41B District Court warns of COVID‑driven shortfall; Mount Clemens approves budget request

Judge Gary Fuka, appearing for the 41B District Court, told the Mount Clemens City Commission on Dec. 21 that the court’s criminal caseload has fallen sharply during the pandemic, producing a substantial budget shortfall and staffing strain.

“The criminal caseload has decreased approximately 50%,” Judge Fuka said, describing cuts the court has made and staff departures and noting the court absorbed a prior deficit with rainy‑day funds but projects a shortfall for the coming year. He asked the commission to approve the proposed 41B budget.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about a contingency payment referenced in the budget materials. Based on the caseload assumptions and contingency language in the packet, the memorandum noted that a contingency payment from Mount Clemens of $81,738 would be needed to balance court operations in 2021 if caseloads do not recover. City staff and commissioners said they do not anticipate making a payment in 2020 and would address any required transfers in the next budget cycle.

Following discussion, Commissioner Hammond moved to approve the 41B District Court 2020 budget; the motion was supported and carried on roll call with the commissioners present voting yes. Judge Fuka thanked the commission and said he appreciated the court’s prior collaboration and the steps taken to reduce the projected shortfall.