A Familiar Face Returns: Mark Zanotti Sworn In as Bay City's 5th Ward Commissioner

Bay City's 5th Ward is buzzing with the news: a familiar and respected leader has officially returned to the helm. Mark Zanotti, a dedicated public servant with a proven track record, was formally sworn in as the newest 5th Ward Commissioner, bringing his wealth of experience back to the city's governing body.

The unanimous decision by the Bay City Commission ushers in a new chapter of leadership for the ward, filling a critical vacancy with a seasoned hand.

The need for new leadership arose following the recent resignation of Commissioner Lynn Stamiris, who stepped down after relocating outside the ward.

This created an immediate opportunity for the commission to appoint a qualified individual to serve the remainder of the term. After careful consideration of several strong candidates, Zanotti emerged as the clear choice, his deep roots and prior experience in the ward making him an ideal fit.

For those familiar with Bay City politics, Zanotti is a well-known name.

He previously served as the 5th Ward Commissioner from 2017 to 2021, demonstrating a profound commitment to his constituents during his tenure. Beyond the city commission, his dedication extends to education, having also served on the Bay City Public Schools board. This diverse background equips him with a holistic understanding of the community's needs, from infrastructure to educational priorities.

The selection process was thorough, with the Bay City Commission reviewing applications from several committed individuals.

Alongside Zanotti, impressive candidates like Aaron Chernich and Andrew Stachowiak were also considered, highlighting the strong civic engagement within the 5th Ward. Ultimately, the commission's unanimous vote for Zanotti underscored their confidence in his ability to immediately step in and make a positive impact.

Zanotti’s current appointment will see him serve until the upcoming general election in November 2025.

At that time, residents of the 5th Ward will have the opportunity to cast their votes to determine who will complete the remaining two years of the term. Expressing his enthusiasm, Zanotti has already indicated his strong intention to run for election in November, eager to earn the trust of his constituents and continue serving his community for the full term.

Upon taking his oath, Zanotti conveyed his excitement about once again serving Bay City, emphasizing his commitment to addressing the concerns of his fellow residents.

His return is fueled by a desire to focus on tangible improvements within the city and to ensure that the voices of the 5th Ward are heard clearly in city hall. With his experience and renewed vigor, residents can look forward to a proactive and engaged representative working tirelessly on their behalf.