Board Chairman Overseeing Martha T. Berry Seeks Final Term

Rev. Patrick Thompson Seeks Reappointment to Oversight Board for Martha T. Berry Medical Center

Rev. Patrick Thompson, a 74-year-old community leader and current chairman of the three-member Human Services Board/Social Services Board, is seeking reappointment for his fourth three-year term. His current term is set to expire on October 31, and he plans to apply for another term before that date. The final decision will be made by the county Board of Commissioners.

Thompson has been actively involved in overseeing the operations of Martha T. Berry Medical Center in Mount Clemens, a facility that serves as a critical resource for elderly individuals in need of long-term care. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made at the center over the years, particularly under the leadership of Executive Director Kevin Evans.

Evans began his tenure as the permanent director in October 2016, which coincided with the start of Thompson’s first term. However, he had served as an interim director for six months prior to that. Thompson praised Evans for the improvements implemented during his time at the facility.

“I think we’ve come a long way in the time that Kevin has been there,” Thompson said. “We’ve done a lot of modernization at the place. It’s clean. It’s fresh. We’ve done a lot of upgrading of the equipment and infrastructure.”

Despite these advancements, Thompson acknowledged that the facility faces new challenges, particularly related to pension costs. With 325 employees, the medical center must manage significant financial obligations. Thompson noted that this issue may mark the end of his tenure on the board, but he is committed to seeing it through.

“We’ve got some things to deal with, pension obligations that have fallen on us,” he said. “I want to see that through.”

Thompson also highlighted the improved relationship between Martha T. Berry officials and the county Board of Commissioners. A few years ago, there were tensions over financial matters, but he now feels more optimistic about the collaboration.

“I get a real good vibe,” he said. “I think we’re in a good place.”

Historically, Martha T. Berry was under the county’s oversight, with its workers considered county employees. However, the two entities separated in 2009 through a joint operating agreement. Under this arrangement, the facility is owned by the county, but its operations are managed separately. Martha T. Berry has since paid off its lease to the county.

The medical center, which operates near capacity with close to 300 residents, has faced financial challenges over the years. It relies heavily on Medicaid funding and has occasionally received county support, including a small millage. Despite these difficulties, it continues to serve as a last resort for many elderly individuals in the community.

Beyond his role on the board, Thompson is the minister at Sturges Memorial Congregational Church in Port Huron. He also serves as a chaplain for hospital patients and staff, hospice patients, caregivers, and first responders. Additionally, he owns Skylight Systems, LLC, a consulting agency that provides services to hospitals and emergency service organizations.

For those interested in applying for a seat on the board, there are specific requirements. Applicants must be residents of Macomb County and cannot hold elective office. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on September 30. They can be mailed to the Macomb County Board of Commissioners at 1 South Main Street, 9th Floor, Mount Clemens, MI 48043, or emailed to bocadmin@macombgov.org.

Candidates should also plan to attend the 3 p.m. Oct. 7 Government Oversight Committee meeting on the ninth floor of the county Administration Building in Mount Clemens for a public interview. Final appointments will be made during the full board meeting on October 23.