The BLP decided at its recent meeting to issue search firm RFP’s for a new general manager.

As a step 1, before issuing the RFP’s, assuming not already done, could the board first ask the Mich Public Power Agency (MPPA) what avenues and resources it might have to publish our search to other Mich municipalities?  Grand Haven is an MPPA member.  I would think the search fees would be minimal, if any.  If the MPPA route is not an option, or the results produce no candidates, only then take step 2 with issuing RFP’s for a national search and costly finder fees that go with it.

It’s common for a leadership search to be driven by a search committee and not the whole board.  For example, it might include the board chair, 1 or 2 community ratepayers such as a key industry leader and residential leader.  Also, a city council member.  Having such a search committee could pay many dividends.  Including the community ratepayers is a good optics.  Adding an industry leader draws into the process the BLP’s largest revenue base to promote inclusion.  Adding a residential leader is a step to rebuild trust and community involvement.  And, adding a city council member gives the BLP and council a valuable first step to work better together.  Lots of positives, and no downsides.

What do you think about this process? Do you have some suggestions to add?