Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — The Jackson County Board of Commissioners held a study session last Tuesday (August 5), during which they received updates regarding the results of Clark Schaefer Hackett’s end of 2024 audit, the 2026 budget, and the progress of various construction efforts throughout the county being performed by Veregy, LLC.

The post-audit presentation showed growth in the county’s overall net position in terms of government activities, with some questions for clarification from Commissioner Earl Poleski to Audit Manager Cody Mitchell.

The Board also heard from county Finance Director Cecilia Anderson on a 2026 budget update regarding the general fund. Significant budgeted increases are expected to come from projected property tax as well as revenue sharing. Anderson also detailed significant budgeted spending in the form of new full-time employees.

Other spending that was presented included $295,790 for replacing four Sheriff vehicles and budgeting $305,000 for future technology replacements.

The final presentation saw the Board hear from representatives of Veregy regarding their status on multiple construction projects. Efforts to work on the HVAC and building controls in the Tower Building have been delayed by the unforeseen presence of groundwater at the foundation. That prompted city inspection, which was said to have detected chlorine in the groundwater. That led to questions from Commissioner Tony Bair.

Commissioner Bair then recommended the installation of a sump pump so that the groundwater can be monitored and periodically checked.

Veregy’s current progress on their various projects throughout the county and projected end dates from their status updates are pictured below.

The Board then entered closed session to discuss a legal opinion before closing the meeting shortly thereafter. A recording of the study session can be viewed by clicking here.