Judge, register thank county for guardianship funding; administrator reports on transcript fees, payroll and facilities

Judge Blubaugh and Probate/Juvenile Register Shelley Brosco told the committee they appreciate the county’s quick action to set aside funds for residents who need guardianship appointments but cannot afford services. The presenters said local agencies and a private company from Alpena have coordinated after the recent death of a community member who previously provided pro bono guardianship assistance.

Administrator Kelly Church then provided information-only updates on several administrative items. She said House Bill No. 5046 will raise the per-page transcript fee from $2.35 to $3.75 effective April 2, 2025. Church also discussed payroll issues tied to MCL 45.421 that will be corrected and resubmitted, long-term disability claims affecting staffing, and patterns of leave-without-pay use that can affect benefit eligibility. She noted the upcoming MIDC application due in April and described that Upper Peninsula counties use differing indigent-defense models, with some using a public-defender office and others a managed assigned counsel model.

Church also updated the committee on facilities work: courtroom carpeting has been completed, there have been recent water leaks in the County Building and Courthouse, and the courthouse east entrance was temporarily closed due to snow and ice falling.

Commissioner Justin Knepper asked that the previously passed motion to expedite the Opioid Settlement Committee and its request-for-proposal be addressed. Chairman Damon Lieurance closed with a comment that his priority is "the little guy first," emphasizing attention to lower-paid county employees.

No public comments were offered during the meeting, and the committee adjourned at 12:26 p.m.