I am a Democrat and I am proud to be a Democrat. We are proud of what Democrats have done in this city and this county over the years and what they will continue to do. As a former Democratic candidate for Mayor and a City of Portage employee for 27 years, 16 of those years being Street and Sanitation Superintendent, I have always taken pride and interest in the greatest city in Northwest Indiana. My vision for this great city is to support the person I think has the right qualifications, not the party.

The citizens of Portage must now make a very vital decision on who their next Mayor will be. I’ve seen a lot of changes in the City of Portage. Many are beneficial. This is a result by teamwork which includes citizens, employees and volunteers. After talking to both candidates, Jim Snyder’s vision is most beneficial to residents and insures that the team will work together for the benefit of the residents.

Jim is truly qualified best to be our Mayor. His financial experience is exactly what we need. His fresh ideas building on our city’s vision will continue to move us in the right direction. Portage is at a crossroads and Jim will lead Portage with integrity.

This particular election has caused fear and uncertainty like never before amongst the city employees and departments. Jim is the only candidate who will be able to bring back the unity of our departments that they need to function best for our citizens.

I have had the opportunity to serve under four mayors in Portage. Jim Snyder has the vision to move this city forward and in the right direction.

I would respectfully request my friends, family and supporters to join me in voting for Jim Snyder.

Steven S. Charnetzky

I am both honored by the endorsement and gladly accept it. The Charnetzky Family is an example to all of us in Portage and we are grateful that they are behind us.

They have been dedicated, quiet behind the scenes servants of the city. Steve’s work and fiscal responsibility have helped make four mayors’ look good. When we win on November 6th he had better get ready to make a fifth mayor look good.

As the mayor of Portage my first priority will be to keep the citizens safe. Most apply this to our police and fire departments that do a fine job. Our street department plays an equally vital role. Steve keeps our streets plowed in the winter.

He fixes potholes in the summer and makes sure signs are up and the roads are clear of debris. His department keeps us safe and they do a great job.

We have the best group of workers in the state of Indiana working in our street department. They pick up our garbage, brush and just about anything else you can imagine. These hard working men and women are trying to feed their families and they do our backbreaking work. The need more than a $22 dollar a week raise. We will lose the talent we have in this city if we don’t take care of our employees responsibly.

Let me make something clear to the Democrat voters in Portage. You all should be proud as Steve said about what you have accomplished in this city’s past and what you will accomplish in this city’s future. But this election is not about Democrats. It is not about Jim Snyder. It is not about Steve Charnetzky. It is not even about Mayor Olson. It is about Portage and its future.

The city departments are nervous and divided. A house divided cannot stand and neither can a city. I am the candidate for mayor who can bring this city and its departments together again. With Steve’s help we are going to get this done and we are getting it done for Portage.

Jim Snyder