Employment contract approved for Cummins in Saugatuck

SAUGATUCK — Saugatuck’s search for a new city manager is officially over, following a vote of approval for Ryan Cummins’ new employment agreement Monday, June 10.

The agreement will see Cummins receive an annual salary of $115,000, plus health, dental and life insurance and $3,000 annually as an automobile allowance.

If Cummins is terminated from his position without cause, the city agrees to pay him eight months’ wages and benefits as severance pay, with an additional month’s pay for each full year of service in his role. Cummins would be asked to give one months’ notice, should he resign.

Cummins, who previously served as interim city manager, was selected for the role in a 5-2 vote after councilmembers interviewed three finalists.

Cummins, a city councilmember in Grand Haven, was hired in Saugatuck in 2022 as director of planning, zoning and project management. He was named interim city manager in February after his predecessor, Ryan Heise, agreed to resign.

Heise’s resignation came a year after he received glowing performance reviews from councilmembers.

According to city documents, he met or exceeded all expectations in all categories and was given a 10% raise. His resignation, and the circumstances under which it came to light, have been a source of controversy in Saugatuck — even resulting in yard signs from residents.

On Monday, there was lengthy discussion about Cummins’ employment agreement, with concerns over how the pay rate was determined and a clause in the agreement that would allow for the ability to work from home.

“It is my opinion that the city manager is a customer service (position) and a manager of a team,” said Councilmember Russ Gardner. “I do not think … work from home is appropriate for the city manager position. They should be in the office.”

Councilmember Holly Anderson voiced support for the pay rate.

“In terms of salary, I think $115,000 would be my floor, not the ceiling,” Anderson said.

Cummins addressed council following approval.

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“It’s a little surreal,” Cummins said. “Career milestone for me. … I’m extremely grateful and appreciate the trust and confidence in me and I really look forward to working with all of you.”

Mayor Lauren Stanton said Cummins will now work to hire a new director of planning, zoning and project management.

— Contact reporter Austin Metz at [email protected].