L’Anse — The subject of abused and neglected animals was discussed at this week’s meeting of the Baraga County Board of Commissioners. At its meeting Monday, the board passed a resolution to support Senate Bills 293 and 294.

The bills surround the subject of abused and neglected animals. The bill was completed on Sept. 2 and secures financial responsibility during criminal proceedings. The bill analysis says defendants would have to pay restitution to the applicable animal control agency as part of the sentencing terms and if the owner or possessor that posted a security deposit or bond were found not guilty in a criminal action, the amount of the security deposit or bond posted to prevent disposition of the animal and the animal would have to be returned to the owner.

“[The bills] effectively would create a bond or forfeit process if there is a criminal matter that involves animals, and the county has to board them and care for them,” County Clerk Wendy Goodreau said outside of the meeting. “This legislation would allow for a bond to be in place.”

County Board Chairman Brad Dakota said the bills were a pretty good idea to have a bond which covers the expenses to take care of the animal which is taken for legal reasons.

In other action, Kevin Dean and Jim Ekdahl were appointed to the County Board of Canvassers. Six candidates in total were considered for the positions with three from each party seeking appointment. Dean will be serving for the first time in this position on the Republican side, and Ekdahl has served as the Democrat for several terms.

The Board also joined a pool within the Michigan Association of Counties for Workers Compensation. Goodreau explained in the past the county used a private provider for workers compensation’s insurance coverage. Dakota said this option is a little cheaper, and the county’s money is a little tight this year. “I guess we need to look for ways to save money,” he said.

Following a closed session, the board passed resolutions which authorized the county’s attorney to add additional companies to the opioid litigation. A closed session was also held in regards to union negotiations, but no action was taken following the session.