Chippewa County

NOTICE

Chippewa County Sheriff Michael Bitnar has announced his retirement from office, effective January 2, 2027, creating a vacancy in the elected position of Chippewa County Sheriff.

The statutory appointment committee is now accepting applications from individuals interested in being considered for appointment to the vacant office.

Pursuant to Michigan Compiled Laws 168.209(2), the vacancy will be filled with a suitable person by an appointing committee consisting of the Presiding or Senior Judge of Probate, the Chippewa County Clerk, and the Chippewa County Prosecuting Attorney.

The appointment process will be conducted in accordance with Michigan law, including applicable requirements of the Michigan Open Meetings Act.

A person appointed shall take and subscribe to the oath under Michigan’s Constitution, give bond in the manner required by law, and hold office for the remainder of the unexpired term and until a successor is elected and qualified.

The term of the appointed Sheriff will be determined in accordance with MCL 168.209 and other applicable Michigan law.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants should submit:

• A letter of interest;

• A current resume or curriculum vitae;

• A summary of relevant law-enforcement, supervisory, administrative, and/or leadership experience; and

• Any additional information the applicant wishes the appointment committee to consider.

Applicants must meet all qualifications required by the Constitution and laws of the State of Michigan to serve as Sheriff of Chippewa County.

SUBMISSION

Applications shall be submitted to:

Chippewa County Clerk Steve Woodgate
319 Court Street
Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan 49783
[email protected]

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2026, AT 2:00 P.M.
Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Probate Judge Eric Blubaugh
Chippewa County Clerk Steve Woodgate Chippewa County
Prosecuting Attorney Robert Stratton

PUBLISHED/POSTED

October 1, 2026

Chippewa County Clerk
Chippewa County, Michigan