ROGERS CITY — The purchase of land by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has been supported by the Presque Isle Board of Commissioners.

“The DNR would like to purchase 80 acres in Ocqueoc Township,” said Board Chairman Carl Altman. “They want to apply for a grant. What they’re asking the county to do is pass a resolution of support so the transaction can be included with the application.”

The 80 acres the DNR wants to purchase is surrounded by state land on three sides, Altman added.

Vice Chairman Bob Schell said anytime they allow public access to property, it’s a good thing, “because it gives them (people) access to that property without trespassing.”

The board also approved a pay raise for the Sheriff Work Program coordinator from $12 to $14 per hour.

The board also voted to buy police cars from Mike Lynch Ford, the only bidder. The bids were for $28,336 for a 2019 police car and a bid of $33,664.68 each for two 2019 utility vehicles.

Clerk Anne Marie Main said part of the cost of the third vehicle is covered by a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant. She said they received $18,700 from the grant toward the car.

Originally, the county budgeted $75,000 for the cars and $10,000 for equipment. Main noted those particular cars come already equipped, so they saved money. The total actual cost of the purchase was $77,236.

Jordan Spence can be reached at jspence@thealpenanews.com or 989-358-5687.