Veteran Employees Step Up as Battle Creek Fills Assistant City Manager and Fire Chief Positions
*BATTLE CREEK, Mich.* — The City of Battle Creek is embracing a promotion-from-within approach to fill two critical leadership positions, marking the end of an extended interim period that has defined city government for the past 18 months.
City Manager Amanda Zimmerlin announced Monday that Marcie Gillette will become the new assistant city manager, succeeding Ted Dearing who retires at the end of April. Simultaneously, Bush McCarthy has been named the next fire chief, ending the interim leadership that began in September 2024 following a departmental review.
"While we always value the perspectives and ideas external candidates bring, moments like this reflect the strength of investing in people who have built their careers serving Battle Creek and are ready to take on greater responsibility," Zimmerlin said.
Both Gillette and McCarthy bring decades of institutional knowledge, deep community connections, and proven leadership credentials to their new roles.
Marcie Gillette: Three Decades of Community Services Leadership
Gillette has been a Battle Creek city employee since 1998, most recently serving as the community services director since 2015. Her career has spanned multiple areas of city operations, with a focus on collaboration, service delivery, and organizational leadership.
She holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and a bachelor's degree in human services administration from Siena Heights University. Gillette is also a member of the International City/County Management Association and currently serves as vice chair of the Battle Creek Housing Commission.
"Marcie Gillette brings deep institutional knowledge, steady leadership and an unwavering commitment to public service to the role of assistant city manager," Zimmerlin said. "She has demonstrated sound judgment, professionalism and a strong dedication to our community throughout her career."
Gillette will take over from Ted Dearing, who has served the city for more than 30 years and is retiring at the end of April. Dearing continues to support a smooth transition as he concludes his decades-long career in public service.
Bush McCarthy: Fire Department Veteran Named Chief
McCarthy joins the Battle Creek Fire Department in April 2008 and was promoted to battalion chief in March 2025 under the previous administration led by Police Chief Shannon Bagley. He holds a bachelor's degree in communications from Albion College.
Beyond his fire service duties, McCarthy serves as a master sergeant in the Michigan Air National Guard and holds board positions with the American Red Cross Southwest Michigan and the Calhoun County Medical Control Authority.
"Bush McCarthy's experience in the fire service and long tenure with the City of Battle Creek make him well suited to serve as fire chief," Zimmerlin said. "His leadership will support continued progress while keeping the wellbeing of our firefighters and neighbors at the forefront."
McCarthy's appointment marks the end of an extended period of interim leadership under Police Chief Shannon Bagley. Over the past 18 months, the city focused on developing fire service leadership by allowing battalion chiefs to take on expanded responsibilities, strengthening the department's readiness and leadership depth.
City's Investment in Internal Talent
Zimmerlin's decision to promote from within reflects a strategic approach to leadership development. The city has increasingly focused on cultivating internal talent rather than seeking external candidates.
"While we always value the perspectives and ideas external candidates bring, moments like this reflect the strength of investing in people who have built their careers serving Battle Creek and are ready to take on greater responsibility," Zimmerlin said.
This approach ensures continuity and maintains strong relationships with long-serving staff who understand the city's operations, culture, and community needs.
What Comes Next
A specific date for when McCarthy will officially assume the role of fire chief has not yet been announced. Both Gillette and McCarthy will begin their new roles in the coming weeks, providing leadership stability as the city moves forward.
The promotions come at a time when Battle Creek is managing various community challenges, including ongoing infrastructure improvements and public safety initiatives. Having experienced, knowledgeable leaders at the helm will be critical as the city continues to serve its residents.
Community Impact
Residents and city employees alike have welcomed the news of these promotions. Both Gillette and McCarthy have built strong relationships across the city through their years of service, and their deep understanding of Battle Creek's unique needs positions them well to lead in their new roles.
The city's commitment to promoting from within signals a shift toward long-term leadership development and stability for Battle Creek government.