TRAVERSE CITY — Interim City Manager Benjamin Marentette received a positive review from city commissioners during their last meeting, praising his efforts to build trust within city government.
Marentette said commissioners were encouraged by his work to strengthen communication and trust between the city commission, the city manager and staff through routine, candid and honest conversations.
While some commissioners expressed concern that he might overwork himself, Marentette said he was encouraged to continue his approach and to find ways to reset during the day.
Looking ahead, Marentette said he plans to introduce a multiyear budgeting forecast and will propose the city’s budget next year. He also hopes to be named the permanent city manager.
“This organization has gone through multiple city managers over the last handful of years,” Marentette said. “We need steady, consistent leadership at the top of this organization. And it is in my heart, I love this community. And it feels like this is exactly where I should be at this moment in time.”
Marentette also explained why he initially declined the city manager role that later went to Liz Vogel.
He said he did not feel he could set effective boundaries at the time but has since worked with a professional leadership coach to develop a sustainable, healthy perspective.