Ottawa County's governmental leadership is in a state of flux, with Interim County Administrator Jon Anderson announcing his resignation, effective October 4, after less than six months in the position. Anderson, who failed to clinch the Republican nomination for Ottawa County Sheriff, informed the Board of Commissioners of his departure through a memorandum in which he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the county. "With your approval, my last day with the county will be Friday, Oct. 4, 2024" Anderson's letter read, "I have accepted an offer of employment from my previous employer,” as reported by Holland Sentinel.
In a move suggesting tenacity, and perhaps acknowledging the complexities of local governance, Anderson indicated he would resume work with his former employer due to a surge in investigative needs, “The company contacted me recently and asked if I could return due to a high volume of investigations or resign so they could fill my position," Anderson shared in an email to FOX 17. The resignation adds to instability at the administrative helm of Ottawa County, marking it as the third such departure of a county leader since early 2022.
The board's decision-making process may now turn to deliberations over another interim leader while also considering a permanent county administrator. However, a decision on this might not be made until after the upcoming November elections, which will bring a reconfigured board composition. This was hinted in a report by WHTC, which explained the focus of the County board's next meeting would notably involve the final vote on the Fiscal Year 2025 government budget. Nevertheless,, the agenda may include discussions on the interim administrator role.
Anderson, a retired sheriff's commander and a resident of Ottawa County for five years, also co-owns Bullet Hole Firearms and Training in Holland, Michigan. His brief tenure and forthcoming departure signal a reshuffling, with the search for both interim and permanent leadership likely pressing on the county's already complicated fiscal and administrative horizon. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with all of you and wish I could stay longer," Anderson concluded in a letter to county staff, according to FOX 17.
