Summary
The Council chose Karen Dempsey-Horan from three finalists, picking experience and community fit over an in-state candidate with labor-negotiation background. She'd be the city's first female manager in 63 years, with final approval expected September 8. The remaining finalists were encouraged to apply for future city leadership roles.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 7
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Aug 28, 2026.
Impact analysis
The cost of the city manager's salary and contract terms will be set during negotiations before the September 8 vote.
Residents get a new city manager with strong experience and broad community and staff support.
No specific groups are singled out as harmed, though residents could lose out if the pick leads to poor budget or service decisions.
Mentions & discussions (6)
City Council - Aug 28, 2026
The Council chose Karen Dempsey-Horan from three finalists, picking experience and community fit over an in-state candidate with labor-negotiation background. She'd be the city's first female manager in 63 years, with final approval expected September 8. The remaining finalists were encouraged to apply for future city leadership roles.
City of Portage selects finalist for City Manager position
City of Portage selects finalist for City Manager position WWMT
Next Portage city manager to be selected Friday
Next Portage city manager to be selected Friday WKZO
City Council - Aug 19, 2026
Portage is replacing long-time city manager Pat McGuinness, and who gets hired will shape everything from the Westnedge corridor redevelopment to how responsive city services feel day to day. The council cut the field from four finalists to three on August 19, with the final choice coming later.
City Council - Jul 21, 2026
The council went into closed session to review confidential applications and set August 19 interviews for four finalists in the city manager search.
City Council - May 26, 2026
With Manager Pat McGinnis departing, the council unanimously hired Walsh Municipal Services to run the search — a firm it used successfully in 2022 at a fraction of the cost of national firms. Interviews are expected in August with a hire by late August.
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