Katie became the County Administrator in August 2021, after having served a few months as the Director of Human Resources. Prior to serving in Benzie County, she worked as an administrative specialist for Traverse City serving in a wide range of roles. Today’s presentation included the progress that has occurred over the past three years.
In her 3+ years working in the top position at the Government Center, Katie secured $3.4 million ARPA dollars and worked with various county entities securing grants that expanded those funds to over $16 million in projects to improve housing, childcare, and broadband connectivity. The goal of Internet for All is on target to be achieved by 2028. Under her leadership, the County has adopted a balanced budget while maintaining their cash reserves. Full funding was secured to install an additional emergency communications tower to improve services in Frankfort. Benzie County now has 24-hr road patrol, something not seen since 2009. They have obtained funding for youth substance abuse prevention programming through the opioid settlement. There were many other successes highlighted in her talk.
In the near future, as Katie works with County leaders to provide a framework for funding and the Headlee reset, she will be looking for input from residents. Now is the time for each of us to be thinking and discussing with our service groups what we want our community to look like in the years ahead. Members were encouraged to reach out to Katie to share their thoughts. Her mission is to make our county government building a place where all feel welcomed, and their input valued. Katie can be contacted at kzeits@benzieco.gov