The Genesee County Board of Commissioners has been hard at work over the past several months advancing initiatives that strengthen services, expand resources, and support long-term growth for residents across our community. From senior services and public health to early childhood education and economic development, these recent actions reflect the Board’s commitment to making a positive impact for the residents of Genesee County.

Supporting Seniors Across Genesee County

In October, the Board created the Senior Services Advisory Task Force—a new body dedicated to assessing the current and emerging needs of residents aged 60 and older. This task force will help ensure that Genesee County’s senior services remain responsive, equitable, and aligned with community expectations.

The Board also approved a one-time 5 percent funding increase for the county’s 16 senior centers. These centers play a vital role in reducing social isolation, supporting health and wellness, and providing safe spaces for older adults to stay active and connected.

Strengthening Community Health Through Opioid Settlement Planning

Just this month, the Board approved the formation of the Opioid Settlement Steering Team, which will guide how Genesee County invests opioid settlement dollars into local prevention, treatment, and recovery programs. This team will help ensure that funds are directed where they can make the greatest impact.
Applications for these roles are now open, reflecting the Board’s commitment to community participation and transparent stewardship of these resources.

Expanding Access to Justice: The Legal Resource Center

The Board was also proud to support the creation of the new Legal Resource Center of Genesee County, located in the historic 7th Circuit Courthouse. Opened in October, the center provides residents—especially those without legal representation—access to information, self-help materials, and connections to community resources. This effort enhances court accessibility and empowers individuals to navigate legal processes with greater confidence and clarity.

Investing in Recreation and Environmental Stewardship

In another significant step for the community, the Board recently approved a $379,541 agreement with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources to support programming at Genesee County’s new state park in Flint. This park will span roughly three miles from east to west and more than 1.5 miles from north to south—offering residents and visitors new opportunities for recreation, connection to nature, and outdoor experiences in the heart of our county.

Advancing Early Childhood Education

Over the summer, the Board approved nearly $16 million in federal grant funding to support Head Start and Early Head Start programs in Genesee County. These programs provide comprehensive early childhood development services to low-income families, including education, health screenings, nutrition support, and family engagement. This significant investment underscores the Board’s ongoing commitment to supporting children and families during their most formative years.

Planning for Genesee County’s Long-Term Growth

Looking ahead, the Board is actively exploring new strategies to strengthen Genesee County’s long-term economic vitality and financial stability. This includes evaluating the establishment of a Chief Strategic Growth Officer to coordinate countywide initiatives, foster regional partnerships, and leverage data-driven practices that position Genesee County for sustainable growth. The Board is also identifying a long-term funding mechanism to support this critical work, demonstrating a proactive and forward-thinking approach to future challenges and opportunities.