Board approves school resource officer contract; school covers $95,000 for 2026–27

The Ogemaw County Board of Commissioners approved a school resource officer agreement with West Branch schools that covers the 2026–27 school year. Administrators told the board the contract increases the school payment—documented in the agenda materials as $95,000 for the school year—and changes invoicing to 11 monthly installments so overtime and line items are easier to track.

County staff clarified that each school individually covers the cost of its assigned officer and that legal review had occurred for the contract currently before the board. Commissioners asked about Whittemore‑Prescott, which had not yet returned a contract to county legal, and asked staff to apply pressure so the county has consistent contracts in place.

The board approved the agreement by roll call after brief discussion about billing frequency and program oversight. Commissioners who supported the contract noted the school is paying the cost and emphasized the county’s interest in school safety.