11072007 - News Article - Madame Mayor - PORTAGE: Democrat Velazquez defeats Republican Snyder in close mayoral race
Madame Mayor
PORTAGE: Democrat Velazquez defeats Republican Snyder in close mayoral race
NWI Times
Nov 7, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/madame-mayor/article_adeee8c3-dee5-5441-a503-b9b8aa7a799f.html
PORTAGE | With results from two precincts yet to come, a loud celebratory cheer went up just before 8 p.m. at the Portage Yacht Club Tuesday night.
"Can I have your attention," shouted Ken Elwood. "Olga's our next mayor."
Surrounded by chants of "Olga, Olga, Olga," Democrat mayoral candidate Olga Velazquez took center stage.
"I am so proud. Everyone in this room contributed to the success and future success of Portage. Thank you," said Velazquez, a five-year City Council member who was endorsed by Mayor Doug Olson 11 months ago when he announced he wouldn't seek a third term.
Velazquez defeated Republican James Snyder in a close race, winning by just 302 votes.
"I ran on the principles of leadership, experience and vision, not on what another candidate didn't do or wouldn't do," said Velazquez. "I am a leader that leads by example. I worked hard and will continue working hard for Portage. That's who Olga Velazquez is, and that's who she will continue to be."
Velazquez said despite challenges, that example was "to stand up for what you believe in."
Her husband, Julio, also addressed supporters, thanking them and paying tribute to several friends and supporters who died in recent months, calling them "fallen heroes, comrades and friends."
"I encourage all of us, especially the young people, to stay involved, run for office and fight for democratic principles," he said.
While she and Snyder took opposite views on many of the issues facing the city during the campaign, on election night they agreed on one thing -- the need to bring the city and its residents together.
"I am the mayor for all the citizens of Portage. The challenge is to earn their respect and loyalty. I want to make our city stronger," she said.
Across Ind. 249 at Islamorada restaurant inside Bass Pro Shops, Snyder, who entered the campaign late, congratulated Velazquez on her victory and urged his followers to support the new administration.
"I enthusiastically offer her my wholehearted support," he said, asking his supporters to do the same. "It is incumbent upon each of us to humbly accept the results and work together. Let's extend our hands and our hearts to help our new mayor and our city."
Snyder, who announced for mayor in July, said he believed the city benefited from the choice of candidates and the debate that resulted.
He said he believes his candidacy offered ideas and choices along with a plan.
"I hope they find value in it and draw from it in the future," he said, thanking his workers who invested their time in the campaign.
Velazquez said she would act on one of her campaign promises today, by submitting her resignation from the job she's held for the last 20 years.
Velazquez said after cleaning up her office she planned to take a little time and then establish a transition team.
"Then I will be ready to take over the reins from Mayor Doug Olson, who has been my mentor," she said.
11072007 - News Article - Porter County election briefs - Supporters ready with Olga victory sign
Porter County election briefs
Supporters ready with Olga victory sign
NWI Times
Nov 7, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/porter-county-election-briefs/article_c54c5a33-5693-5449-84a1-1011a3ff8f89.html
PORTAGE | Supporters of Portage mayor-elect Olga Velazquez were prepared for her victory Tuesday night.
As soon as it was announced she'd won the close election over Republican James Snyder, supporters hoisted one of her campaign signs above their head. It had already been altered to reflect her victory, changed from "Olga Velazquez for Mayor" to "Olga Velazquez IS Mayor."
'No Lake County Politics' at Snyder hub
PORTAGE | A handful of supporters wearing anti-Olga Velazquez shirts tying the Democrat to Lake County politics, were rooting on James Snyder, Tuesday night. Snyder made no mention of the supporters' message during his concession, but has previously said he had no ties to similar yard signs that sprung up late in the campaign.
11042007 - News Article - Snyder: Why I want to be mayor of Portage - Guest Commentary by James Snyder
Snyder: Why I want to be mayor of Portage
Guest Commentary by James Snyder
NWI Times
James Snyder
Nov 4, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/opinion/snyder-why-i-want-to-be-mayor-of-portage/article_19503590-695e-5e5a-819e-97499e6403f8.html
Having lived in Portage Township since age 12, I understand this area. I know the neighborhoods, the citizens of this area, the infrastructure. I appreciate Portage and think of this great city as my home.
For that reason, my wife, Deborah, and I made the decision to remain in Portage and raise our family here. We love it here!
Over the last few years Portage has grown rapidly, and that creates new challenges for our schools, for a health care system, for funds to pay for a growing community, as well as job creation and bringing quality businesses to the area.
It is because of the passion I have for the city of Portage, combined with the challenges I see sitting on Portage's doorstep, that I've decided to run for mayor. This is a great community, one that my children will grow up in, that I've worked in, and will continue to work in, and one that my wife and I have a great fondness for. It is for those reasons that I will work hard to create a quality of life for Portage citizens that is second to none.
As mayor, I would like to ensure that schools are not overcrowded and that students are receiving the quality education they deserve. After all, they are the future of this great city.
I also believe Portage needs, and deserves, a better recycling plan. With proper planning, recycling could save Portage $250,000 annually. With that money, we could be building sidewalks and maintaining our streets. This plan we will keep our garbage fees low and protect our environment at the same time.
In addition to that, I'd like to bring in a strong health care facility and strengthen our economy by encouraging more businesses to make Portage their home. I want Portage to be a city that encourages its citizens to become more actively involved with their city government. No citizen should ever be unpleasantly surprised by what their government has done to them, but should be celebrating what their government is doing with them and for them.
Finally, we must wean our dependence on property taxes. This will require exploring other means by which to shift from our reliance on property taxes. We must first critically evaluate every policy, every procedure and every activity to assure our government and its services are as efficient and effective as possible. Our goal must be zero-waste government.
11032007 - News Article - Pappas: Don't include me on campaign flier - Clerk-treasurer doesn't support Olga Velazquez
Pappas: Don't include me on campaign flier
Clerk-treasurer doesn't support Olga Velazquez
NWI Times
Nov 3, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/pappas-don-t-include-me-on-campaign-flier/article_91671ef2-5872-5f53-9b33-a5739ba1e148.html
PORTAGE | Democratic Clerk-Treasurer Donna Pappas is crying foul over a campaign mailing sent to residents by her own party's central committee.
The mailing, which was paid for by the Porter County Democratic Central Committee, lists the full slate of Democratic candidates in the city of Portage, along with platform points and voting information.
On Friday, Pappas said the appearance of her name on the campaign literature makes it look like she is endorsing her fellow Democrats, but she has been outspoken in her opposition to Democratic mayoral candidate Olga Velazquez, who is running against Republican James Snyder.
"I'm running unopposed, my name doesn't need to be on there," Pappas said. "In the past, whenever we've done something like this, they've always asked permission to include the person."
Porter County Democratic Chairman Jeff Chidester acknowledged that Pappas was not notified about her inclusion on the campaign mailing, but said the intent is to get residents to vote Democratic.
"We're trying to get the Democrats elected in the city of Portage. She's part of that team, so we went ahead and did the whole slate," Chidester said.
Pappas has said she is not supporting Velazquez because the mayoral candidate has not responded to Pappas' concerns that residents are being promised things the city cannot afford.
10312007 - News Article - Questions remain over who's behind PAC - Chairman, tied to unsuccessful mayoral primary candidate, has history of legal trouble
Questions remain over who's behind PAC
Chairman, tied to unsuccessful mayoral primary candidate, has history of legal trouble
NWI Times
Oct 31, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/questions-remain-over-who-s-behind-pac/article_9b830216-5c89-51eb-bdba-295d8bfb4d2b.html
PORTAGE | Candidates on both sides of the Portage mayoral race say they have no idea who is behind the newly formed Democrats Against Lake County Politics political action committee.
Police, however, are more familiar with one of the men registered with the political action committee, Nathan Ritchie, who has convictions for invasion of privacy and dealing marijuana.
Ritchie, 25, is registered as chairman and Rudy Alfaro is registered as treasurer of the committee.
The committee, which formed Oct. 19, drew attention over the weekend by posting yard signs throughout the city urging voters not to vote for Olga Velazquez.
Ritchie has ties to Portage Street Department Superintendent Steve Charnetzky, who lost in the May Democratic primary to Velazquez and subsequently has been working for Republican James Snyder in his effort to gain the mayor's seat.
Ritchie was a supporter of Charnetzky's during the primary. He can be seen in a Times photograph at Charnetzky's headquarters the night of the primary wearing a Charnetzky T-shirt. The photograph ran in the newspaper May 9.
Among Ritchie's several run-ins with law enforcement were an invasion of privacy conviction in 2002, where he was fined and served 90 hours of community service, and a guilty plea on two counts of selling marijuana to an undercover police officer in 2004. Ritchie also has several traffic citations, ranging from speeding to driving on a suspended license.
Snyder said he does not know the two men involved in the political action committee nor does he have any knowledge of their activities.
Neither Ritchie, Alfaro nor Charnetzky returned messages Tuesday.
10302007 - News Article - Candidates end forum with political potshots - Opponents criticize each other for election tactics
Candidates end forum with political potshots
Opponents criticize each other for election tactics
NWI Times
Oct 30, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/candidates-end-forum-with-political-potshots/article_d0c4befa-3e54-5033-b496-1230ef55d48f.html
PORTAGE | For the most part, until the end of the two-hour candidates forum Monday night, mayoral candidates here took subtle potshots at each other.
Then, in their closing statements at the end, candidates for the mayoral and council races took their gloves off.
Republican mayoral candidate James Snyder struck at the Portage Democrats for letting the state representative 10th District seat slip from the city's hands this past weekend. During a caucus, the seat, long held by a Portage resident, was won by Center Township resident Greg Simms.
"Portage has no representation within its borders. Valparaiso has two state reps., and (the city isn't) near our size," Snyder said, adding that leaves the next mayor with a "tough time" in working with the state to improve the city.
Democratic candidate Olga Velazquez spoke her piece, too.
Answering a question on city development, Velazquez said Snyder has "waffled," telling firefighters he'd support a building inspection fee on businesses to boost their revenues, while leaving that information out while addressing the local chamber of commerce.
But it was candidates for the City Council who, during their closing statements, echoed what many have called one of the dirtiest elections in the city's history.
Brendan Clancy, a Democrat unopposed for the 2nd District council seat, was the first to bring up the yard signs placed throughout the city this weekend by the newly formed political action committee Democrats Against Lake County Politics.
He called the signs "cowardly, fear mongering," and said they hinted at racism.
"Instead of worrying about Lake County politics, let's keep Portage politics out of the gutter," Clancy said to a round of applause.
Snyder answered back by denying those involved in putting up the signs were his supporters.
"We have run a positive campaign focused on the issues. I can't be responsible for the other party," he said, calling himself the "best chance for unity in the city."
Unopposed at-large council candidate Steve Sonaty, also a Democrat, turned to a group of high school government students in the audience and told them to take a lesson away from this year's election.
"If you do lose, lick your wounds, get back to it and support your opponent," he said referring to Steve Charnetzky, who lost to Velazquez in the May primary and later endorsed Snyder.
Unopposed at-large Democratic council candidate Sue Lynch said recent developments "appall me," adding that if those involved in the election don't set aside their hard feelings, Portage will not get the respect it deserves from surrounding communities.
10302007 - News Article - Signs stir dirty politics charge - Founders of PAC are unknown to either side in Portage mayoral race
Signs stir dirty politics charge
Founders of PAC are unknown to either side in Portage mayoral race
NWI Times
Oct 30, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/signs-stir-dirty-politics-charge/article_a2d44204-0631-50a0-a413-a25f4a17aa58.html
PORTAGE | Signs protesting Lake County politics in the Portage mayoral election popped up across the city this weekend.
The signs, which display Democratic mayoral candidate Olga Velazquez's first name in a circle with a slash through it and the phrase "Democrats Against Lake County Politics," are sponsored by a newly formed political action committee, Democrats Against Lake County Politics.
The PAC was formed Oct. 19, said Kathy Kozuszek, of the Porter County Voters Registration office. Its purpose, according to the filing papers, is to "promote responsible government and city issues."
The two officers listed are chairman Nathan Ritchie, of 6622 Fairview Ave., Portage, and treasurer Rudy Alfaro, of 6091 Lute Road, Portage. Kozuszek said voting records indicate Ritchie is inactive and will be removed from voter rolls if he does not vote in next month's election and Alfaro registered to vote in Porter County on April 5, but did not vote in the primary a month later.
Neither Ritchie nor Alfaro returned messages Monday.
"It is not a representation of the Porter County Democrat Party, which fully supports me. These individuals that formed the PAC have never voted, so how can they call themselves Democrats," Velazquez said. "This ploy and this type of political antics is more indicative of Lake County politics. Portage has never seen this type of smear. Their strategy is to try to instill fear over logic, experience and credentials."
Mayor Doug Olson also condemned the tactic.
"If this group is saying that Olga is Lake County politics, they should also be saying it about (Clerk-Treasurer) Donna Pappas, the other City Council members and myself because we have all worked together as a team and Olga will continue with that process. I just think it is a shame that people are trying to change the focus of this election away from the real issues," Olson said.
Porter County Democratic Party Chairman Jeff Chidester was equally critical.
"For the record, the Portage Democratic precinct organization is 100 percent behind Olga Velazquez for mayor. The Portage Township Democratic Club, which I am president, is also 100 percent behind Olga's candidacy. If any political tactic reeks of Lake County politics, it is the forming of this PAC and the placement of these signs," said Chidester, adding that since the PAC only formed last week, it won't be forced to reveal its contributors until after the Nov. 6 election.
Velazquez said she believes her opponent, Republican James Snyder, may be involved.
"My opponent told me early on when I first met him that campaigns can get dirty. I never thought they would get this dirty," she said.
Snyder said he does not know Ritchie or Alfaro, and neither is involved in his campaign.
"I have been running a positive campaign about the hard working people of Portage. I've worked very hard to steer clear of this," he said. Snyder said after the May primary and before he launched his campaign in July, he said he "wasn't going to fuel the fire" of what appeared to be a split Democratic Party in the city.
He and Velazquez agreed that talk about the signs is taking away from discussion on the real issues facing the city.
10272007 - News Article - Clerk-treasurer questions mayoral campaign promises - Velazquez, Olson say Pappas comments not totally factual
Clerk-treasurer questions mayoral campaign promises
Velazquez, Olson say Pappas comments not totally factual
NWI Times
Oct 27, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/clerk-treasurer-questions-mayoral-campaign-promises/article_00be852f-9a6e-5108-b95e-39240cc38258.html
PORTAGE | With less than two weeks to go before Northwest Indiana's third largest city elects its next mayor, Clerk Treasurer Donna Pappas is rebuking the campaign of her own party's nominee .
"My concern is people are being promised things that we can't pay for," Pappas said. "They may be making them with good intentions, but I don't see them making them happen. Sometimes the enthusiasm to get elected will outweigh the common sense portion of it."
While Pappas, a Democrat, said both Democrat Olga Velazquez and Republican James Snyder should study the financial facts before making any campaign promises, she specifically attacked Velazquez's plans.
"She's the only one I've seen," Pappas said.
Improving sidewalks and the safety of the city's residents are among Velazquez's priorities. Pappas said with the city's current and projected financial situation, new sidewalks and hiring additional police officers won't be on the horizon for the city.
Mayor Doug Olson, also a Democrat, said it's Pappas who isn't putting forward all the facts.
"We have a sidewalk fund. People pay into that fund. Last I checked, we still had $150,000," he said. "And, Olga never said anything about hiring more people."
Pappas said she's received about a dozen phone calls from residents asking how some of Velazquez's campaign priorities are going to become reality. With that in mind, she called Velazquez and said she was given a cold shoulder.
Velazquez said that's not the full story. A brief phone call Wednesday while she was at work was the first she's heard from Pappas on campaign matters.
"I have a large responsibility in caring for many patients and I didn't have the time (to talk)," Velazquez said. "I said if people have questions, they can call my home or they can call my campaign headquarters and I would gladly talk to them. I said, if elected, I would sit down with her and talk at length."
Pappas said she asked Snyder about his plans for sidewalks and public safety and he admitted he didn't have specific information and would have to look at the city's budget. The Times could not reach Snyder on Friday for comment.
"Snyder, whatever he promises he needs to tell them where it's coming from," Pappas said.
Without property tax draws, the city has had to borrow twice this year. Because of that, Portage will be paying more than $200,000 in interest, and Pappas said, the state is only projecting a 3.7 percent increase in the city's budget next year. The city will have to go into maintenance mode, she said.
Olson said Pappas isn't looking at the big picture.
"Times are not going to be that tough all the time," he said. "I just think it's a shame that Donna and her people are trying to get the focus away from the message this close to the election. It's a shame that that's happening."
10202007 - News Article - Contenders race to pack coffers - Dem raises, spends more than GOP rival in Portage mayoral run
Contenders race to pack coffers
Dem raises, spends more than GOP rival in Portage mayoral run
NWI Times
Oct 20, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/contenders-race-to-pack-coffers/article_14cf2c3e-8ef8-5bfc-aa4e-7fe79ba1c83f.html
PORTAGE | Democrat mayoral hopeful Olga Velazquez raised double what her opponent Republican James Snyder collected, according to pre-election campaign finance reports released Friday.
Since April 14, Velazquez has raised $56,267 to Snyder's $26,118. The reporting period ended Oct. 12.
Velazquez had an edge coming into the reporting period by carrying over $15,182 cash on hand from the primary election. In total, since the beginning of the year, Velazquez has raised $95,207 for her mayoral campaign.
Snyder got a late start in the campaign, not announcing his intentions to seek the mayor's seat until June 30. Councilman Dave Highlands had been the Republicans' candidate for the Nov. 6 election but died just before the May primary.
Mayor Doug Olson endorsed Velazquez for the seat last December when he announced he would not seek a third term. Olson also has been Velazquez's largest financial supporter, contributing $6,000 to her campaign since the beginning of the year.
Velazquez also has outspent Snyder. Her financial report indicates she has spent $45,614 since April and $69,372 since the beginning of the year. She finished the reporting period with $25,835 cash on hand.
Snyder has spent $18,491 so far and had $7,627 left in his campaign coffers on Oct. 12.
Snyder's biggest contributor has been the Porter County Republican Party with a donation of $4,025.
"I truly believe that the people who believe in my experience, believe in my message, believe in my candidacy are those who are supporting me," Velazquez said.
"I'm not surprised at all," Snyder said about the difference in contribution totals. "This election can't be bought no matter how much money Mrs. Velazquez raises."
Snyder said the difference is not indicative of the final vote. Recent polling, he said, indicates he and Velazquez are "dead even" and "the undecideds are learning our way."
09232007 - News Article - Portage mayoral rivals 'clarify' stands - Who's marching in Olson footsteps still at issue
Portage mayoral rivals 'clarify' stands
Who's marching in Olson footsteps still at issue
NWI Times
Sep 23, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/portage-mayoral-rivals-clarify-stands/article_d60aeb8f-8224-5e10-9ea2-883b4ad20293.html
PORTAGE | Before explaining her stance on issues, Democratic mayoral candidate Olga Velazquez addressed some of what she said are "misleading and fear-based" comments made by Republican challenger James Snyder's campaign.
Velazquez said that while Snyder's billboards and other campaign literature insist he'll be "Continuing the legacy of Mayor Doug Olson," his comments earlier this week were no praise for Olson.
Snyder had remarked city leadership should be held responsible for Porter County's largest city not being included in plans for three hospitals.
"Mr. Snyder, you can't have it both ways," Velazquez told more than 100 supporters, including Mayor Doug Olson and former Mayor John Williams, at a Saturday campaign conference.
Snyder, contacted after the conference, said his comments about the responsibility of city leadership aren't solely focused on the mayor's office.
"There's more than one person representing the leadership. The City Council should have reacted," Synder said. "There are seven members, two are at-large. They represent the whole city."
As for using the mayor's name in his campaign even though Olson has endorsed Velazquez, Snyder said that while he may not agree with everything Olson has done, he wants to continue the same progressive attitude.
"If I look back on the past eight years, I wouldn't agree with everything I've done," Snyder said. "What I'm saying is there's a lot of good things he's done. I'm talking about moving the city forward in the light of what he's done."
Talking about her plans if elected in November, Velazquez said she'll continue to devote more resources to public safety, something she said she has done during her five years as a City Council member. She said she also would manage growth responsibly, oppose building more apartment complexes in the city and oppose privatizing city services.
If elected, Velazquez said she'll resign from her current job with Tri-City Mental Health and become a full-time mayor. Velazquez also said she won't accept a raise until her third year in office, leaving it to the electorate to decide if she deserves one.
After addressing the turn the campaign has taken, Velazquez said she hopes to be able to stay on message until the election.
"My message in the primary and my message now is to stay positive. But in the past few weeks, I felt it was necessary to address some of these comments," Velazquez said. "You can't control what others say about you, but sometimes you have to step up and clarify those misleading statements."
Snyder, though, maintains he campaign has stayed the course in highlighting his plans.
"My campaign's about the future of Portage. It's not about attacking Olga," Snyder said.
09212007 - News Article - Portage mayoral candidates talk growth - Velazquez, Snyder make their case to chamber members
Portage mayoral candidates talk growth
Velazquez, Snyder make their case to chamber members
NWI Times
Sep 21, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/portage-mayoral-candidates-talk-growth/article_a4d9578d-f13d-546c-a49a-1490ef126128.html
PORTAGE | Managing the city's growth was the focus as mayoral candidates discussed their visions during Thursday's Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
The growth that's not going to happen, namely Wednesday's announcement that Porter County's largest city won't be getting a new hospital, should be raising eyebrows, Republican candidate James Snyder said,
"I think it's absolutely outrageous that all three of the new health care facilities planned for Porter County are to be located between Valparaiso and Chesterton," Snyder said. "Three hospitals, three pitches and we strike out. What type of city leadership lets this happen?"
Snyder's words come on the heels of the announcement to relocate Porter hospital's Valparaiso campus to Liberty Township, just days after Indianapolis-based Clarian Health Partners acknowledged discussions to possibly build an orthopaedic hospital in Chesterton.
Both Snyder and Democratic candidate Olga Velazquez said the city's rapid growth presents some unique challenges. Snyder said the city needs to slow some of the growth in its urban areas and focus some attention on aging neighborhoods. Velazquez said the city is starting to receive some of the business it's long desired, but it will take time.
"We must continue to build our city so that Portage is a city people do not have to leave," she said. "I think it's been a long time coming. I think our economic growth is just beginning to bloom on the north side."
As for the city's downtown business district, both candidates agree it should be the city's center and a destination for residents, but they differ on how that's going to happen. Velazquez said she envisions the city developing a pedestrian-friendly park, surrounded by small businesses and the Ivy Tech Community College campus. Snyder said the city doesn't have the money to maintain the parks it currently has and believes the city doesn't belong in the development business. He said the streets just north of Central Avenue serve as a shining example.
"We have new streets that don't get used. There are street lights that run all night," Snyder said. "It's lighting up weeds."
In offering tax abatements to new businesses, both candidates agree it should be a selective process.
Velazquez said those making the decision need to consider whether a business is interested in making a long-term commitment to the community or if they'll go elsewhere in 10 years, when the abatement is up. She said it's also important to look at the kind of jobs and wages being offered, as the city needs to diversify its resident work force.
09192007 - News Article - Snyder: City needs to develop prime locations - PORTAGE: Velazquez says city's aging infrastructure needs attention
Snyder: City needs to develop prime locations
PORTAGE: Velazquez says city's aging infrastructure needs attention
NWI Times
Sep 19, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/snyder-city-needs-to-develop-prime-locations/article_ba43ca6b-be5c-52c9-83ad-2ea9a1217b60.html
PORTAGE | Pointing to an abandoned hotel on the city's north side, Republican mayoral candidate James Snyder said the city needs to focus on redeveloping its corridors to create a more inviting community.
"As it sits here vacant, desolate and deteriorating, it is costing the citizens of Portage valuable tax dollars that could be helping our city services and schools," Snyder said of the former Ramada Inn on U.S. 20 at Ind. 249.
The parcel, he said, is among the city's prime real estate. With its proximity to the Bass Pro Shops and other businesses in the nearby AmeriPlex park, Snyder said the corner is ripe for redevelopment and would like to see a big-name restaurant such as Olive Garden take root there.
"People come and want to build less than what we need," Snyder said. "We can't accept less than the best on this corner."
Democratic mayoral candidate Olga Velazquez said there are plans in the works to redevelop the corner, with an anchor and various outlots, but it's not going to happen overnight.
"One of the things I've learned is some things don't always happen as quickly as possible," she said.
The corner, Velazquez said, is somewhat indicative of a larger issue: The city's aging infrastructure. Velazquez, a City Council member, said the city needs to look at improving streets and curbs in some of its older areas, both commercial and residential. She said the city is working to move some allocated dollars to overhaul Central Avenue from Willowcreek Road to the city's western edge. But she said, the city could also benefit from added code enforcement, namely with junk vehicles left on streets and in yards.
Snyder also said the city needs to do more to help residents improve homes in some of the city's older neighborhoods, and said offering tax incentives could be a way to do that.
As far as helping the city improve and attract new development, Snyder said he would use his business background to the city's benefit.
"I intend to take what I know and sell the city," Snyder said.
09162007 - News Article - Charnetzky endorses Snyder for Portage mayor - PORTAGE: Streets chief says it's not 'sour grapes' over loss to Velazquez in primary
Charnetzky endorses Snyder for Portage mayor
PORTAGE: Streets chief says it's not 'sour grapes' over loss to Velazquez in primary
NWI Times
Sep 16, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/charnetzky-endorses-snyder-for-portage-mayor/article_3bcdf05a-09b2-5220-8c7e-7518287ca8ba.html
PORTAGE | The race for mayor here took a nasty turn Saturday as Portage Street Department Superintendent Steve Charnetzky announced his endorsement of Republican mayoral candidate James Snyder.
Charnetzky lost to Snyder's opponent Olga Velazquez in the May Democratic primary.
"Absolutely not," Charnetzky said Saturday morning outside of Snyder's headquarters when asked if his endorsement was "sour grapes" over his loss to Velazquez.
Charnetzky said he has valid reasons to support Snyder over Velazquez.
"This particular election has caused fear and uncertainty like never before amongst city employees and departments. Jim is the only candidate who will be able to bring back the unity of our city departments, which is needed to function best for our citizens," Charnetzky said.
"I do think Steve's endorsement is an issue of sour grapes," said Velazquez, contacted after the Charnetzky announcement. Velazquez said Charnetzky said openly at a Democratic meeting that he would support Velazquez in the general election if he were defeated in the primary.
Both Charnetzky and Velazquez said they met prior to Saturday's announcement. Velazquez said she asked for Charnetzky's support, but wouldn't promise him a job in her administration and hasn't made any decisions about department heads.
Charnetzky accused Velazquez of deceiving residents on campaign promises and of "retaliation" against city employees who supported him in the primary.
"She went to homes of employees and made threats to them," said Charnetzky.
"That is an out-and-out lie," Velazquez said, pointing to the Charnetzky's continued position as head of the street and sanitation department.
"Steve still has a job. His wife still has a job," she said, referring to Annie Charnetzky, who is secretary to present mayor Doug Olson.
She said Charnetzky and Snyder's campaign have been spreading rumors. She said she recently wrote a letter to street and sanitation department employees informing them of the rumors, including privatization of the department.
"I wanted them to know I never said I wanted to privatize," said Velazquez.
Charnetzky said Velazquez also has been talking about lowering taxes, but instead has raised cable, planning, Board of Zoning Appeals fees, voted to approve a fire hydrant fee which is included in resident's water bills and for the park impact fee.
"She claims to help seniors out, but she voted to double the ambulance fees," he said.
Velazquez said those aren't taxes, but user fees. The park impact fee doesn't affect present residents, but only residents building new homes in the city and are required to buy equity into the parks department, which present residents have paid for for years. She added that the decision to raise fees was the decision of the full City Council, not just her's.
"Part of leadership is making difficult decisions," said Velazquez.
09142007 - News Article - Olson's name dragged into campaign - PORTAGE: Republican mayoral candidate's tag line considered misleading by opponent
Olson's name dragged into campaign
PORTAGE: Republican mayoral candidate's tag line considered misleading by opponent
NWI Times
Sep 14, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/olson-s-name-dragged-into-campaign/article_b577e656-4832-5ea1-9a0e-2bb604c1329e.html
PORTAGE | Republican mayoral candidate James Snyder is touting on his campaign literature, Web site and billboard that he will be "continuing the legacy of Mayor Doug Olson" if elected.
He said he truly believes it, but his Democrat opponent Olga Velazquez this week called it a "political strategy" and "misleading."
Olson said, while he said he considers campaign tagline complimentary, he is not comfortable with it.
"I'm with Olga 100 percent, and this election is not about me," said Olson, who endorsed Velazquez as his successor last year when he announced he wouldn't seek a third term.
"Olga has been part of the legacy, part of the team that has accomplished many things in Portage. I endorsed her. If I didn't believe in her, I wouldn't have endorsed her," said Olson.
"Mayor Olson has been a good mayor and I'm proud to use his name. I know that I'm more aligned with his goals and accomplishments. His endorsement is strictly party line. I've been door-to-door. The people know Doug Olson and know who he is backing, but in the privacy of the voting booth, Mayor Olson will vote for who is best for Portage," said Snyder.
His Web site and literature, while acknowledging Olson is not endorsing him, also features a photo of himself and Olson and cites his appointments by Olson to the Plan Commission and a commission to investigate the future of a new municipal building.
"I do think it is misleading. His strategy is that Doug has been a popular mayor and he wants to attach (Olson's) name to his campaign," said Velazquez. "There are many Democratic voters in the city of Portage and he's hoping they will consider him."
While Velazquez's Web site contains a link to Olson's endorsement, the five-year City Council member said she is running on her own merit.
"I appreciate Doug's endorsement, but I have to run on my own record, my own name, the things I have accomplished in the city and the things I want to accomplish," said Velazquez, who has also served on the city's Plan Commission.
09122007 - News Article - Snyder to open mayoral campaign headquarters
Snyder to open mayoral campaign headquarters
NWI Times
Sep 12, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/snyder-to-open-mayoral-campaign-headquarters/article_1aee58de-af32-5324-a3c1-fd9ffa56782b.html
PORTAGE | Mayoral candidate James Snyder will open his headquarters at 10 a.m. Saturday at 2612 Portage Mall.
In addition, Snyder will hold a news conference to make a "special announcement regarding his campaign," according to a release issued this week.
At 11 a.m., there will be Cappo's pizza and soft drinks available.
"We look forward to having a presence in the downtown area of Portage," said Snyder, adding supporters will be able to get bumper stickers, yard signs and T-shirts at the headquarters.
08162007 - News Article - Mayoral candidate unveils Web site - PORTAGE: Snyder facing Velazquez in November election
Mayoral candidate unveils Web site
PORTAGE: Snyder facing Velazquez in November election
NWI Times
Aug 16, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/mayoral-candidate-unveils-web-site/article_772db094-e2eb-50a3-b63e-55b4c3f86914.html
PORTAGE | Portage Republican mayoral candidate James Snyder is launching a Web site today he says is aimed at increasing communications with voters and residents.
"It is a virtual campaign headquarters in everybody's home," said Snyder of the site snyder4portage.com. "I want to make it easy for people to get a hold of me. It is important to me for people to find out the issues and where I stand."
The Web site was designed by Todd Martin of Lodestone Marketing of Portage.
Snyder's Web site provides information on his background, issues, volunteer opportunities and donating to his campaign as well as information on polling places for the Nov. 6 election, as well as providing contact information.
Snyder said he still plans on opening up a traditional campaign headquarters sometime in September.
His opponent, Democrat City Council member Olga Velazquez, opened a campaign headquarters Aug. 4 on Willowcreek Road.
07312007 - Whitefish Point
I take my sandles off and dig my toes into the wet sand on the shore of Lake Superior at Whitefish Point, as if I am attempting to take root here and never leave again.
I am terrified. Tomorrow I have to return back to Indiana in a desperate attempt to rescue my beloved dogs Abbi and Bailey. They are safe right now, with a trusted friend. But after my ex's phone calls over the past two days, he has convinced me that once he gets his hands on my dogs he will kill them or have them destroyed. I have learned over the years not to put anything past him. He is evil.
I try to calm myself and tell myself that everything will be okay. He won't be home from the road until Friday. I will have plenty of time to move my belongings out of the house and get Abbi and Bailey...and be back home in Michigan before his semi touches the Indiana state line on Friday.
It's just a divorce, I tell myself as I wade out into the clear cold waters of Lake Superior.
I close my eyes and breathe in the scent of the fresh water and the northern pines, as the cold water splashes up around my calves. I have done nothing wrong in leaving...no scratch that...in escaping an abusive narcissist asshole and returning home to Michigan. Sure, the asshole ex is pissed, but he cannot get away with doing everything he claims he will do to me for daring to divorce him...nope scratch that again...for daring to escape him.
I am going to be okay, I tell myself. He is not as powerful as he claims he is. No matter what he says, I have a right to leave him and I have a right to return home to Michigan. I am no longer his prisoner.
07222007 - News Article - Money may mean votes
Money may mean votes
NWI Times
Jul 22, 2007
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/money-may-mean-votes/article_4b3f62f9-316a-5bef-8d85-9315e42d33fa.html
PORTAGE | Candidates might not be able to literally buy votes, but both of those aiming to win the Portage mayor's seat this November know that money can make or break their campaign.
What the money does buy is name recognition in the way of yard signs, campaign literature, advertising and establishing a headquarters.
Republican candidate James Snyder has set a goal of raising $50,000.
Democrat candidate Olga Velazquez said her goal is to raise $30,000.
If voter turnout for the November election runs true to course as in past years and somewhere between 4,000 and 5,000 voters turn out at the polls, each vote will cost the candidate nearly $200.
Fundraising, the candidates say, is a necessary evil.
"It is going to cost a little bit more for me. I got into it late in the game," said Snyder, who announced his intentions earlier this month. "I also don't have the same political trough to go to in Portage as my opponent."
"I don't have a problem asking. I believe I have the right vision for the city," said Snyder, adding that those who believe in his vision will contribute to his campaign. "I have to make calls personally and lay out my vision. What I'm doing right now is a little different. I'm asking the people of Portage what they want to be done, and I'm asking for money."
Velazquez said asking for money is a "reality of running for office."
"I'm the first one to advocate for campaign finance reform on the local level, but to advocate for other causes, I must be elected first," Velazquez said.
She said she does believe she has an advantage over Snyder in raising money because "I made the commitment in December and I've been working hard."
She said she also tries to be frugal and will be using campaign literature left over from the May primary campaign to keep costs down. Velazquez said she also plans on running a "grass-roots campaign" like she did in the primary.
"During the primary we didn't feel we wanted to spend the money for a headquarters. I knocked on 5,000 doors," she said.
This time both candidates plan on opening a headquarters.
Velazquez raised more than $42,000 for the primary. She said she has about $4,000 left over.
"The majority of the money came from family members and friends who believed in my goal to be mayor," she said. "It is not all about money. It is about the relationships you build with voters. We have to set priorities and spend those resources wisely. There will be a lot of face-to-face campaigning."
Both candidates have sent letters to the business community and others seeking financial support. Snyder is sponsoring a fundraising golf outing July 27, with a cost of $150 for an individual golfer or $50 for the reception only. Velazquez is sponsoring an event Aug. 23 at $100 per person.
Both said there will be other, smaller fundraisers along the way.
Past contests
Snyder's and Velazquez's fundraising goals, while a lot of money to most, might be on the low side.
In the Valparaiso mayoral race four years ago, Republican Jon Costas outspent then-Mayor Democrat David Butterfield $76,733 to $27,814 to win the seat, their 2003 year-end financial reports indicate. Neither had opponents in the primary.
The last hard-hitting contest for mayor in Portage was the 1999 primary in which Mayor Doug Olson defeated three-term Mayor Sammie Maletta. Olson was uncontested in the November election that year.
Olson recalled he spent some $50,000 to $55,000 and said his opponent spent upwards of $80,000. Financial records for that year are no longer available through the county's voter registration office.
"Campaigns are expensive," Olson said. "That's (raising money) is the hardest thing, but you have to do it. The big thing is name recognition."
Four years ago, Olson won the primary against Joe Blackwell and was again unopposed in the municipal election. Still, he said, he raised some $80,000 that was used to assist other candidates in a variety of races.
07112007 - Ex's paycheck stub - $2,000 weekly gross / $100,000 annual gross wages
My ex's paycheck stub which showed that he grossed approximately $2,000 a week. And yet during the four year divorce case, I was left without a vehicle and medical care - and was forced to live without basic necessities such as utilities.
At the time of the unlawful police entry - during the state's investigation of Johnson - my ex was approximately $40,000 in arrears on maintenance and yet Johnson never held him in contempt.
It was the price I paid for reporting the corruption that took place in Magistrate Johnson's courtroom...
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