ADRIAN — The City of Adrian has named five finalists in its search for a new City Administrator after reviewing 88 applications.
The Adrian City Commission will conduct public interviews with each finalist on Thursday, August 14, starting at 12:30 p.m. The interviews and a public reception will take place at the City Commission Chambers, located in the City Chambers Building at 159 East Maumee Street. The reception is scheduled for 5:00 p.m., and community members are encouraged to attend.
The five finalists include both internal and external candidates with a range of municipal leadership experience:
Chad Baugh currently serves as Director of Police Services for Canton Township, a role he has held since 1996. Baugh has led initiatives to enhance community engagement, diversify departmental staffing, and partner with local and federal agencies. He holds degrees from Madonna University and Eastern Michigan University, along with a Certified Public Manager Certificate from Saginaw Valley State University.
Jeremiah Davies is the current Director of Parks & Recreation for the City of Adrian. Since 2021, he has overseen a $3 million budget and led efforts to explore restoration of the city pool. Previously, he served as Director of Communications & Community Recreation for Adrian Public Schools. Davies holds degrees from Siena Heights University and Adrian College and has earned 35 ICMA certificates.
William Sadler has served as the City of Adrian’s Director of Utilities since 2014. He manages a $12 million annual budget and oversees a water and wastewater system serving the entire city, including over 100 miles of water distribution lines. Sadler previously served as Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent and is a graduate of Adrian College.
Elle Cole most recently served as Acting City Manager in Saline. She has overseen a $25 million general fund and helped implement the city’s FY25–FY28 strategic plan. Cole also serves as Deputy City Manager and Treasurer. She holds degrees from Michigan State University and Eastern Michigan University and maintains memberships in multiple state and regional professional associations.
Ellis Mitchell is the former City Manager of Benton Harbor. He managed a $28 million budget and led the city through a drinking water crisis. Mitchell previously served as Benton Harbor’s Mobility Manager. He holds degrees from the University of California, Berkeley, and California State University, Hayward, along with executive training from Harvard University. He has served on several national public administration boards.
The City Administrator position became open following the resignation of Greg Elliott earlier this year. Elliott has served in the role since 2022.
The City Commission will deliberate following the interviews and is expected to name a finalist in the coming weeks.