The City of Ferndale is thrilled to welcome Colleen O’Toole as its new City Manager. After a stringent national search effort between City Staff and City Council—including several rounds of researching, surveying, interviewing, and discussion—City Council unanimously appointed O’Toole at the Monday, February 10, 2025, public meeting.  

O’Toole brings 8 ½ years of City Manager experience to Ferndale with a concentrated focus on finance, economic development, capital improvement, and public policy. Her collaborative and problem-solving mindset navigated her through municipal management positions as the City Manager for Saline, Michigan, and Durand, Michigan. She is familiar with BS&A, the City’s budget tool, and has extensive grant research and writing experience. O’Toole’s job experience and personal values align perfectly with the wants and needs of the City of Ferndale.  

O’Toole is no stranger to government operations, having grown up with two parents as civil servants. Throughout childhood, she witnessed community commitment and learned how an active participant solves community challenges. After receiving her master’s in public administration from DePaul University in 2009, she pivoted from the public to the private sector to pursue that community-driven focus. She feels a sense of accomplishment knowing her job helps other people.  

O’Toole’s immediate priorities for the City are tackling the upcoming May election and Headlee Override, the fiscal year budget cycle, and the upcoming union negotiations. “I am here to help ease the community’s concerns during a sensitive time and ensure that we are making the best use of our tax dollars,” stated O’Toole. “I hope to advocate for residents and your experience in this community, and I want to see Ferndale continue to thrive.” She shared that her goal is to protect and steward the community’s quality of life in the years ahead. 

When asked why she chose the City of Ferndale, she mentioned that Ferndale stood out more than any other community for its policies, activities, and inclusiveness. “Ferndale acts on its values, not just speaks,” O’Toole noted. She sees the public, staff, and Council aligned on these values. Colleen is especially excited to bring her wife and kids to the community to experience Ferndale’s unique events, diverse businesses, and inclusive parks.    

O’Toole also cited the positive impression of the interview process from City staff, City Council, and the public, for teaching her the core values of the community. While discussing the appointment decision, City Council praised O’Toole for her experience, preparedness, and detailed approach. “When I say that Colleen embodied everything that I’m looking for in a City Manager, I truly, truly believe it,” said Mayor Pro Tem Laura Mikulski. Mayor Raylon Leaks-May emphasized that this decision was made for the sake of connectivity and is what the Ferndale community needs right now. City Council unanimously supported Colleen and looks forward to working with her and beginning this new chapter.  

Ultimately, Colleen wants the community to know she is here to serve you. Please feel free to reach out at cotoole@ferndalemi.gov or call 248-546-2399.