City Manager Recognized as Municipal Executive
By Adam Smith
The State of Michigan’s newest city Charter was approved by Governor Rick Snyder on May 15, 2018 and thereafter approved by voters in the City of Grand Ledge on Aug. 7, 2018. The new Charter of the City of Grand Ledge, effective January 1, 2019, officially establishes a council-manager form of government. Furthermore, the new City Charter formally recognizes the city manager as the city’s municipal executive.
The new city Charter was a multi-year initiative that began in December 2015 and replaced the existing 1963 document that has governed the city for the past 55 years. As discussion ensued regarding alternative forms of government, the City of Grand Ledge received letters from MME’s Past President Dale Kerbyson, and ICMA’s Past Regional VP Dr. Daryl Delabbio, in support of the council-manager form of government. Historically, City Ordinance 199, adopted by the Grand Ledge City Council on April 13, 1970, provided for a city administrator.
Milestones of this multi-year initiative are outlined in the graphic below.
Adam Smith, City Manager/Municipal Executive
City of Grand Ledge
Adam Smith was appointed city administrator of Grand Ledge in 2014. In 2019, his title was changed to city manager following adoption of a new city charter. Previously, he served as the manager for Mackinaw City and the City of Jonesville. Smith also serves as chair of MME’s Advocacy Committee. You may contact him at 517.627.2149. ext. 11, or asmith@cityofgrandledge.com