Ottawa County approves employment agreement for incoming administrator after hourslong debate over duties and nondiscrimination language

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners voted Sept. 23 to approve an amended employment agreement for incoming county administrator Patrick Waterman after extended discussion and several amendments to the draft contract.

Commissioners debated language that would define the administrator’s authority over department heads and collective‑bargaining coordination, performance‑pay procedures and a proposed provision about nondiscrimination and equality. After amendments and a roll‑call vote, the motion to approve the agreement passed and the contract will be finalized as amended.

The board replaced two sections of Exhibit A to clarify the administrator’s authorities and duties. The new language states the county administrator “shall supervise the operation and performance of all county departments and department heads, except elected officials and their officers, and with the approval of the board, appoint and remove all heads of departments other than elected officials.” Section 3’s replacement clarifies the administrator “shall coordinate the various activities of the county…