- Message from Mark
- Executive Mark Hackel appoints new leadership for Finance Department
- Macomb County’s Manufacturing Day Week gives students behind-the-scenes access to Ethel’s Baking Company, other local companies
- Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel appoints Erin Freers-Cole as Macomb County Public Defender
- What to do if you find a lost pet: New microchip tracking available
- In memory of Zach Morisette who tragically lost his life while serving the public
- BizClips: News updates
- Upcoming events
Message from Mark
Hello and welcome to the September issue of Focus Macomb!
As we are all getting accustomed to sweater weather mornings and scorching hot afternoons, don’t miss out on the multiple events and happenings across the County. Our Make Macomb Your Home Facebook page and Fall in Love with Macomb website can keep you up to date on all the fall fun that awaits you.
Already, I have been able to attend multiple events across the county, including the grand opening of Monarque, Macomb Community College’s newly renovated student-run restaurant. The Macomb Culinary Institute teaching restaurant gives students hands-on experience while also serving our community. Congratulations to the college and everyone involved.
Speaking of hands-on experience, this week kickstarts Manufacturing Day Week in Macomb County. Students from across all 21 of our public school districts have the opportunity to visit local manufacturing facilities to see upfront what available careers there are in the industry. More on this amazing opportunity can be found further in our newsletter.
I was also able to attend a recent drive-through food distribution event, put together by Niagara Bottling Co., Feed the Children and the Salvation Army Mount Clemens Corps Community Center. Myself and multiple other volunteers came together to distribute $150,000 worth of food, children’s books, cases of water, personal care items and other essentials to 400 families from our community who are facing food insecurity. Thank you to everyone involved.
A week later, I attended our most recent Senior Fun Festival, Macomb County’s largest senior expo at the Lorenzo Culture Center. Hosted by our Office of Senior Services, this 34th annual event was able to provide information on resources, services and other opportunities for 2,000 older adults and caregivers in the community. I want to personally thank everyone who attended and the partners and volunteers who made this event a success.
Lastly, I would like to give a big shout to the educators and other essential staff that make schooling possible in Macomb County. I was able to attend the Macomb Intermediate School District’s Opening Day and witnessed the impact Macomb teachers and staff have in the community firsthand. On a separate occasion, I had the opportunity to thank in-person the MISD bus drivers who continue to escort our students to and from school each morning and afternoon. Without outstanding drivers – and the mechanics and transportation employees behind the scenes – we would never be able to confidently send our children off in the morning for a full day of learning. Thank you all for your dedication and commitment throughout the school year.
Stay safe and take care,
Mark Hackel
Executive Mark Hackel appoints new leadership for Finance Department
Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel announced the appointment of John F. Scanlon as the county’s Director of Finance & Chief Financial Officer. Scanlon currently serves as Treasurer and Finance Director for the City of Plymouth and brings more than 15 years of progressive financial leadership, including nearly a decade in municipal government.
“Macomb County is fortunate to welcome a proven finance professional with John’s expertise and track record of success,” said Hackel. His depth in municipal finance, results-oriented leadership style and commitment to transparency make him the right choice to lead our Finance Department. We look forward to John being part of the team.”
In Plymouth, Scanlon managed the city’s budget and treasury functions and led initiatives that delivered sustained high performance, including:
- Seven consecutive Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards;
- A voter-approved bond sale that strengthened the city’s credit rating;
- Investment strategies that consistently outpaced benchmarks.
Scanlon holds a Bachelor of Professional Accountancy from Saginaw Valley State University and an MBA from Michigan State University. His professional credentials include Certified Professional Finance Administrator (CPFA), Michigan Certified Professional Treasurer (MiCPT), and Advanced Certified Public Funds Investment Manager (ACPFIM).
"I am honored and excited to join Executive Hackel, the Board of Commissioners, and the entire Macomb County team,” said Scanlon. “I look forward to serving the residents of Macomb County and contributing to the county’s continued success."
As provided by the Macomb County Charter, the county executive appoints department directors, with confirmation by the Board of Commissioners, which is expected on September 9. Given the Finance Department’s central role in the county budget process, Board leadership participated in the interview process. Scanlon will succeed longtime Finance Director Steve Smigiel, who announced his retirement last fall. Scanlon’s anticipated start date is October 27, 2025.
Macomb County’s Manufacturing Day Week gives students behind-the-scenes access to Ethel’s Baking Company, other local companies
Nearly 2,100 students from multiple local high schools will this week board buses and visit more than 70 host sites taking part in Macomb County’s Manufacturing Day Week, which runs through Oct. 3. The annual event, which is coordinated by Macomb County Planning and Economic Development and the Macomb Intermediate School District (MISD), provides opportunities for students to tour area advanced manufacturing facilities and meet people who make things.
Hackel joined 20 culinary students from Clintondale High School on Tuesday at a tour of Ethel’s Baking Company.
Founded by Jill Bommarito, Ethel's is the 'Original Dessert Bar Company,' creating delicious gluten-free products since 2011. Beginning in a small space in St. Clair Shores, the organization has experienced incredible growth due to the popularity of its desserts. Ethel's products can now be found nationwide in stores like Target, with bars baked out of its Shelby Township facility.
“Manufacturing is deeply rooted in Michigan’s identity, and we’re proud to be part of that legacy through baking,” said Bommarito. “At Ethel’s, we believe in showing students that there are many fulfilling career paths—especially in the trades—that don’t require a traditional college route. Our hands-on approach helps people grow within our organization, and we’re excited to share our story and inspire the next generation.”
All students participating in Manufacturing Day Week receive a 90-120 minute guided tour and some combination of the following:
Briefing by a company leader who provides an overview of the company, the type of manufacturing they do and the customers they serve as well as info about employment opportunities.
Smaller sub-tours that highlight different work areas and careers
Opportunities for students to talk with employees and see the product life cycle in action
Opportunities for students to see and touch the machinery, tools and products that are a part of the industrial workplace
These experiences help the students better understand what a career in advanced manufacturing might look like. The tours also provide benefits for the host sites in that they get the chance to promote their companies and interact with the next generation of talent. Several participating companies have even hired previous Manufacturing Day attendees that were interested in the field.
2025 marks the 12th anniversary of Macomb County's participation in the event, which has seen more than 22,000 students experience industry through the support of an active planning committee and the generosity of host sites and sponsors. For more information, visit Macomb County's Manufacturing Day/Week webpage.
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel appoints Erin Freers-Cole as Macomb County Public Defender
Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel announced the appointment of Erin Freers-Cole as the county’s next Public Defender. Freers-Cole currently serves as Chief Trial Lawyer in the Public Defender’s Office and brings more than 18 years of legal experience, including extensive work in criminal defense and public service. She will now lead the office responsible for providing constitutionally mandated representation to residents who cannot afford private counsel.
“Macomb County is proud to appoint Erin to this important role,” said Hackel. “Her deep knowledge of the courtroom, strong leadership within the Public Defender’s Office, and commitment to fairness make her the right choice to guide this department forward. She has the trust of her colleagues and the skills to serve the residents of Macomb County with integrity.”
As a Chief Trial Lawyer, Freers-Cole has overseen complex felony cases, supervised trial attorneys, and worked to strengthen compliance with Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) standards. Career highlights include:
Leading litigation strategies in high-profile and complex criminal cases;
Mentoring and training attorneys within the Public Defender’s Office;
Supporting initiatives that expand access to quality defense services.
Freers-Cole earned her Juris Doctor from University of Detroit Mercy and is a member of the State Bar of Michigan.
“I am honored to accept this appointment,” said Freers-Cole. “The Public Defender’s Office plays a vital role in protecting constitutional rights, and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our talented attorneys and staff to provide the highest quality defense services to the people of Macomb County.”
Freers-Cole will succeed Tom Tomko, who is retiring after serving as the county’s first Public Defender. Tomko was instrumental in establishing the office and building a foundation for providing quality indigent defense services in Macomb County. Executive Hackel expressed his gratitude: “Tom deserves tremendous credit for setting up this office and ensuring it could succeed. His dedication, vision, and commitment to justice will benefit this county for decades to come.”
What to do if you find a lost pet: New microchip tracking available
Originally written by Macomb County Animal Control
Finding a stray pet can be overwhelming, but there are several simple ways you can help reunite them with their family. Macomb County Animal Control can help guide you through the process.
Step 1: Check for a microchip
Many lost pets can be reunited with their owners quickly if they are microchipped. Good Samaritans now have access to MicroChip Connect Stations located at:
Armada
Clinton Township
Roseville
Shelby Township
These self-service stations allow you to scan the pet for a microchip and attempt to contact the owner directly - often avoiding the need for the pet to come into the shelter.
Step 2: Use local holding facilities
If you cannot locate the owner, certain local facilities can temporarily house found animals. Please note that each facility only accepts pets found in their respective jurisdiction:
Clinton Township Police Department – accepts animals found in Clinton Township ONLY
Chesterfield Police Department – accepts animals found in Chesterfield ONLY
Roseville Police Department – accepts animals found in Roseville ONLY
Wilson Veterinary Hospital – accepts animals from multiple Macomb County locations
When dropping off a pet, you must include a Good Samaritan Form. This form provides us with important information about where and when the animal was found, which helps us track down their owner more quickly.
Step 3: Spread the word online
Networking is one of the fastest ways to reunite pets with their families. We encourage you to post found animals on the Facebook group: For the Love of Louie *Michigan Lost Pet Lookers*.
This community is dedicated to reuniting lost pets with their families across Michigan.
Step 4: Holding the pet yourself
If you are able and willing, you may keep the pet in your care temporarily while we work on reuniting it with its family. Simply complete this electronic Good Samaritan Form, and Macomb County Animal Control will reach out to you the next business day with next steps.
Please remember, every lost pet is someone’s beloved family member. By scanning for a microchip, filling out the Good Samaritan Form, and sharing the pet’s photo online, you are giving them the best chance of making it home safely.
In accordance with Michigan state law, legal stray hold of a dog without any trace of ownership (license, microchip or ID tag) is no less than a period of 4 business days. Pets with ownership information are held for no less than 7 business days. Any animal that is not reclaimed within its legal hold time becomes the property of Macomb County. Proof of ownership is required to reclaim your pet.
A listing of stray animals being held by Macomb County Animal Control is automatically uploaded on 24Petconnect. Lost pets can be reclaimed during regular business hours. Proper proof of ownership is required in order for us to release the animal into your care.
In memory of Zach Morisette who tragically lost his life while serving the public
Zachery James Morisette
October 15, 1993 – September 21, 2020
We will never forget. Five years ago, we lost our colleague, friend and beloved member of the Department of Roads family – Zach Morisette. While performing maintenance work in the field, Zach was struck by a vehicle which tragically took his life. The loss of this remarkable young man was an unthinkable tragedy. Although Zach is gone, his legacy will be felt forever.
Zach was a pleasure to be around and was a spark plug in the workplace. As a third generation Department of Roads professional, he was a hard worker, was always the first on the job and was willing to do whatever it took to get the task at hand completed. Zach loved his teammates and the bond with his brothers and sisters at the Department of Roads was remarkable.
A three-time cancer survivor, Zach was first diagnosed with leukemia when he was six years old. It returned when he was eight and again when he was 13. After multiple battles, he was declared cancer free in 2020. He lived his life authentically and to the fullest surrounded by those he cared about most.
Please remember, road workers perform an essential public service and it’s the responsibility of all motorists to ensure we all get home safely. To honor Zach and his memory, help us keep Macomb County work zones as safe as possible.
✅ Plan ahead. Expect delays and leave early to reach your destination on time. When you can, avoid work zones altogether by using alternate routes. For a list of active Macomb County construction projects, visit macombgov.org/macombworkzone.
✅ Obey road crews and signs. When approaching a work zone, watch for cones, barrels, signs, large vehicles or workers in bright-colored vests to warn you and direct you where to go.
✅ Slow down. Look for signs indicating the speed limit through the work zone. Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead of you and follow the posted speed limit.
✅ Move over. Most state move-over laws apply when passing work crews and official vehicles parked on the shoulder with flashing warning lights.
✅ Avoid distractions. Keep your eyes on the road and off your phone at all times.
✅ Watch for sudden stoppages. Don’t make sudden lane changes in front of vehicles that are slowing down.
Please remember to give work zones your undivided attention.
BizClips: News updates |
Business in the newsGovernment in action
CommunityBlog log |
For happenings throughout the county, visit Make Macomb Your Home events and stay up to date with the Make Macomb Your Home official Facebook page.
Upcoming events
SNIP HappensSaturday, October 11, 2025 | 
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Race to Talent EventWednesday, October 15, 2025 | 
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HOWL-O -WEEN Truck or TreatSaturday, October 18 | 
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State of the County 2025Wednesday, December 3 | 
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