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CASS COUNTY — Four Cass County employees were recognized at the Board of Commissioners meeting Thursday for going above and beyond to serve the community.

Cass County Treasurer Hope Anderson gave an emotional presentation about the MI-HOPE program, a grant allocated by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority to fund energy-efficient home upgrades. The Cass County Land Bank Authority was granted $875,000 through the program, which allowed them to help 38 Cass County homeowners get new roofs, windows, doors, appliances and more.

“The MI-HOPE Program has been a crucial lifeline for many homeowners in Cass County, helping to encourage and facilitate energy-efficiency focused residential housing repairs and upgrades,” Anderson said. “Behind the success of this program are dedicated individuals like Chief Deputy Treasurer Paulette Johnson, Foreclosure Prevention Specialist Traci Haskins, Tax Clerk, Barbara Cherryholmes and Tax Specialist, TiLynne Lee, whose tireless efforts have made a real difference.”

She said Johnson and Haskins helped obtain quotes from contractors, drafted work contracts ensured work was completed to high standards and vendors were paid promptly. Cherryholmes and Lee offered support by helping wherever needed.

“Ladies, your dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to helping others have truly embodied the spirit of service that makes our county a better place,” she said. “On behalf of myself, Cass County, and the residents you’ve impacted, I want to express my deepest gratitude.”

Anderson awarded the four with certificates of appreciation, and Commissioner Mary Howie presented them each with an honor coin.