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Royal Oak City Commission Ousts Manager, Hires Consultant

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

On December 8, 2025, Royal Oak City Commission unanimously ended Joseph Gacioch, the former city manager of Royal Oak, citing a desire for change.
Gacioch will receive approximately $136,000 in severance after termination without cause.
He served less than a year in Royal Oak and previously managed Ferndale for 13 years.
City Attorney Niccolas Grochowski is the interim city manager.
Vettraino Consulting was hired for $29,500 to find Gacioch's replacement.

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Story summary

On December 8, 2025, Royal Oak City Commission unanimously ended Joseph Gacioch, the former city manager of Royal Oak, citing a desire for change.
Gacioch will receive approximately $136,000 in severance after termination without cause.
He served less than a year in Royal Oak and previously managed Ferndale for 13 years.
City Attorney Niccolas Grochowski is the interim city manager.
Vettraino Consulting was hired for $29,500 to find Gacioch's replacement.