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Rejected facilities candidate appeals board decision during public comment
Summary
At the July 9 meeting, Dan Douglas, who said he had been offered the district’s facilities director job, asked the Milan Area Schools Board to reconsider after the board declined to hire him; supporters and board members discussed qualifications and process.
During the public comment period of the Milan Area Schools Board of Education meeting on July 9, 2025, Dan Douglas, who said he had been offered the position of building/maintenance director, asked the board to reconsider its earlier decision not to hire him.
Douglas introduced himself as the current theater manager with prior experience in facilities-related work and training. He said he met the job posting’s requirements, is working toward a builder’s license expected by October, holds an EPA certification for refrigerants and has training experience in school and large-organization settings. “My combined experience in large scale operational efficiencies, developing highly productive teams, and managing significant budgets positions me uniquely to serve as your next facility director,” Douglas told the board, and he asked the members to reconsider their votes.
Two community members spoke in support. Patrick Dunn said he had known Douglas for three years and praised his dedication and reliability in supporting students in theater programs.
Board members acknowledged the comments but described qualifications and stewardship concerns that informed the earlier hiring decision. Board Member Ms. Haika said she appreciated Douglas appearing to speak but reiterated that she had voted against hiring because she believed there was a gap between the district’s needs and the candidate’s qualifications. Haika noted the district will manage significant capital work funded by a recently approved millage and said the person in that facilities role must have experience to manage budgeting and construction oversight. “I do disagree with you somewhat on your position that you were qualified for the job. That’s why I voted no,” Haika said. She offered to discuss the decision further with Douglas outside the meeting.
Superintendent Ryan McMahon and other administrators had previously explained that the district’s hiring process and required certifications were factors in the decision; Douglas said he had been trying to enroll in MSBO courses and expected a builder’s license by October.
No board action to reverse the prior hiring decision was taken at the July 9 meeting. Board members thanked the speakers and encouraged further dialogue; one board member said she would be willing to speak further after the meeting.
The district did not provide additional details about the initial hiring vote in the public transcript for this meeting; the board’s roll call for later votes showed four members present and three excused.
