SerpApi.Org
BEULAH — The Benzie County Board of Commissioners discussed transition plans during a July 21 special budget meeting following County Administrator Katie Zeits' decision to leave her position
Board Chair Art Jeannot said Zeits informed him earlier this month of her decision to take an opportunity in Fremont. Under the terms of her contract, she is obligated to serve the county through Sept. 12.
The board discussed appointing Deputy Administrator Leslie Bilbey to serve as interim administrator while the county searches for a new administrator.
Commission Vice Chair Rhonda Nye said the county would review the application used during its last administrator search.
"The beauty of having Leslie in the interim position is we're not in a time crunch," Nye said. "We can take our time and do this correctly. We know things will be getting done competently."
Nye said she wants the transition to be as smooth as possible for county employees, elected officials and residents.
Commissioners said they have confidence in Bilbey serving during the search and encourage her to apply for the position once it is posted.
Some commissioners expressed concern that Bilbey might need assistance covering both positions.
Bilbey said temporary assistants often require more oversight and that the county's systems are nuanced. She also said other staff members could help with duties such as payroll.
She said she reached out to a few "key people" to make sure they supported the transition.
"It made me comfortable and confident taking this role knowing the great team at Benzie County was in the wings ready to support all of us," she said. "Knowing that intergovernmental support exists is really important."
Jeannot said the county has not yet accepted Zeits' resignation, and that it will likely do so at its next board meeting, along with further discussion of the transition.
The next Benzie County Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. July 28 at the Benzie County Government Center, 448 Court Place, Beulah.
Ziets could not immediately be reached for comment.
