Oakland County residents witnessed a pivotal moment as County Executive Dave Coulter was sworn in for his second four-year term at the Elections Division of the Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Office in Pontiac. This quiet yet profound ceremony marked the continuation of leadership that has brought significant progress to the county since Coulter first took office in 2020. As he begins his next chapter on January 1, 2025, the vision for a more equitable, accessible, and thriving Oakland County remains at the forefront.
Reflecting on his first term, Coulter acknowledged the strides made to serve all residents. “As I begin my second term, I’m honored to build on the progress we’ve made to create a stronger and healthier Oakland County. From expanding access to affordable housing as well as physical and mental health care, we are creating more opportunities for everyone to help ensure the long-term success of Oakland County,” Coulter stated.
Coulter’s leadership has been defined by initiatives aimed at addressing systemic inequities while promoting growth and resilience across the county. His first term brought Oakland County its first dedicated public transit millage, ensuring expanded and equitable access to transportation. Under his leadership, the Oakland80 program was launched, aiming to have 80 percent of working-age adults achieve a post-secondary degree or credential by 2030. This vision recognizes education and skill development as critical tools for uplifting communities and strengthening the local economy.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Coulter guided the county through unprecedented challenges. His administration prioritized robust public health measures, providing essential support to residents and businesses while ensuring recovery efforts were equitable and impactful. Strategic investments of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds further underscored this commitment. These funds were allocated to strengthen public health, drive economic development, and enhance community infrastructure, all while maintaining the county’s AAA bond rating.
Coulter’s tenure has also seen a focus on addressing health disparities by expanding access to integrated health care services, particularly in underserved communities. The enhanced health services initiative prioritized both physical and behavioral health needs, ensuring holistic care for residents who have historically been left behind.
Looking ahead to his second term, Coulter plans to relocate county offices to downtown Pontiac, signaling a commitment to economic revitalization and accessibility. This move aligns with his broader efforts to address affordable housing challenges through the Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund projects. These initiatives aim to expand housing options and ensure equitable access for all residents, reinforcing the county’s dedication to fostering long-term stability and growth.
Last week, Coulter announced a milestone achievement that exemplifies the transformative potential of thoughtful leadership. Oakland County has abolished $9.1 million in medical debt for over 14,000 residents. This effort, conducted in partnership with the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, reflects a commitment to relieving financial burdens that disproportionately impact vulnerable communities. Medical debt is a leading cause of bankruptcy in the United States, with an estimated 114,000 Oakland County residents affected. By leveraging $2 million in ARPA funds, the county aims to eradicate up to $200 million in medical debt for approximately 80,000 residents.
The relief program is strategic and targeted. Undue Medical Debt partners with health systems and providers to identify qualifying debts, which are then purchased and forgiven. Residents receive notification of their debt relief through branded letters, an intentional effort to bring clarity and assurance to recipients. Board of Commissioners Chair David T. Woodward highlighted the program’s impact, emphasizing its potential to change lives. “Shedding the heavy burden of medical debt can have a life-changing impact on our area families. We celebrate the milestone of helping more than 14,000 residents across the county,” Woodward said. “This initiative highlights our commitment to building a healthy and thriving community, lowering costs for working families, and helping people achieve economic freedom.”
The significance of this program extends beyond individual financial relief. By eliminating medical debt, the county is addressing broader systemic inequities while strengthening the foundation for economic participation and improved health outcomes. Medical debt often forces families to choose between necessities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and preventing access to essential care. By reducing this burden, Oakland County is laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Allison Sesso, president and CEO of Undue Medical Debt, underscored the program’s importance. “We’re very grateful to be working with Oakland County on this medical debt relief initiative which will bring much-needed good news to thousands of residents this holiday season,” Sesso said. “Medical debt is a financial and emotional burden that forces families to make difficult decisions and often prevents patients from getting the care they need. I hope this partnership can lift some of the burden and stigma associated with medical debt, and we can work towards a future where no one avoids care for fear of cost.”
The ripple effects of this initiative are expected to strengthen the local economy, enhance community health outcomes, and pave the way for systemic change. Medical debt relief also addresses racial and economic inequities that disproportionately impact Black and Brown communities. Programs like this are essential steps toward equity, demonstrating how government can work hand-in-hand with organizations to deliver impactful solutions.
The county’s medical debt elimination program is part of a broader movement across Michigan to address this critical issue. Earlier this year, Michigan Sen. Appropriations Chair Sarah Anthony supported local initiatives in Oakland, Wayne, Ingham, and Kalamazoo counties with a $4.5 million appropriation in the 2024 budget. These investments reflect a growing recognition of the role that targeted debt relief plays in creating thriving communities.
It’s clear that Coulter’s administration is setting the stage for sustained progress. By addressing core issues like housing, transportation, education, health care, and financial equity, Oakland County is taking intentional steps to build a future where all residents can succeed. Programs like the medical debt relief initiative serve as a testament to what is possible when leaders prioritize equity and collaboration.
As Dave Coulter begins his second term, the work ahead is both ambitious and necessary. His administration’s commitment to addressing systemic inequities and uplifting all residents will continue to shape the county’s path forward. With transformative programs and initiatives already in motion, Oakland County is positioning itself as a model for how local governments can lead with purpose, compassion
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