Financial and Fiscal Integrity

The Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners use long-term financial planning in its decision-making process. The Board of Commissioners will also have an in-depth understanding of the County financial and fiscal issues and the County's policy choices. Programs and services will be based on the needs of County residents, available resources, and demonstrable outcomes for services provided by the County or by partner agencies. The County will pursue new sources of revenues, will continue recapturing the direct cost of services through fees, and will advocate full funding by the federal and state government for the functions or services through County provides on their behalf.

Children's Well-being

Washtenaw County will provide leadership in promoting and coordinating services for children's well-being, and greater and easier access to physical and mental health services. Special emphasis will be placed on poor, disabled, pre-school age and other special needs children. The County, as part of this leadership role, will develop and help implement a community-wide plan to provide for the well-being of children, including a safe and secure family environment and neighborhood.

Public Safety and Justice

Washtenaw County will strive to be a safe, secure and just place. Emphasis will be placed on prevention of crime and efficient public safety collaboration across governmental jurisdictions. The County will work toward equality and justice by supporting the efficient organization of the courts and other necessary infrastructure. The Board of Commissioners will support programs which result in successful reintegration of persons who have come through the criminal justice system. A basic level of services will be maintained.

Sustainable Development

Washtenaw County will collaborate with other governmental units and provide leadership for long-term county-wide sustainable development and redevelopment incorporating a diversified economy, environmental protection, workforce developmetn and social needs. Through comprehensive and regional planning, the County will promote good land use practices. The Board of Commissioners is committed to a county free of environmental and economic discrimination. The County will assist the educational and business community to help prepare people for jobs that provide solid futures. The County will encourage the use of community resources and technology developed by educational institutions to help businesses be more successful.

Homelessness and Housing

Washtenaw County will promote a wide range of affordable housing opportunities to meet the housing needs of all residents of the County, with emphasis on people with mental illness and others who have few options for shelter. The County will assist with the infrastructure and services necessary to help the homeless make the transition to permanent affordable housing.

Health

Washtenaw County will promote a physically, mentally and socially healthy population by assisting health services and the engagement of the local health infrastructure. The County will place emphasis on providing access to quality physical, mental and community health services for the poor (including the working poor), the uninsured or underinsured, and those with special needs. The County will strive to ensure a physical environment that promotes good health.

Quality County Services

Washtenaw County strives to provide a level of services which is high-quality, effective, and efficient. The Board of Commissioners endorses the Guiding Principles, the Business Improvement Process, and Professional Development as management tools to accomplish this objective.