Billings City Administrator Kukulski Departs for New Role

Local leaders credit Kukulski with successes, but also acknowledge controversies during his tenure

Mar. 24, 2026 at 5:57am

Billings' city administrator Chris Kukulski is preparing to leave his post for a top job in Harbor Springs, Michigan, prompting the City Council to begin searching for his replacement. Kukulski's departure comes after a tenure marked by both successes, like public safety mill levies and addressing the Colonial Apartments, as well as controversies over issues like water billing.

Why it matters

Kukulski's departure will be a significant transition for Billings, as the city administrator plays a crucial role in managing day-to-day operations and setting the strategic direction. The search for his replacement will be closely watched, as the new city administrator will inherit both the accomplishments and challenges faced during Kukulski's time in office.

The details

Kukulski is leaving Billings to take a top job in Harbor Springs, Michigan. Local leaders credit him with successes like passing public safety mill levies and addressing the long-troubled Colonial Apartments. However, his tenure also saw controversies over issues like water billing. The specific timing and details of Kukulski's departure are still being finalized as the City Council begins the search for his replacement.

  • Kukulski is preparing to leave his post as Billings city administrator.

The players

Chris Kukulski

The outgoing city administrator of Billings, Montana, who is departing for a new role in Harbor Springs, Michigan.

Billings City Council

The governing body of Billings that will be responsible for selecting Kukulski's replacement as city administrator.

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What’s next

The Billings City Council will begin the process of searching for and selecting a new city administrator to replace the departing Chris Kukulski.

The takeaway

Kukulski's departure represents a significant transition for Billings, as the city administrator plays a critical role in managing the city's operations and setting its strategic direction. The search for his replacement will be closely watched, as the new city administrator will inherit both the accomplishments and challenges faced during Kukulski's tenure.