The county Board of Commissioners has demonstrated penny wise and pound foolish behavior just two months into the new, 4-year term.
The newly-seated county board got a dose of reality last week, taking up two proposals for funding with no final action.
Commissioners, during their monthly meeting Feb. 18, had a lengthy discussion about a proposal to purchase a new printer/copier for the drain commissioner.
Currently, the drain commissioner uses a printer located in the Leelanau Conservation District office.
Commissioner recommended approval Feb. 11 of the $5,199 purchase at committee level. The vote was 5-2 with commissioners with members Rick Robbins and Alan Campbell opposed.
However, at its Feb. 18 meeting commissioners questioned the merit of the purchase, given that other alternatives had not been explored.
Could the county enter a contract for use of the LCD office printer? Could another department share its use?
No action was taken. Another, more expensive proposal for the purchase of a vehicle for the drain commissioner, was also discussed last week.
The board considered a motion to waive its bid requirements and purchase a truck and placement of decals at a cost of $46,320.
This was placed on the Feb. 18 agenda despite being summarily dismissed at the committee level.
Could the county forego the purchase of a new truck, swapping it out with a recently retired law enforcement vehicle?
Is a new vehicle necessary for the part-time, elected position?
Hopefully, the board will have explored these alternatives by the time they meet next month and act accordingly.
