Susan Heath urges public vote on Lifeways bond and objects to Kevin Collins appointment

Susan Heath, a Litchfield resident, told the Hillsdale County Board of Commissioners during public comment that she and other constituents oppose any Lifeways bond approval without a public vote.

“We're opposed without a vote of the people,” Heath said, urging the board to “let the people vote.” She told Commissioner Kevin Collins — whom she identified as her District 2 commissioner — that he should not accept an appointment to the Lifeways board if that appointment is being advanced without public notice.

Heath referenced the bond in roughly the $15,500,000 range, saying she and other residents oppose the Lifeways financing “regardless of what amount” unless voters are given the choice. She also accused certain commissioners of attempting to place the appointment on a hidden consent agenda, and thanked other commissioners who she said have consistently opposed the measure.

The remark came during the board’s public comment period, after the board read its rules for public speakers, which include a five-minute time limit and a requirement that speakers state their names (the board cited its rules/bylaws in the meeting). The transcript records no formal board discussion or vote on the Lifeways bond or the appointment during this meeting.

Heath closed her remarks by urging Commissioner Collins to “do the right thing,” to allow a public vote or decline the appointment. The board adjourned later in the meeting after unrelated crowding and safety complaints; the transcript does not show any immediate reply from Collins or a formal response from staff at the time of Heath’s comment.

The Lifeways bond amount was mentioned in the public comment as approximately $15,500,000; the commenter also said the final amount could differ. The transcript does not specify the bond’s legal name, ordinance number, or any staff presentation on the proposal.