Council authorizes RFP for executive search firm to identify township‑manager candidates after heated debate

The Sparta Township Council voted on June 9 to issue a request for proposals for an executive search firm to identify candidates for the township manager position. The measure passed after a contested discussion and a 3‑2 roll‑call vote.

The motion evolved over the course of the meeting. A council member initially moved to issue an RFP for a township manager; after procedural back‑and‑forth the council rescinded earlier motions and clarified that the RFP would be for an executive search firm to conduct the recruitment. Opponents argued the timing was premature, urged more internal discussion and said the council should consult the current manager before starting a search. Supporters said that, given the manager’s contract expiration this year, it was prudent to begin a search process and compare alternatives.

Councilwoman Murphy said the decision "deserves more time and more consideration" and objected to moving forward during the meeting; other council members said issuing an RFP for a search firm is a standard municipal practice when a contract is expiring and is intended to ensure due diligence. After discussion the mayor called for a roll‑call vote; the motion to issue an RFP for an executive search firm carried with three votes in favor and two opposed.

The council did not identify a search consultant or set a contract amount at the meeting. Staff said the township’s QPA (qualified purchasing agent) would assist with the procurement process and that a draft RFP and cost estimate will be circulated to council before the RFP is released.

Next steps: staff to prepare a procurement package (draft RFP) for council review, identify timeline and cost, and proceed according to procurement rules if the council approves the final RFP terms.