Montrose council names Robert Naumann interim city manager and schedules executive-search meeting

The Montrose City Council unanimously appointed Robert Naumann as the city’s interim manager at its Sept. 24 meeting, following a recommendation from outgoing City Manager Neil Rankin.

Rankin told the council he had discussed next steps with Mayor Colleen Brown and recommended Naumann, noting Naumann’s prior service as a township supervisor, clerk and school principal and his working relationship with city staff. Rankin said, “I would highly recommend appointing Robert Naumann as the City of Montrose Interim City Manager.” Councilmember Andrea Martin moved to appoint Naumann; the motion, seconded by Todd Pangle, passed on a unanimous roll-call vote.

The council also set a special meeting for Oct. 8 at 8:00 p.m. to discuss the city manager executive search. Mayor Brown said she had contacted multiple executive-search firms; the Michigan Municipal League was too expensive and unavailable, so the city contacted three other firms. The Downtown Development Authority asked that one of its members be allowed to participate in the search discussions.

Rankin said his tenure ends this week and that he would remain available to assist Naumann during the transition. The council directed staff to proceed with the scheduled special meeting and next steps for hiring outside search assistance.

The special meeting is scheduled for Oct. 8 at 8:00 p.m. for the sole purpose of discussing the Montrose city manager executive search.