Delta County Michigan Commissioners Meeting (April 21st, 2026): Something About Item 7, Taxes, Transportation and More

(Illustrative Only)

Augustas heard something
about taxes, transportation, 
and a secret #7. 

Since his internet went
down and there is no
cabs out near his shack
he starts his hike
 to the meeting. He
figures if he misses it
he will go down
to the library and watch 
the meeting.

He has not updated 
his flip phone
so getting YouTube is 
hard. 

A funny side note
The Mysticism of
#7 🙃

The Delta County Board of Commissioners meeting on April 21, 2026 covered a range of topics, including finance and budgeting, approval of prior minutes, deficit elimination, airport updates, utility discussions, and a public prayer issue that was raised. The video is somewhat lengthy, largely due to a closed session on item number 7.

I recently found the Agenda and that helps in understanding the main topics. Agenda Items April 21, 2026. 

Delta County Board of Commissioners Meeting Agenda Summary April 21 2026

The Delta County Board of Commissioners met on April 21, 2026, to address several critical fiscal and administrative issues. A primary focus of the session was the review of deficit elimination plans for various county funds, including the Road Patrol and Sanitary Landfill, as mandated by the Michigan Department of Treasury following the fiscal year 2024 audit. To resolve these shortfalls, the board discussed one-time transfers from the general fund and the implementation of stricter reimbursement tracking systems for state and federal grants. Additionally, the commissioners examined budget trends and debated a potential ballot proposal to restore the county’s operating millage to its original 1976 rate, which would address long-term revenue hardships caused by statutory rollbacks.

Beyond financial restructuring, the meeting covered various departmental requests and community appointments. The board reviewed a five-year extension for service agreements between the Equalization Department and local townships to ensure continued administrative consistency. Personnel matters were also at the forefront, as the commissioners discussed filling five vacancies on the Opioid Task Force board, including positions for healthcare providers and youth service representatives. Finally, the board considered administrative approvals for commissioner travel to regional conferences and received updates on local projects, such as metal detecting regulations and upcoming community events like the Fourth of July fireworks.

Delta County. (2026, April 21). Delta County Board of Commissioners regular meeting agenda. https://deltacountymi.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boc-agenda-21-April-2026.pdf

Administrative & Procedural Actions

• Approval of Minutes: The board approved the minutes from the previous meeting on April 14th, 2026.

• Agenda Modification: A motion was approved to move the closed session (Item #7) further down the agenda to allow the public to leave or participate in general comment first.

• Deficit Elimination Plan: The County Administrator reported that the state’s Department of Treasury has accepted the county’s deficit elimination plan.

• Equalization Report: The board adopted the 2026 Equalization Report, which showed an overall increase of 6% in assessed values across the county.

---

Public Safety & Community Infrastructure

• Utility Easement: The board approved a utility easement for DTE at the fairgrounds after verifying that the map correctly followed the fence line between buildings.

• Opioid Task Force: An upcoming meeting for the Opioid Task Force is scheduled for May 1st, with 26 RSVPs already received.

• Courthouse Prayer Event: During public comment, concerns were raised regarding a denied request to hold a prayer meeting on the courthouse steps on May 17th. Citizens argued the exterior is a public forum and requested the board reconsider the policy.

---

Economic & Transportation Proposals

• Headley Rollback: The board voted to defer further discussion on the Headley rollback until the June 2nd meeting. By delaying, they moved the potential ballot date from August to November 2026 to ensure higher voter turnout and more time for public input.

• Delta Area Transit Authority (DATA) Millage: John Stapleton, Executive Director of DATA, proposed a countywide millage of 0.689 mills for eight years. Key points included:

  • Service Gap: Currently, only nine municipalities have coverage; seven townships remain unserved.

  • Expanded Hours: The millage would fund Saturday service and Friday/Saturday evening hours to assist with jobs, medical appointments (like dialysis), and community events.

  • Financial Need: Federal and state tax captures are being lost to other counties because Delta doesn't have a countywide system. Stapleton noted that without this millage, the authority lacks a viable "Plan B" to stay open.

---

Upcoming Local Events

• April 29th: Escanaba Public Library bookmobile at the Rock Senior Center (1 p.m.).

• May 1st–2nd: "Baycon" event at Bay College.

• May 3rd: First docking of the Victory Cruise Line ships in Escanaba.

Bushy Waves Man! Ocean Beach and How Surfing Improves Posture in Older Surfers

(Illustrative Only)

Don't make life complicated.

Whether your riding
the waves or surfing
the net, don't make
life complicated!

A beach bum
philosopher with
good posture.

I wandered into a coffee shop in Ocean Beach—about half a block from the pier, because apparently that’s the scientifically proven distance where lattes taste 17% more inspired. There are a few spots along Newport Avenue, all perfect for that classic “I’m working” pose: laptop open, coffee in hand, flip flops and a browser tab that may or may not be actual research.

I told myself I was there to continue to work on something meaningful—maybe even work on a future book of poetry I’ve been “collecting and creating” for years (which is a fancy way of saying I’ve got a lot of half-finished thoughts in notebooks and on napkins. I might be able to scrape enough napkins together and bind them.). But hey, creative energy has to come from somewhere. For me, it’s the outdoors. Living life. And occasionally pausing to contemplate the deep mysteries of our metaphysical existence… right before checking my email again.

About ten years ago, I decided to take up surfing. “Take up” might be generous—I’d say I’ve been in a long-term, on-and-off relationship with falling off a board. I’ve improved slightly, which now means I fall with more confidence. But that’s not really the point. I’m in the water, and that counts. These days, it’s less about skill and more about the simple joy of finishing some work, pulling on a wetsuit, and jumping into the ocean like a semi-responsible adult. 30 minutes to reset the mind.

So there I am, suiting up, when a younger guy walks up and asks, “You going in or going out?”
I said, “Oh, I’m going out.”
He goes, “Yeah, me too. Waves look kinda bushy today, man. Real bushy.”

Bushy?

I paused. I’ve heard a lot of surf terms—none of them include landscaping vocabulary. I nodded like I knew exactly what he meant, because that’s what you do when you’re trying to blend in with people who were probably born holding a surfboard.

For the record, “bushy waves” apparently means messy, foamy, hard-to-read chaos. Lots of whitewater, not a lot of clean lines. Basically, the ocean equivalent of trying to find a parking spot in a crowded lot.

Still, I paddled out anyway. Because honestly, that’s life, right? Surboard philosophy....Sometimes the waves are clean and perfect. Other times, they’re… bushy. You don’t always know what you’re going to get, but if you want to be out there, you’ve got to ride whatever shows up—or at least attempt to, repeatedly, while swallowing a little saltwater.

These days, I check the Ocean Beach cams before heading out, just to see what kind of “foliage situation” I’m dealing with. It’s also a good way to keep up with everything happening around town—the farmers market, chili cook-offs, music festivals, all the local flavor that makes beach life what it is. Ocean Beach Surf Cam

Anyway… coffee’s done, laptop’s closing, wetsuit’s calling.

Cowabunga, dudes!! (<<<<Got that phrase down).

Oh...and surving makes my posture better. Waves, exercise and ocean zen. 😊

Title: effects of long-term recreational surfing on balance and force control in older adults

• The study examined how long-term recreational surfing influences postural control and force regulation in older surfers compared to non-surfers.
• Older surfers demonstrated better balance and stability, suggesting surfing helps maintain neuromuscular coordination with age.
• Findings indicate that regular surfing may counteract age-related declines in motor control, particularly in force production and posture.
• Surfing involves continuous adjustments to unstable environments, which likely enhances sensorimotor adaptability and functional fitness.
• The study is preliminary and calls for further research with larger sample sizes to confirm long-term health benefits.

Frank, M., Zhou, S., Bezerra, P., & Crowley, Z. (2009). Effects of long-term recreational surfing on control of force and posture in older surfers: A preliminary investigation. Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness, 7(1), 31–38. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1728-869X(09)60005-7

For Our Nation's 250 Birthday Thinking of Family History Reaching All The Way Back to the Massachusetts Bay Colony 1638

Betsey Ross Flag
representing the initial 13 colonies.

Circle of Stars: Equality among colonies.
Red: Justice
White: Purity

History of the Betsey Ross Flag

As we prepare to celebrate the 250th birthday of our country, it’s a fitting time to reflect on our history and how it has evolved. Over generations, we’ve adapted and refined the core values that define us—principles enshrined in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, such as freedom of speech and freedom of religion. Each era has interpreted these freedoms in its own way, shaping the nation we know today. There is much to be proud of, and still more to work on.

This country was founded on the idea of freedom, and many have served to protect and uphold these central values across generations, always striving toward a more perfect union. Exploring your own family history can deepen your understanding of these shared legacies. You may rediscover familiar stories with new clarity and meaning, making it a worthwhile and rewarding journey.

This year, as America marks its 250th anniversary, I’m reflecting on a personal connection that stretches back 388 years—137 years before the Revolutionary War began, when Puritans first settled in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. These are stories of generational sacrifice that helped spark a new nation, perceptions of freedom and further lay the foundations for what we are today. 

I’ve been researching my family history on both sides, and one discovery stands out. My grandmother, Ida Butterfield, is a direct descendant of Benjamin Butterfield, who immigrated from Yorkshire, England, to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1638. He arrived as an indentured servant for five years and later became a prominent member of his community.

Indentured servants lived in conditions that could resemble a form of temporary servitude, with both White and Black individuals bound by contracts for a set period. After completing their term, they were often granted land and provisions, though the system could be harsh and punitive. Over time, this system gave way to legalized racial slavery, including laws in Massachusetts in the mid-17th century that helped formalize a deeply unjust and dehumanizing institution, creating divisions that have had lasting effects today. Indentured Servitude 

(As a side note: Slavery should never have taken root in our history, and modern-day bigotry should not be tolerated. Some of my relatives later fought to end this injustice and move the nation toward a higher moral conscous {I'm sure some struggled with their values as well.}. In many ways, those efforts continue today, as people work to ensure that all are treated with equal dignity and inherent worth. To protect those social contracts many of our ancestors lost their lives for. A few other ancestors later fought against Jewish genocide in Germany. If you go back far enough we have Christian, Muslim and Jewish lines that intersect. In part, why I studied many different religions througout my life, learned to take what is good in them. Also why I am a touch offended and continue that legacy of challenge when people openly discriminate between religions/races, use positions of authority to force hate, or mistreat others because of their false sense of entitlement.💁 The generational striving for liberty- freedom of religion, speech, race, etc.-continues because our future is what we make it nearly 4 centuries later. Is Europe One Big DNA Strand?)

As an interesting historical note, the Massachusetts Bay Colony was established under a charter from King Charles I on March 4, 1629. My ancestor arrived just nine years later, meaning he would have been among the early settlers walking its first dirt roads and buildings (Some lines may predate even that but more research is needed). As one of the original 13 colonies, people like me are considered descendants of these early settlers and are sometimes referred to as “Old Stock Americans.” Massachusetts Bay Colony.

The Revolutionary War did not begin until 1775 but the seeds were set in the colonies prior. Another relative, Captain John Butterfield, served as a minuteman in a snowshoe company at the start of the war (snowshoes and rifles), and his home—built before the Revolution—may still stand today. Think of that for a moment and its implications (If one ever wants to give it back to relatives let me know.). 

My roots in this country extend through both sides of my family, reaching back to the 1600s in one maternal line that eventually move in the early 1800s to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. So when people this or that don't belong I scratch my head. Our sacrafices are a shared one.☝

(Illustrative Only)
Family Roots
run deep.

Kissing the Ring of Bias: A Survey of Judge Opinions

(Illustrative Only)

Judges should always
focus on the highest moral
conscious and order
in alignment with
our artifacts, oaths,
and moral values.

Bias, politics, and PACs 
should not influence our
commitments. We have 
fundamental laws that should
not be undermined nor
foster the return of sins of
the past. Hate and 
corruption are two pathways
to societal harm that
share very similar roots.
Honor the majority
of good judges who
understand the important
purpose of their roles.

 Justice is not only a foundational institution of good governance; it is deeply rooted in the earliest forms of human society. It creates order, fairness, and trust—elements that every economic and social system depends on. History shows, however, that societies have often strayed from these principles. Hate, racism, corruption, and religious bigotry have repeatedly caused harm, even when those responsible believed their actions were justified (Our brains can sometimes justify anything). Viewed through a modern lens, many of these actions are clearly immoral and deeply flawed.

In the past, some judges and leaders rationalized injustice by convincing themselves they were serving a higher moral purpose. For example, there were those who believed they could “save” others souls while simultaneously dehumanizing them—justifying practices like slavery based on distorted cultural or religious views. Who saved their souls? Today, similar risks remain. Bias—whether racial, religious, or political—can still influence decision-making, sometimes unintentionally, and lead to unequal treatment under the law. Fundamental violations that lead to a decline of trust. Encouraging true north values and foundational beliefs in positions of authority supports the foundations of a healthy society (Lists or no lists).

To be clear, most individuals within the justice system aim to do the right thing. They work to support their communities and uphold fairness. However, when failures sometimes occur, the damage caused by a minority of bad actors can be significant. In some cases, oversight mechanisms appear weak, and accountability can be slow or inconsistent. This creates conditions where misconduct may persist longer than it should. Sometimes for years and years of blind eye encouragement.

Consider a hypothetical philosophical thought experiment learning scenario: a closed judicial system influenced by a group driven by racial, religious and in some cases political bias. In such a system, constitutional rights are ignored, misconduct is shielded, and vulnerable individuals are targeted or neglected. When challenged by those seeking fairness and accountability, retaliation follows—through intimidation, threats, or inaction. Coordinated reputational harm and enrichment from corruption and hate. While allegorical, this kind of scenario reflects patterns that have appeared in different forms throughout history. It highlights how easily systems can be distorted when bias and corruption go unchecked. Encouraging us to think more independently and thoughtfully about the legacy we leave behind.

The key lesson is that individuals often operate within cognitive frameworks, shaped by bias and belief. Fostered by groups, politics, and political monies. Without strong safeguards, even harmful systems can be rationalized by those within them. This is why protections—constitutional rights, checks and balances, and accountability structures—must not only exist but function effectively for everyone. It is a duty to improve where improvement is needed when aligning to these shared values.

Despite these challenges, in this example there is reason for optimism. Most people genuinely want to do what is right, and societies can learn from past defaults. Social movements and the frequency of upheavals have demonstrated the consequences of injustice, reinforcing the need for reform. For example, a survey by the National Judicial College found that 65% of judges believe racism still exists within the justice system, and many support continued reform. While not a scientific study, it reflects an awareness within the judiciary that improvements are still needed and there is a lot who want to do the right thing (Always support the people doing the right thing. If you don't support them those with darker souls move in to fill the void.). 

Moving forward, the goal should be to strengthen justice systems so they can better identify misconduct without mislabeling individuals based on race, religion, or political belief. Core rights—such as those protected by constitutions and bills of rights—must be upheld consistently, not selectively. Reform should focus on building transparent, accountable, and resilient institutions that serve all members of society fairly. We want them to be effective in catching the "bad guys" even if they find them in the mirror (There is a mirror theory based on choices and how people selectively take in information to make choices in this thought experiment).

Ultimately, this is not about political parties, special interest groups, or competing narratives. It is about shared values—how people choose to live, govern, and treat one another. A sense of indivisibility over the the value of life and liberty. Those who honor their responsibilities, feel a sense of responsibility to foster the gains from generational striving, and uphold justice contribute to stronger, more effective systems. Everything else is secondary. Or at least it should be. 🤷 Good people are good people no matter their position within society. Vote your conscious wisely. It is a party neutral statement. If you are not sure of who to vote for then cast a vote for an independent to change up the kinds of decisions being made. 🙇

Survey of Judges Indicates Majority Believe Criminal Justice System Suffers from Racism

Non-scientific but still in alignment with other studies.

• A survey conducted by the National Judicial College found that 65% of 634 responding judges believe systemic racism exists in the U.S. criminal justice system.
• The survey was informal and based on a single question sent to judicial alumni, meaning results are not considered conclusive scientific research.
• Many judges indicated that racism within the system is often implicit or unconscious, rather than overt or intentional.
• Over 200 judges provided written comments, frequently pointing to implicit bias as influencing decision-making and contributing to disparities.
• Some judges linked systemic racism to higher incarceration rates among Black Americans and other minorities compared to white individuals.
• A minority of judges disagreed, arguing that while individual bias may exist, the system itself is not inherently racist.
• The findings highlight ongoing discussions within the judiciary about bias, fairness, and potential reforms in the justice system.

National Judicial College. (2020, July 20). Survey of judges says the majority believe the criminal justice system suffers from racism. https://www.judges.org/news-and-info/survey-of-judges-says-the-majority-believe-the-criminal-justice-system-suffers-from-racism/

Supporting the Arts Ballet en L’air-City Ballet Fundraiser

(Illustrative)

The fine arts—such as dance, ballet, and contemporary movement—play an important role in society. They tell stories, encourage people to engage with their bodies, improve fitness and coordination, and offer powerful forms of artistic expression often associated with thriving, developed communities.

Despite these benefits, the arts are frequently underfunded, especially when more immediate needs take priority. It’s worth taking a moment to reflect on what we choose to support financially—and what we overlook. The arts contribute broadly to society by revealing beauty in the midst of our busy daily routines: working, caring for families, and keeping up with life’s demands. They offer an outlet that enriches both the mind and the spirit.

There are also meaningful physical and mental benefits tied to artistic engagement. If you have the time, consider exploring this research—and consider supporting the arts by attending an event or purchasing a ticket. 

The Physiological and Psychological Benefits of Dance and its Effects on Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review

The event.....

Join us for an inspiring afternoon as we celebrate the close of our 33rd season and welcome the 34th! The event will take place at the beautifully remodeled KPBS Conrad Prebys Media Complex at the Copley Center on the SDSU campus. Enjoy the opportunity to meet City Ballet dance artists, explore the art of ballet through engaging demonstrations, and experience an intimate, breathtaking performance up close.

Sunday, June 7, 2026
2:00–5:00 PM

KPBS Conrad Prebys Media Complex at Copley Center
San Diego State University
5200 Campanile Dr, San Diego

Purchase your tickets by Thursday, June 4, 2026.

https://cityballet.org/events/fundraiser/

Support Veterans Through the Wounded Warrior Project

(Illustrative Only)

Support your veterans.

Veterans put themselves at risk in service to others, and many return home with lasting injuries. The Wounded Warrior Project has supported over one million warriors, caregivers, and family members, helping ensure they are not forgotten. 

These men and women took on great risk to protect our freedoms, and the impact of their service often continues long after they return—sometimes for years or even decades. Injuries may be visible or unseen, but all deserve recognition and care. 

If you want to support veterans, consider contributing to this cause through a one-time donation or a monthly gift of any amount.

Wounded Warrior Project Main

The other day I met a veteran rowing and he was a supporter and volunteer of this organization. I indicated I would post something about them. 

Wounded Warrior Project San Diego

New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: Mediocre Labor Market Conditions (Jack Starts His Own Business)

(Illustrative Only)

Labor market is mediocre
so this person
started to think of options.

Jack works as a carpenter
and realized while hiking 
the Bay de Noc Grand Island
National Trail that
he could make custom cups 
for people and restraurants. 
The best ideas often come
in nature. He is thinking of
partnering with a shop
on Ludington Street to
sell his products because
he is a small operator,
doesn't want a store, but
wants to provide a commission
sale for stores. A win for
them who don't have to
pay for inventory. 

Labor market expectations appear moderate—neither strong nor weak—mirroring trends seen in other economic indicators. Many businesses are taking a cautious, wait-and-see approach, which may slow hiring and workforce development. Ongoing geopolitical uncertainties could also influence future employment decisions, though the full impact remains unclear.

Current data suggest that about 45–46% of individuals believe they could find a new job if they lost one, while the perceived risk of job loss is around 14.4%. This indicates a level of underlying concern about job security. 

At the same time, household financial outlooks have weakened slightly, with more people expecting this year to be less favorable than the last. Confidence in career advancement is also limited, reflecting a relatively stagnant environment where both workers and employers are hesitant to make major moves.

Overall, this uncertainty affects decision-making at both the individual and organizational levels. As conditions remain unclear, it will be important to monitor additional economic indicators to better understand where the labor market is headed. Movement on strategic initiaves and hiring may be slower than usual over the mid term. 

Let us wait and see....

New York Fed Survey of Consumer Expectations: Labor Market Experiences and Transitions Summary

• The Survey of Consumer Expectations (SCE) follows about 1,300 U.S. households over time to track job experiences, employment transitions, and expectations about the labor market.
• Data indicate mixed labor market sentiment, with the probability of finding a job after losing one around 45.9%, while the perceived likelihood of job loss is about 14.4%.
• Expected earnings growth remains relatively modest, typically in the range of about 2.5% to 2.7%, with differences across income levels.
• Confidence in job mobility has fluctuated, including declines in voluntary quitting and changes in expectations about finding new employment.
• Household financial outlooks have weakened, with more individuals expecting their financial situation to worsen compared to the previous year.

Federal Reserve Bank of New York. (2026). Survey of Consumer Expectations: Labor market experiences and transitions. https://www.newyorkfed.org/microeconomics/sce/labor#/experiences-transitions1