Oak Park Seeks Applications to Fill City Council Vacancy
(City of Oak Park, May 19, 2026)
OAK PARK, MI — At its regularly scheduled meeting on May 18, 2026, the Oak Park City Council formally voted to accept the resignation of Councilmember Shaun Whitehead and to initiate the process to appoint a new councilmember in accordance with the Oak Park City Charter.
Councilmember Whitehead submitted his resignation to the City on May 5, 2026, citing recent family circumstances and the need to prioritize personal well‑being.
While the City Charter authorizes Council to directly appoint a replacement, it requires that any vacancy be filled within 30 days of formal acceptance. In keeping with its commitment to transparency, public engagement, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, City Council elected to voluntarily open an application and interview process to invite community participation in the appointment decision.
“This approach allows us to move forward promptly while also giving residents the opportunity to engage in local governance,” said Oak Park Mayor Marian McClellan. “Though not required by charter, we believe openness and public trust are essential to effective leadership.”
The City of Oak Park will publish official application materials and a position description beginning May 19, 2026, with the application window closing on June 1, 2026.
Following the deadline, City Council will review submissions and determine candidates to advance to interviews. Finalist interviews will be conducted at a 5:30 p.m. Special City Council Meeting on June 8, 2026, with an appointment anticipated at the regular council meeting on June 15, 2026, ahead of the June 17, 2026 charter‑mandated deadline.
The appointed councilmember will serve until the next regular municipal election, as provided by the City Charter.
Residents seeking additional information regarding the current council vacancy, application, or appointment process are urged to visit https://oakparkmi.applicantpro.com/jobs. Remaining inquiries may be directed to the City Clerk’s Office at (248) 691‑7544.
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