Road Commission Director Abruptly Resigns

Grand Traverse County Road Commission Managing Director Brad Kluczynski abruptly resigned at the end of a special meeting Thursday after road commissioners went into closed session to discuss a "written attorney-client communication regarding a non-union issue" and then again to discuss "personnel action with respect to the managing director," according to the meeting agenda. Neither road commissioners nor Kluczynski publicly addressed the reasons for his resignation, though the board thanked Kluczynski for his service and Kluczynski called it a "business decision."

Road commissioners unanimously voted to accept Kluczynski's resignation and to appoint GTCRC Superintendent Dan Watkins as interim managing director effective immediately. The board also voted to offer Kluczynski a separation agreement "in recognition of his service," though the terms of that agreement have not yet been disclosed. Road commissioners also voted to take action to start a search process to find Kluczynski's long-term replacement.

Before voting, road commissioners - immediately after coming out of closed session - gave Kluczynski an opportunity to make a public statement. "I want to say that I've really enjoyed working here at the Road Commission," Kluczynski said, sounding emotional as he spoke. "It's been one of the best experiences of my life. I can honestly I've loved every minute of it, and I really appreciate everything we've able to accomplish over the time. But at this point, I'm going to tender my resignation for the position and move on to other things." Kluczynski later said: "It's a business decision, and I hope to see you all outside this environment."

Kluczynski served as the managing director of GTCRC since February 2019. He was previously the superintendent of the department of public works in Elk Rapids.