Position Summary:
In Michigan, the Charter Township Supervisor serves as the chief executive officer for the township, providing leadership, coordination, and oversight of all township activities, operations, and services. This role is especially critical in townships that do not employ a superintendent, as the supervisor assumes expanded responsibilities, including direct administration of township programs, budgets, and policies, and serving as the primary representative for the township in interactions with the public, the state, and other governmental agencies. The supervisor also plays a key role in maintaining smooth operations across all departments, ensuring effective management of township services and fostering transparent, responsive governance. The duty of Supervisor is governed by the Michigan Charter Township Act (MCL 42) and the General Law Township Act (MCL 41), requiring a diverse skill set to ensure effective administration, financial oversight, and equitable property assessments within the township.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Property Assessment:
- The chief assessor of the township. The township board may provide for the appointment of additional assessors. If the supervisor is not certified at the proper level, the township board shall provide for the appointment of properly certified assessors. If assessors are appointed pursuant to this section, the supervisor shall be the chief assessing officer, and the assessors shall be subordinate to the supervisor. Upon completion of the assessment and the making of the rolls, the rolls shall be deposited with the supervisor. The supervisor shall be secretary of the board of review.
- Leadership & Administration:
- Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the Township.
- Provide executive leadership and direction to Township departments, ensuring the efficient delivery of services such as public safety, public works, parks and recreation, and planning/zoning.
- Coordinate the development and implementation of Township policies, procedures, and programs.
- Act as the primary point of contact between the Township and residents, business owners, and outside agencies.
- Budget & Financial Management:
- Work closely with the Township Board and Treasurer to prepare and manage the annual Township budget.
- Monitor expenditures and revenues to ensure financial integrity and compliance with Township policies and state law.
- Ensure proper allocation of funds for capital improvements, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency services.
- Board Relations & Communication:
- Serve as a member of the Township Board of Trustees, collaborating with other elected officials to establish Township goals and objectives.
- Present reports, recommendations, and updates to the Board on operational, financial, and strategic matters.
- Facilitate effective communication between the Board, Township staff, and residents.
- Act as the Township's spokesperson in meetings with other local governments, agencies, and community organizations.
- Public Safety & Emergency Management:
- Oversee the operations of the Township’s police, fire, and emergency medical services, ensuring the provision of timely, high-quality services to residents.
- In the absence of a superintendent, assume a more hands-on role in emergency management, disaster response planning, and the implementation of public safety initiatives.
- Personnel & Human Resources:
- Supervise and direct Township department heads and staff, ensuring that job responsibilities are clearly defined and performance expectations are met.
- Manage staffing levels, hiring, performance evaluations, and employee discipline for Township staff.
- Ensure compliance with employment laws, labor agreements (if applicable), and Township personnel policies.
- Public Engagement & Services:
- Maintain an open-door policy to engage with Township residents and address concerns, inquiries, or issues related to Township services.
- Coordinate public meetings, hearings, and events, including Board meetings and special sessions.
- Provide guidance on Township projects, zoning, planning, and community development matters, ensuring that policies are aligned with the best interests of residents and the community.
- Planning, Zoning & Development:
- Coordinate with the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and other relevant bodies to implement and enforce land use policies, zoning regulations, and community development plans.
- Ensure that new developments comply with Township ordinances and state law, and address any challenges or issues that arise in the development process.
- Legal & Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure the Township operates within the bounds of state and federal law, including regulations related to open meetings, public records, and township authority.
- Work with legal counsel to resolve any legal issues or disputes that may arise and represent the Township in legal proceedings as necessary.
- Strategic Planning & Long-Term Goals:
- Develop and implement long-term strategies to address the Township’s infrastructure needs, growth, and sustainability.
- Coordinate with community stakeholders, including businesses and local organizations, to promote economic development and community enrichment.
https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=mcl-R-S-1846-41-1-16-Supervisor.
https://www.legislature.mi.gov/Laws/MCL?objectName=MCL-42-10