Troy City Manager Candidate: James Creech

The following information was taken directly from the candidate's résumé and questionnaire answers, which are available on the City of Troy's website. 

Name: James V. Creech

Current Position: Township Superintendent/Manager, Charter Township of Oakland (since 1999)

Past Positions: City Manager, Imlay City; Assistant City Manager, Fenton; Administrative Assistant, Oak Park.

Current Salary: $104,291 ($400/month car allowance)

Education: Bachelors Degree in Business Administration (U of M – Flint, 1983); Masters Degree in Public Administration (U of M – Flint, 1990).

One Major Accomplishment: Upgraded Oakland Township to AAA bond rating in 2008, during economic recession.

What experience would you bring to Troy?: "I've worked in Oakland County at the Charter Township of Oakland for the past 13.5 years. In that time the prime motivation was to provide quality services at the least cost whether through cooperative efforts with adjoining municipalities, contracting out, or in house. During that time, I became engaged in every aspect of the Township, and directed/guided or played a major part in its operations. I believe the skill set of getting the best results out of the existing situation is what Troy and most every municipality should desire."

Why are you interested in this position?: "Career opportunity that I believe that I'm up to the challenge."

How would you handle Troy's divisive political climate?: "Working in Oakland County, I am very aware of Troy's political environment, and the Township is not immune from such turmoil. I have had a divided board for the past four years. It can be difficult, but hopefully with logic and reason common ground can be found. Retreats and facilitators can be useful. You can't please all of the people all of the time. I found that the Manager has to be part psychologist as well as referee."

To view the candidates' full résumés and questionnaire answers, see the attached document.