Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Macomb County hitting speed bumps as it transitions to new form of governance

Macomb voters approved a new form of government a few years back. Replacing a system of twenty-some odd commissioners, the new system has fewer commissioners and a strong county executive. It is similar to the system used in neighboring Oakland County. 2011 is the first year for the system.

Last fall the voters of Macomb County elected Sheriff Mark Hackel as County Executive. It was a logical choice, Hackel has proven credentials and worked within the county government for a long time. Supporters of this new form believe it will create new opportunities and flexibility for Macomb to be a first class county. But as Macomb County transitions not all has been smooth sailing.

March 9, 2011 The Macomb Daily

Two leaders of the black community in Macomb County are suspicious that an effort might be afoot to reject an African-American woman appointed by county Executive Mark Hackel to serve as director of the Department of Senior Services.

The Rev. D.L. Bradley, pastor of  Bethlehem Temple Apostolic Church in Clinton Township, and Greg Murray, chairman of the Macomb County Democratic Black Caucus, say they suspect that the qualifications of Rhonda Powell – but no other Hackel appointee – may be questioned. Their concerns were raised when Powell was initially left out of the confirmation process.


According to one Macomb County Commissioner, Rhonda Powell was not intentionally left out of the confirmation process. The commission is setting a strict precedent that certain issues and procedures must be submitted one week prior in order for the issue to be brought up and possibly voted on. This gives the commissioners time to study the issue. The move also stops last minute issues coming before the commission and commissioner being blind-sided with no time to research and speak with constituents. The confirmation of Powell was not submitted in time to be brought up before the commission. It will be reviewed in the near future.

Macomb County, like many muncipalities in Michigan is facing tough budget issue. So far the Macomb Board of Commissioners has yet been be able to address them. Why? They are waiting for County Executive Mark Hackel to present a plan.

Hackel has 120 days to give a budget plan to the Board. He has 52 days left. Hackel raised hundreds of thousands for his campaign and ran virtually uncontested. It was almost a sure thing. So why the delay in presenting his plan. As compared to other politicians, he had much more time to come up with a vision for Macomb's future.

Macomb county is home to Michigan's 3rd largest city, Warren. The new form of government may hold the keys to a bright future. But as it stands the Macomb County Board of Commissioners is in the hurry up and wait mode.

The new Board has been warming up the engine but needs Hackel's plan to drive the county into the future.

No comments:

Post a Comment