Faces of the City February 2026: Stephen Fisher

February 2, 2026

Faces of the City

A monthly feature that highlights the dedicated employees who help keep our city running. Get to know who they are, what they do, and the paths that brought them here—putting a face to the city you live, work, and play in.

February 2026 — Stephen Fisher

This month, we’re spotlighting Stephen Fisher, Code Compliance Inspector in the City of Muskegon’s Planning Department. Stephen has dedicated more than 18 years to serving the city and plays an important role in helping maintain safe, orderly, and well-regulated neighborhoods across Muskegon.

Man in a cozy setting sits on a brown chair, wearing a navy sweater. He appears relaxed and content, with a subtle smile. Neutral-toned decor.

As a Code Compliance Inspector, Stephen is responsible for enforcing the City of Muskegon’s Zoning Code of Ordinance and City Code of Ordinances. A major focus of his work includes ensuring vacant or unsecured structures are brought into compliance. This often means identifying open or unsafe properties and notifying property owners through formal letters, helping protect public safety while encouraging responsible property maintenance throughout the city.

Person in a red jacket, yellow safety vest, and orange hat writes on a clipboard while standing on a snowy sidewalk, conveying focus and dedication.

Although his job sometimes puts him in difficult situations, Stephen is known for his kindness and professionalism. He recognizes that code enforcement is not always easy to receive, and he makes a point to listen, explain, and work toward solutions whenever possible. For Stephen, compliance is not about punishment. It is about protecting the community and helping neighborhoods succeed.

Stephen’s path to this role is grounded in both education and service. He holds a civil engineering background from Michigan State University, where a strong emphasis on codes and ethics aligned naturally with his future responsibilities in municipal work. In addition, his extensive military service (from 1990 to 2023 with a brief break in between) instilled a deep respect for structure, accountability, and upholding standards, all of which carry over into his daily work with the city.

A man in a patterned sweater sits at a cluttered desk, reaching for a computer mouse. Office supplies and plants are visible. The atmosphere is busy yet focused.

Outside of work, Stephen values time spent with family and friends and enjoys vacationing whenever he can. Whether at home or away, he appreciates opportunities to relax, recharge, and connect with the people who matter most.