ISHPEMING, Mich. (WZMQ) – UPDATE: The City of Ishpeming has released a statement on Friday following the firing of City Manager Craig Cugini:
“On Thursday evening, the Ishpeming City Council voted unanimously to dismiss City Manager Craig Cugini. Effective immediately, City Finance Director, Grant Getschow will serve as the Interim City Manager. The City will begin a search for a permanent City Manager.
Craig Cugini has served as the Ishpeming City Manager since 2020 and has contributed positively to the community in that time. However, recent behavior and a breakdown of the working relationship with Council have led to his termination. The Council wishes Craig the best in his future endeavors.”
Along with that statement, Ishpeming City Mayor Jason Chapman also added, “Grant Getschow has proven that he is an asset to the community and we have an excellent team working for the residents of Ishpeming. Grant has the full support of the Ishpeming City Council, and I know he will work with city staff and the council to provide a seamless transition. A full search will be conducted for a permanent replacement.”
WZMQ will continue to provide more updates as more information is released.
The City of Ishpeming will soon begin the process of seeking a new city manager after the city council voted unanimously to terminate the employment of current city manager Craig Cugini.
During its meeting Thursday evening, the city council went into a closed session for about 40 minutes, after which the council moved to fire Cugini for undisclosed reasons. When someone asked if a reason would be given, councilor Lindsay Bean said, “As per our discussion during closed session.”
Mayor Jason Chapman moved to appoint Grant Getschow, the city’s current finance director, as the interim city manager until a permanent manager was selected. Councilors unanimously approved that appointment.
In a statement to WZMQ, Chapman said, “Grant Getschow is the interim city manager effective immediately and will work with city staff, Craig Cugini, and the city council to provide a seamless transition over the coming days and weeks. Grant has the full support of all five members of the council. A full search will be conducted for a permanent replacement. More details will be forthcoming.”
Cugini was hired as the city manager in early 2020.
This is a developing story. WZMQ 19 will provide updates as we learn more.
