Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Livingston County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues in public safety
Interoperable Communications Agreement with Allegany County
A $1.03 million state grant will replace radio system routers, protect the backup 911 center with a whole-building UPS, and add translation and multimedia tools to 911 dispatch. Rural dead zones get a deployable communications unit for multi-agency responses.
New EMS Ambulance Purchase
A $200,000 state grant for a new county ambulance was added to capital accounts, boosting EMS equipment.
Health Department WIC Staffing and Preparedness Grant
The Health Department sought two new WIC positions required by the state, plus authorization of a $1.05 million federal emergency preparedness grant contract.
Replacement Ambulance Purchase
The county's Emergency Medical Services department sought approval of a $185,000 bid for a new Demers ambulance — part of keeping the county's emergency response fleet current.
Mental health staffing shortage
Director Sarah McCumiskey resigns October 16, and Jennifer Rodriguez steps in as interim director with a $275 weekly stipend until a permanent hire is made.
Lead poisoning prevention awareness
The county proclaimed Lead Poisoning Prevention Week and accepted a $202,100/year state grant for its childhood lead prevention program — significant because 64% of county homes predate 1978 and may contain lead paint.
Suicide prevention efforts
September is Suicide Prevention Month in the county, with a community vigil on September 10 at AL Lorenz Park.
Measles in the community
Health officials discussed measles cases present in local communities.
Public defense modernization
A one-time $258,000 state grant will buy equipment and system upgrades to modernize the Public Defender and Conflict Defender offices.
Childhood cancer in Livingston County
The county proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month — 44 local kids have been diagnosed since October and four have died.
Deputy Sheriff's Association contract ratification
The Board ratified the new deputy sheriff contract covering 2026 through 2029; the union approved it in June. This locks in pay and working conditions for the sheriff's patrol ranks.
Dog licensing at county Dog Control
Dogs picked up or adopted through county Dog Control can now be licensed on the spot, cutting delays in getting dogs back to owners after hours or on weekends.
Notice of claim: Connor D. Copp vs. Town of Livonia and Livingston County
The county received a notice of claim in a lawsuit naming the Town of Livonia and the county — the first step in potential litigation.
Child Advocacy Center coming to Livingston County
Right now, kids who've experienced abuse have to travel out of county for forensic interviews and medical exams. The new center at 138 Fourth Street will bring those services — plus free trauma-informed therapy and a caring closet — close to home, with services starting in the coming weeks.