ADRIAN — Lenawee County commissioners are considering a new policy that would add a waiting period for approving non-budgeted spending.
During the July 7 meeting of the Policy and Procedures Committee, Commissioner Van Doren proposed creating a two-meeting rule for any county expenditures not included in the current budget. The proposed policy would prevent immediate approval of unbudgeted spending at the meeting where the request is first introduced.
The intent is to ensure commissioners have adequate time to review spending proposals, supporting documents, and potential impacts before a final vote is taken.
Van Doren used the recent Flock Safety camera system approval as an example, noting that the sheriff’s department requested the purchase from a separate fund without advance notice in the budget. Under the proposed rule, the initial presentation of a spending request would take place at one meeting, and commissioners would be required to wait until the next meeting to vote.
The committee discussed adding an emergency override to allow immediate approval in urgent situations, such as public safety issues or time-sensitive needs. They also considered including a minimum dollar threshold to ensure minor expenses are not unnecessarily delayed.
Commissioners voiced support for the concept, emphasizing the importance of transparency and giving elected officials time to digest financial proposals. Several noted that although current rules allow the board to table or delay a vote, a formal policy would set a clear standard and prevent rushed decisions.
The idea has been discussed informally for years, but Van Doren expressed interest in formalizing it now. The committee agreed to continue exploring the proposal and will likely seek input from the county administrator’s office on policy language and implementation.
The potential policy would be reviewed by the Ways and Means Committee if advanced. No formal action was taken at this meeting.