OTTAWA COUNTY — A decision on whether or not the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners will terminate Administrative Health Officer Adeline Hambley has been delayed until next week.

Although commissioners finished their hearing, which began Tuesday, Oct. 24, they voted to recess until 8 a.m. Monday, Oct. 30, at which time they'll take a vote.

More:Hambley termination hearing continues with questioning of John Gibbs

A continuation of the hearing on Wednesday saw testimony from John Gibbs and Hambley, followed by final statements and board discussions.

Afterward, when the board reached "decision regarding removal of health officer" on the agenda, Board Chair Joe Moss asked for a motion to recess to allow commissioners time to “consider all the charges, the evidence and exhibits of hundreds of pages presented." Gretchen Cosby, who offered a similar sentiment during discussion, made the motion, supported by Allison Miedema.

The vote passed, with Roger Bergman the only “no” vote. Doug Zylstra abstained. Following the vote, Bergman said, “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

Hambley’s attorney, Sarah Riley-Howard, told reporters she feels the delay is “performative.”

“I think it’s largely performative that they’re waiting until Monday to make the vote,” she said. “I don’t think there’s anybody on that board that doesn’t already know how they’re voting. I think to drag it out is really more of a disservice to the community, but that’s where we are.”

Howard added she didn’t feel the...

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