Special Session (Tracy L. Byard – Resume, 5/14/2024)

Tracy L. Byard, ICMA-CM, has expressed a strong interest in the County Administrator/Chief Financial Officer position for Leelanau County in her application letter dated April 29, 2024. With over 20 years of experience in county government, Byard has developed a comprehensive skill set that includes human resource operations, budget management, and policy development. She has been responsible for managing a $34 million budget and overseeing various county programs, demonstrating her capability to provide decisive leadership and implement effective policies and ordinances.

In her professional experience, Byard has served as the County Administrator for Oceana County since June 2022 and previously for Clare County from January 2010 to June 2022. Her responsibilities in these roles included budget preparation and oversight, labor relations negotiations, and management of multiple county departments. Byard’s achievements include implementing a work order system, contributing to the creation of a Small Business Incubator, and coordinating significant projects such as courthouse security and HVAC system upgrades. Her educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Northwood University and various professional training courses in areas such as financial management, human resources, and grant writing.

Byard’s involvement extends beyond her administrative roles, as she has served on numerous boards and commissions, including the Mid-Michigan Community Action Agency Board and the Michigan Association of Counties Administrative Officers Board of Directors. She is also actively involved in professional affiliations such as the Michigan Public Employee Labor Relations and the International City/County Management Association. Her volunteer work further highlights her commitment to community service, with contributions to events like the Clare County Easter Egg Hunt and the Farwell Little League. Byard’s extensive experience, educational background, and community involvement make her a strong candidate for the Leelanau County Administrator/Chief Financial Officer position.