Doug Baaki Appointed South Lyon City Manager After Serving as Interim
Doug Baaki, former police chief of South Lyon, has been appointed as the new city manager following a unanimous decision by the city council. Baaki had been serving as interim city manager since December 7 after the retirement of Paul Zelenak.
He was selected from four candidates interviewed on January 28, which included three others: Susan Barkman, Krystina Laslo, and Eric Woody. Baaki, who retired as police chief in July after 35 years, expressed his desire to serve in the city manager role for the next 7 to 10 years.
The city is preparing for an $11.5 million reconstruction project on Pontiac Trail set to begin in April. Mayor Steve Kennedy praised Baaki's familiarity with the city and its staff, which has eased his transition into the new role. The council is also considering a moratorium on new data centers in the city.
