The Traverse City City Commission unanimously appointed Benjamin Marantette as interim city manager effective July 22, 2025, and approved his request to name Deputy City Clerk Sarah Lutz as interim city clerk. The commission’s vote followed a public statement by Marantette and a motion carried during the July 21 meeting.
Marantette, who has served as city clerk for more than 13 years, told the commission he will not act as a passive caretaker. “I intend to work diligently on key issues and be highly engaged and very visible,” he said, and said he plans to align staff work with the city’s recently adopted strategic action plan using objectives and key results (OKRs).
Marantette outlined how he would lead daily operations, prioritize organizational culture and staff development, and institute regular check-ins with the commission. He told commissioners he has set personal boundaries for email and off‑hours availability and described a planned two‑week vacation beginning Aug. 11. The commission then voted to appoint him by roll call; the motion passed unanimously.
The commission also approved an employment agreement, subject to review by the city attorney for form and the acting city manager for substance. Commissioners said they expect periodic check‑ins and reviews during the interim appointment. The commission then approved Marantette’s selection of Sarah Lutz as interim city clerk and certified her to co‑authorize city financial accounts.
Background and context: the city had earlier conducted a national search for a permanent manager in 2023; Marantette was a finalist at that time and remained in the clerk role. The interim appointment will remain in place while the commission and staff pursue a permanent hire and related transition work. Marantette said he hopes to serve until the new commission and manager can be settled and that he is open to being considered for the permanent position.
What happens next: The commission’s action makes Marantette the city’s chief administrative officer starting July 22. The city attorney will finalize the employment agreement and staff will implement the personnel and administrative changes approved tonight. The commission did not set a separate effective end date in tonight’s vote beyond the schedule discussed in the meeting packet.