On Monday, February 7 Meridian Township Deputy Manager, Derek N. Perry, was formally named as the new City Manager for the City of Marshall, Michigan. Perry had previously served at the City of Marshall from 2003 to 2006 as the Deputy Director of Utilities and Infrastructure. It is expected that Perry will officially begin his duties in Marshall on February 21.

“I’ve very much enjoyed my 7 years in Meridian Township and want to thank Manager Walsh, the Township Board, the entire Meridian team and residents for their support. Serving the residents of Meridian Township has been nothing short of an honor,” stated Deputy Manager Perry.

“Derek’s departure will leave a huge void in our operations. I recruited Derek to be my Assistant City Manager in St. Joseph and further recruited him back in 2015 to Meridian Township,” stated Frank L Walsh, Meridian Township Manager. “Derek’s customer service skills are unmatched and he is a tremendously kind and compassionate guy. I’m happy for him to secure his new position in Marshall. Marshall is gaining a 5-Star recruit.”

Perry has worked in several communities and governmental organizations over the past 23 years and brings a wide range of community management and public service experience. He holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration (MPA) from Western Michigan University, as well as a Bachelor of Science Degree in Forestry from Michigan Technological University. He joined the Meridian Township team on March 16, 2015 as the Assistant Township Manager and Director of Public Works & Engineering.

“As we move forward, we have a bevy of projects in front of us. In about a week, the Okemos Road Bridge demolition project gets underway. There is no time to waste in filling this void. Derek informed me back in October that he was applying for the Marshall position. I’ve had four months to contemplate this day. After months of reflection, tomorrow morning I’m prepared to name our new Assistant Township Manager,” added Manager Walsh. “Derek leaves us much better than he found us. I wish him unparalleled success in Marshall.”