Berkley Revamps Leadership: Meet the Future City Manager Candidates!
Exciting times are ahead for the residents of Berkley, Michigan, as the city gears up to welcome a new City Manager! This position is incredibly important as the City Manager plays a pivotal role in executing the decisions made by the City Council, overseeing daily operations, and making sure that the community’s rules and policies are put into action effectively.
Community Input Leads the Way
To kick off this crucial search, Berkley officials gathered feedback from community members over the summer. They conducted surveys and engaged various stakeholders to understand what qualities residents want to see in their next City Manager. The response was fantastic, with 159 completed surveys and 776 narrative comments collected, providing invaluable insights into the community’s expectations.
The results highlighted some key traits that the residents believe are essential for a successful City Manager. These include:
- Strong Leadership: Residents are looking for a decisive and confident leader who can guide the city through challenges and ensure effective governance.
- Effective Communicator: Clear, transparent, and inclusive communication is seen as essential.
- Financial Acumen: A deep understanding of financial management, particularly in budgeting and economic development, is a top priority.
- Community-Oriented: A genuine commitment to understanding and engaging with the community is vital, ensuring the needs of residents are prioritized.
- Innovative and Forward-Thinking: Residents desire a leader who thinks strategically and can implement new ideas for the city’s long-term success.
Finalists for the Position
After an extensive search, the Berkley City Council has narrowed down the candidate pool to four finalists. These dedicated individuals will come to Berkley for public interviews and community events:
- M. Jon Dean – Chief of Human Resources at Veterinary United
- Mohamed “Moe” Ayoub – Planning Director for the City of Westland, MI
- Khalfani Stephens – Deputy Mayor of the City of Pontiac, MI
- Crystal VanVleck – Deputy City Manager of Community Services in Oak Park, MI
Mark Your Calendars for October 1
This is where you, the residents of Berkley, come into the picture! You are invited to meet these candidates and share your thoughts during a special event scheduled for October 1, 2024. Here’s what the day will look like:
- 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM – Public Safety Garage, 2395 12 Mile: Join us for an informal meet-and-greet with the candidates. This is a wonderful chance to mix with city employees, community members, and to ask questions or share your opinions. Feedback cards will be available for those who would like to jot down their thoughts or recommend questions for the City Council to consider during interviews.
- 6:00 PM – City Council Chambers, 3338 Coolidge Highway: Here, the Berkley City Council will conduct public interviews of each candidate. This session is a fantastic opportunity for you to observe the candidates in action and hear their visions for our beloved city.
Your Voice Matters!
Earlier in the day, candidates will tour city facilities and meet with staff, but this evening session is especially crucial as it shapes the future leadership of Berkley. The City Council encourages everyone to participate. Your input is vital in deciding who will help guide Berkley into a promising future. So, don’t miss out on this opportunity to engage with the future of your city!
