was organized in 1839 and has since evolved into what locals proudly call a bedroom community with substance. “What is unique to Clinton County, although I think it’s more personal than unique, is that this is truly a bedroom community,” says John F. Fuentes, the county administrator who oversees day-to-day operations. “Countywide, it’s very personal and homely while being part of a larger region. The county overall takes pride in that family feeling and environment.” Bruce DeLong, the District 3 Commissioner who chairs the Board of Commissioners, emphasizes this quality attracts residents seeking refuge from metropolitan intensity without sacrificing access to urban amenities. The county’s position within the Lansing-East Lansing Metropolitan Statistical Area provides residents with an enviable arrangement. Many commute south to Ingham County for state government positions or to Michigan State University for employment and education, then return home to enjoy the quieter pace Clinton County offers. With a median household income of $85,928 and a homeownership rate of 82.8 percent, well above the national average of 65 percent, residents have found economic stability alongside their preferred lifestyle. AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE MEETS MODERN DEVELOPMENT Clinton County’s agricultural roots run deep, ranking eighth statewide in the value of agricultural products.The county’s 31,500 dairy cows contribute to Michigan’s distinction as the nation’s top producer of milk per cow.“Right now, we don’t have anything major on the horizon that we are aware of,” Fuentes explains. “We’ve had some recent developments in the last five years. We had a significant rural industrial project for milk and dairy production and distribution for the local dairy farming community. It’s the second largest distribution hub in the state, if not the Midwest region, and probably the most significant economic development that has occurred here in Clinton County in the past 10 years.” The facility Fuentes references is the $555 million Glanbia-led cheese and dairy processing complex that opened in November 2020 in the St. Johns 199 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 07, ISSUE 01 CLINTON COUNTY, MI
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