It's official. Mark Gifford is now Big Rapids' new city manager after he was sworn in by City Clerk Tammy Gillis during Tuesday's City Commission meeting. Gifford's family watched as he took the oath of office and he says he's looking forward.

“My wife Megan, my son Mason, and daughter Maria, my mom and dad William and Sue are here – thankful again to the Commission for the opportunity and very much thankful to Steve [Sobers] for his time spent with me and I'm excited,” he said.

Gifford replaces former City Manager Steve Sobers who officially retires at the end of this month.