Thank You John Szerlag

City Manager John Szerlag will soon be leaving his post here in Troy to assume a similar position in Cape Coral, FL. I had the honor of working with John during my first term on City Council.

While I didn't agree with John on every issue, I do believe he's been subjected to two inaccurate accusations.

1. Some of John's critics allege that he's "trapped" in the past of big government because he doesn't know how to bring modern management methods to City government. Well, take a look at the results over the past few years since he returned to Troy. He's found innovative ways to deliver a decent level of City services in an environment of declining revenue. On several occasions I attended Michigan Municipal League meetings with John where the City of Troy was recognized for implementing private sector methods that most other cities were just learning about.

2. Others criticize John because they believe he pursued policies that were unsupported by the majority of residents. To paraphrase John and other former Council members, "Can you count to 4?" In other words, the City Manager pursues those policies that are decided by a majority of City Council. The tough part of his job is that sometimes members of Council change their mind or a new election shifts the working majority. During my time on City Council, I have to plead "guilty" to that charge. On at least two occasions, I changed my vote on an issue which changed City policy.

While John Szerlag will be missed here in Troy, he's not irreplaceable.

Thank you John and best wishes in your new job in Cape Coral.