The Michigan Municipal League (MML) has selected Sterling Heights City Manager Mark Vanderpool as the 2019 recipient of the Jim Sinclair Exceptional Service Award.
Mr. Vanderpool received the award at the MML’s Capital Conference Gala on Tuesday evening.
The Jim Sinclair Exceptional Service Award is bestowed annually on a public servant “…dedicated to public service who has shown passion and commitment to the League, enthusiastically supporting its mission and promoting its purpose.”
According to the MML, Mr. Vanderpool’s long-term involvement with the League and other state and national municipal-focused associations made him a natural pick for the Jim Sinclair Exceptional Service Award. “Mark recognizes the value of thinking beyond his city’s borders and demonstrates an unparalleled commitment to regional collaboration in Macomb County and throughout the state,” adds Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director of the Michigan Municipal League. “His big picture thinking has benefitted Sterling Heights and many MML initiatives. His willingness to tackle the most pressing of municipal issues is a testament to his commitment to the mission of the MML.”
The MML further acknowledges that Mr. Vanderpool has “worked tirelessly to better his community, the region, state and cities across the nation. [Vanderpool] has exceptionally served his community helping lead the city through multiple successful millage proposals for roads and public safety. A true big-picture thinker who views leadership as a team effort, Mark continually is planning ahead by encouraging himself, city staff and councilmembers to focus on the city’s future and ways to constantly improve.”
Vanderpool has more than 25 years of municipal management experience. His tenure as City Manager for Sterling Heights commenced on July 1, 2004. Mr. Vanderpool previously served as assistant village manager for Skokie, Ill. for 11 years. He also served as assistant city manager for Tecumseh, Mich. for four years and as an administrative intern for Skokie for two years. He earned his bachelor’s degree in public administration/political science from Augustana College and a master’s degree in public administration from Northern Illinois University. Mr. Vanderpool is married to Kim, and is the proud parent of Ashleigh, Tiffany, Marcus and Cole.
Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor said the City Council was proud to learn that its City Manager was selected for this prestigious recognition.
“Mark is incredibly deserving of this award and it comes as no surprise to me or my colleagues on City Council that he would be chosen for such a prestigious honor by the MML,” Taylor said. “Mark works tirelessly every single day in his role as City Manager and hasn’t slowed down a bit in the past 15 years. The Council and I are grateful that he has chosen to stay in Sterling Heights and continues to provide highly professional guidance and strong leadership for our entire city.”
For more information, contact Community Relations at (586) 446-2470.