Health, Animal Control and Public Safety
Bernard Blackmore		Larry Bargy, Chairman	David Howelman
Minutes
March 26, 2008
Members present:	Larry Bargy, Bernie Blackmore and Dave Howelman
Members absent:	None
Others present:	Pete Garwood, Jack White, Sheriff Terry Johnson, (New) Undersheriff David Kopkau
1.        Meeting called to order at 9:05 a.m.
2.        Public Comment

None.

3.        Sheriff Department Update

Sheriff Johnson introduced the new undersheriff David Kopkau.

Sheriff Johnson reported on the snowmobile patrol. No snowmobile accidents were reported this winter.  The Sheriff also updated the Committee on the purchase of new equipment for the marine patrol division of the Sheriff Department.

Undersheriff Kopkau informed the Committee of a recent incident where one of the deputies saved the life of a teenager.

4.        Grant Expenditures

The Committee reviewed a communication from Carl Goeman, Emergency Services Coordinator asking for permission to pay for sending four people to the Homeland Security Conference out of County funds to be reimbursed by 2007 Homeland Security Grant dollars. The cost will be no greater than $2700.

Motion by Bernie Blackmore, supported by Dave Howelman, to recommend the Board of Commissioners approve paying for four Antrim County officials to attend the Homeland Security Conference at a cost of up to $2700 to be reimbursed by the 2007 Homeland Security Grant. Motion Carried – Unanimous.

5.        Regional Dispatch Opportunity

The committee reviewed a communication from Crawford County, inquiring whether any other counties in their region are interested in exploring a regional dispatch center opportunity. The Committee expressed their satisfaction with our current system and discussed the setbacks that could arise with joining a regional system. Terry indicated that he would not be interested in a regional system because he is also satisfied with our system.

6.        Various Matters

Sheriff Johnson brought up the 2009 budget and indicated there would likely be very few high dollar items included in the budget. The Committee and Sheriff Johnson discussed the possibility of computers in the car.

Discussion took place regarding the Eastport post and how the change over is going.

Discussion ensued over other sub-stations. And the facilities offered by various townships.

Meeting adjourned at 9:45 a.m.