ADRIAN — Lenawee County commissioners approved a facilities and space needs study request for proposals Wednesday following a sharp debate.
Commissioner Kevon Martis said the study is time-sensitive and could position the county for potential grant opportunities. He also suggested the county could seek outside expertise to review proposals if needed, but argued delays could jeopardize funding opportunities.
Commissioner David Stimpson pushed back, questioning why commissioners were being asked to act on information tied to a funding opportunity that could not be publicly discussed. Stimpson said he was uncomfortable moving forward without additional details, prompting Martis to respond that commissioners were free to vote no.
The proposal authorizes the county to solicit bids for a facilities assessment examining building use, departmental placement, efficiency, consolidation opportunities and long-term infrastructure needs. The measure ultimately passed on an 8-1 vote.