What's in this Guide
Mayor of Portage
Kalamazoo City Transit Authority Proposal
Kalamazoo City Referendum on Ordinance No. 1856
Mayor of Portage
Two-year term Vote for 1
Peter Strazdas
Age 51. 7130 Crown Pointe Cir. Vice President, Facilities Management, WMU. Master’s degree, WMU, 1980. WMU Assistant Professor, 1980–90; WMU Construction Administrator, 1990–95; WMU Plant Administrator, 1995–2009; Associate VP Facilities Management, 2009–present. Various Portage boards and committees, 1989–94; Planning Commission, 1994–2001; City Council, 2001–05; Mayor, two terms, 2005–present. Michigan OSHA Commission, 1994–2009. 30 yrs of volunteer service to the region and City of Portage.
1. The economic vitality of our city is related to the economic conditions of the region and state. However, characteristics such as a low millage rate, high quality of life, and utility infrastructure in place for businesses to grow has been and continues to be the formula for a positive economic environment. Portage has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state and continues to attract business and commerce. We continue to diversify our tax base and foster a positive business environment.
2. Portage’s greatest assets include an excellent school district, one of the best road and utility systems, a safe community, wonderful parks and trails for recreation, strong neighborhoods, and the best shopping and dining around the region. These quality of life characteristics are the reason so many people and businesses have located in Portage. It needs to be leveraged in an appropriate manner to support our pressing issues—job creation and a stable economic base.
3. I bring 30 years of public service to the job. I have given 20 years of service to the Planning Commission, City Council and as Mayor. During my tenure on the City Council I have tried to foster transparency, respect, customer service, integrity, open communication, sound financial practices, conservative government and citizen engagement. Regional cooperation is at an all-time high and our city is in a good financial position. Seasoned local elected officials are needed during these very difficult economic times to weather the storm.
4. Youth and seniors are important to our community. The Council has established formal advisory committees for both youth and the Senior Center. The city must maintain a positive relationship with the school district administration and keep the youth safe and engaged in the community. The Senior Center has been recognized by the state as an excellent program that provides opportunities for seniors to be active, informed and healthy. There are good programs in place, but I would encourage more volunteers to step up and enhance their quality.