ADRIAN — The Lenawee County Accounts Payable Committee is flagging long-term funding concerns for the sheriff’s marine patrol as the county looks ahead to the 2026 budget.
During a year-end finance review, county officials said Lenawee continues to front the full cost of marine patrol operations across its lakes, with grant funding remaining uncertain.
Federal support for the program was previously in question, prompting the state to temporarily cover the shortfall. Officials cautioned that future grant support may fluctuate, which could require additional general fund dollars to maintain patrol services.
County administrators noted the issue remains under review as next year’s expenses begin to take shape, emphasizing the importance of marine patrol coverage in a county with a large number of inland lakes.
The funding discussion was part of routine budget reconciliation and was unanimously approved by the committee to move forward for consideration by the full Lenawee County Board of Commissioners.