Grand Rapids commissioners honor outgoing city attorney Anita Hitchcock, appoint interim successor

The Grand Rapids City Commission on Aug. 26 paid public tribute to City Attorney Anita Hitchcock and then voted to appoint an interim successor.

Commissioners used a pulled consent item to invite remarks recognizing Hitchcock’s long service. Commissioner Sassi said Hitchcock’s legacy included ‘‘reshaping’’ the city attorney’s office and leaving ‘‘behind a team that will miss you, but is also ready to continue the work.’’ Commissioner Belchek and others praised Hitchcock’s steady counsel and behind‑the‑scenes work for the city.

After the comments, the commission voted on a motion to appoint the interim city attorney. Mayor Lrand called for the roll call; the minutes record each commissioner voting yes and the motion carrying. The appointment was announced immediately after the vote. The record uses several variant spellings when referring to the newly appointed interim (Mr. Strong; Phil/Philip/Strom appear in the transcript), and the commission described him as the department deputy who has served in that office and is prepared to step into the interim role.

Why it matters: The city attorney provides the administration legal advice on contracts, ordinances and litigation; a seamless interim appointment was framed by commissioners as important to maintain continuity while a full‑time search proceeds.

What’s next: Commissioners said they will begin the process of looking for permanent leadership in the city attorney’s office while the interim leads daily operations.