Jackson News Briefs January 24, 2025

AG Nessel Announces Appointment of Jackson County Public Administrator

Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the recent appointment of Brad A. Brelinski as Jackson County Public Administrator.

“Mr. Brelinski’s deep involvement in the Jackson County community and his expertise in estate planning make him a great fit to serve as public administrator,” Nessel said. “I’m grateful for his ongoing service and dedication to the people of Jackson County.”

County public administrators have powers and duties primarily related to intestate decedent estates where there are apparently no known heirs, including managing the determination, collection, liquidation, and/or distribution of any assets in the estate. Attorneys that serve in this capacity often also have private practice responsibilities that are separate and unrelated to their appointment as a county public administrator.

“County public administrators serve in a position of trust in Michigan’s Probate Court system and perform vital work on behalf of their respective communities,” said State Public Administrator Randi M. Merchant. “The Department is fortunate to have a talented and passionate pool of attorneys that serve in this role across the State, and I am pleased to welcome County Public Administrator Brelinski as the newest member of that team.”

Brelinski is a graduate of Western Michigan University and Wayne State University Law School. He has been in private practice with Curtis, Curtis & Brelinski, P.C. since 2008. Brelinski practices in the areas of estate planning, probate and trust administration and litigation, real estate, business law, and civil litigation. He has served on many Jackson-area boards, and currently serves the Jackson Area Estate Planning Council, Jackson County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and the Michigan Advocacy Program.

Chelsea State Bank Announces Jackson Banking Center Opens; Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Set

For the first time in over twenty years, Chelsea State Bank expanded, and announced the opening of the Jackson Banking Center, followed by the announcement of their upcoming Ribbon Cutting Ceremony next month.

“We are thrilled to welcome both our existing and new customers to our new Jackson Banking Center at 611 N. Wisner St.,” stated Joanne Rau, President and CEO of Chelsea State Bank. “With nearly 13% of our current customers residing in Jackson County, this new location will enable us to deliver an enhanced banking experience right in their neighborhood.”

The Jackson Banking Center welcomed customers on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Individuals interested in opening a new account with Chelsea State Bank should schedule an appointment by calling (517) 800-3570 or by stopping into the Banking Center to visit one of our friendly Customer Service Representatives.  “Every member at our new location resides in Jackson County.  “They also play an active role in the Jackson Community.”

Chelsea State Bank is deeply committed to community support, having sponsored various events. These include JTV’s high school football media days, the monthly Financial Focus segment with JTV, backing the Jackson Symphony Youth Orchestra, participating in the upcoming Annual Meeting of the Home Builders Association, and sponsoring Jackson Magazine’s 30 & Under initiative, among several other local events and programs. 

The Jackson Banking Center is a full-service financial institution complete with a team offering collectively over 50+ years of banking experience with the vast majority of their banking experience in and around the Jackson Community. Chelsea State Bank has been an independent, community bank for over 125 years.  The award-winning Bank was recognized as a top-performing community bank in the Midwest by S&P Global for its asset size, and is a Detroit Free Press Top Workplace for the past two consecutive years.

 “We warmly invite the Jackson Community to join us for our Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 4:00 PM at our new location. “We are excited to showcase the new Banking Center with artwork from local artists including Dale Fisher and Coley Kennedy!”

Experience Jackson and Jackson County Chamber Announce New Appointments

  Experience Jackson and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce announce the promotion of two employees, and the addition of a new employee.

Rachel Buchanan is promoted to Vice President of Marketing & Communications for both Experience Jackson and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, having previously filled the role of Marketing & Development Manager for Experience Jackson. Buchanan came to Experience Jackson in 2021 following nearly two decades in the media industry. The new role incorporates continued management of partnerships both locally and regionally to promote the community from a tourism perspective, in addition to leading marketing and communications efforts for both organizations.

Tim Booth is promoted to Vice President of Community and Business Engagement for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, previously Events and Community Affairs Manager. Booth joined the Chamber staff over five years ago with over two decades in guest services and large event planning. He is a lifelong Jackson resident, and attended Jackson College.

Steve Trosin fills a new role Sales & Outdoor Recreation Manager, exclusively with Experience Jackson. Trosin is deeply rooted in the Jackson community, having spent nearly his entire life here and previously serving as the Executive Director of the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. In his current role, Steve continues to work toward making Jackson the best it can be, while also embracing his passion for the outdoors and promoting Jackson as a wonderful place to visit and call home.

“We are incredibly excited to have Rachel Buchanan and Tim Booth continue their excellent work in these new roles on behalf of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Experience Jackson, and the addition of Steve Trosin to the team will help elevate our efforts to make Jackson County a tourism destination,” said Ryan Tarrant, President & CEO of Experience Jackson. “These new roles will both help align the shared goals of the two organizations and advance our work to promote the community and member businesses.”

The Enterprise Group of Jackson Announces Rebranding to Reflect Commitment to Economic Growth and Innovation

The Enterprise Group of Jackson, Inc., a leading economic development firm focused on fostering county wide growth and prosperity, today unveiled its new brand identity as part of an exciting rebranding initiative aimed at aligning the company’s image with its evolving mission and values. The new look comes with a brand-new name, refreshed logo, website, and a bold vision for the future. Introducing Accelerate Jackson County!

The rebranding reflects Accelerate Jackson County’s dedication to driving innovation, supporting businesses, and creating sustainable, thriving communities. For more than 25 years, the company has played an instrumental role in advancing economic development through strategic partnerships, impactful investments, and by providing tailored services to support local businesses. This next chapter in Accelerate Jackson County’s history focuses on expanding our communities reach and influence as a destination for new investment and in fostering a growth mindset.

New Identity, Same Vision

“We are excited to roll out our new Accelerate Jackson County brand to our community and stakeholders” said Keith Gillenwater, President and CEO of Accelerate Jackson County. “As we met with folks across the county there was clearly a lot of excitement about a refresh of our brand to more closely align with our efforts to build and grow Jackson County.”

Accelerate Jackson County engaged with our partners at The Next Move Group in conjunction with GRO Marketing to create a brand that features a modernized logo, vibrant colors, and sleek typography that emphasizes Accelerate Jackson County’s forward-thinking approach to economic development. The updated visual identity is paired with an enhanced digital presence that is more user-friendly and engaging, making it easier for businesses, investors, and local communities to access the resources and support they need.

What’s New?

• New Logo & Visual Identity: A contemporary logo that embodies growth, collaboration, and innovation. The clean design elements reflect the company’s commitment to progress and the forward momentum of the community as a whole. It conveys forward thinking, upward momentum while paying homage to Jackson County’s automotive heritage.
• Marketing Overhaul: Accelerate Jackson County has launched a refreshed website, with the assistance of our partners at JTV and in conjunction with our partners at JAMA, will be launching the Manufacturing Matters Jackson podcast in early 2025. There will also be a stronger focus on current social media outlets, Facebook and LinkedIn as well as the addition of new accounts on X and Instagram. Additional marketing initiatives will also be developed throughout the year.

• Expansion of Services: As part of the rebranding, Accelerate Jackson County is launching new initiatives to support job creation, business expansion, housing initiatives and sustainable economic growth in underserved areas.

“Accelerate Jackson County is bullish on 2025,” Gillenwater said. “We have an ambitious agenda and know that together with our partners across the community that 2025 is going to be a great year for Jackson County!” Keep up with all of the happenings at Accelerate Jackson County on our website at www.acceleratejacksoncounty.org, and all of our social media accounts, including Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram at Acceleratejacksoncounty and our X account, at Acceleratejaxco.

Changes Made to Spring Arbor University’s Presidential Cabinet

Spring Arbor University announced this week that Warren Hawkins, an accomplished Spring Arbor University graduate and CPA, will be joining Spring Arbor University on February 17 as their new Vice President for Finance and Administration/CFO. Warren brings over 30 years of exceptional experience in organizational and financial leadership, having served in roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Financial Controller, and Vice President of Finance at two Jackson County companies, Dawn Food Products and Orbitform, as well as with Free Methodist Church USA.

“Beyond his professional accomplishments, Warren is a man of deep faith and Christian commitment,” said Dr. Brent Ellis, President of Spring Arbor University. “His energetic, process-driven, and strategic leadership style emphasizes team building, servant leadership, and continuous improvement – a seamless fit with SAU’s mission and values.”

Regarding his new appointment, Hawkins remarked, “The mission of Spring Arbor University – educating and equipping students to be world-changers – is vital to our world today, and I am deeply honored to accept this position at my alma mater. I am eager to collaborate with the exceptional team at Spring Arbor University to further the mission and drive sustainable growth.”

Spring Arbor University also announced that, effectively immediately, Randall Melton, SAU’s current Chief Information Officer, will serve as a member of the President’s Cabinet. This decision reflects a return to a previous organizational structure at SAU where the CIO reported to the President and recognizes the significance of technology in every area of campus.

“With nearly 25 years of IT experience, including 18 years in higher education, Randall has a unique expertise in the higher ed IT space and has played a pivotal role in advancing our technology infrastructure,” commented Ellis. “His vibrant personal faith, unwavering support for SAU’s mission, and passion for leading our ethical engagement with emerging technologies like AI make him an invaluable leader for our university.”

In his expanded role, Melton will oversee data collection and management while continuing to ensure that technology remains a strategic priority across SAU’s campus. This shift positions SAU for even greater success in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape.

American 1 Credit Union Hires Jerod Gigger as Eastern Regional Manager

American 1 Credit Union is pleased to announce the recent hiring of Jerod Gigger as the new Eastern Regional Manager.

Gigger is a Michigan Army National Guard Veteran, bringing to the credit union 10 years of leadership and operations management. Along with his leadership experience, he has 7 years of experience across multiple sectors within the financial industry, serving in critical roles including Regional Accounts Executive, Payments Advisor, and VP Business Banking Relationship Manager.

“I am grateful and honored to step into the Eastern Regional Manager role at American 1 Credit Union and to be able to work with such a talented and dedicated team,” said Gigger. “I look forward to building on our successes and ensuring that we meet the evolving financial needs of our members and communities we serve.”

Jerod started his role of Eastern Regional Manager in December of 2024 and oversees the Adrian, Brooklyn, Chelsea, Clarklake, Canton, Home Office, Manchester, and Milan branches. He will also help implement strategic initiatives aimed at increasing operational efficiency and membership experience within these branches. He reports to Keleigh Ballinger, Vice President of Branch Operations.

“Jerod brings a wealth of experience that will greatly enhance our team,” said Ballinger. “We are grateful for his service in the Army National Guard and are excited to see how his skills will strengthen the branches he will collaborate with.”

County National Bank Welcomes Rachel Doty as Regional Vice President

Joseph R. Williams, President and CEO of County National Bank, is pleased to announce the hiring of Rachel Doty as Regional Vice President – Hillsdale Market Executive. “We are excited to welcome Rachel to the CNB team. We especially look forward to leveraging her ability to develop and maintain loyal client relationships. Rachel’s history of building great teams through exceptional leadership and coaching will be a value-add to the CNB culture,” stated Chris J. Clarke, Senior Vice President – Senior Loan Officer.

Rachel joins CNB with 29 years of experience in banking, including financial center management and commercial lending. She has a bachelor’s degree from Hillsdale College in Business Administration with an emphasis in marketing. Rachel has a strong connection to small-town living and takes pride in her agricultural roots.

Rachel is very active in the Hillsdale County community, serving as a Board and Committee Member for the Hillsdale Rotary Club, Hillsdale College Women Commissioners, and Hillsdale Salvation Army. She enjoys time with her family, which includes her husband Thad and daughters Taylor and Paige, and loves the outdoors.

American 1 Credit Union Hires Renee Underwood as Western Regional Manager

American 1 Credit Union is pleased to announce the recent hiring of Renee Underwood as the new Western Regional Manager.

Underwood brings 25 years of financial expertise and 30 years of leadership experience to American 1 Credit Union. A strong advocate for financial literacy, she aligns seamlessly with the credit union’s mission of promoting financial wellness in our communities

through everyday banking solutions. Her dedication is evident through her work with organizations such as Junior Achievement, National Teach Kids to Save, Get Smart about Credit, and Financial Peace University.

“I am truly honored to be joining the team at American 1,” said Underwood. “It is incredibly rewarding to work for an organization that is focused on strengthening the community through financial wellness. It is my hope to use my experience to enhance our team development and member relationships.”

Renee started her role of Western Regional Manager in October of 2024 and oversees the Battle Creek, Hillsdale, Marshall, Michigan Center, North Street, Parnall, Robinson Road, Spring Arbor, and Vandercook branches. She reports to Keleigh Ballinger, Vice President of Branch Operations.

“Renee is a great fit for our team, and her experience is extremely valuable,” Ballinger said. “She has expressed her desire to meet our members where they are in their financial journey and helping them reach their financial goals. We look forward to seeing her live out the American 1 mission.”

TRUE Community Credit Union to Build a New Livonia Branch, Replacing the Current Plymouth Road Location

Construction on a new TRUE Community Credit Union branch in Livonia is scheduled to begin early 2025. This project marks a significant investment in the Livonia community, enhancing service capabilities and providing modern facilities for members.

The new branch construction will take place behind the current branch, located at 36525 Plymouth Rd., and will not disrupt regular service at the current branch.

The new building, with a total of 2,930 square feet, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 and will feature two self-serve kiosks inside and three Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) located outside. As part of the project, one of the current ITMs will be relocated to the south end of the parking area for easy member access during construction as the existing canopy will be demolished, followed by excavation work shortly after.

TRUE Community Credit Union offers 15 branch locations to serve members with three located in Metro Detroit.