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Public guardian says office manages about 175 local clients; board accepts annual report
Summary
Public Guardian Alicia Bazatt told the Sanilac County Board that the office now serves about 175 individuals and manages 173 bank accounts; commissioners accepted the 2024 annual report and discussed possible certification changes that could limit non‑certified guardianship caseloads.
Alicia Bazatt, the county's public guardian, told the Sanilac County Board of Commissioners on Sept. 16 that her office provides guardianships, conservatorships and representative payee services for vulnerable adults and currently "serve[s] a 175 individuals in our county." She described hands‑on work ranging from managing clients' bank accounts to attending medical appointments and court hearings.
Bazatt said the office handles a large caseload and multiple financial accounts — "we serve and handle a total of 173 separate bank accounts" — and that recent legislation discussed by the state's elder abuse task force could require national certification for professional guardians. "If we don't become licensed, then we can't be guardian for more than 3 people," she said, noting the proposal would force significant operational changes if enacted.
Commissioners thanked Bazatt and her assistant for their work and questioned whether the county should expect continuing demand. Nathan, the county administrator, pointed out the county accepted the Public Guardian's 2024 annual report as presented later in the meeting; the acceptance motion carried on a voice vote. Board members noted the program is not mandated by the state but said it fills a needed local service as private guardianship resources are limited.
The presentation also included operational details Bazatt gave about staffing, coordination with local agencies (social security, MDHHS, local hospitals and adult foster care homes), and the Social Security audit process that occurs every two years. Commissioners did not take additional action beyond accepting the report but flagged certification and funding pressures as ongoing concerns.
