HOLLAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Oct. 30, 2023) – If VenuWorks continues as the retained operator of the Heeringa Holland Civic Center place after its current initial contract with the City of Holland expires next June, it will do so with a new leader.
On Monday, Chris Hart announced his retirement after nearly four years on the job. He didn’t explain the reasoning behind his decision in a statement released by the Iowa-based operator.
“It has been an incredible honor to lead our team with the guidance and support of VenuWorks over the years. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to work with our dedicated staff and board members, as well as the unwavering support of our community. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and created positive change in the lives of countless individuals.” – Chris Hart
Hart was named Executive Director about a year after VenuWorks, which operates 30 venues for more than 25 clients nationwide, secured the contract for Holland’s 55,000 square-foot municipal facility following a renovation. He did not state any plans in his announcement following his expected last day this coming Friday, November 3rd.
Jerramiah Chabitch, the Civic Center Place’s current Food and Beverage Manager and Executive Chef, will assume the director’s duties on an interim basis while a nationwide search for a permanent replacement is named.
Last month, the Holland City Council rejected a recommendation from the Civic Center Place Board in not extending VenuWorks’ current five-year contract, opting instead to bid out the process, as City Manager Keith Van Beek explained was standard practice with other contractual matters.
