Gogebic County commissioners approve POAM contract after closed-session settlement discussion

The Gogebic County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on July 14, 2025, to approve a contract with P.O.A.M. following a closed-session discussion of settlement strategies under Michigan law.

Chairman Dan Siirila called the special meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. The board approved the minutes of the July 9 regular meeting and added an agenda item at the request of Commissioner Lorenson to "consider negotiations with P.O.A.M." On a motion by Commissioner Cayer, supported by Commissioner Matonich, the board voted 7-0 at 4:02 p.m. to enter a closed session to "consider settlement strategies with P.O.A.M. pursuant to MCL 15.268 Sec. (8) (c)." The board returned to open session at 4:13 p.m. on a motion by Commissioner Lorenson, supported by Commissioner Matonich.

After returning to open session, Commissioner Lorenson moved and Commissioner Matonich supported approval of the POAM contract "as presented." A roll call vote recorded seven yes votes and no no votes; the motion carried. The minutes do not include the contract text, financial terms, or the specific settlement proposals discussed in closed session.

In other business the county administrator announced an open position in the Retirement office effective at the end of the month. Chairman Siirila said minutes from the Community Mental Health Board had not been sent to the county in some time; the CMH director is aware and will begin sending them. Commissioner Yon briefly commented on the status of snowmobile races at the fairgrounds. No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. The board adjourned at 4:26 p.m.

The minutes as recorded do not specify the contract amount, the exact terms of the POAM agreement, or any next steps for public disclosure; those details were not included in the meeting minutes provided.