MOUNT PLEASANT, MI – The City of Mt. Pleasant is undergoing a notable shift in leadership as Mayor Bryan Chapman steps down after holding the role for only a few weeks. Bryan Chapman’s resignation was formally accepted by the Mount Pleasant City Commission during its meeting on Monday, Jan. 27.
“It is with mixed emotions that I announce my resignation from the City Commission, effective immediately,” Chapman wrote in his resignation letter. “Serving this city, a place where I was born and raised, and that I hold so close to my heart has been one of the greatest honors of my life.”
Former Vice Mayor Boomer Wingard has now assumed the role of Mayor, continuing his service to the community in a new capacity. During the meeting, the commission also elected Maureen Eke as the new Vice Mayor to fill the leadership gap created by Chapman’s departure.
Just weeks prior, Commissioner Amy Perschbacher concluded her tenure as mayor after three terms, passing the gavel to Bryan Chapman. Commissioner Wingard, who had nominated Chapman for the mayoral role, was subsequently elected Vice Mayor following a nomination by Chapman.
Chapman, a lifelong resident of Mt. Pleasant, has been deeply involved in the nonprofit sector for over a decade. He serves as the executive director of Clothing Inc. at the William and Janet Strickler Center on West High Street and is the co-owner of Pleasant Psychology. His commitment to public service began with his 2022 appointment to the City Commission to fill a vacancy, and he was elected to a full term in November 2023.
Following Chapman’s resignation, the City Commission now faces the task of filling his vacant seat. The commission will appoint an individual to serve in the role until Election Day on Aug. 5. Applications for the interim position are being accepted until Feb. 12 at 4:30 p.m.
Residents interested in applying can obtain application forms at the City Manager’s Office, located at 320 W. Broadway Street, or online at www.mt-pleasant.org/boardapplication. The Appointments Committee will review applications and present a recommendation to the full City Commission during its Feb. 24 meeting.
The process for electing a permanent representative to fill the vacancy is also underway. Nominating petitions for the position are now available at City Hall, in the City Clerk’s Office, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Candidates must collect a minimum of 50 and a maximum of 80 certified signatures to qualify.
Petitions can be submitted beginning Monday, March 24, with a filing deadline of 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22. The elected representative will serve a term running from Aug. 5, 2025, to Dec. 31, 2026.
For additional details, residents can contact the City Clerk’s Office at 320 W. Broadway Street or visit www.mt-pleasant.org.
