Sturgis names Doug Carey as interim city manager; commissioners debate overlap and cost

The Sturgis City Commission on July 14 approved a temporary employment agreement to appoint Doug Carey as interim city manager and authorized Mayor Frank Perez to sign the documents.

Commissioners and staff discussed the appointment’s terms: overlap of start and end dates with the outgoing manager, whether the interim post should be an employee or independent contractor, hourly/annual compensation comparisons and the city’s option to provide a fleet vehicle. City attorney staff and the agreement text point to an employee classification; staff noted employee status affects payroll withholdings, unemployment and workers’ compensation.

Carey told the commission he intends to work a minimum of 40 hours a week and attend required meetings, including planning commission sessions, and that mileage and a city vehicle are provided at the city’s discretion. "It's my intent to be here at minimum of 40 hours a week and to also attend those meetings ... that's what I plan on being here," Carey said.

Some commissioners voiced concern about the combined short-term cost of the interim arrangement, an ongoing separation agreement for the outgoing manager, and the cost of hiring a search firm for a permanent replacement. One commissioner said the interim agreement could add about $170,000 on an annualized basis and urged prudence, while also praising the city’s current manager, Andrew Cook.

Commissioner Miller moved to approve the temporary employment agreement for Doug Carey and to authorize Mayor Frank Perez to sign; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote.

The agreement includes a cancellation provision allowing the commission to end the interim arrangement once a permanent manager is selected; staff said they will schedule overlap and coordination meetings with outgoing staff during the transition period.