City Council
Regular MeetingManistee, MI · October 5, 2015
Minutes
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MANISTEE CITY COUNCIL – October 5, 2015
A special meeting of the Manistee City Council was called to order by her honor, Mayor Colleen Kenny
on Monday, October 5, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 70 Maple Street, followed
by the Pledge of Allegiance.
PRESENT: Colleen Kenny, Edward Cote, Roger Zielinski, Robert Goodspeed, James Smith, Mark
Wittlieff, and Eric Gustad.
ALSO PRESENT: Interim City Manager – R. Ben Bifoss, City Clerk – Michelle Wright, DPW Director –
Jeff Mikula, and Kathie Grinzinger/MML Lead Search Facilitator.
AMEND AGENDA.
Bifoss asked Council to consider amending the agenda to add item III. New Business a.1) Consideration
of a Closed Session, City Manager Search as permitted by the Open Meetings Act, Section MCL 15.268
(f) to review additional resumes received for the position of City Manager.
MOTION by Zielinski, second by Cote to amend the agenda to add item III. New Business a.1)
Consideration of a Closed Session, City Manager Search.
With a roll call vote this motion passed unanimously.
AYES: Kenny, Cote, Zielinski, Goodspeed, Smith, Wittlieff, and Gustad
NAYS: None
CITIZEN COMMENTS ON AGENDA RELATED ITEMS.
None received.
INTERVIEWS FOR THE POSITION OF CITY MANAGER.
Michigan Municipal League Lead Search Facilitator Kathie Grinzinger was present to review question
technique and process for city manager candidate interviews.
Interview Schedule:
1:00 p.m. David Bachman
2:30 p.m. Ted Andrzejewski
4:00 p.m. Donald Hoyt
CONSIDERATION OF A CLOSED SESSION, CITY MANAGER SEARCH.
Interim City Manager Bifoss has requested a Closed Session as permitted by the Open Meetings Act,
Section MCL 15.268 (f) to consider additional resumes received for the position of City Manager.
MOTION by Smith, second by Goodspeed to adjourn to Closed Session under Section MCL 15.268 (f) of
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PROCEEDINGS OF THE MANISTEE CITY COUNCIL – October 5, 2015
the Michigan Open Meetings Act. Time: 5:30 p.m.
With a roll call vote this motion passed unanimously.
AYES: Kenny, Cote, Zielinski, Goodspeed, Smith, Wittlieff, and Gustad
NAYS: None
MOTION by Goodspeed, second by Smith to return to regular session. Time: 6:04 p.m.
With a roll call vote this motion passed unanimously.
AYES: Kenny, Cote, Zielinski, Goodspeed, Smith, Wittlieff, and Gustad
NAYS: None
CONSIDERATION OF CONDITIONAL OFFER OF EMPLOYMENT TO SUCCESSFUL CITY MANAGER
CANDIDATE.
Mayor Kenny stated that two new resumes are being considered. Council would like to interview them
also if they are available.
MOTION by Smith, second by Goodspeed to defer further conversation on the candidate interviews;
and tentatively schedule a special meeting to conduct interviews on Monday, 10/12/15 or Thursday,
10/22/15 as a backup date.
Councilmembers thanked the candidates that came in and ensured them that this is no reflection on
their qualifications; they want to make sure they do their due diligence and have the best for the City.
With a roll call vote this motion passed unanimously.
AYES: Kenny, Cote, Zielinski, Goodspeed, Smith, Wittlieff, and Gustad
NAYS: None
CITIZEN COMMENTS / OFFICIALS & STAFF / COUNCILMEMBERS.
None received.
ADJOURN.
MOTION to adjourn was made by Wittlieff, second by Cote. Meeting adjourned at 6:06 p.m.
Michelle Wright MMC / CPFA, MiCPT
City Clerk/Deputy Treasurer
| PAGE 2
Agenda
MANISTEE CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2015 – 1:00 P.M. - COUNCIL CHAMBERS
I. Call to Order.
a.) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
b.) ROLL CALL.
II. Citizen Comments on Agenda Related Items.
III. New Business.
a.) INTERVIEWS FOR THE POSITION OF CITY MANAGER.
Michigan Municipal League Lead Search Facilitator Kathie Grinzinger will be
present to review question technique and process for city manager candidate
interviews.
Interview Schedule:
1:00 p.m. David Bachman
2:30 p.m. Ted Andrzejewski
4:00 p.m. Donald Hoyt
b.) CONSIDERATION OF CONDITIONAL OFFER OF EMPLOYMENT TO
SUCCESSFUL CITY MANAGER CANDIDATE.
Once all interviews have taken place, it is expected the Council will engage in
public discussion with the goal to select one of the candidates for a conditional
offer of employment. Before the final stage of the hiring process can be executed a
motion should be offered to make a conditional offer to the candidate who secures
the majority of support from Council members. The offer is conditional to allow
other due diligence steps to occur and to enable withdrawal of the offer depending
on the results of that research.
CITY COUNCIL – SPECIAL MEETING OCTOBER 5, 2015 PAGE 1
The due diligence steps include a background investigation, a physical, drug and
alcohol screening, and additional reference checks. The Michigan Municipal
League will conduct a background investigation of the primary candidate through
a third-party professional firm. The investigation will include college transcript
verification; criminal history, civil court case history; lien and driving record
check, credit/financial record review and social security number trace. Because of
the invasiveness of the background check and medical screens, only the top
candidate moves through this phase.
If the candidate successfully completes the final background hurdle, negotiations
between the individual and the City can commence leading to a contract and a start
date.
At this time Council could take action to make a conditional offer of employment
to the top candidate.
IV. Concerns and Comments.
a.) CITIZEN COMMENT. This is an opportunity for citizens to comment on
municipal services, activities or areas of City involvement. Citizens in attendance
shall be recognized by the Mayor for comments (limited to five minutes). Letters
submitted to Council will not be publicly read.
b.) OFFICIALS AND STAFF.
c.) COUNCILMEMBERS.
V. Adjourn.
RBB:cl
COUNCIL AGENDA ATTACHMENTS:
Candidate Resumes
MML – Manistee Brochure
MML – Community Profile
CITY COUNCIL – SPECIAL MEETING OCTOBER 5, 2015 PAGE 2
Gentlemen:
Enclosed is my resume for consideration for the position of City Manager
for Manistee, Michigan. I have 10 years of Executive Level Public Administration
as the Full Time Mayor and Safety Director of Eastlake Ohio for 9 years and City
Manager of Menominee, Michigan for almost 1 year. As full time Mayor I acted
just like a City Manager as I was responsible for the day to day operations of the
city. Eastlake has a population of 18,500 residents and has an overall budget of
$24 million and a general fund budget of around $ 13 million. I managed a
workforce of 101 employees including the Fire Chief, Police Chief, Service
Director, Finance Director and Chief Building official all reporting to the Mayor. In
addition to Mayor I was the Economic Development Director for the city. I
completed my third and final term as Mayor on 12/31/13 and accepted a position
as City Manager in Menominee, Michigan effective February 2014.
Menominee has 65 Full Time employees and I report and interact with a
nine member City Council. I completed the City Budget in July which has a general
fund amount of $ 6 million. I recently completed successful projects for
Menominee of negotiating a 5 year contract for Sewer and Water plant
operations, new Trash Hauling contract and a water and sewer rate study that will
stabilize the two funds for many years.
My education includes a B.S. in Business Management from the University
of Buffalo and an MBA from John Carroll University. I also have over 20 years of
Business Management and Marketing experience in the Private Sector. I Have a
strong financial background and have worked on negotiating three union
contracts with Police, Fire and DPW unions.
Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to a personal
interview to discuss my qualifications and experience.
Sincerely,
Ted Andrzejewski
35432 Mondamin Drive Phone (906)-290-3322
Eastlake, Ohio 44095 E-mail tedand3815@gmail.com
Ted Andrzejewski
Education 1978 – 1981 John Carroll University University Heights, OH
Degree: MBA
1971-1975 University of Buffalo Buffalo, NY
Degree: Bachelor of Science, May 1975
Major: Business Management
Experience
February 2014-Present
City of Menominee ,Michigan Menominee, Michigan
City Manager
City Manager for this City of 8900 residents in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Annual
budget of $12 million with 80 Full time employees. Responsible for all departments,
including Police and Fire, Finance , Public Works, Law and the Tax department.
Experience 2004-2013 City of Eastlake, OH Eastlake, OH
Mayor / Safety Director / Economic Development Director
Managed 101 employees including police, fire, service, finance, building and a tax for a
city of 19,500 residents and 12 square miles of city property. Oversaw a general fund
budget of $12.5 million and overall budget of $24 million.
Brought the city out of state financial probation to achieve a balanced budget in all nine
years as mayor.
Lead negotiator in past three union contract talks with police, fire and AFSCME unions.
Revitalized Eastlake’s main retail district with new businesses including: Walgreens, Key
Bank, Charter One Bank, Valu King grocery, and a new Super Wal-Mart .
Assisted in developing a tax incentive program that has thus far brought into Eastlake
five companies with a total payroll of $8 million.
Worked with the ownership of Eastlake’s Class A minor league baseball team to ensure a
profitable relationship for both the city of Eastlake and team.
1998-2004 KeyBank Cleveland, OH
Branch Manager
Managed several of Key Bank’s branches in the Cleveland area with duties that included
supervising bank tellers, assistant managers, loan processors, and other operations such as
end of day balancing.
Achieved Key Bank’s highest recognition as a member of the president’s club which honors the
top 100 branches nationwide for four straight years.
1980-1998 Various Companies Cleveland, OH
Management and Marketing Positions
Built my career by working at and advancing through many of the leading organizations in
the Cleveland area. Gained management and business acumen at companies including
AT&T, Sherwin Williams, and Medical Mutual of Ohio.
Broadened my expertise by working in numerous industries like retail sales,
telecommunications, and health insurance.
Skills Planning and Organization
Consensus Building
Ability to Motivate Employees
Knowledgeable with health insurance, labor relations, financial planning, budgeting and safety
forces operations
DON A. HOYT, B.A., M.Ed., M.P.A, ACCA
904 Lenard Rd. Downsville, LA Phone: 318-816-2383
E-Mail < DonHoyt2014@gmail.com >
Date:
June
14,
2015
Hon.
Coleen
Kenny,
Mayor
City
of
Manistee
70
Maple
St.
Manistee,
MI
49660
Submitted
through
Kathy
Grinzinger
of
the
MI
Municipal
league
<
execsearch@mml.org
>
RE:
City
Manager
Position
in
Manistee
Dear
Mayor
Kenny
and
members
of
the
Council:
Please
consider
me
for
the
position
of
City
Manager
in
Sealy.
I
believe
I
meet
or
exceed
all
of
the
advertised
qualifications
for
the
position
and
can
offer
an
exceptional
set
of
skills
in
the
practice
of
local
government
management.
I
hold
two
Master’s
Degrees
(Education
and
Public
Administration),
and
I
am
a
certified
County
Manager
in
Alabama.
I
have
more
than
30
years
of
experience
in
local
government
administration
in
three
states
on
both
city
and
county
levels.
I
have
supervised
close
to
300
employees
and
managed
governmental
operating
budgets
as
large
as
$35
Million
and
facilities
development
projects
as
large
as
$38
Million.
I
am
knowledgeable
in
all
areas
of
city
administration,
including
public
safety,
finance,
personnel
administration,
public
works,
utilities
delivery,
land
use
regulation
and
development,
economic
development,
and
efficient
service
delivery.
This
letter
and
a
full
resume,
including
numerous
valid
references,
are
hereby
submitted
as
required.
If
you
desire
more
information
or
elaboration,
please
do
not
hesitate
to
call
on
me
at
any
time;
and
thank
you
in
advance
for
any
consideration
given.
Respectfully,
_________________________
Don
A.
Hoyt
cc:
Mayor
Pro
Tem
Smith
and
Councilmembers
Wittlieff,
Gustad,
Goodspeed,
Zrelinski
and
Cote
Resumé
904
Lenard
Rd.
Don
A.
Hoyt,
BA,
MEd,
MPA,
ACCA
Downsville,
LA
71234
(318)
816-‐2383
DonHoyt2014@gmail.com
Career Objective:
City Manager Position in Manistee, MI
Personal History
Marital Status: Married, one daughter, two grandsons.
Military Service: U.S. Navy aboard the USS Renshaw (DD 499) as Quartermaster.
I received the Vietnam Service Medal.
Residence: 904 Lenard Rd., Downsville, LA 71234; (318) 816-2383)
Educational Credentials
Elementary and Secondary: New Orleans Public Schools
College, Undergraduate: B. A. University of Louisiana at Monroe (Speech Education)
College, Graduate: M. Ed. University of Louisiana at Monroe (w/ School Admin.)
College, Graduate: M. P. A. 2004 Grambling State University (State & Local Govt. Admin)
Continuing Education: Professional Development Certifications: Alabama Certified County Administrator,
Community/Economic Development, Public Relations, Public Housing Management,
Planning, Code Enforcement, etc. from HUD, EDA, SBA, ICMA, NAHRO, APA, etc.
Professional Associations
Alabama City/County Managers Association (Board of Directors; Conference Program Committee; etc.)
International City Management Association (ICMA) Association of County Commissions of Alabama
Michigan Local Government Management Association (committees: Small Cities, Community Education)
Michigan Municipal League (committee appts: Revenue, Taxation, and Finance)
Chambers County Project Leadership LaFayette, AL Rotary Club
Hillsdale County, MI Leadership Roundtable (co-chair) Litchfield, MI Rotary Club (Pres. Elect, 2006)
Litchfield, MI Chamber of Commerce La. Association of Community Action Agencies
American Planning Association (APA) Nat. Society for Technical Communication
Monroe (La) Jaycees West Monroe (La) Chamber of Commerce
National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials Louisiana Housing Council
Louisiana Association of Housing Counselors Monroe (La) Optimist Club
Résumé
904
Lenard
Rd.
Don
A.
Hoyt
Downsville,
LA
71234
(continued)
318-‐816-‐2383
|
DonHoyt2014@gmail.com
Employment History
9-09 to 9-13: Manager, City of Anniston, Alabama (pop. 23,700).
Reporting to a five member Council, responsible for hiring, supervising, and firing all City staff,
oversight of all city departments (Public Works, Police, Jail, Fire, Parks & Recreation, Finance, City
Court, Planning and Development, Regional Airport, Museum of Natural History (approximately 300
employees - $35M budget), Vaughn Stewart, Mayor. (annual gross salary: $105,000)
9-06 to 8-09: Manager, Chambers County Alabama (pop. 37,000).
Reporting to a six member Commission, responsible for supervising Commission staff, personnel
administration, financial management and purchasing ($18 M budget), information technoligy,
contracts, state and Federal grants management, supervising public works, landfill operations, solid
waste and code enforcement, transportation, liason with elected officials, boards and commissions.
Charles Hardage followed by Jack Bunn, Chairmen. (annual gross salary: $80,000)
5-04 to 8-06: Manager, City of Litchfield, Michigan (pop. 1,500 res. +1,800 commuting workers).
Reporting to the Mayor and Council, responsible for the operations of all city departments and
functions, including Police, Fire, Public Works (sewer, water, streets, waste collection, parks, public
pool), budget and finance ($9 M budget), tax collection, and elections. Ed Smith, Mayor. (last annual
gross salary: $45,000)
1995 to 2004: Instructor, Technical Communication and Composition, Grambling State University.
Conducted four or five undergraduate classes each semester mostly Technical Writing. Beatrice
McKensey, Ph.D., Head of the department (last annual gross salary: $32,000)
2001: Instructor Technical Communication, Louisiana Tech Univ. Conducted 1 class in Technical
Writing. Carol Tabor, Ph.D., Director, School of Literature and Languages.
1995 to 2004: Principal, Hired Hand Outsourcing. Consultant to local governments in Louisiana in
comprehensive and strategic planning, economic / community development, land use regulations,
annexation, housing, and general management. (ave. annual earnings: $15,000)
1983 to 1994: Planning and Development Director, City of West Monroe (pop 15,000). Directed all functions of
the department including planning and zoning, code enforcement, annexations, economic development
grants management (CDBG, etc.), neighborhood rehabilitation ($2M program). Supervised the farmers’
market facility, 400 unit housing authority. Dave Norris, Mayor (last annual gross salary: $35,000)
Appointments
Grambling State University MPA Program Advisory Board (2014-15)
Managing Editor, The Scribia: GSU Literary Journal GSU University Planning Council
President, Rivertown Development Commission of Ouachita Parish GSU-SACS Accreditation Team
Chairman, NE Louisiana Scenic Bi-ways Selection Committee GSU-SACS Self Study Committee
Board of Directors, Ouachita Community Action Agency Amer. Planning Assoc. (La Chptr)
Treasurer and Board of Directors, Ouachita Valley H.O.P.E.
Board of Directors., Louisiana Association of Community Action Agencies
NLU Student Government Association (Senator, School of Education - Chair, Community Affairs Committee)
[June 14, 2015 . . . . . . p. 2]
Résumé
904
Lenard
Rd.
Don
A.
Hoyt
Downsville,
LA
71234
(continued)
318-‐816-‐2383
|
DonHoyt2014@gmail.com
References
Professional
Herbert Palmore, former Councilmember, Anniston, AL 2508 Paul Circle, Anniston, AL 36201 [256-237-4601]
Jay Jenkins, Councilmember, Anniston, AL 1128 Gurnee, Anniston, AL 36202; [256-236-3422]
Monroe & Jenkins, Architects; 1106 Woodstock, Anniston, AL 36202 [256-231-1114]
David Reddick, Councilmember, Anniston, AL 1128 Gurnee, Anniston, AL 36202; [256-236-3422]
Seyram Selace, Councilmember, Anniston, AL 1128 Gurnee, Anniston, AL 36202; [256-236-3422]
Millie Harris, Councilmember, Anniston, AL 1128 Gurnee, Anniston, AL 36202; [256-236-3422]
Gene Robinson, former Mayor, Anniston, AL 1401 Elizabeth, Anniston, AL 36202 [256-236-9492]
Ed Smith, Mayor, City of Litchfield: 221 Jonesville St., Litchfield, MI 49252 [517-542-2921]
Home: 417 E. Birch St., Litchfield, MI 49252 [517-542-3222]
Charles Phelps, former Councilman, City of Litchfield: 221 Jonesville St., Litchfield, MI 49252 [517-542-2921]
Home: 203 W. St. Joeseph, Litchfield, MI, 49252 [517-617-5290]
Sam Gaston, Manager, City of Mountain Brook, and recent ICMA President: Municipal Complex, Mountainbrook, AL
36213 [205-879-6913]
Debbie Wood, Commissioner, Chambers County Alabama, 2 S. LaFayette St., LaFayette, AL 36862 [334-864-4341]
Charles Hardage, former Commissioner, Chambers County; 2 S. LaFayette St., LaFayette, AL [334-864-4341]
Home: 406 N. 18th St., Lanett, AL 36863 [334-644-6400 or 334-642-1520]
Rosa L. Dunn, Commissioner, Chambers County, Alabama; 2 S. LaFayette St., LaFayette, AL [334-864-4341]
Home: 2704 16th St., SW, Lanett, AL 36863 [334-576-2044]
Dave Norris, Mayor, City of West Monroe: 2305 N. 7th St., West Monroe, LA 71291 [318-396-2600]
Home: 1514 Woodland, West Monroe, LA 71291 [318-396-4451]
Bruce Downey, City Attorney, City of Anniston, AL: 1128 Gurnee, Anniston, AL 36201 [256-294-4129 law office]
Lynn Lewis, Mayor, Town of Delhi: 209 Broadway, Delhi, LA 71232 [318-878-3792]
Home: 129 Macon Dr., Delhi, LA 71232 [318-878-3398]
David Creed, Director, North Delta Regional Planning and Development District, State of Louisiana: 1913 Stubbs Ave.,
Monroe, LA 71201 [318-387-2572]
Home: 104 Spyglass Dr., Monroe, LA 71203 [318-343-2121]
Tom Atteberry, Planning and Zoning Director, City of Monroe: 400 Lea Joiner Memorial Expressway, Monroe, LA
71201 [318-329-2335]
Home: 120 Birchwood Dr., Monroe, LA 71203 [318-325-3563]
Beatrice McKinsey, Ph.D., Acting Head, Department of English, Grambling State University: 403 Main St.,
Grambling, LA 71245 [318-274-2272]
Home: 109 Woodshire Lane, Ruston, LA 71270 [318-274-2272]
Nasir Ahmed, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science and Public Admin, Grambling State University: 403 Main St.,
Grambling, LA 71245 [318-255-1884].
Robert Dean, Director of Public Works, City of Anniston, Alabama; 1128 Gurnee, Anniston, AL 36202; 256-236-7740
(wk); 256-473-3775 (cel)
Jim Tines, Solid Waste Officer, Chambers County Commission: 2 S. LaFayette St., LaFayette, AL 36862 [334-864-4341]
Home: 805 S. 14th St., Lanett, AL [334-644-2364]
Personal
Anthony A. Rispoli, President, Rispoli Properties: 211 S. 1st St., West Monroe, LA 71291 [318-388-0496]
Home: 2321 Valencia Blvd, Monroe, LA 71201 [318-323-4440]
Errol Miller, President, Miller Enterprises (retired): 155 Biedenharn Dr., West Monroe, LA 71291 [318-396-9867]
Don Coker, Director of Personnel, Ouachita Parish School System: 100 Bry St., Monroe, LA 71201 [318-338-5335]
Home: 275 New Chapel Hill Rd., Calhoun, LA 71225 [318-396-5840]
Dean Macharas, Independent Insurance Agent: 61 Oakwood Cr., Monroe, LA 71203 [318-343-4791]
Jim Kim, Ph.D., Prof. of Humanities, Grambling State University: 1203 Glenwood, Ruston, LA 71270 [318-251-2564]
[June 14, 2015 . . . . . . p. 3]
Résumé
904
Lenard
Rd.
Don
A.
Hoyt
Downsville,
LA
71234
(continued)
318-‐816-‐2383
|
DonHoyt2014@gmail.com
Notable Achievements
In General Management and Leadership
1. In Anniston, I drafted (and the CC adopted) a comprehensive city-wide Policies and Procedures Manual (personnel.
social media, grants management, etc.).
2. I directed a successful reapportionment of Anniston’s Council and School Board districts right after the 2010 census.
3. I oversaw a significant improvement and expansion of Anniston’s utilization of information technology and social
media to increase public participation and to increase administrative productivity and effectiveness.
4. During my tenure as Manager at Anniston, I supervised over 300 employees, exercised selection, hiring, promoting,
firing, and disciplinary authority more than 50 times, including the replacement of the City Attorney, Police Chief
(twice), the Fire Chief, the Director of Public Works, the superintendent of streets, the City Engineer (twice), and
several of their top assistants.
5. Anniston had been out of compliance with National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) standards since 1983. When I
left office, it was in full complaince.
6. I guided Anniston’s Council in the process of hiring my replacement, selecting from over 60 applicants nation-wide.
In Budgeting and Financial Management
1. I initiated Anniston’s first ever 5-Year capital improvements plan (CIP) based on the principles of “outcome based
budgeting.”
2. Taking advantage of Federal stimulus programs and Anniston’s low debt level, I coordinated with staff and outside
professional resources to float three multi-million dollar bonds for the construction of:
(1) a $12 million Calhoun County Human Resources building (this was also a brownfield project);
(2) a $9 million state-of-the-art Aquatics and Fitness Center (included $1.2 million for street improvements); and
(3) a $17 million Justice Center Complex which included a police HQ, jail, and municipal court (also financing
relocation of the Public Works facility to a remodeled National Guard armory).
3. With the help of staff and experts in the field, Anniston’s nearly bankrupt Police and Fire Retirement System (a
defined benefits plan) was completely restructured, rendering its health assured for the forseeable future.
4. During my three years in Chambers County:
(1) I began and completed a $300,000 capital improvement project, converting an abandoned bank building into a
Courthouse Annex;
(2) refinanced two existing County bonds at a lower interest rate and shortened term while utilizing some proceeds
to replace the County Jail’s obsolete security system, ultimately saving the taxpayers $4.5 Million in the long
run;
(3) implemented the collection and appropriation of a new $1 Million per year special purpose sales tax, 60% of
which services the debt on a new $7 Million Industrial Development bond utilized for the construction of a new
1,000 acre industrial park on I-85 (15 minutes away from the West Point, GA Kia auto plant);
(4) acquired and completed three (3) federal Economic Development grants for industrial attraction incentives in
the newly constructed Industrial Park; and
(5) drafted and administered three consecutive $18 million annual operating budgets for the County.
5. For FY 06-07, I submitted for Council approval Litchfield’s Budget, balanced for the first time in 4 years and
containing adequate funds to refurbish the city’s swimming pool and to significantly improve several city streets for
the first time in nearly a decade.
6. Measures I took at Litchfield to reduce unnecessary spending included re-bidding contracts for solid waste collection,
liability coverage, cemetery maintenance, employee health coverage, and retirement.
7. Also at Litchfield, I began a project to significantly improve the water delivery and bill collection system, replacing
old, manually read meters with more efficient, wirelessly read meters, increasing accuracy and revenue while
reducing costs.
8. In 1981, responding to massive federal cuts to the CAP agency’s budget, I orchestrated a restructuring and reduction
in staff of nearly 50% while maintaining a 75% level of service delivery.
[June 14, 2015 . . . . . . p. 4]
Résumé
904
Lenard
Rd.
Don
A.
Hoyt
Downsville,
LA
71234
(continued)
318-‐816-‐2383
|
DonHoyt2014@gmail.com
In Economic and Community Development
1. Recognizing unsatisfactory conditions in west Anniston’s neighborhoods and following a careful analysis of relevant
Alabama law, I devised and initiated an innovative property improvement strategy designed to alleviate nuisance
properties and transfer abandoned and deteriorating properties into the hands of responsible private owners.
2. I authored a complete re-write of Anniston’s economic development loans and its downtown façade grant programs,
creating a 50/50 “forgivable” and/or deferred payment loan for the improvement of commercial properties across a
large area of the city.
3. Working with the Industrial Development Authority of Chambers County, I successfully acquired and completed
three CDBG economic development grants, which, along with proceeds from a $7M county Industrial Development
bond, resulted in the successful recruitment of five new industries in the Chambers County Industrial Park and the
expansion of two others in another park. The grants involved new roads, sewer, and water lines, a fire station, and
an elevated water tower.
4. I was influential in acquiring $2.5M of CDBG funds for Litchfield’s downtown streetscape project (completed after I
left the city).
5. Before I arrived in West Monroe in 1983, the city had no economic or community development resources except a 144
unit subsidized housing program which was $500 in the hole.
(1) I facilitated the adoption of regulations concerning nuisance eradication (weeds, trash, junk, abandoned
vehicles, etc.) and blight removal;
(2) I established procedures to administer the new codes without increasing staff utilizing available computer
technology (a 64K Apple IIe); and
(3) I obtained nearly $2 million from the US Department of HUD to refurbish blighted properties and, in just five
years the city brought nearly 200 houses to code and razed close to 100 that were beyond repair.
When I left the city in 1994, there were no substandard houses in West Monroe and the assisted housing program
was subsidizing 400 units while maintaining a $100,000 surplus.
In Planning
1. Downtown West Monroe had been nearly abandoned. After facilitating the adoption of a 10-year Downtown
Development Action Plan in 1991, I and downtown property and business owners worked to revitalize the area.
Strategies included the creation of a Historic Preservation District, innovative and pedestrian oriented zoning
regulations, and minimal streetscape improvements. Today, all buildings are well utilized and available retail space
is rare.
2. As the Planning Director for the City of West Monroe, I facilitated the adoption of numerous improvements to the
city’s land use regulations, regulating cluster housing subdivisions, mobile homes, and home occupations, for
example.
3. As an independent consultant from 1994 to 2004, among other projects, I guided the Louisiana towns of Delhi,
Rayville, Jonesboro, Choudrant, Olla, Ball, Leesville, and DeRidder to the successful adoption of Comprehensive
Plans and accompanying Subdivision, Zoning, and Mobile Home Park regulations. In several cases Nuisance Code
Enforcement, Signage, and Building codes were also adopted.
4. Louisiana’s APA Chapter gave me the Planning Implementation Honor Award in 1994 for my work in West Monroe;
and the Louisiana Municipal Association awarded me a certificate of appreciation in 2001 for conducting workshops
on zoning issues at their conferences for elected officials and municipal attorneys.
In Social Services Administration
1. Shortly after I arrived at Anniston, benificiaries of the Federal CDBG program publicly revealed its deplorable past
administrative history, the remedy for which required the firing of all CDBG staff, a thorough civil and criminal
investigation, the expenditure of nearly $250,000 of local money for corrections, and complete reconstruction of the
program. Four years later Anniston received a clean bill-of-health from HUD.
2. Under my oversight, West Monroe’s Housing Authority increased from 144 units to 400 units in 11 years and
accumulated over $100,000 in surplus administrative funds.
3. As Acting Director at the Ouachita Community Action Program, I oversaw its transition from the Federal
Community Services Administration to the Community Services Block Grant program, maintained high service
levels after heavy budget cuts, created three new programs, and obtained a grant to replace three old busses.
[June 14, 2015 . . . . . . p. 5]
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
City Manager
City of Manistee
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
City Manager
CITY OF MANISTEE
Michiganders are rightfully boastful of all the
grand peninsula has to offer. And, nowhere do
all the state’s attributes merge more acutely
than on the west shore in the Victorian-era
jewel that is Manistee. For the decisive leader
who has dreamed of living and working in an
outdoor lover’s paradise, the perfect opportu-
nity is now available. Manistee seeks a new
city manager, only the fourth in 36 years, who
has the ability to facilitate and communicate a
new vision for the future of this historic port
community.
Over 6200 residents and 1000’s of visitors
praise the two miles of publically accessible
Lake Michigan beach front, other natural as-
sets, events, and cultural attractions within the almost 4.5 square miles of this Community of Bridges. In
Manistee “everything is about the natural environment” for its hard-working, friendly residents who profess
small-town values of honesty and straightforwardness.
Only those who truly enjoy reaching out, meeting and engaging the citizen-
ry need apply to this community where involvement and dedication is the POPULATION
norm resulting in community-wide volunteer building projects each year 6,226
like he teen center, skateboard park and playgrounds.
SIZE
2.84 SQ MI
Manistee is a full-service city, the only one in the County with a full-time
fire and ALS crew, and operates under the Council/Manager form of gov- BUDGET
ernment by Charter. Its $6.2 million General Fund and $10 million in other 6.2 MILLION
funds support 58 full-time employees and several seasonal and part-time
positions. SALARY RANGE
$85,000 -
$100,000
Manistee will offer a competitive compensation plan including medical and
dental insurance, a generous contribution into a defined contribution pen-
sion plan or MERS and a salary range of $85,000 to $100,000 depending
on qualifications and experience.
2
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
THE COMMUNITY
Manistee was incorporated in 1869. Valued for Museum, the Waterworks Museum and the SS
its deep water port, the city rose to prominence City of Milwaukee.
with the logging industry that swept Michigan’s Alternative educational choices are available to
northern forests. Its well-preserved Victorian Manistee’s families. The Class B public school
residential and commercial architecture are system has new facilities and offers a wide
testaments to the resiliency and prosperity that range of extracurricular activities including
carried Manistee through several economic hockey, swimming, and ski programs. Man-
rebirths over the last 150 years. istee Catholic Central offers a pre-K through
12 program and Trinity Lutheran Academy has
Today, continued evidence of the community’s K-8 classes. Higher education offerings are
commitment to its heritage can be found in available by short commute through West Shore
the authentic downtown district, the restored, Community College, Baker College, North West-
publically-owned Ramsdell Theatre and Hall, ern University and Spring Arbor University.
and the Fifth Avenue Pier and Lighthouse.
Without a doubt, however, it is the natural as-
The community is tied inexorably to Native sets of the area that push Manistee well above
American culture as well. Part of the city sites the ordinary. Cuddled between majestic Lake
within reservation of the Little River Band of Michigan on its west side and Manistee Lake
the Ottawa Indians and a positive relationship, on its east, the city is traversed by the Little
based on mutual respect and understanding, is Manistee and the Big Manistee Rivers, famous
an on-going priority. for superior trout and salmon fishing. Multiple
public boat launches and pavilions along with
A strong sense of volunteerism and community several marinas make the water fronts available
involvement is another of the threads uniting the to all. A highly bikeable and walkable commu-
different neighborhoods, long-term residents, nity, Manistee has built 3.5 miles of universally
and new transplants in this clean, quaint city. designed trails to cement its reputation for ac-
Active service clubs, a highly involved Chamber cessibility.
of Commerce and energetic Convention and
Visitors Bureau, host a myriad of events each The City sits on the edge of the 1 million acre
year including the Victorian Sleighbell Parade Manistee National Forest and neighbors one of
and Old Christmas Weekend; Forest Fest, the the most beautiful places in the state, Sleep-
Chocolate, Wine and Walking Tour, Props and ing Bear Sand Dunes National Park. Manistee
Hops Classic Boat Show, Tight Lines for Our County counts eight golf courses. A bird sanc-
Troops, and Support of the Shores, an initiative tuary, Orchard Beach State Park, mountain
to advance the walkability of the community by bike trails, ice skating rink, 13 in-city parks and
connecting people to the area’s water resourc- a community pool further attest to this area’s
es. allegiance to a year-round enjoyment of the
outdoors.
Culture, education, and the arts have a strong
root-hold in this safe community with diverse Residents of Manistee are a sturdy lot first
housing stock. The Ramsdell Theatre hosts the drawn to the area by the logging industry and an
Manistee Civic Players who sponsor a roster of economy was built around shipping freight from
live performances; a beautifully appointed ball- the deep water port. Later manufacturing come
room; and Hardy Hall, home to the Manistee Art to town lured by accessibility to the water and
Institute. The restored Vogue Theatre brings built plants along the shores of Manistee Lake.
classic and first-run movies downtown. The
city is also the base for the Manistee Historical
3
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
THE COMMUNITY (CONT)
A solid blue-collar industry sustained the com-
munity’s prosperity and defined its personality
for decades. In recent years industrial jobs have
dramatically declined. Manistee’s economy is now
built around a mixture of tourism dollars, (the trib-
ally–owned Little River Casino is just five miles to
the north), family-owned businesses, state cor-
rections employment, and hospital and healthcare
positions.
Manistee’s evolution has not only been one of a
changing market-place. For years, the community
had been a homogenous strong-hold of families
with roots generations deep. Today, the com-
munity is aging as its young people move away
and a new citizen contingent of active, involved
retirees and second-home owners have moved in.
The median age is 47 (42% of residents are above
the age of 50) and incomes have become more
diverse.
Manistee is in the midst of a transition both eco-
nomically and culturally. The best possible future
has yet to be determined and the new manager
will be expected to engage all diverse partners in
a long-term dialogue to achieve consensus around
an optimal direction.
4
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
THE ORGANIZATION
This organization has adopted an outcome-driven the roster and four unions represent the full-time
culture that regularly reports on performance to hourly employees: POAM, COAM, IAFF, and Steel-
each other and the council through open sharing of workers.
all information. Five of the 58 full-time employees
report directly to the City Manager and meet on a Department Directors regularly attend council
weekly basis in “round-table review” to review the meetings and respond to questions from elected
council agenda, report on task progress and brain officials about their area of expertise. The City
storm around city-wide issues. The input of the Council is made up of seven members who serve
highly experienced and professional staff is always staggered two-year terms and elect a Mayor from
sought and considered when tackling policy devel- within the membership. Each member represents a
opment and determining the best way to move the specific district but is elected at-large by all citi-
council’s plans forward. zens. The last two races for council were con-
tested.
The new Manager will bring expertise in economic
development to the skill set of the administrative To fit in with these advocates for superior service
team as well as sensitive and highly developed delivery, the new Manager must have unquestion-
negotiation talents in working with other units of able ethical standards and be willing to interact
governments particularly townships and Native personally with all employees and the citizens they
American tribes. serve. He or she will be an inspirational leader
who recognizes and appreciates the contributions
Employees describe Manistee as a “great place to of others, is committed to team building and capa-
work” with no silo mentality. Department Direc- ble of taking charge of continuous forward move-
tors work across organizational chart lines and ment.
demonstrate an extraordinary level of peer support.
Directors have budget responsibility and indepen-
dent authority to dedicate resources in meeting
objectives.
The City Manager serves as the Director of Human
Resources responsible for all labor/management
and personnel functions and leads an executive
team consisting of:
• Public Safety Director managing police, the only
full-time fire service in the County, EMS/ALS
and the Marina
• Director of Public Works with responsibility for
parks, streets, utilities, wells, waste treatment,
and bridges
• Finance Director supervises functions of the
Treasurer, the Ramsdell Theatre and the Clerk
and Assessor (the latter two hires are con-
firmed by council)
• Contracted Engineer
• Planner
Seasonal and part-time employees supplement
5
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
OPPORTUNITIES
Manistee possesses a great many strengths upon which
to build. Its sense of place is primarily intact with a solid
historical and architectural foundation and a richness of
natural resources. Along with its deep water port, the
city has access to rail and a local airport with commuter
service to Chicago.
Land use is diverse with 28% devoted to residential, 10%
to industrial and commercial, 19% of the land is held by
the public and/or parks, 10% is vacant. Several historic
properties are ripe for redevelopment in and around its
astounding downtown district.
The Council is committed to building collaborative rela-
tionships with neighboring governments to tackle larger
issues and moving forward to the next stage in the com-
munity’s prosperity.
CHALLENGES
This community is in need of defining its next economic
engine and identity. It wishes to become a “community
of choice” in order to attract and retain residents, par-
ticularly younger people and families.
Occupancy is low in the existing industrial park and
incomes have not rebounded to previous levels. Funding
constraints make service provision decisions trying.
6
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The City of Manistee will only consider applicants who demonstrate superior interperson-
al and written communication talent with a strong sense of personal integrity.
To be considered a qualified applicant, respondents must first have:
• A Bachelors’ Degree (MBA or MPA is preferred) in an applicable field such as public administration,
business, finance, or a related field of study, AND
• Three years’ experience as a city, village manager, or assistant manager OR five years of governmen
tal service as an administrator/leader with a wide-span of responsibility over multiple function or ser
vice areas
• Appropriate combination of expertise, education and professional governmental leadership will be
considered
Qualified Applicants will also possess provable expertise or history in:
• Developing and managing governmental personnel, human resources policies and procedures, and
labor negotiations
• Aggressive economic development with the ability to offer innovative solutions to existing situations
Any applicant who moves to the level of candidate will be financially savvy and well
versed in in the use of technology as a presentation, communication, and analytical tool.
Among the other skills that are to be illustrated in a resume and letter of introduction are
these:
• History in forging regional collaborations and/or agreements
• Proven negotiations skills and success in developing win/win resolutions
• Ability to incite healthy dialogue among diverse partners and achieve consensus around best possible
solutions
• Experience in building well-working teams
• Highly developed organizational skills
• Familiarity with tribal governments will be considered weighted plus
The new City Manager of Manistee will be a decisive leader who conveys an air of pro-
fessionalism and offers pro-active choices to forecasted issues rather than reactive posi-
tions to problems. He or she must be:
• Approachable, able to relate to many types of people; a person who enjoys reaching out to others
• A good listener, patient, and accepting
• Capable of seeing many sides to an issue
• Self-confident
• Able to express and communicate a vision
• Calm and collected
• Creative
• Possessing of an internal sense of personal accountability
7
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
APPLICATION PROCESS
APPLY BY CLOSE OF BUSINESS JULY 3, 2015
Please submit resume, cover letter, salary history, consent form, and five professional
references to:
execsearch@mml.org, Subject Line: Manistee Search
OR mail to: Michigan Municipal League,
ATTN: Manistee Search, 1675 Green Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Questions can be directed to MML Lead Executive Recruiter Kathie S. Grinzinger at kgrinzinger@mml.org
or (989) 289-1084.
Candidates desiring confidentiality of their interest, as allowed for and provided by Michigan law, must indi-
cate such in a separate subject line above the body of the cover letter.
This search is conducted by an Equal Opportunity Employer.
8
Manistee
City of Manistee
City Manager
Profiling Sessions April 28, 2015 two sessions
Council responses
Staff Add-ons (much agreement)
Per additional information
Community Profile
Stats
Population 6226 (tri-township population 12,500) (down from 6586 in 2000)
Size 4.47 square miles; 40 miles of streets
Land Use Residential 28%
Commercial 4%
Industrial 6%
Parks/Public 19%
Transportation 23%
Vacant 10%
Wetland/water 9%
Form of Govt. Council/Manager by Charter
Council: 7 members
Staggered 2 year terms
Represent district BUT elected at-large
Mayor elected from within
Last two races contested
Demographics: very little racial diversity
30% of population educational degrees beyond high school
Median age 47; 42% residents above the age of 50 (70% of EMS
patients are elders); youth numbers declining
Median income close to state average
18% of residents seasonal
Employment *tourism
Casino (#1)
Family-owned businesses
Prison (400 jobs)
Hospital and healthcare
3 industrial plants lakeside
Budget:
FY 2015 $6.2 Million GF
FY2015 $ 16.2 million All Funds
1
Manistee
Identifiers, Culture, Traditions
“Community of Bridges” (Manistee River Channel runs thru the center of town)
“Four Season Playground”
“Outdoor Sports Paradise”
“Victorian Port City”
“Everything is tied to the natural environment”
Incorporated 1869; Logging heritage
Blue-collar (union background): did have strong industrial base; job decline
Small town values: honest, straightforward, hard-working
Four of five area public schools inside city
Wonderful people, welcoming and friendly
New transplanted residents; higher income levels than long-term residents; highly
involved
Younger people leaving for jobs; active city life; retires come home
Dedicated volunteers, community-minded, active service clubs
Community-wide Building projects (supported/team-led by city)
o Playgrounds
o Skateboard park
o Teen Center
Active Chamber of Commerce and CVB
Segment of population resistant to change
Family-owned businesses
Many churches
Quaint, clean
Diverse housing stock, many second homes
Diverse employment base (see above)
Neighborhoods distinctly identified
Offers wide range of municipal services including full-time police, fire and EMS
(strong citizen support for public safety); perception in some circles that tax level
is high
Public transportation (call on-demand)
Exceptional Victorian architecture;
Historic, well-preserved downtown, Historic District Commission
Highly walkable, bikeable community
Very safe, low crime rate
Manistee Recreation Assn. (collaboration between city and townships)
Notable tribal influence (part of city in reservation) Little River Band of the
Ottawa; good relationship between city and tribal government
Community in transition from founding culture (polish catholic families) and
economy (industrial, manufacturing) to new residents (transplants, seniors,
seasonal) and the new economy which is yet to be determined
2
Manistee
Attractions/Events
Several marinas
Rail system
Near-by institutions of Higher Education: West Shore Community College; Baker
College; North Western University; Spring Arbor University
Educational choices: Class B public school with new facilities; hockey, swimming
and ski programs; Manistee Catholic (preK-12) and Trinity Lutheran (K-8); Casman
Alternative Academy (7-12)
Light house
Freighter traffic
SS City of Milwaukee
Full-time Coast Guard Station
Community pool
Riverwalk (1.5 mi from Lake Michigan to Manistee River, one of best in state)
Casino
Teen center
Local Hospital and strong medical community
13 parks in city; universal accessibility
8 golf courses in Manistee County
Airport
Natural Resource Assets “Everything is tied to the natural environment”
o 2 miles of beach front on Lake Michigan with pavilions; all accessible to
public
o Manistee Lake
o Rivers: Little Manistee, Big Manistee
o Boat launches
o Deep Water Port
o Edge of Manistee National Forrest (1 million acres)
o Superior trout and salmon fisheries
o Charter Fishing, river guides
o Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Park nearby
o Biking, hiking trails (3.5 miles of trails in city)
o Bird sanctuary
o Ice skating rink
o Mountain bike trails
Culture and Arts
o Ramsdell Theatre for live perfomances
Manistee civic Players
Hardy Hall; Manistee Art Institute
Ballroom
o Restored Vogue Theatre downtown, classic and first-run movies
o Shoreline Showcase (performances on the River)
o Manistee County Historical Museum
o Waterworks Museum
3
Manistee
Festivals
o Sleigh Bells festival (with horse drawn carriage)
o Forrest Fest
o Chocolate, Wine and Walking Tour
o Tight Lines for Troops
o Support of the Shores (initiative to connect people to the H20 resources)
Opportunities
Historic properties ripe for development
Location and rich natural resources
Deep Water port
Building new collaborative relationships with neighbors to tackle issue
Challenges
Need jobs and new economic base (new identity as a community of choice)
Low occupancy in industrial park (need creative solutions)
Funding constraints to maintain service level
No direct access to major trunk lines
Keeping and attracting young people
Corporate Culture
Staff
58 FTE plus seasonals and part-timers
5 direct reports to City Manager
o Public Safety Director (police, only full-time fire in County, EMS, advanced life
support; Marina)
o DPW Director (parks, streets, utilities, wells, treatment, bridges
o Finance Director (Treasurer, Clerk* Assessor*, Ramsdell Theatre) *confirmed by
Council
o Contracted Engineer
o Planning and zoning
o City Manager serves as HR Director
4 Unions: POAM, COAM; IAFF; Steelworkers
Oopen positions: assessor; some hourly; deputy DPW Director (likely filed before Mgr)
Operating Style
Great place to work
DDs work across table; very little silo division
Outcome driven, regularly report performance
4
Manistee
Highly experienced, professional staff both in government service and private
sector
Independent authority vested in DDs; budget preparation responsibility
Extraordinary peer team; supportive
Communication Style
o Weekly staff meetings “round-table review” to review council agenda,
report on task progress, address city-wide issues
o DDs input always sought on larger/city-wide issues, policy, how to move
council strategic plan forward
o Informal morning meetings
Expectation for New Leader (to fit in and fill in)
High ethical standards
Smart
Advocate for superior service delivery and employee service providers
Comfortable with people; citizens often start with the City Manager to voice their
concerns
Strong in building relationships
Good communication skills; understand the individual needs of employees for
delivery of information
Understand and appreciate the human side of the business
Decisive; take charge of forward movement
Team builder
Leader with ability to inspire people to do their best
Recognize and verbalize appreciation for good work
Consistent application of policy including HR
Open and shares information
Ethical
Good listener
Critical Skills Needed to Fill-In
o Understanding principles of economic development (Mgr. sits on several
boards)
o Sensitive negotiator to work with Tribe and townships
o Understanding of infrastructure impact on development and health of
community (severely aging infrastructure; new permits required)
Non-starters
Micro-manager
Arrogant (citizens expect to know manager on personal level)
5
Manistee
Ideal Candidate Profile
Knowledge and minimums
Required Bachelor’s Degree; Master’s Degree preferred
Fields of study: Public Administration, Business, Finance, or related field
3 years’ experience as city, village manager or assistant manager; OR 5 years of
governmental service as an administrator/leader with a wide-span of
responsibility over a multiple functions or service areas
Appropriate combination of expertise, education and professional
governmental leadership will be considered
Skills
Financial savvy
Knowledge of governmental personnel and human resources policies and
procedures
Strong economic development background with ability to offer innovative
solutions to existing issues
History in forging regional collaborations and/or agreements
Technological know-how particularly in the use of communication tools
Proven negotiation skills and success in developing win/win resolutions
Ability to incite healthy dialogue among diverse partners and achieve consensus
around best possible solutions
Highly developed interpersonal communication skills; strong written
communication capability
Experience in building well-working teams
Well-developed organization skills
Familiarity with tribal governments a plus
Attributes
Person of integrity
Decisive
Aire of professionalism
Approachable and able to relate to many types of people
Patient and accepting
Pro-active rather than reactive
Can see both sides to an issue
Self-confident
Can express and communicate a vision
Calm, collected
Able to and enjoy reaching out to others
Creative
Internal sense of accountability
6
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