Windsor and Oneida contracts in limbo as Eaton County explores regional deputy model

County administration updated the committee on municipal contracts for deputy coverage and presented a pricing framework that county staff said mirrors elements of the recently negotiated Delta Township contract.

Ben (Deputy Administrator) said Windsor Township was close to deciding but delayed a month to consider options, including whether Eaton Rapids Police Department might assume the position. Oneida Township cannot afford a full deputy on its own and is exploring a multi‑community arrangement.

Staff proposed a cost methodology that attaches a 15% administrative fee and a 21% command surcharge (to cover sergeant/command costs) to deputy contracts. The presentation included worked examples showing how fractional FTEs and staggered staffing could be billed during ramp‑up periods. Commissioners and staff discussed the merits of a quadrant/regional model where multiple neighboring townships jointly contract for deputies to reduce response times and maximize use of command coverage.

No formal contract was approved at Ways & Means; the sheriff’s office is preparing to notify Windsor and Oneida that coverage will not continue beyond Dec. 31 unless agreements are reached, while administration continues outreach to townships and school boards about alternative models including shared deputies and school resource officer arrangements.

The committee received the update as informational and encouraged further work on regional proposals for board consideration.