Shelby Township Clerk Retires, Accepts Position At Auburn Hills

Shelby Township's longtime clerk, Terri Kowal, read her letter of retirement Tuesday evening at the closing of the Board meeting.

"Dear Board of Trustees, please let this letter serve as my retirement effective Jan. 2, 2012," the letter read.

at a Nov. 14 City Council meeting. She will begin her role with the City on Jan. 3, 2012, and will be a non-union employee and will earn an annual salary of $72,000 and full benefits, according to Auburn Hills City Council meeting minutes.

The clerk's position at Auburn Hills is based on appointment. In Shelby Township, the clerk is an elected official.

Kowal was first elected the Shelby Township clerk in 1996 and has won re-election ever since. She said she has lived in the township since 1971 and said she has enjoyed her time as a public servant.

She also thanked the residents for their well wishes.

"If it was for the residents and staff members (in Shelby Township), I would stay here forever," Kowal said.

Kowal said she has given Shelby Township seven weeks notice to help the Township recruit and train the next clerk and get him or her up to speed for the February elections.

"Good luck to you," Supervisor Rick Stathakis said.