Decision will save MICRC approximately $126,000 in taxpayer funds
LANSING — The Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission (MICRC) has officially announced the appointment of Edward Woods III as its new executive director to replace Suann Hammersmith, who is retiring from the helm today.
By a 61-39% margin, Michigan voters supported a constitutional amendment in 2018 that makes a commission of 13 randomly selected citizens — not elected politicians, consultants or lobbyists — responsible for drawing fair and representative election districts for the Michigan Legislature and U.S. Congress.
The MICRC consists of four members who affiliate with the Republican Party, four members who affiliate with the Democratic Party and five members who are not affiliated with either major party.
“I’m very grateful and honored for the commission to consider me for this position,” Woods said. “I thank Suann for modeling professionalism in her service to the MICRC. I wish Suann well in her retirement.”
In consolidating the executive director position and the communications and outreach director position, the commission will reduce staff salary expenses by approximately $126,000 in taxpayer funds, according to MICRC Commissioner Doug Clark.
“We are confident Edward will do an outstanding job as we move forward with the MICRC’s work,” said Clark, who serves as the MICRC’s hiring committee chair and affiliates with the Republican Party.
“He will continue to build on the excellent tenure of his predecessor, Suann Hammersmith, to whom we express our deep gratitude for her tireless service and leadership,” Clark added.
Woods will make $152,000 per year with a one-week paid vacation. The MICRC’s decision makes Woods the only full-time staff position for the commission.
“Edward’s ceaseless work ethic and contributions to the MICRC have been invaluable,” said MICRC Chair M.C. Rothhorn, who affiliates with the Democratic Party.
“Based on his stellar work in executing our 21 public hearings and communications and outreach efforts that garnered nearly 30,000 public comments, his promotion is well-deserved,” Rothhorn added.
Woods previously served as director of communications for what was then called the Michigan Department of Management and Budget, Office of Communications director for what was then called the Michigan Department of Humans Services, and the director of learning and leadership experiences for the Michigan Society of Association Executives. Before joining the MICRC, Woods was the executive director of the Lansing Area Safety Council.
“Edward’s credentials are impeccable, especially when fostering relationships,” said MICRC Commissioner Rebecca Szetela, who affiliates as an independent.
“He is uniquely suited to take on this role for MICRC because his leadership, knowledge and experiences related to our work and mission are unparalleled,” Szetela added.
