LAKETOWN TWP., MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Aug. 20, 2025) – Stephanie Fox will step up and answer allegations against her from a previous employment stop.
The current executive assistant to Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley has agreed to a third public interview with the Laketown Township Board, set for next Tuesday, September 2nd, at 6 PM in the Township Hall (4338 Beeline Rd.). Fox emerged from 45 applicants for the vacant Township Manager position to enter into contract negotiations with the governing panel.
After agreeing to a tentative two-year deal with her worth $110,000 annually with bonuses, the board two weeks ago halted the process after Supervisor Steven Ringelberg, who has been handling the operational leadership duties since Al Meshkin’s retirement in January following 37 years on the job, and who had been the lone no vote against Fox’ endorsement last month, brought up information obtained from her time as Ionia County Administrator, along with several phone calls from residents there that raised concerns over her job qualifications. The board asked Fox for another interview to answer those concerns.
While the Fox’ appointment has been held up, the Laketown Township board asked two other finalists for the managerial position – Howard Fink and Graafschap Fire Department Captain David Grumney – to remain available should things fall through. Last week, Fink stepped down as Park Township’s manager, effective on August 31st.
The board may opt to make a decision on Fox following next Tuesday’s interview, or wait until holding its scheduled monthly meeting the following evening.
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