Frequently Asked Questions

Register for all weather and emergency alerts at www.LenaweeAlerts.com 

To request a report from the Lenawee-Hillsdale County Medical Examiner’s Office, we require all requests to be submitted through the Lenawee County Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Portal. Any fees incurred by the FOIA request will be assessed in accordance with the Lenawee County Freedom of Information Act Policy.

The FOIA Portal is found on our website.

• Click on Make Request.
• Describe what you are requesting.
• Select the department: Medical Examiner
• Complete the rest of the information. Email must be included.
• Click on Make Request.

Once our office receives the request, an email response will be sent to you.   If we have the report that you are requesting, an invoice will be attached in the FOIA response.  Following FIOA guidelines, if you request a report that we do not have, you will be sent a denial.  It is recommended that you check with the office to ensure that the information you are seeking is available. It takes approximately 12 weeks to get the autopsy report from the Forensic Pathologist.

Payment for the report may be made on our website. 

Please note that an additional fee of $2.50 (enhanced access fee) will be added for payments made by credit/debit card on the Medical Examiner’s Website.  The report will not be sent until payment is received. The cost of the report will likely be around $20.00 or less.

Due to the completion of the Old Courthouse renovations we have moved back to that Building.  We are now located on the first floor of the Old Courthouse on the side of the building facing N Main St.

The office hours for the Old Courthouse are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

A Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) exempts a residence from the tax levied by a local school district for school operating purposes up to 18 mills. Section 211.7cc and 211.7dd of the General Property Tax Act, Public Act 206 of 1893, as amended, addresses PRE claims. To qualify for a PRE, a person must be a Michigan resident who owns and occupies the property as a principal residence.

No, zoning is strictly determined and maintained by the municipality in question. If you have questions regarding zoning please contact the City or Township in question.

It is $30.00 per document, no matter how many pages. For additional information try

You can come into the office and get a copy. It is $1.00 per page for copies of documents. You can also obtain a copy from our software's website at 

An Escrow Account will allow you to view and print documents.  We require $100.00 and your information to set up an escrow account.  Then we will supply you with a username and password to access the documents.  Please contact our office, at 517-264-4538, for further instructions.   

Gun permits can be obtained at the Records Department, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.

Livescan digital fingerprints and Ink fingerprints can be done at the Records Department on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on a walk-in basis.

For information on where to take a particular item for disposal, view our FAQs below! 

Don't forget to utilize the three R's! Reduce, Reuse, Recycle! 

Reduce - make changes in your life that will allow you to produce less waste. 

Reuse - can the item be donated or used for a different purpose?

Recycle - is there a place I can take it for recycling rather than putting it in the trash and sending it to the landfill?

The Lenawee County Recycling Drop Off Site (DOS) is open for use by all Lenawee County residents and accepts aluminum items for recycling. Many curbside recycling haulers do as well.   Businesses with large amounts of recycling materials should contact waste hauler services for alternative options.

The following information if for the DOS, but also applies to most curbside bins. For specific information, contact your local carrier. 

Acceptable:  

• All clean and dry non-returnable cans  
• Soup cans 
• Pet food cans 
• Coffee cans 
• Aluminum pie tins and other disposable baking pans (cleaned)

At the DOS, these items go in the rigids materials container along with plastics and glass.  

Unacceptable items: 

• Aerosol cans
• Paint cans
• Christmas lights
• Extension cords
• Appliances
• Sharps 
• Electronic waste including cell phones, tv, vcr or dvd players, computers (take these to the Goodwill Recycling Center on Division) 
• Hangers 

You can try taking your other metal to local scrap metal yards, including: 

• OMNI Source, which can be reached at 
• R&M Metals, which can be reached at 517--263-900

Aerosol cans CANNOT be recycled at the County Drop Off Site 

Why, you ask? Well, aerosol cans can contain substances, including the product itself and the gaseous propellant (the stuff that makes the product spray out of the can), which can create dangerous conditions when collected in the trash. They’re pressurized, which means they could explode under certain conditions, causing injuries and damage to our equipment. Additionally, the product contained in the can could leak out and mix with other chemicals in the load, causing dangerous chemical reactions.

BEST OPTION 

ReDuce, ReUSE, ReCYCLE 

• Consider avoiding the aerosol can when possible! Use sunscreen or bug spray lotion that comes in a bottle without a propellant. Or buy reusable spray bottles for oil instead of oil sprays in aerosol cans.
• If the can contains stuff in it use it up or find someone else that can use it!  Your local art, theater, school may be able to use that left over spray paint or cleaners.
• Investigate other recycling opportunities; just remember any cans you recycle should be empty of product and propellant. 

OTHER OPTION 

While there are no federal regulations that prevent aerosol can waste generated in residential settings from being disposed of in the trash or in a landfill, there are a few things to do to help ensure you are doing so safely:

• Make sure cans are completely empty before throwing them away. You may be able to tell if there’s still product in the can by shaking it and listening for a sloshing noise. Empty the can by spraying it until product stops coming out and the can stops making a hissing noise. You shouldn’t attempt to puncture or disable the can or the nozzle as this could be dangerous as well.
• If you can’t empty the can for any reason or if you’re not sure it’s empty, rather than putting it in the trash, take it to a special collection for hazardous chemicals.
• If the can contained a flammable liquid or one that is normally considered hazardous waste, consider taking it to a special collection for hazardous chemicals, even if you think the can is empty. (Legally, household waste is excluded from the definition of hazardous waste, so there are no regulations requiring you to do this.)

Some batteries are recyclable including lead, or lead acid, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal-hydride, lithium, and lithium-ion batteries.
Alkaline battery systems are safe to dispose of as regular waste due to a regulated decrease in mercury content in 1996. These batteries do contain the reusable materials zinc and manganese, but the recovery process is difficult and dangerous.

• Battery Wholesale located at 1002 N. Main Street in Adrian accepts all recyclable batteries.  517-263-3462  They may be able to help you determine which ones are recyclable.
• Lowe’s located at 1369 Division Street in Adrian accepts lithium and rechargeable batteries - 517-266-1000
• Staples accepts rechargeable batteries - 517-266-1176
• Recycle ANN ARBOR 2950 E. Ellsworth in Ann Arbor accepts lithium and rechargeable batteries 734-971-7400

It’s always best to contact them directly for confirmation prior to dropping off. 

Bulk waste includes items that are typically too large to be disposed of in your regular curbside trash container.

Check with your waste hauling service provider; they may be able assist you.  

Check with your municipality (city/township/village); they may have an upcoming all-trash pick up scheduled.

The following Transfer Stations / Landfills / Solid Waste Management facilities may accept your bulk items:  

• Liberty Landfill, Clarklake, MI 517-787-1177 
• Stevens Disposal & Recycling, Petersburg, MI 800-799-0344
• Modern Waste, Napoleon, MI 517-536-7900
• Jefferson Township Transfer Station, Osseo, MI 517-523-3019

SOME:

• newspapers and inserts (unbundled) 
• magazines
• paperback books (no hard cover books)
• phone books

Are accepted at the Lenawee County Recycling Drop Off Site (DOS)

Hard cover books are NOT acceptable.  You may want to check with your local library, Goodwill, or Neighbors of Hope. 

• The Lenawee County Recycling Drop Off Site (DOS) is open for use by all Lenawee County residents and accepts cardboard and paper.  Most residential curbside recycling haulers do as well.  Businesses with large amounts of recycling materials should contact a waste hauler service for alternative options.

The following information is for DOS recycling only, but can sometimes be applied to curbside containers. For clarification on what types of recycling can go into your curbside recycling, contact your local carrier. 

There are two types of cardboard: 

1. Corrugated:  This is thick cardboard with an extra layer of wavy fiber in between sheets.  The extra layer makes it stronger and a great option for shipping or packing boxes. Any size, shape or color of corrugated cardboard can be recycled.  Larger amounts of corrugated cardboard should be taken to Goodwill Industries located at 1357 Division St. 
2. Paperboard or Chipboard:  Each time we recycle corrugated cardboard, the fibers holding it together get a little bit shorter and as a result the cardboard gets slightly thinner it’s recycled and when the fibers become too thin to create strong corrugated cardboard, they are used for a class of cardboard called paperboard.  Paperboard or chipboard boxes are used for cereal boxes, cake mix boxes, and cases of pop.

As long as your cardboard and paper items are clean and dry it can be recycled at the DOS.   

Items accepted include: 

• newspapers and inserts (unbundled) 
• chipboard
• cardboard boxes 
• office paper
• magazines
• paperback books
• junk mail
• phone books
• cardboard containers (cereal, dairy products, dry foods)

What is not accepted: 

• Wet or greasy cardboard like pizza boxes or fast-food boxes are considered a contaminate and belong in the garbage.  Wet or contaminated items can jam sorting equipment and ruin good, clean material. 
• Plastic packaging and bags
• Styrofoam packing materials

Remember: 

• It’s important to break the boxes down avoid jamming the compactor, causing it to be shut down for maintenance. Most large items will not fit in the compactors, so they need to be broken down regardless. Doing so ahead of time will not only save room in your vehicle, but allow the line at the DOS to keep moving. 
• Close the door and let the compactor cycle through for larger loads. 
• If you have a large load of cardboard, you can avoid the compactor and take them to Goodwill Industries and their recycling center, located at 1357 Division St. (near Lowes. 

Please check the UPCOMING EVENTS page for updates.  

Thank you.

All recycling materials should be clean and dry. Why? Because if contamination levels are too high when a recycling load arrives at the facility, it might have to be rejected. In short, you run the risk of ruining everything in the container and diverting the whole recycling load – not just yours – to the landfill. That's a waste of everyone's time and effort. 

Here are the steps for preparing your recyclables: 

• Wipe out all food residue
• Empty all liquid
• Rinse thoroughly
• Leave it out to dry
• Add to your recycling bin! 

Staples recycles computers, monitors, Accessories/adapters/cables All-in-one computers Cable/satellite receivers Calculators Camcorders CD/DVD/Blu-ray players Coffee Brewers (less than 40 lb.) Computer speakers Connected home devices Copiers Cordless phones Desktop computers Digital cameras Digital projectors eReaders Fax machines Flash drives Gaming consoles/handhelds GPS devices Hard drives iPod®/MP3 players Keyboards & mice Laptops Mobile phones Modems Monitors (including CRT, LED/LCD, plasma) Printers/multifunction devices Routers Scanners Shredders Small servers Stereo receivers Tablets UPS/battery backup devices Video streaming devices (Apple TV®, Roku Player, etc.) Webcams

You can also earn $2 on every recycled ink or toner cartridge when you sign up for Staple Rewards 

Check out their website for an updated list!  Staples.com 

Goodwill electronic recycling in Michigan. We recycle game consoles, computers, printers and many other electronics! The recycling process will turn old electronics into new products! This process prevents tons of toxic e-waste from entering the environment. www.goodwillsemi.org

Habitat ReStore  (517-266-0746) - may take it if it’s re-usable bricks, stones, tiles 

Tecumseh-Clinton Aggregate (517-456-8667) located 10555 Tecumseh-Clinton Hwy  

Liberty Landfill 7900 S. Meridian Rd in Clarklake (517-787-1177) 

Always call for accepted materials and current charges 

Recycle

Some building materials that are in re-usable condition may be accepted at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore located on US-223 in Adrian, or another salvage facility. 

Disposal

Call your local provider to see what services they may provide.

Or contact one of the following service providers: 

• Liberty Landfill in Clarklake 517-787-1177 
• Modern Waste in Napoleon 517-536-7900
• Jefferson Township Transfer Station in Osseo 517-523-3019
• Stevens Disposal & Recycling in Petersburg 800-779-0344

• Lenawee County Building & Grounds Department will crush and dispose of florescent tubed light bulbs for a nominal fee from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on weekdays.  They only take the straight, florescent long tubes. Call 517-264-4738 for more information. 
• Recycle Ann Abor collects the compact florescent bulbs. Call 734-971-7400.
• Home Depot in Jackson and Ypsilanti collects the compact florescent bulbs. 
• ERG Environmental Services in Livonia
• Cleanlites Recycling in Mason

ARE NOT ACCEPTED AT THE DOS  

Wet, greasy, or waxed cardboard; such as pizza boxes, fast food boxes, some freezer food boxes.  Wet or contaminated items can jam sorting equipment and ruin good, clean material. To get the most out of your program, be sure to remove any plastic packaging or bags from your boxes.  

Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, dehumidifies, and water coolers contain ozone depleting refrigerants that must be removed by a certified professional. 

There is only one way to remove Freon from a HVAC system, and that is with the use of a reclaimer machine designed to capture the Freon, filter out the impurities and store it for future use. It is illegal to release Freon into the atmosphere. Freon contains fluorocarbons that are harmful to the environment.

Freon removal/unit tagging fees vary. Call ahead for fees and procedures. 

• Best Heating and Cooling - 2030 Weston Road, Jasper, MI 517-436-6307
• Garner Heating & Cooling - 304 N. Evans Street, Tecumseh, MI 517-424-5669 
• Naugle Plumbing & Heating - 304 N. Evans Street, Tecumseh, MI 517-423-3121
• OMNISource - 815 Treat Hwy, Adrian, MI 517-265-5195 

The Lenawee County Recycling Drop Off Site (DOS) is open for use by all Lenawee County residents and accepts glass.  Most residential curbside recycling haulers do as well.  Businesses with large amounts of recycling materials should contact a waste hauler service for alternative options.

The following information is for DOS recycling only, but can sometimes be applied to curbside containers. For clarification on what types of recycling can go into your curbside recycling, contact your local carrier. 

Acceptable Items:    

• Clean and dry glass bottles and jars 
• Both clear and colored
• It’s okay to leave the labels on 
• No lids, please

Not accepted: 

• Glass windows 
• Poured glass
• Light bulbs of any kind
• Christmas bulbs  

No, you cannot put your recyclables in plastic bags into your bins or the DOS compactors. It can jam the compactors or contaminate the load, which would defeat the purpose of all the extra work you did to recycle in the first place. 

When it comes to grocery bags, the first choice would be to utilize reusable bags, so you do not create waste with every grocery trip. However, if you do not have them on-hand, the answer to the question "paper or plastic?" should be paper! 

A few things to consider: 

• The only way to recycle plastic shopping bags is to return them to a participating store drop-off.
• Paper grocery bags can be recycled along with the paper/cardboard/newspaper (fibrous materials). 

You will need to first determine what type of paint you have.   

OIL-BASED paints are considered Hazardous Materials which may harm the environment.  These items must be properly disposed of at a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility or event; to find a HHW facility visit the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy at www.michigan.gov/egle   

LATEX and ACRYLIC paints: Place open cans of latex or acrylic paints outside or in a well-ventilated area to allow the paint to harden. This process can take a couple of days to a few weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity.  Once the paint is solid and completely dry - it can be thrown away with your regular trash (leave the lid off of the can).  

If there is a lot of pain left in the can you can add kitty litter or an oil absorbent material to dry the pain out more quickly.   

Alternatively, apply any leftover paint to scrap lumber or cardboard and allow it to safely dry

Recycle Ann Arbor will accept water-based paints ONLY. 734-971-7400

Watch the website for future Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection events.

ERG Environmental 734-437-9650 accepts hazardous materials including oil-based paints, stains, and solvents. 

Michigan Clean Sweep - Dispose of Your Unused or Unwanted Pesticides

The Michigan Clean Sweep program helps protect the state's natural resources and prevent agriculture pollution by ensuring the safe and proper disposal of outdated, unused, unwanted pesticides in Michigan. Clean Sweep sites will accept pesticide products free of charge from any Michigan resident.

For more information on Clean Sweep visit the website: http://www.michigan.gov/mdard/0,4610,7-125-2390_45388-11759--,00.html 

ERG Environmental 734-437-9650 https://ergenvironmental.com/ 

The Lenawee County Recycling Drop Off Site (DOS) is open for use by all Lenawee County residents and accepts plastics #1-7.  Most residential curbside recycling haulers do as well.  Businesses with large amounts of recycling materials should contact a waste hauler service for alternative options.

The following information is for DOS recycling only, but can sometimes be applied to curbside containers. For clarification on what types of recycling can go into your curbside recycling, contact your local carrier. 

Clean & Dry Plastics #1-7 are accepted:  

This includes: 

• Condiment bottles: ketchup and mustard bottles, sour cream, frosting and butter tubs, salad dressing and syrup bottles, etc.
• Bathroom accessory bottles: shampoo, body wash and hand soap bottles, lotion bottles, plastic cosmetics tubes, etc.
• Cleaning supplies: Spray bottles, dish and laundry soap bottles, fabric softener bottles, windshield washer jugs, empty aerosol cans, etc.
• Other plastic containers: sports drink, juice, milk, or water bottles, saline solution bottles, baby wipe containers, etc.

Reminder: it’s okay to leave the labels on, but caps removed, and the container rinsed out and dry. 

We do not take the following: 

• Plastic bags
• Bottle caps
• Food wrappers
• Bread bags 
• Styrofoam 
• Plastic fencing
• Appliances
• Toys
• Vinyl siding 
• Garden hoses 
• Plant boxes
• Plant trays
• Pool liners
• Laundry baskets
• Plastic pipes
• Auto parts

Plastic shopping bags should be returned / accepted at your local grocer. 

Meijer accepts not only grocery bags, but case overwrap, product wraps, newspaper sleeves, dry cleaning bags, salt/pellet bags, ice bags, packaging air pillows, LDPE/HDPE films, food storage bags, cereal liners, and bread bags! http://meijercommunity.com/plastic-bag-recycling 

Since there’s a possibility of propane/gas left in the tank, many landfills, recycling centers, and scrap metal dealers will not accept unwanted tanks for recycling.  

Couple of suggestions:

If you have a propane tank that you don’t want, place your old tank beside a Blue Rhino display and they’ll take care of it. 

Baker's Gas & Welding Supplies and Baker's Propane in Tecumseh may accept empty propane or other cylinders.

Contact another welding supply store.  

Dry, clean tin cans are recyclable and can be dropped off in the appropriate container at the Lenawee County Recycling Drop Off Station (DOS) located on River Street, in Adrian.  

• Contact your local waste hauler provider for larger items
• Check with your local municipality (city/township/village) for upcoming collection events
• Contact a scrap metal yard such as:
  • OMNI Source - 815 Treat Street, Adrian, MI (517) 265-5195
  • R&M Recycling - 2675 Treat Hwy, Adrian, MI (517) 263-9000
  • Goodwill SE Michigan - 1357 Division Street, Adrian, MI (517) 263-2135

Call for hours of operation and additional information:

Solid Styrofoam products

One of Styrofoam’s main physical properties is that it is a thermoplastic. This means that the material is solid at room temperature, but flows as a liquid when heated to a specific point. As a liquid, the Styrofoam can be molded in fine detail; creating a solid styrofoam such as meat trays, egg cartons, styrofoam cups, etc.

• DART Container Corp. - 432 Hogback Road, Mason, MI 517-244-2866   FLYER (pdf)
• Recycle ANN ARBOR - 2950 E. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 734-971-7400

Packaging Materials 

Stryofoam peanuts, styrofoam sheeting, pillow packs, bubble wrap, 

• Postal Plus - 1416 S. Main Street, Adrian, MI 517-264-4072
• GreenJak Inc - 240 Salisbury Street, Morenci, MI 517-438-0936

Contact your local tire dealer about disposal and confirm sizes accepted, current pricing, and hours of operation. 

Other options for larger loads :

• Huffman Rubber - 7510 25-1/2 Mile Road, Homer MI 517-568-3353
• Jefferson Township Transfer Station Recycling & Solid Waste Management - 3255 Pioneer Rd. (M-99), Osseo, MI 517-523-3019 
• Deerpath Recycling 56625 Wood House, Dowagiac, MI 49047 269-782-7232

Check the Schedule of Events for special collections. 

Contact the site prior to visiting for up-to-date services and pricing 

Contact your local service provider or

A waste transfer station plays an important role in a community’s total waste management system, serving as the link between a community’s solid waste collection and the final waste disposal facility.   Items accepted may vary by site and you are encouraged to call before visiting.  

See our list of Local Service Providers

Liberty Landfill - 7900 S. Meridian Road, Clarklake, MI 49234 517-787-1177 

• Transfer Station
• Construction & Demolition Debris
• Non-Hazardous Waste Materials
• Yard Waste
• Oil Disposal/Recycling
• E-Waste Recycling

Stevens Disposal & Recycling Services - 1629 Ida West Road, Petersburg, MI 800-779-0344

• Transfer Station
• Non-Hazardous Municipal Waste (construction/demolition waste, bulk items, truck & trailer loads welcome)

Modern Waste - 7245 S. Brooklyn Road, Napoleon, MI 517-536-7900

• Trailer loads trash
• Recycling drop off

Jefferson Township Transfer Station Recycling & Solid Waste Management - 3255 Pioneer Rd (M-99), Osseo, MI 517-523-3019

• Tractor/farm, auto, semi tires
• Mattresses, box springs
• Construction/demolition materials
• Televisions/e-Waste
• 9-volt, D, C, AAA, AA batteries
• Bulk items (couch, chair, love-seat)
• #1 & #2 plastics, all metals, paper/newspaper/books, used oil, anti-freeze, foam cups/packaging (no peanuts), clean-clear food containers, appliances 

Whether you have a flat screen television that has gone on the fritz, or a big old tube television sitting in the corner of your grandma’s basement to get rid of – Goodwill is there for you! Their recycling drop-off site at 1357 Division St. in Adrian (not the store, but at the SE Michigan Goodwill headquarters next to Lowes), accepts televisions!

Flat panel TVs are free to recycle, but there is a fee for the CRT (tube) televisions. Small ones start at $10, up to $40 for the big wood boxed ones. If you have questions about the size, call 517-263-2135.

Our office is open 8:00 am until 12:00 pm, and 1:00 pm until 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.  Please refer to the calendar for the County holiday schedule.

Adrian Township, Deerfield, Dover, Hudson, Macon, Madison, Medina, Ogden, Palmyra, Ridgeway, Rome, Seneca, Tecumseh Township. All others are collected by the local treasurers.

The Treasurers Office accepts cash, check, cashiers check, money order, and credit cards. ***Please note there will be an enhanced access fee to use a credit or debit card.***

A current rabies certificate, not a receipt or invoice and proof of spay/neuter if not noted on the rabies certificate.  

The Lenawee County Treasurer does not collect current year winter taxes until they become delinquent on March 1. Your local township or city treasurer is responsible for collecting the current year winter taxes through the end of February.

If you currently receive a monthly water/sewer usage bill from the Lenawee County Drain Commission you can now pay online here.

An inmate’s next court date can be heard using our automated phone system by dialing (517) 265-4400 and following the prompts. Additional court information can be obtained from the Lenawee County District Court at (517) 264-4675 or here and Circuit Court at (517) 264-4597 or here.

There are telephones located in all cell blocks and holding cells. ALL calls from these phones are collect. The jail has no control over blocks on telephone numbers or nonpayment charges. Telephones are turned on daily at 8:00 AM until 6:00 PM and from 7:00 PM until 10:00 PM. If there is abuse of the telephone, telephone privileges may be suspended. TELEPHONE USE IS A PRIVILEGE, NOT A RIGHT! All questions regarding telephones refer to phone #1-866-232-1899 or www.touchpaydirect.com using facility # 249201.

No. We have a large number of inmates. This would keep corrections officers from being able to provide proper supervision and care of inmates. 

Face-to-face, in-person visitation at the jail is prohibited. All visits are conducted electronically via tablets. Once an inmate is housed in general population and has access to a tablet, they can visit with friends and family. Those wishing to visit must set up an account through GETTINGOUT #1(866)516-0115 or at www.gettingout.com/visit-now. Friends and family of inmates are able to use their personal electronic devices, including cellular phones to conduct a visit, however, if a person does not have an electronic device, the Sheriff’s Office does offer on-site video visit booths in the visitation area of the jail. This service is available seven days a week, for anyone who needs to use them. The visitation area is located on the south side of the building at door 301 of the Jail. Hours of operation are 9 AMuntil 6 PM and 8 PM - 10 PM. Improper conduct during a visit may be cause for the suspension of visiting privileges for inmates and/or visitors. This includes nudity or sexually explicit material.  

All attorneys must be added to an approved professional visitors list prior to meeting with their clients. Approval is obtained by having proper identification; which includes a copy of your driver’s license as well as your bar card. Approval can be obtained electronically or in person. Once approved and added to the list, attorneys may visit their clients in person or virtually 24/7, however, we would prefer that visits are conducted during business hours, Monday - Sunday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Please email jail personnel at lcjvisitorrequest@lenawee.mi.us for further information.

Clergy must be added to an approved professional visitors list if he or she is requesting a face-to-face visit with an inmate. Approval requests require proper security screening and submission of credentials; which includes a copy of your driver’s license as well as your clergy identification. Approval is obtained once jail personnel and the jail chaplain have verified your security and clergy status. If approved and added to the approval list, you may visit an inmate during business hours, Monday - Sunday 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Please email jail personnel at lcjvisitorrequest@lenawee.mi.us for further information.

All money in the possession of an inmate will be deposited into an inmate trust account upon admission to the jail. These monies may be used by the inmate for bond, commissary, haircuts, booking fees, etc. These monies are intended to be used by the inmate for their needs while incarcerated. The jail does not release money back to friends and family, nor do we write checks to pay bills for inmates. 

Friends and family have 3 options for depositing money into an inmate account:

1. Through the internet via www.touchpaydirect.com
2. Through the telephone (866)232-1899
3. Through the kiosk located in the jail visitation area.

With options 1 and 2, you will need to know the facility number and the inmate number. The facility number is 249201 and the inmate will notify you of their inmate number. 

iCare is another service provided by our commissary supplier. A variety of packages are offered to be purchased on the internet and distributed to inmates. iCare packages are delivered Mondays and Thursdays. Orders must be received before those dates in order for the package to be received on time, if not it will be received the next date. The website for purchasing iCares is www.icarearamark.com. You will need the inmate number and a credit card to make purchases.

Inmates may receive incoming mail from friends and family addressed to the inmate at:
549 N. Winter St.
Adrian, MI. 49221

Incoming mail shall only be accepted from a legitimate commercial carrier (example: U.S. Postal Service, United Parcel Service, etc..). All incoming mail will be limited to postcards, unless the correspondence is addressed from an attorney, the court system, licensed physician, or licensed mental health worker. Mail sent bulk rate or presorted standard as indicated by U.S. Postal Service markings will only be accepted when it is addressed to a specific inmate. All incoming mail shall be inspected to determine if it violates the policy prior to delivery to the inmate. Inspect means to search the mail for contraband and skim through its written content. If it appears from skimming the content that it may be prohibited, it shall be read to determine if it is allowed. Legal mail from an attorney, the court system, a licensed physician, or licensed mental health worker shall be delivered to the inmate unopened unless it is suspected of violating this policy. If the mail is suspected of violating this policy, it shall be opened and inspected in the presence of the inmate.

Magazines or publications sent through a subscription will be allowed. Any magazine, publication or piece of mail depicting frontal nudity, showing female nipples, male or female genitalia, or persons depicting sexual acts such as use of sex toys, acts of penetration or masturbation, will not be allowed and placed in the inmate’s property.

Inmates shall be permitted to receive books through the mail if they are prepaid and received directly from the publisher. This means books and reading material may be sent from a bookstore. Reading material must be in good taste and no hard cover books are allowed. Reading material will go to the inmate it is mailed to. With the exception of maximum security, inmates are allowed 4 books or magazines and one Bible. Up to 10 personal books or magazines can be placed in an inmate’s property bin. Books or magazines that exceed 10 can be donated to the jail library or destroyed. 

Personal property of inmates sentenced to prison will remain at the jail until picked up by a person of the inmate’s choosing. Property will be held for a period of thirty (30) days, after which time it will be destroyed or given to charity. Family or friends are not allowed to drop items off at the jail. Everything an inmate is allowed to possess is available from commissary. 

There is a mental health counselor on staff. His/her primary responsibility is to assist inmates with mental/emotional problems, personal/family crisis, or inmates under the care of Community Mental Health. There is no cost to inmates for this service.

Medical staff is available to see inmates seven days a week and may prescribe medical treatment and medications under the orders of the jail physician. The jail physician is available for weekly appointments and on an on-call basis for emergencies. All dental referrals are made by medical staff. Requests to see the nurse or the dentist must be in writing.

A fee will be charged for these services and the cost of these services will be posted in each cell block. The cost for a nurse or physician visit will be deducted from the inmate’s commissary account. At no time will medical or dental services be withheld for lack of ability to pay for such services.

Cash bonds can be paid at the Lenawee County Judicial Building 425 N. Main St. Adrian, MI. 49221 Monday through Friday during the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., except holidays. All other times cash bonds will be accepted at the Jail. You may also use a bonding agency to post an inmate’s bond. If after hours for the courthouse, and posting cash at the jail, you need to bring the exact amount plus booking fees etc., at door 138 in the Trestle Park area. 

No, jail staff is not allowed to recommend a bonding agency. A list of court approved bonding agencies can be found on the Corrections Division page of the website.

Picking up an inmate being released and or bonded out at the jail you will use door 138 in the Trestle Park area, on the backside of the jail. 

By going to the Lenawee County Sheriff's Office's

Requests can be returned via: Fax to 517-265-2284 or Mailed to Records Division, 405 N. Winter St., Adrian, MI 49221

We are located on the first floor of the Old Courthouse at 301 N Main St in Adrian, our office is on the side of the building facing N Main St.  Parking is located either immediately adjacent to the building, in the parking lot south of the building, or the Judicial parking lot north of the building.

Yes, we do have basic online GIS maps available, you can go to them by CLICKING HERE.  A "How to" use them can also be viewed by CLICKING HERE.  More detailed maps and information can also be acquired by contacting our office.

The office hours for the Old Courthouse are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.

We maintain parcel layers for all of Lenawee County and we have aerial photography, reference topography, road centerlines and several other datasets on a countywide basis.

There are roughly 51,600 linked tax parcels in the Lenawee County parcel layer as of 2022.

RENEWAL OF SEPARATE TAX LIMITATION PROPOSAL

As provided in MCL 211.2015c, by petition from the tax allocation board, shall the separate tax limitations, first established in 1968, be renewed and established for a period of four (4) years, 2018 through 2021, inclusive, or until altered by the voters of the County, for the County of Lenawee, the Townships therein, and for the Lenawee Intermediate School District, the aggregate of which shall not exceed 7.05 mills, as follows:

Mills

County of Lenawee                                                            5.75

Townships                                                                             1.00

Lenawee Intermediate School District                        0.30

Total                                                                                        7.05

The Countywide impact expected 2018 additional levy on $100,000 home:

• ½ mill
• $25 per year without township levy
• For 50% of population $25 per year
• Others range from $25 - $43 per year

If the renewal passes Lenawee County will be able to continue services that the residents of Lenawee County expect.  At the same time, the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners will continue to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars.  It is not expected that the maximum levy rate will be applied any time soon.  The determination of the millage rate in any given year will be subject to the requirements of the Uniform Budgeting Act which requires the Board of Commissioners to hold a public hearing on the budget including the millage rate.

The Michigan Constitution and state laws require that counties perform certain functions.  These are often referred to as mandated functions.  Other services have evolved over time in Lenawee County because they met the needs of our citizens.  Some of these services are:

• Specialty Courts are not mandated but they provide a focused effort to meet the needs of certain offenders and they reduce the number of people in the jail and therefore the cost of running the jail.
• The Economic Crimes Unit in the Prosecutor’s Office serves many purposes.  The diversion program provides offenders with a means of meeting their obligations without a criminal record.  The program recovers lost monies for local businesses that would otherwise be uncollectable.  This is not a mandated service.
• Senior services in the county include centers, in-home care and transportation to appointments.  The home delivered meal program alone delivers over 800 meals daily.  Some of these services are covered by dedicated revenues specifically for senior services; however, Lenawee County currently funds senior services beyond the dedicated levy.  Lenawee County’s investments in senior services are really pay back for the tremendous investment they have made in this community.
• The Sheriff Department road patrol provides law enforcement coverage for most of the townships and also provides coverage for some smaller villages.  While not a mandated function it is a very important part of investing in safe and secure communities.
• Maurice Spears Campus provides a youth detention facility in the county so that we do not have to send juvenile offenders out of county.  While care of children is a county responsibility it is not mandated that each county maintain its own youth detention facility.
• Lenawee County’s contribution to Lenawee Now to promote economic development is a major investment in job attraction and retention.  Lenawee County is by far the largest public sector contributor to Lenawee Now and has continued that commitment even in the face of significant budget cuts, however, this is not a mandated service.
• MSU Extension and 4-H programs are a big part of growing up in rural Lenawee County.  The investment by Michigan State Extension and Lenawee County in educational and development programs offered is a benefit to the entire county and the leadership programs are an investment that last a lifetime.  While funds spent on Extension programs are a sound investment in the future, these are not mandated services.
• The Solid Waste Department is not a mandated service, however, the department has coordinated and funded recycling efforts to keep hazardous and nuisance waste from adversely impacting the quality of life in Lenawee County.  From tire collections to coordination of the hazardous waste collection to a drop off station for those communities that do not have other recycling options, this department improves the environment in Lenawee County every day.   
• The Veterans Relief Fund is not mandated, however, it is an example of Lenawee County investing its resources in those who have served our country.  The fund has provided emergency assistance to county veterans when they need it most.  And the Veterans office in Lenawee County serves all of the veterans of the County overseeing nearly 50 million dollars in benefits and services to veterans.
• Lenawee County residents have been very generous in donating land to the County to be used for parks.  This investment in the future needs ongoing support from the County to maintain and improve the recreational opportunities at the parks.

The table below lists most of the mandated and non-mandated services.  There are also county departments that exist in support of both mandated and non-mandated functions such as the Maintenance Department, Information Technology and Administration.

Mandated Functions

• Courts
• Jail
• Constitutional Offices
• Care of children
• Defense of indigent offenders
• Public health
• Equalization
• Veterans Affairs
• Drain Commission
• Medical Examiner

Non-Mandated Services

• Public Transportation
• Road and Marine Patrol
• MSU Extension and 4-H
• Economic Development
• Senior services
• Parks
• Specialty Courts
• Recycling
• Conservation Service
• Economic Crimes – Loss Recovery

2018 Budget A & B Summary

Lenawee County has struggled to provide adequate funding for services since the start of the 2008 Great Recession.  After eight years of cuts, adjustments and transfers the commission has run out of options to keep the current service levels and keep up with facility demands within the existing revenue structure.

The Tax Allocation Board reviewed financial information from all of the local units of government that levy allocated millage.  Presentations were made to the board by representatives of all types of local units.

No, the Tax Allocation Board had several options and gave consideration to all.  They reviewed doing nothing, which would have left local units with no change in their revenue options.  They reviewed setting new millage limitations, which could have reallocated millages.  Finally, they reviewed renewal of the previous limitation which they determined would provide local units options and not create the confusion of setting new limitations.

The Tax Allocation Board petitioned the County Board of Commissioners to place renewal of the 1968 tax limitations on the first available ballot.  The renewal will last four years, 2018 through 2021 inclusive, or until changed by the voters of the county.

The authority of the Tax Allocation Board is limited to the levy rate for the County of Lenawee, all of the general law townships in the county and the allocated portion of the Lenawee Intermediate School District levy.  Those governmental bodies whose millages are not affected by the renewal are cities, villages, charter townships and the charter millage portion of the LISD.

The Lenawee County Board of Commissioners, on a unanimous vote, received the petition from the Tax Allocation Board and placed the renewal on the first available ballot.  Given the time frames involved that is the November 7, 2017 election.

Michigan counties are limited in their revenue options by state statute.  Like all counties in Michigan, the majority of Lenawee County’s general revenue, that funds operations, comes from the property tax.   This dependence on the property tax has been a struggle for the County due to several factors:

• In the three years immediately following the recession the tax base of the County declined each year resulting in reduced operating revenue for general services.  
• The growth in the tax base is constitutionally limited and tied to the Consumer Price Index.  So for the last few years, with a CPI of less than 2%, the County tax base has been flat.  
• There was no limit on how rapidly property values could fall but there is a very specific limit on how quickly they can increase.  What took a short time to loose will take many years to recover.

Lenawee County did have reserves however, it has been necessary to use general fund reserves and transfers from non-general funds to maintain services for the last eight years.  With the rising costs of doing business money management is no longer enough to keep moving forward.

Lenawee County has taken several steps over the last eight years to reduce costs and contain expenses.  For example:

• Lenawee County was an early adopter of defined contribution retirement.  Over 50% of County employees are now on this plan.
• Lenawee County created an incentive program to encourage some workers to retire reducing total employment, costs and not adding to the unemployment rate.
• Lenawee County switched to high deductible health insurance plans.
• Lenawee County employees received no pay increase from 2010 through 2013 and absorbed increase benefit costs at the same time.
• Lenawee County has never provided post-employment healthcare.
• Lenawee County improved energy efficiency in all County buildings.  Two buildings, the Judicial Building and Human Services Building, are Energy Star rated at 90+ percent.  In addition to saving energy and expense this has the added benefit of making the Human Services Building an attractive office space. 
  • Lenawee County also has the unique benefit of having many of our social service programs housed in a single building.  The Human Services Building is an investment on the part of the County made nearly 30 years ago to create a one stop shop for a variety of county, state and federal services.  It is a real asset to the County and a benefit to the public that know they can receive most of their services in the same building.  
• Lenawee County developed a Capital Improvement plan to maintain County facilities and equipment.  We are planning for the future as opposed to operating on an emergency basis.
• Lenawee County works with other counties and jurisdictions to reduce costs.•Lenawee County created specialty courts to address the causes of criminal behavior and reduce jail costs.
• Lenawee County created a land bank to repurpose problem tax foreclosed properties and address blight conditions.

No. Since 2015, county public health officials have been working with these property owners to reach a compromise that meets the objectives of the environmental health code while allowing them to live in a manner that does not infringe upon their way of life. The property owners have been unwilling to comply with the rules and regulations that have been in place in Lenawee County for decades and that all other citizens must comply with. County public health officials have been and are still willing to discuss options for gaining compliance. The sole objective of the County in this matter is to fulfill its duty to protect the public health of county residents

Lenawee County is not persecuting any citizens because of their religious beliefs. Lenawee County requires that all property owners, regardless of religion, obtain the proper permits and meet inspection requirements for wells and septic systems. Similar requirements are in place throughout communities all across the State of Michigan.

The property owners have been offered options that would accomplish the objectives of the environmental health code and that do not require the installation of modern plumbing or electricity in the home. Options have been presented to the property owners that are used across the state of Michigan and throughout the United States. As of this date, the property owners have refused to implement any of these options.

A safe option for an outhouse is a permitted and approved concrete vault privy, such as you might find at a roadside rest area.  This option is used across Michigan and throughout the United States.  This option requires periodic pumping by a licensed septage hauler and the waste is properly disposed of at a licensed facility.

There are actually two issues we are attempting to resolve. The first is that the water supply must be permitted and constructed to meet the state well construction code requirements.

The second is that human waste cannot be disposed of in an unsanitary manner.  The current system being utilized by the property owners is to collect waste in a bucket underneath the outhouse which is then emptied directly onto the ground. This untreated human feces is then spread on fields, which is a violation of state law. It is widely considered that using human waste as fertilizer for human food poses serious health risks due to the potential for contamination and spread of disease. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a safe sanitation system is designed to avoid and prevent human contact with human waste.

From the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): “Contamination of a private well can impact not only the household served by the well, but also nearby households using the same aquifer.”

“Wastewater management and adequate sewer systems play important roles in sanitation and disease prevention. Wastewater can contaminate the local environment and drinking water supply, thereby increasing the risk of disease transmission.”

Improperly used or operated septic systems can be a significant source of ground water contamination that can lead to waterborne disease outbreaks and other adverse health effects.

The presence of contaminants in water can lead to health issues including gastrointestinal illness resulting from campylobacter, cryptosporidium, E. coli, giardia, hepatitis A, norovirus, salmonella and shigella.  Cardiac and respiratory problems such as chest pain, shortness of breath, myocarditis and pericarditis can also occur. Other symptoms that can occur are weight loss, joint pain and other allergic conditions.

The property owners are spreading untreated human waste onto their fields, which poses a risk to public health.  The bio-solids that are spread onto local Lenawee County farms are treated and meet stringent standards as mandated in state and federal regulations.

Yes, this is their personal property.  In the United States, you do have certain personal property rights, as long as they do not put yourself or others at risk. The Lenawee County Environmental Health code is in place to minimize risk and protect public health.

Almost all counties in the state of Michigan require property owners with similar beliefs to install septic tanks and drainfields to properly dispose of sewage generated by their homes. Additionally, these property owners are required to have a safe water supply that meets the requirements of the state well construction code. There are various options to meet these requirements, including those that do not require the use of electricity.

Most campers are equipped with separate holding tanks for both fresh water and sewage. The sewage holding tank must be properly emptied at a sanitary dump station.  If you have concerns regarding violations of the Environmental Health Code, please send a written complaint to the Lenawee County Health Department at 1040 S Winter Street, Suite 2328, Adrian, MI 49221 and the complaint will be investigated.

For mental health or substance abuse crisis you can still call the Lenawee Community Mental Health Authority any time at 517-263-8905 or 800-664-5005.

RENEWAL OF SEPARATE TAX LIMITATION PROPOSAL

As provided in MCL 211.205c, by petition from the tax allocation board, shall the separate tax limitations be renewed and established for a period of five (5) years, 2021 through 2025, inclusive, or until altered by the voters of the County, for the County of Lenawee, the Townships therein, and for the Lenawee Intermediate School District, the aggregate of which shall not exceed 7.05 mills, as follows:

Mills
County of Lenawee 5.75
Townships 1.00
Lenawee Intermediate School District 0.30
Total 7.05

LENAWEE COUNTY CENTRAL DISPATCH PROPOSAL FOR 9-1-1 SYSTEM FUNDING

To fund 9-1-1 operations and pursuant to the Michigan Emergency Telephone Service Enabling Act and the Michigan Telecommunications Act, shall the County of Lenawee be authorized, beginning July 1, 2021 and continuing through June 30, 2025, to assess a monthly surcharge of up to 16%, (with all operational surcharges not to exceed $3.00 per month) of the lesser of $20.00 or the highest monthly flat rate for basic single-party telephone service within the geographic boundaries of Lenawee County, with the revenue thus generated to be distributed exclusively for the financing of equipment, facilities and all other operational costs of the Lenawee County 911 Emergency Telephone Answering and Dispatch System?

SENIOR CITIZEN MILLAGE RESTORATION

Shall the previously voted increase of .5 mills and .25 mills for a total of .75 mills in the limitation upon the total amount of general ad valorem taxes with Lenawee County imposed under Article IX, Sec. 6 of the Michigan Constitution be restored by renewal of .732 mills and an increase of .018 mills (.75 per $1,000 of taxable value) for the period of 2020 through 2025 inclusive, for operation of the Lenawee County Department on Aging, and shall the county levy such millage upon taxable real and personal property within the County for said purpose, thereby raising the first year, an estimated $2,732,657 and costing the owner of a home with a market value of $100,000 no more than $38 per year?

The millages and the surcharge in these proposals are already in place.  These renewals allow continued funding for critical service in the county.  This is not an increase in the authorised rate.

If the renewals pass Lenawee County will be able to continue services that the residents of Lenawee County expect. At the same time, the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners will continue to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars. It is not expected that the maximum levy rate will be applied any time soon. The determination of the millage rate in any given year will be subject to the requirements of the Uniform Budgeting Act which requires the Board of Commissioners to hold a public hearing on the budget including the millage rate.

The Michigan Constitution and state laws require that counties perform certain functions. These are often referred to as mandated functions. Other services have evolved over time in Lenawee County because they met the needs of our citizens. Some of these services are:

• Specialty Courts are not mandated but they provide a focused effort to meet the needs of certain offenders and they reduce the number of people in the jail and therefore the cost of running the jail.  These programs also reduce recidivism and save families and lives. 
• The Economic Crimes Unit in the Prosecutor’s Office serves many purposes. The diversion program provides offenders with a means of meeting their obligations without a criminal record. The program recovers lost monies for local businesses that would otherwise be uncollectable. This is not a mandated service.
• Senior services in the county include centers, in-home care and transportation to appointments. The home delivered meal program alone delivers over 800 meals daily. Lenawee County’s investments in senior services are really pay back for the tremendous investment our seniors have made in this community.
• The Sheriff Department road patrol provides law enforcement coverage for most of the townships and also provides coverage for some smaller villages. While not a mandated function it is a very important part of investing in safe and secure communities.
• The Lenawee County Sheriff’s Central Dispatch, dispatches for fourteen different police agencies and eighteen fire departments. Along with normal calls, the Center is also responsible for all emergency radio and 9-1-1 calls within the county. Clear and concise radio communication between dispatch and responding units is key in emergencies. In 2017 Lenawee County Commissioners approved the plan to upgrade from a VHF radio system to an 800-MHz system. The new system installations included having two new towers built, as well as providing 989 vehicle-mounted and portable radios and related equipment for all the city and township police and fire departments within the county. Having these updated communication systems are critical in saving lives, protecting property and serving communities.
• Maurice Spears Campus provides a youth detention facility in the county so that we do not have to send juvenile offenders out of county. While care of children is a county responsibility it is not mandated that each county maintain its own youth detention facility.
• Lenawee County’s contribution to Lenawee Now to promote economic development is a major investment in job attraction and retention. Lenawee County is by far the largest public sector contributor to Lenawee Now and has continued that commitment even in the face of significant budget cuts, however, this is not a mandated service.
• MSU Extension and 4-H programs are a big part of growing up in rural Lenawee County. The investment by Michigan State Extension and Lenawee County in educational and development programs offered is a benefit to the entire county and the leadership programs are an investment that last a lifetime. While funds spent on Extension programs are a sound investment in the future, these are not mandated services.
• The Solid Waste Department is not a mandated service, however, the department has coordinated and funded recycling efforts to keep hazardous and nuisance waste from adversely impacting the quality of life in Lenawee County. From tire collections to coordination of the hazardous waste collection to a drop off station for those communities that do not have other recycling options, this department improves the environment in Lenawee County every day.
• The Veterans Relief Fund is not mandated, however, it is an example of Lenawee County investing its resources in those who have served our country. The fund has provided emergency assistance to county veterans when they need it most. And the Veterans office in Lenawee County serves all of the veterans of the County overseeing nearly 50 million dollars in benefits and services to veterans.
• Lenawee County residents have been very generous in donating land to the County to be used for parks. This investment in the future needs ongoing support from the County to maintain and improve the recreational opportunities at the parks.

The table below lists most of the mandated and non-mandated services. There are also county departments that exist in support of both mandated and non-mandated functions such as the Maintenance Department, Information Technology and Administration.

Mandated Functions

• Courts
• Jail
• Constitutional Offices
• Care of children
• Defense of indigent offenders
• Public health
• Equalization
• Veterans Affairs
• Drain Commission
• Medical Examiner

Non-Mandated Services

• Public Transportation
• Road and Marine Patrol
• MSU Extension and 4-H
• Economic Development
• Senior services
• Parks
• Specialty Courts
• Recycling
• Conservation Service
• Economic Crimes – Loss Recovery

While there was only on issue up for renewal this year, the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners determined it would be desirable to place all three on the General Election ballot for 2020.  Presidential elections historically have higher turnout so a larger number of county voters have a voice in these issues that have an effect on their safety and services.

No, this will not increase your taxes.  We have found it to be confusing to the public to have these separate millages on the same issue up for renewal at different times.  The decision was made to combine both millage renewals into one renewal for ease of the electorate.

When the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners approved the funding of the 911 radio project in 2017, it was determined the funding of this project would be finance over a ten year period.  There are still six years to go to pay off this project.  Additionally, there are maintenance and operational costs associated with our 911 system that are funded by the 911 surcharge.  This provides our citizens with clear communications in an emergency, which makes for a safer Lenawee County.

Part of the due diligence that Lenawee County has done on this project since the short-term purchase agreement in March has been investigating the environmental concerns for this project site.  We have been meeting with the EPA, EGLE, and other agencies to investigate past mitigations efforts, additional work needed, and safety concerns for all our residents. The contaminants are very deep in the ground and pose no risk to the surface use of the property.

Our studies and meetings have shown that the proposed facility will be safe to use by all our residents.  Should the project proceed forward into construction, we will be installing a barrier between all surfaces and any potential contaminants in the soil.  The proposed site is on municipal water and sewer lines, so there is no concern about contamination from the ground water. 

• Read the full FAQs that has been prepared: Former Tecumseh Products Company Site and Project Phoenix Environmental Contamination and Cleanup.
• You can also read the full EPA decision on the plan here: EPA - Final Decision and Response to Comments.
• In addition, you can search the EPA website here to access all the documents related to this property.
• Here are the site maps TRC referenced during the Q & A session with the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners on 5/11/22.

The proposed facility could consist of:

• 5 FIFA/NCAA regulation lighted outdoor turf soccer/football/lacrosse fields
• 4 lighted outdoor turf baseball/softball diamonds
• 8 indoor basketball courts convertible to 16 volleyball courts, several convertible pickleball or tennis courts
• 8 lane indoor NCAA regulation 200 meter track
• FIFA/NCAA regulation indoor turf soccer/football/lacrosse field
• Designated indoor baseball and softball pitching and hitting alleys, along with indoor turf infield
• Golf academy
• Future development includes two indoor ice rinks and natatorium (swimming/diving building)
• Meeting space for trade shows, exhibitions, and conferences

Final plans will be determined based on the market analysis and project funding, after the Lenawee County Board of Commissioners votes on whether to move forward with the project.

A project like this has been in discussion for many years.  While many potential project sites have been investigated over the years, this site became desirable for a number of reasons.  There are several state and federal grants available to develop this site in particular.  This location in Tecumseh allows us to draw from more populated areas of the state to make the facility operations self-sustaining, as evidenced by the feasibility study. 

The Adrian Mall was not considered as it was not for sale and lacked federal and state grant dollars.  It is owned by a private developer with their own plans for development for that location.  This site also does not give us the space to build the type of facility we are considering.

Every resident in Lenawee County will benefit from this project.  Tax revenue generated from this project and the additional development surrounding the project in Adrian, Tecumseh, and the townships will follow and assist funding Lenawee County and local municipal programs and services for years to come.  

No.  This facility will be an added benefit for our colleges and other event facilities.  This will allow our colleges additional space that they do not currently have for their sports teams to practice year-round.  This will give them additional space to add new sports teams to their roster. Additionally, they can attract division and regional championships and host them at this facility.

Many of the local schools and athletic facilities have come out in support of the project as they see the added benefit to their existing programs. This facility will not compete with our local public school events.

Event facilities within the County can still host the current events they attract annually.  They will be able to partner with the proposed facility to attract larger events.  The proposed facility would be able to bid to garner larger events that will bring tourists and revenue to Lenawee County.

The proposed annual attendance is similar to what is seen at the Michigan International Speedway on one race weekend.  We see tremendous activity from tourism in Lenawee County on these weekends and during similar events at MIS, including Faster Horses.  On a smaller scale, we see similar activity related to athletic contests at our colleges.

We know that we already lose some economic activity due to the lack of lodging space within Lenawee County at these events.  The market analysis shows that families that travel to these tournaments are willing to travel from their overnight accommodations up to 35 minutes to the facility, and that can be supported by lodging in the community inside and outside of the county borders. These lodging facilities support our existing events.

More importantly, we know that if this project should proceed forward, once the facility is developed, you will see additional private development in Lenawee County.  Part of this growth will be in the hospitality/lodging industry.  Our municipal partners have already fielded inquiries from developers in this industry regarding this project. The site selected has the room for this type of growth, as do other areas of the county.

Development in this industry will allow Lenawee County to capture that revenue year-round in Lenawee County that is often missed on race weekends or during Faster Horses, as well as during the continued operations of the proposed facility.

Yes.  The market analysis shows that the region has a solid base of sports participants and moderate demand for this type of facility.  Part of the proposed operations plan of the facility is to market and promote local Lenawee County “club” travel sports teams that will utilize the facility as its home.  

Currently, many youth within Lenawee County travel out of county to participate on these club teams.  While the demand exists for these teams, there is a lack of facility space available, as well as a county-wide organizational structure to put together the program.

The market analysis shows that we do have the youth population and participation to support this type of facility.  Facilities of this type exist in areas with a lower youth population.  More importantly, if we are to retain our current youth population or attract new families to Lenawee County, we need this type of facility to assist in providing quality of life improvements that are sought by young families.

College level athletes today play club sports because of the exposure to collegiate recruiters and increased competition level. To get recruited for college athletics, you need to play a club sport.  Having this type of facility and these programs not only elevates the level of play for our high school sports teams and lets them compete at the state level, it allows our youth the same competitive advantage for college athletic scholarships that other communities across the state enjoy.

Club sports are offered year-round.  For some sports, these indoor facilities are not readily available in other communities. Parents and high school athletes have come to think of club sports as essential to getting recruited.  Club sports offer an elevated level of competition, and these families are committed.  They travel every single weekend to tournaments to compete, always out-of-area.  These teams do not function like high school athletics; travel is expected.

E. coli bacteria live in the digestive systems of humans and other warm-blooded animals. Therefore, they are found in sewage and other wastewater. Most strains are not dangerous, but they can indicate the presence of other disease-causing bacteria.

Swimming in unsafe water may result in minor illnesses such as sore throats or diarrhea. It may also result in more serious illnesses that can last a longer period of time. Children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems are at greater risk for illness when they come into contact with contaminated water.

Beaches are sampled a minimum of five times (or "events") per month. Each sampling "event" consists of three samples taken at representative locations within the bathing beach area. The water samples are collected one foot below the surface in three to six feet of water. The samples are then taken to a contracted certified laboratory to be analyzed for E. Coli bacteria.

An advisory was posted at the beach because monitoring conducted by Lenawee County Environmental Health determined that, at the time of testing, levels of bacteria exceeded the limits set by the Michigan Public Health Code. The geometric mean of the results from one sampling "event" cannot exceed 300 E. Coli per 100 milliliters of water. In addition, the 30-day geometric mean cannot exceed 130 E. Coli per 100 milliliters of water.

Water is a hostile environment to the bacteria, so they generally do not live long in the water. Factors such as wind and wave action, as well as UV light from the sun, will help to reduce the level of bacteria. The length of time this takes in unpredictable, however, it is usually less than 48 hours. It is important to note that bacteria levels may remain high if a continuous source of pollution is impacting the area.

The Lenawee County Environmental Health team will continue monitoring the beach water quality and will lift the advisory for swimming when bacteria levels fall back to acceptable levels. Check with the park or beach authority as recreational activities other than swimming are usually still available.

There are a variety of sources that contribute bacteria to our surface waters. These include:

• Illicit waste connections to storm sewers or roadside ditches
• Malfunctioning septic systems
• Combined and sanitary sewer overflows
• Storm (rain) runoff
• Wild and domestic animal waste (especially goose droppings)
• Agricultural runoff

You are the best person to decide when and if it is safe to swim at a particular location. Our changing weather means that swimming conditions can vary throughout the day and from day to day. It is a good idea to avoid swimming in lakes and rivers for 48 hours following heavy rain. Surface runoff from storm sewer systems can carry high levels of pollution such as residue from vehicle exhaust, fertilizer, pesticides, oil, and waste from urban pets and rural barnyards into the water. Overflowing storm systems can also carry untreated sewage into rivers and lakes. Here are a few recommendations for deciding when and where to swim:

• Check the weather! Don't swim for 2 days after heavy rains
• Watch for "signs" of water pollution such as discolored water, fast-flowing and strong-smelling drains and/or street litter floating in water
• Avoid swimming next to drain openings or outlets
• Check for pollution warning notices and/or beach closing signs
• Swim only in areas designated as "swim areas"

An overflow occurs when sanitary sewage leaves its intended area and enters the environment.

The purpose of an advisory is to inform the public that the water quality of the lake may have been impacted or impaired by the overflow of sanitary sewage. There is no penalty or fine for those who choose to enter or come into contact with the water.

You should always avoid the impacted areas from a sewer overflow. By not exposing yourself to the raw sewage or the impacted areas, you greatly lower your risk of potential health issues. Any residents with health concerns are encouraged to contact their doctor.  

Sewage can contain different types of bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses that can cause intestinal, lung, and other infections. This is why when an advisory is in effect, we do not encourage resuming any normal water activities until it has been lifted.

In November 2022, Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment that gives voters the right to vote early and in person at early voting sites before statewide and federal elections. Communities may also choose to provide early voting for local elections. Early voting allows a voter to cast a ballot before Election Day, in an experience similar to voting on Election Day. During the early voting period, voters are issued a ballot and can then insert their ballot directly into a tabulator at their early voting site.

Both early in-person voting and absentee voting allow voters to cast a ballot prior to Election Day. However, there are key differences between the two methods of voting. Early voting allows voters to cast a ballot similar to how they would do so at a polling place on Election Day. Voters are issued a ballot and can personally insert it into the tabulator at their early voting site. Absentee voting allows voters to request a ballot by mail or in person at their local clerk’s office. Voters can complete their absentee ballot at home or at their local clerk’s office and submit it in an envelope by mail, in person, or by drop box. After an absentee ballot is received by the local clerk, the voter’s absentee ballot is processed and tabulated by their local clerk.

Any registered voter in Michigan has the right to vote early in person at an early voting site for statewide and federal elections in which they are eligible. Voters in Michigan can register to vote up to and on Election Day, including during the early voting period. 

Learn more about voter registration.

No.  If a voter visits the early voting site and is not registered, they will be directed to their local clerk.   

No. Voters should remember to bring an acceptable form of photo identification to an early voting site or to the polls on Election Day. However, a photo ID is not required to cast a ballot. Voters without a photo ID, or voters who forgot to bring their photo ID, can still vote after signing an Affidavit of Voter Not in Possession of Picture Identification.

All voters, including voters with disabilities, have the right to vote in person at an early voting site, at a polling place, or by using a standard or accessible absentee ballot. Early voting sites feature at least one Voter Assist Terminal (VAT), a ballot-marking device that can be used by any voter. VATs also provide assistive tools for voters with visual, hearing, mobility, or other disabilities. Accessible curbside voting is also available at early voting sites. Voters may contact us to request curbside voting. Voters may need to send someone into the early voting site to request curbside voting on their behalf. An election official will then bring the ballot outside for the voter to complete.  

Voters can visit an early voting site in their area to cast a ballot in person during the early voting period. In Lenawee County, we have a centralized early voting site located at the Lenawee County Human Services Building located at 1040 S. Winter St., Adrian, MI  49221.

The early voting period takes place for a minimum of nine consecutive days, ending on the Sunday before an election. Early voting sites must be open for at least eight hours each day during the early voting period.

For the November General Election, the early voting Days and Hours are:  

Saturday, October 26, 2024 – Sunday, November 3, 2024
Daily 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.  

Yes. During each day of the early voting period, eligible voters waiting in line when an early voting site closes have the right to stay in line and cast a ballot.

Yes. Voters can request an absentee ballot and submit it before Election Day by mail, in person at their local clerk’s office, or by drop box.  

Yes, every voter has the right to a secret ballot. At early voting sites, voters insert their completed ballot into a tabulator, just like at a polling place on Election Day. To protect voter privacy, once a ballot has been inserted into a tabulator, it cannot be traced back to an individual voter. Ballots inserted in the tabulator are sealed in secure containers each night during the early voting period. After polls close on Election Day, all ballots submitted at an early voting site are totaled and reported, along with the vote totals from absentee and Election Day ballots.

Once a ballot has been inserted into a tabulator, it cannot be changed.

After polls close at 8 p.m. on Election Day, all ballots submitted at an early voting site are totaled and reported, along with the vote totals from absentee and Election Day ballots.

Just like voting on Election Day, there are multiple security reviews and checks and balances in the early voting process.

No. The Qualified Voter File, a secure voter records database, receives regular updates of a voter’s ballot activity. If a voter submits two separate ballots, the system indicates a vote has already been submitted, and the second ballot is not issued. 

Yes. Election observers are an important part of the electoral process to ensure transparency and properly run elections. Volunteer election challengers and poll watchers may observe the voting process at early voting sites as permitted by Michigan election law. All election observers must strictly adhere to proper standards and procedures.

All paper ballots submitted in Michigan, whether at a polling place, an early voting site, or through absentee voting, are retained in secure, sealed ballot containers after the election. Each seal has a unique number that is recorded in the poll book by a team of bipartisan election workers. Michigan election law requires the secure handling of paper ballots. Once early voting is complete and a ballot container is sealed, the seal cannot be broken until the canvass, recount, or audit process begins. An unbroken seal ensures that ballots are in the same condition they were on Election Day.

CDC considers you protected from measles if you have written documentation (records) showing at least one of the following:

• You received twodoses of measles-containing vaccine, and you are a(n) —
  • school-aged child (grades K-12)
  • adult who will be in a setting that poses a high risk for measles transmission, including students at post-high school education institutions, healthcare personnel, and international travelers.
• You received onedose of measles-containing vaccine, and you are a(n) —
  • preschool-aged child
  • adult who will not be in a high-risk setting for measles transmission.
• A laboratory confirmed that you had measles at some point in your life.
• A laboratory confirmed that you are immune to measles.
• You were born before 1957.

For international travelers, CDC considers you protected from measles if you have written documentation (records) showing at least one of the following:

• You received one dose of measles-containing vaccine, and you are an infant aged 6–11 months
• You received two doses of measles-containing vaccine, and you are a person 12 months or older
• A laboratory confirmed that you had measles at some point in your life
• A laboratory confirmed that you are immune to measles
• You were born before 1957

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

No. CDC considers people who received two doses of measles vaccine as children according to the U.S. vaccination schedule protected for life, and they do not ever need a booster dose.

If you’re not sure whether you are fully vaccinated, talk with your healthcare provider.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

If you were born after 1957 one dose of measles vaccine is sufficient to be considered protected from measles. Certain adults may need 2 doses. Adults who are going to be in a setting that poses a high risk for measles transmission should make sure they have had two doses separated by at least 28 days. These adults include

• students at post-high school education institutions
• healthcare personnel
• international travelers
• people who public health authorities determine are at increased risk for getting measles during a measles outbreak

If you’re not sure whether you are up to date on measles vaccine, talk with your healthcare provider. More information about who needs measles vaccine.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

If you’re unsure whether you’re immune to measles, you should first try to find your vaccination records or documentation of measles immunity. If you do not have written documentation of measles immunity, you should get vaccinated with measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. There is no harm in getting another dose of MMR vaccine if you may already be immune to measles (or mumps or rubella). Another option is to have a healthcare provider test your blood to determine whether you’re immune, but this is generally not recommended.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

Yes, people who know they got the killed measles vaccine (an earlier formulation of measles vaccine that is no longer used) should talk to their healthcare provider about getting revaccinated with the current, live measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Not many people fall into this group; the killed vaccine was given to less than 1 million people between 1963 and 1967. Also, most people don’t know if they got the killed vaccine during this time. If you’re unsure whether you fall into this group, you should first try to find your vaccination records or documentation of measles immunity. If you do not have written documentation of measles immunity, you should get vaccinated with measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. There is no harm in getting another dose of MMR vaccine if you may already be immune to measles (or mumps or rubella). Another option is to have a healthcare provider test your blood to determine whether you’re immune, but this is generally not recommended.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

The measles vaccine is very effective. Two doses of measles vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles if exposed to the virus. One dose is about 93% effective.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

For the measles vaccine to work, the body needs time to produce protective antibodies in response to the vaccine. Detectable antibodies generally appear within just a few days after vaccination. People are usually fully protected after about 2 or 3 weeks. If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to get up to date on all your measles shots. You should plan to be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks before you depart. If your trip is less than 2 weeks away and you’re not protected against measles, you should still get a dose of measles vaccine.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

When you get measles vaccine, your immune system makes protective virus-fighting antibodies against the weakened vaccine virus. Measles vaccine protects you from wild-type measles because if you have been vaccinated and then are exposed to someone with measles, your body remembers how to fight off the wild-type virus. That’s because the vaccine trained your immune system.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

Very few people—about three out of 100—who get two doses of measles vaccine will still get measles if exposed to the virus. Experts aren’t sure why. It could be that their immune systems didn’t respond as well as they should have to the vaccine. But the good news is, fully vaccinated people who get measles seem more likely to have a milder illness. And fully vaccinated people seem also less likely to spread the disease to other people, including people who can’t get vaccinated because they are too young or have weakened immune systems.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

Immediately call your healthcare provider and let them know that you have been exposed to someone who has measles. Your healthcare provider can

• determine if you are immune to measles based on your vaccination record, age, or laboratory evidence.
• make special arrangements to evaluate you, if needed, without putting other patients and medical office staff at risk.

If you are not immune to measles, MMR vaccine or a medicine called immune globulin may help reduce your risk developing measles. Your healthcare provider can advise you, and monitor you for signs and symptoms of measles.

If you are not immune and do not get MMR or immune globulin, you should stay away from settings where there are susceptible people (such as schools, hospitals, or childcare) until your healthcare provider says it’s okay to return. This will help ensure that you do not spread it to others.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

Immediately call your healthcare provider and let them know about your symptoms so that they can tell you what to do next. Your healthcare provider can make special arrangements to evaluate you, if needed, without putting other patients and medical office staff at risk.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

If you have measles, you should stay home for four days after you develop the rash. Staying home is an important way to not spread measles to other people. Ask your healthcare provider when it is safe to be around other people again.

You should also

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and put your used tissue in the trash can. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Avoid sharing drinks or eating utensils.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys, doorknobs, tables, and counters. Standard household disinfectants will readily kill the measles virus.

Call your healthcare provider if you are concerned about your symptoms.

For more information, visit the CDC webpage for Measles (external site).

HPAI is a highly contagious virus in birds and poultry that can be spread directly by infected wild birds or animals or indirectly through any item that has been exposed to the virus, such as equipment, feed, or the clothing and shoes of caretakers. The virus has been detected in various species of mammals, including Michigan dairy cattle.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues to work with state and federal partners, veterinarians, Michigan State University Extension, MSU’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and industry stakeholders to provide information to poultry farmers and backyard flock owners about the current disease situation, importance of following (and even increasing) their biosecurity measures, and what signs to look for in their birds.

MDARD continues to take swift action in response to this disease and is closely monitoring and responding to reports of sick domestic birds and HPAI throughout the state.

HPAI viruses cause severe illness in chickens and turkeys and can wipe out entire flocks in days. Potential symptoms include: sudden death, drop in egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, and diarrhea. Additional symptoms and information may be found on USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's webpage.

HPAI is highly contagious and can be carried by migratory wild birds, geese, ducks and other fowl.  

• This disease can be spread by direct contact (bird-to-bird) by exposure to:  
  • Saliva 
  • Mucous 
  • Feces from infected birds
• It can also be spread through indirect contact through contaminated items such as:  
  • Equipment 
  •  Feed 
  • Clothing and shoes of animal caretakers 
  • Rodents and pests 
• Flock owners should observe their birds for signs of disease, if sick birds are present care should be taken to not expose other animals to disease.  

No. Poultry and eggs that are properly prepared and cooked are safe to eat. Proper food safety practices are important every day. In addition to proper processing, proper handling and cooking of poultry provides protection from viruses and bacteria, including avian influenza. The chance of infected poultry or eggs entering the food chain is extremely low because of the rapid onset of symptoms in poultry as well as the safeguards USDA has in place, which include testing of flocks, and Federal inspection programs.

• Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Wash your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfect boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keep poultry feed secure to ensure there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.

Unlike HPAI in birds which is typically fatal, little to no mortality has been reported among dairy cattle with most animals recovering. The virus may cause a decreased milk supply along with other mild symptoms.

Yes. Milk Products are pasteurized before entering the market. There is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply, or that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health. Pasteurization has continuously proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk. Raw milk is not recommended to be consumed, as those who consume raw milk and/or milk products are at risk for a variety of illnesses.

An oral, or dental assessment is simply a look in the mouth by a dental hygienist or dentist to identify cavities, signs of disease, or other oral health problems.

Dental problems affect school attendance and test scores. Children with untreated decay often have difficulty eating, sleeping, speaking, and concentrating. 

Just like Hearing and Vision Screenings, your child can receive their dental assessment while at school. Your child’s school coordinates with the Lenawee County Health Department’s Dental Hygienist to provide on-site, no-cost screenings. 

If your child sees a dentist regularly, the assessment can be performed by your dentist. You will need to download the Kindergarten Oral Assessment Form from the MDHHS website, have your dentist fill it out and return it to the school. Even if your child sees a dentist regularly, you can still have the assessment completed by the local health department while your child is at school for no cost, just like their Hearing and Vision Screenings. 

The new dental assessment requirement is only for children entering kindergarten, but it is highly recommended that all children see a dentist twice a year. 

Your child will be sent home with a letter stating any findings during their assessment. If you learn your child has a cavity from your parent letter, they will need to have the cavities treated by a dentist. A cavity does not stop growing on its own and can lead to pain and infection. 

A list of local dental providers will be attached to your child’s oral assessment parent letter. If your child does not have dental insurance, they may be eligible for the Michigan Healthy Kids Dental Program. Healthy Kids Dental is available to children who have Medicaid and are under the age of 21. 

If a child is not up-to-date on their vaccinations, an exemption is required for the child to enroll in:

• A licensed childcare
• Preschool or Head Start
• Kindergarten
• Seventh grade
• A new school district (or a new charter or private school)

Parents or guardians of school-age children entering other grades and remaining in the same school district do not need to request a non-medical immunization exemption waiver at this time, even if their child or children are not fully vaccinated.

• Vaccines Required for Childcare and Preschool in Michigan (MDHHS)
• Vaccines Required for School Entry in Michigan (MDHHS)

In December 2014, the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules approved an educational requirement for Michigan parents opting their children out of getting vaccinated before entering school. The rule allows parents/guardians to have the opportunity to speak with a health educator from their local health department about their concerns and questions regarding immunizations prior to the nonmedical waiver being signed.

Any parent/guardian who wants to claim a nonmedical exemption waiver will need to receive education regarding the benefits of vaccination and the risks of disease from a Local Health Department (LHD) before obtaining the certified non-medical exemption waiver form through the LHD. The rule requires the use of the State of Michigan’s official non-medical immunization exemption waiver form.

Immunization and Waiver Information for Schools and Childcares

• Immunization Education
• Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)

• Key Points for Parents and Guardians (PDF)
• Nonmedical Waiver Frequently Asked Questions 9.9.2024
• Vaccine Recommendations and School or Daycare Rules, What is the difference?
• Health Care Providers - Immunization Information for Healthcare Providers and Local Health Departments

The Lenawee Department on Aging is contributing to the construction cost of this project, in exchange for a rent-free lease for a period yet to be determined.  A large part of the project cost is for the centralized kitchen that will be utilized by the Lenawee Department on Aging to prepare and package meals for older adults in Lenawee County. 

While the current campus is not full, there are limitations in the rehabilitation that we can currently provide due to lack of space and/or safety issues.  There are times when we may need to send a juvenile to a different facility elsewhere in Michigan, or perhaps even out of state, due to the nature of their treatment plan. That is not ideal for the juvenile, their family, their treatment, or our tax-paying residents. This expansion will allow us to meet the needs of our community both now and into the future.

Lenawee County has already been a resource for counties without a facility or not enough beds or staff for their justice-involved youth.  In 2022, we serviced 15 counties throughout the state of Michigan.  Your tax dollars do not pay for the care and treatment of out-of-county residents.   Other counties pay Lenawee County to treat their youth at our facility because they may not have a facility, may not have the space, or because of our approach to juvenile justice treatment.  

There is a major difference in the education, care, and treatment plans for a 10-year old and an eighteen-year old.  Right now, they are spending all of their time together, in one room.  By separating them, we can offer age-appropriate learning and treatment opportunities that can provide better outcomes.

Unfortunately, this is not a problem that is disappearing in our community. For the safety of themselves and others, youth with sexually harming behaviors need to be separated from the other youth in our facility in their own unit.  This will also allow for very specific programming and treatment for these youth with these behaviors.