To show how far the city has come in just one year, Portage Mayor, Jim Snyder started his 2013 address by citing last year's theme, which was "Portage is in a state of much-needed correction."  Mayor Snyder said "communication" is the key to this year's message.
The mayor said that Washington D.C. is invited to Portage to see how political affiliation can be put aside and real work be accomplished.
The mayor also said Portage's "greatest resource and greatest investment" is its personnel, especially now when the city is faced with a ever tighter budget.
Mayor Snyder said that due to rising costs, automation of trash pick-up "had to happen" and that the city will save on landfill costs by recycling.  He noted that while 4% of the residents participated in the program last year, this year the number is 17%.
The mayor also praised the Portage Police Department and in particular, Police Chief, Troy Williams for "beating back crime," citing the crime rate has dropped over last year.
Mayor Jim Snyder's entire State-of-the-City speech hosted by the Portage Chamber of Commerce on Thursday at the Woodland Park Community Center, is available On Demand at: http://regionnewsteam.com

Portage Mayor, Jim Snyder delivers his State-of-the-City speech at the Woodland Park Community Center, in Portage.
(photo courtesy of Jay Stevens)
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