Reflections Magazine Issue #78 - Spring 2013 | Page 21

Feature Article

Calling his leadership style “collaborative
and strategic,” Hopewell said he relies on a team
approach to solve problems – in both jobs.
“I don’t typically force myself (on people),”
said Hopewell, a former Eagle Scout who
worked as a camp counselor in his earlier years.
“(I want) to be involved in making something
happen. We think through it and analyze and
find the tactical way to move forward.”
He also doesn’t take himself too seriously.
“I take the office of mayor seriously as it
needs to be taken, but I don’t take myself too
seriously in that office,” he said. “I think humor
has to be involved with everything.”
He said being a public servant also means
being a public figure, and that means sacrificing
some personal time.
“It can be challenging,” said Hopewell, who
is single but considers his role with the city as
sometimes “parental.” “I love people … but
everyone wants your voice, wants your time. …
I smile, because I think to myself ‘It’s part of the
role.’ I try to put myself in their shoes.”
Hopewell said he has a strong group of
friends and family who are supportive, and still
finds some personal time to ride his bicycle,
work out and watch science fiction movies.
“Some friends like introducing me as the
mayor,” he said, smiling. “I try to stay connected
to the people I love.”
He said he has no aspirations of running
for state or national politics, and is happy where
he is at.
“My passion is service,” Hopewell said. “I will
serve where I am comfortable and where people
feel comfortable with me serving. … I have the
best job in the universe, being mayor of the best
city in the state of Michigan. I’m good.” u