Michelle LaJoye-Young

Force in Play

Retired Oct. 9, 2026, after 37 years

Bryan Muir was sworn in as Kent County's sheriff on Oct. 8 and took office the next day. He fills the term Michelle LaJoye-Young left when she retired after 37 years with the department.

Updated Oct 18

Money Moves

As of September 2026: Advocating for Nov. 3 millage approval

Kent County voters will decide in November whether to renew and increase the 36-year-old property tax that funds the county jail. The sheriff's office is asking for a 20-year extension at 0.98 mills, up from the current 0.7332 mills. For a home with $100,000 in taxable value, that adds about $24.68 per year, for a total of roughly $98.

Updated Sep 3

Money Moves

As of September 2026: Presented Corrections and Detention Millage proposal to the board

Kent County's board approved a $696.6 million balanced budget for fiscal year 2027, lifting the General Fund 4.2 percent to $265.53 million without raising the property tax rate. Public safety gets the largest share, $143.5 million, including 42 new Sheriff's Office vehicles.

Updated Sep 3