– Contributed photo
PENTWATER — The Pentwater Village Council voted unanimously to appoint James “Toby” Van Ess as the new village manager last week.
Van Ess replaces Rachel Witherspoon who resigned in August and began the job Oct. 1, 2024.
“Toby has served as our zoning administrator since March of this year,” states the Village of Pentwater’s website. “His decades-long ties to Pentwater; his business background; as well as his views on our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats were highlights of his interview. He has 15+ years of municipal experience serving as a township treasurer and supervisor. He has an open-door policy and looks forward to serving the community.”
Toby’s skillset is just what we need right now as we strengthen our plans to assure the best possible services for village residents and guests today and into the future,” said Pentwater Village Council President Mary Marshall. “We are fortunate to have an individual with such vast experience on our staff. We extend our warmest welcome to Toby in his new role as our village manager.”
An open house to welcome Van Ess and meet with other village staff is set for Monday, Oct. 13, from 5-6 p.m. at Park Place Event Center, 310 N. Rush St.
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