Long-time Plymouth city manager retires tomorrow
After nearly half a century of public service, Plymouth City Manager Paul Sincock will officially leave office tomorrow, Oct. 17.Sincock, 68, has been a central figure in the progress and stability of the community for nearly five decades, officials said. He began his career with Plymouth in the 1970s and rose through the organization to become city manager, where he earned statewide respect for his visionary leadership, financial stewardship, and collaborative approach to governance. His tenure leaves a legacy of operational excellence and strong civic engagement, they added.
Sincock a graduate of Salem High School began working for the city in the early 1970s, making $1.65 an hour watering flowers and pulling weeds at the Cultural Center, he said. He served as arena manager, assistant recreation director, public safety director, director of municipal services, special events coordinator, acting city manager, and was named city manager in 2001.
Sincock has a family history of public service. His father, Robert, served on the city commission and as mayor and was involved with establishing both the city hall and the cultural center. His mother, Dorothy, was also involved in the community, working with special needs students. Sincock’s wife, Traci, retired as director of Maybury State Park and now leads the Northville Historical Society.
“Paul Sincock’s service to Plymouth has been nothing short of extraordinary,” added Deal. “He has shaped the very foundation of how we operate as a city and serve our residents.”
In a unanimous decision, the Plymouth City Commission has appointed Chris Porman, the Assistant City Manager and Director of the Department of Municipal Services, as the incoming city manager, effective the same day.
“This transition is a direct result of the city’s Strategic Plan, which emphasizes thoughtful succession planning and leadership development,” said Mayor Suzi Deal. “We’ve worked intentionally to prepare for this moment, and we are proud to have a highly qualified leader like Chris Porman ready to take the reins.”
Porman, Sincock’s successor, brings extensive experience in public works, municipal management,and civic leadership. He was selected on a national basis and completed the American Public Works Association (APWA) Emerging Leaders Academy. He serves as Co-Chair of the Michigan Public Service Institute. He is also a founding member and planning committee member of the Midwest Advanced Public Service Institute, and an active participant in the Michigan APWA Chapter.
Locally, Porman, like Sincock, has maintained a strong commitment to community service, having served as past president of the Plymouth Noon Rotary Club.
“Chris Porman is an outstanding leader who understands both the operational demands of city government and the values of our community,” said Deal. “We are confident he will carry Plymouth’s legacy forward with great skill and heart.”
