Orion supervisor named as deputy county executive

Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson has named Orion Township Supervisor Matthew Gibb as his deputy county executive in charge of Economic Development and Community Affairs, a position that was vacated by Doug Smith, who went to work for Gov. Rick Snyder in the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

Gibb, a University of Kentucky Law School and Alma College graduate who was elected to the supervisor’s position in 2008, will begin his work as deputy executive on June 1.

“I’ve taken a great deal of time to find the right successor to Smith — and before him — Dennis Toffolo,” Patterson said last week. “I’m absolutely elated that Supervisor Matt Gibb has accepted my offer to join my administration as deputy executive to oversee the county’s economic development initiatives.”

“If you look to Orion Township, which he has managed for more than two years, you’ll understand why I’m so excited about Matt joining my team. Matt has demonstrated a pro-business, pro-growth agenda as Orion Township supervisor. He understands the complexity of the rules of economic development system including the MEDC.”

“This opportunity is a reflection of the tireless effort of our team in Orion and a great honor to me personally,” Gibb said. “I am humbled by the trust placed in my hands by Mr. Patterson and excited to be the energy behind the vision.”

County Media and Communications Officer Bill Mullan said Gibb’s salary will be $136,889 and that he will have “the same benefits package any county employee gets,” which includes health care coverage with co-pays and a retirement plan similar to a 401(k).