Barry County Commissioners met in person Tuesday for the first time since the county closed to the public and went to virtual meetings at the onset of the pandemic.  The regular Board of Commissioners meeting was held at the Leason Sharpe Hall at the Barry Community Enrichment Center in order to provide enough room to properly distance individuals, which is not possible in the commissioners room at the Barry County Courthouse.

 

Commissioners heard from John LaForge, Area #9 Director for Great Lakes Energy, about the company’s future plans for Great Lakes Energy Broadband Distribution.

 

Brad Lamberg of the Barry County Road Commission presented the 2019 Annual Report that showed total revenues last year of $10,820,290  and total expenditures of $10,300,104.  Most of the revenues come from Michigan transportation funds and township contributions, while the majority of outlays are for local, primary, and winter maintenance.

 

Among other items, the Board of Commissioners approved a request from the City of Hastings to establish a Commercial Rehabilitation District for the former K-Mart building. At least two new businesses are working with the city and building owners to open retail stores in the space.

 

Commissioners also approved a new Policy and Procedures manual for the Barry County Animal Shelter.