City Manager Seeks Four-Year Contract Extension

Chelsea City Manager Fidel Maltez requested a four-year contract extension on Wednesday, seeking to keep his position through December 31, 2031.

Maltez submitted a letter to the city council proposing a new agreement that would begin on January 1, 2028. His current employment agreement, which was executed on October 6, 2023, is set to expire on December 31, 2027. The existing terms allow the city manager to request negotiations for a new agreement by June 30, 2027. Maltez argued that addressing the matter before the end of the current calendar year is preferable because the second half of the fiscal year is traditionally the busiest period for the city.

The proposed extension mirrors the structure of the original four-year term. It includes no changes to the base salary or the existing compensation package. The agreement maintains a 3 percent annual salary increase that takes effect each January 1, consistent with the original contract.

Maltez stated that a renewal would maintain continuity in leadership and allow the city to keep its focus on upcoming work. He noted that over the past three years, Chelsea has strengthened public safety services, focused on economic development, and supported residents and small businesses. He described the municipal government as stronger and more resilient, adding that he believes the city is just getting started on its work.

The council moved to send the contract extension to a subcommittee for further review. District 1 Councilor Todd Taylor suggested delaying the subcommittee review until the council completes its city manager evaluation process. Taylor noted that the evaluation is coming soon and that waiting would allow the council to discuss the results before proceeding.

Councilor-at-Large Leo Robinson, who negotiated the original contract with Maltez, expressed support for continuing the process. Robinson said he is looking forward to working with the city manager as they move forward with the contract discussions.