Ortonville– The village has a new manager.
The village council unanimously agreed at the July 11 meeting to offer the position to Judy D. Andersen, with a 90-day trial employment and $37,000 yearly salary, to be renegotiated at the end of the trial period. She was hired the next day and will start July 18.
? I’m very appreciative of the opportunity,? said Andersen, 52. ‘Ortonville is a small village. I like the philosophy of remaining quaint, even though there is a lot of growth in Oakland County. I like what I’ve seen so far.?
Andersen has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Cleary College and received a master’s degree in public administration from Central Michigan University in December 2004. She has extensive experience in government. Andersen was a program administrator for the Michigan Department of Human Services from 1978-1991; a business manager for the Livingston County EMS from 1997-2002; and a business manager for the Livingston County building department from 2002-2004.
‘I’ve been off work for a year, storing energy for Ortonville,? says Andersen. ‘I’m very happy to get back to work, I’m ready.?
Sue Bess, village council president, said Andersen’s experience in a government environment will be very helpful.
‘She’s a very dynamic, energetic person,? says Bess. ‘She appreciates the quaintness of the village and small town. I think she will be an excellent addition to our village staff.?
Andersen replaces former village manager Paul Zelenak, who left May 16 to become the city manager of Bloomfield Hills. She is married and has two adult sons. The Howell resident is undecided about whether she will move to this area.
Andersen believes her previous experience in serving the public will be a strength for her in Ortonville, as well as her strong communication skills, an open mind and a desire to learn the needs of the village.
‘I will seek feedback from the community and staff,? she says. ‘I see myself in a supportive role. I will be here to support the community.?