discussions and is expected to be reviewed in June if the trial is not extended.