Shay likely to stay as Ludington city manager.

John Shay

Shay likely to stay as Ludington city manager.

HOLLAND TOWNSHIP (Ottawa County) — Ludington City Manager John Shay is likely staying in Ludington. Shay recently was selected as one of two finalists for the position as township manager of Holland Township, located to the north and east of the City of Holland. On Tuesday, Feb. 20, a selection committee voted unanimously to recommend the other candidate for the position, according to the Holland Sentinel.

The charter township’s board of trustee is expected to make its decision during a meeting on Saturday, Feb. 24 at 11 a.m. at the township offices, 353 N. 120th Ave. The final candidate will replace current manager Don Komejan, who is retiring in May.

The committee voted unanimously to recommend the hiring of Steve Bulthuis, the executive director of the Macatawa Area Coordinating Council for the position that pays between $110,000 to $140,000.

After the interviews, the selection committee noted the challenging decision ahead, as they were faced with two “very qualified” candidates. A connection to the local community appeared to be a factor in the committee’s selection of Bulthuis over Shay.

Komejan said he would be supportive of either candidate.

“Both of them have strong administrative skills, strong analytical skills,” he said. “From an operational standpoint I would give a nod to John. From a big picture standpoint, Steve has local and regional knowledge.”

Bulthuis has served as executive director of the MACC since 2010.

Shay has been Ludington city manager since 2003. Prior to coming to Ludington, he was the village manager of Almont. He has a bachelor’s degree from Boston College and a master’s degree in public administration from Oakland University.