OLIVE TWP., MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Jul. 17, 2025) – So much for waiting until after Labor Day to pick up the search for a new operating leader in Ottawa County government.
On Wednesday, the county reopened the application process for its vacant Administrator position. In a statement announcing the “relaunch” of the search, county officials said that whoever is chosen, “will be expected to lead with integrity and independence, bringing clarity, strategic direction, and an apolitical, collaborative spirit to the organization.”
There have been two formal search efforts done since John Gibbs was relieved of his duties on February 29th of last year, with both ending up without an appointment. At the end of the second search, on June 24th, county board chairman John Teeples of Jenison said that there would be a “pause” in the process until September, but three weeks later, this “relaunch” was announced, with no reason given as to what led to this decision. Retired sheriff Gary Rosema has handled the administrator duties on an interim basis since January, and has no intention of seeking the position permanently.
An online link to those wishing to learn more about the open Ottawa County Administrator position and to apply is here. The deadline for applications is the end of the business day on August 11th. No timetable as to when the county board will decide on a new operational leader has been announced.
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