by Liz Daube
Staff Writer
In his three years with Jacksonville City Council, Michael Corrigan has worked in four offices, moved up from Council member to Council president and juggled another job along the way.
His days typically stretch from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., as he bounces between two roles: president of the City’s major governing body and president of Nu-Trend Plastics, a manufacturing company conveniently situated about three miles from City Hall. Corrigan doesn’t exactly switch hats, but he often changes clothes throughout the day: khakis for casual meetings and a dark suit for formal City affairs. The balancing act keeps him busy and typically on his way out the door.
“I really enjoy both jobs a great deal,” said Corrigan. “This (Council) office dictates my schedule more often than the other ... I’m never tired of this place because I’m never here long enough.”
Corrigan’s second job is a typical undertaking for Council members, who often juggle a business or part-time employment on the side. He said that additional business perspective has proven useful for him.
“I thought it (City Council) was going to be a totally different thing,” said Corrigan. “(But) there’s no difference between plastic trades and politics. It’s about customer service.
“At my business, when we don’t perform, I’m the one who calls the person and tells them we tried and we failed,” he continued. “I am the person responsible if things don’t go well.”
That responsibility helped prepare him for civil service, Corrigan said. His management philosophy has also pushed him to take a warm, friendly approach to his role as Council president. He said simple touches, like candy jars stocked with M&Ms and Jolly Ranchers, help people feel comfortable walking into his office.
“People want to be treated like part of a family,” said Corrigan. “Talk to people when you see them. Ask them what they do.”
He said casual conversations, like a chat in a City Hall elevator, have led him to tour places like mail rooms and call centers. Corrigan has also visited police firing ranges and participated in firefighter training.
“It wasn’t because I was trying to win votes,” said Corrigan. “I have the opportunity to learn how one of the best cities works.
“I’m big on firsthand experience,” he continued. “It’s much easier to understand what we’re spending and how (we’re spending) if you go out and see it.”
Sometimes, Corrigan said, his on-the-go lifestyle can feel a little hectic. Known for his practical jokes, he said work-related stress is best fought with a lighthearted attitude.
“I think I use humor a lot to deal with it (stress),” said Corrigan. “That way it doesn’t seem like a task, it seems like a pleasure.”