Board unites behind Genetski for manager

Township might know his decision by January 23 meeting.

Bob Genetski is again being offered the Laketown Township manager position.

The Laketown Township Board of Trustees voted unanimously on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, to offer Bob Genetski the township manager position.

The 5-0 decision showed a united board agreeing to put behind past disagreements.

The board voted on November 13 to offer the manager position to Genetski but could not come to an agreement to approve the contract. Four of five members of the board voted on January 8 to open negotiations with Brandon Mersman, city manager of Bronson, Michigan, while still keeping Genetski’s contract open.

After that meeting, however, Mersman wrote in a text he was no longer interested in the Laketown position.

In a letter dated January 12, Mersman thanked the board for the opportunity to participate in the search that started with 44 candidates.

“After careful thought and consideration, I am writing to formally withdraw my candidacy for the Laketown Township Manager position. This decision did not come easily as I have deep roots in the community,” he wrote. “I have appreciated the opportunity to engage with the board and learn about the vision and objectives of Laketown Township.”

The board on Wednesday instructed Supervisor Steven Ringelberg and Trustee Mike Koeman to re-engage with Genetski.

The board could take up the issue again at a special meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 23, at the township hall, 4338 Beeline Road.

Board members who supported Mersman made it clear on Wednesday that they never had any ill will toward Genetski, who is the current Allegan County Clerk and Register of Deeds.

“We didn’t put Bob down,” said Trustee Mark Timmerman.

Koeman said he had nothing against Genetski. “I think it’s time to give him a shot,” Koeman said.

Clerk Jim Delaney said he supported Mersman, “but I do want to move on.” Delaney has noted that he knows Genetski and has a great deal of respect for him.

“I think Bob’s a great guy,” said Treasurer Jim Johnson.

Long-time Manager Al Meshkin retired on January 3, 2025. Ringelberg is serving as interim manager as well as supervisor.