10212015 - News Article - Snyder, Clancy spar over city debt in Portage mayor's debate

Snyder, Clancy spar over city debt in Portage mayor's debate
NWI Times
Oct 21, 2015
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/elections/snyder-clancy-spar-over-city-debt-in-portage-mayor-s/article_f8bf4191-507f-5672-8998-21e0fc7aa590.html

PORTAGE | Mayor James Snyder and his opponent Portage Township Trustee Brendan Clancy sparred over the city's debt Wednesday night in their only public debate.

Clancy, a Democrat, called debt the city's No. 1 issue, saying it has increased "astronomically" during Snyder's term in office.

"We have one of the highest debt levels in the state," said Clancy, telling the couple of hundred people gathered at Portage High School the city's per capita debt has increased to $3,115.

Snyder, a Republican, disagreed and during a later question, said Clancy, during his time on the City Council, "voted for more debt than any other."

He said the debt approved with Clancy was one the council totaled $26.5 million while debts from bonds approved during his administration have totaled $21.5 million.

Snyder said when he took office, he inherited a "house with a leaky roof and a crumbling foundation" and has used funds to make improvements.

Both Snyder and Clancy were allowed opening and closing statements and were asked questions from audience members. The questions were written on cards and screened by LWV members before being presented to the candidates.

The two answered questions ranging from crime to diversifying the economy, diversifying Portage's workforce, the role of the redevelopment commission and the city's skate park.

The two disagreed on the $50 million downtown residential/commercial project by Holladay Properties. Snyder said he favored the project, providing upscale house for seniors and millennials. Clancy said it is another example of Snyder's administration subsidizing large business to bring in a project that ultimately increases taxes.

Snyder told the group he and his administration has been able to turn the city around from challenges it was dealt when first taking ones.

Clancy outlined his successes as township trustee, including lowering the cost of delivering services and improvements to the Bonner Senior Center and township parks, saying his leadership could take the city into the future.

The debate was sponsored by the Porter County and Calumet Area League of Women Voters and Lakeshore Public Media. It was moderated by Michael Puente.