Portage · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Portage public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Employee health insurance contract renewal
The city was set to sign a one-year deal with Blue Care Network for employee health coverage at about $3.46 million. It's one of the city's bigger annual expenses and affects the benefits package for city workers.
Property tax late-charge waiver request
A resident was hit with $369.45 in penalty and interest after missing one tax bill, and the council waived the penalty portion. Members agreed the city should explore email, text, or phone reminders like those used for delinquent water bills.
Micro-LAM industrial tax abatement certificate transfer
Two unanimous abatements support Depatie Fluid Power's $4.8 million expansion at Sprinkle and Milham — 149 jobs expected within two years — plus a speculative suite next door awaiting a tenant. The city gives up nine years of property tax revenue on the improved value to attract and keep industrial employers.
Countywide childcare millage proposal
A campaign representative pitched the August ballot's 0.5-mill, eight-year childcare millage, which would raise $6.3 million in year one to expand care for babies and toddlers, raise provider wages and lower costs for working families.
Parks & Recreation kitchen renovation funding
The council rejected nearly $236,000 in kitchen renovation and equipment contracts for the Parks and Recreation building, questioning demand, cost recovery and duplicating the Senior Center kitchen. It may return through the CIP process.