Editor’s Note: The NKyTribune is offering one free op-ed posting from NKY candidates in major races in which there is opposition for the November 3 General Election. All candidates may send op-ed’s of 1000 words or less to be published before November 1. The commentary should be positive about the candidate and his/her positions. Candidates are asked not to wait until the last minute — submissions will be published in the order in which they are received.
I’m seeking reelection to the Newport Board of Commissioners to continue projects started since taking office in 2023. For example, Festival Park and General James Taylor Park have had significant community engagement over the years. This is a once in a generation opportunity to change our riverfront in a way that gives our constituents a meaningful place to enjoy festivals and time with family and friends. It’s important to me that these projects stay on budget and on track.
Earlier this year, we also obtained the two former adult entertainments on Monmouth Street. I see this as another opportunity to engage our constituents as we go through the process to get these properties activated in a respectable way. I’ve lived in Newport since 2012 and I think this is a chance to link the riverfront to the rest of our businesses on Monmouth.
Both opportunities are a once in a generation chance to improve Newport for decades to come.
You may ask yourself why Mike for the job? My reply is that in addition to being one of your City Commissioners since 2023, I’ve taken the time to obtain my Master of Municipal Governance from the Kentucky League of Cities. That translates into over 90 credit hours that cover topics such as planning and zoning, code enforcement, municipal budgeting, and ethics. I’m the only candidate running that has taken the time to obtain any level of certification from the Kentucky League of Cities. More information can be found at KLC.org. In addition to my certification from the League of Cities, I also bring 20 years of corporate America experience working for companies like Honeywell, Johnson Controls, and GE Aerospace. My experience ranges from high temperature composites to continuous improvement. Finally, I think it’s important to make decisions that blend constituent feedback with data.
I’ve always viewed my time as serving on the Board of Commissioners as an on-going way of giving back to our community. I regularly volunteer and/or donate to the following events and organizations:
• Newport Italianfest
• Wheels Back on Monmouth
• Various Tree Plantings throughout the city
• Big Brothers Big Sisters
• East Row Christmas Tour
• East Row Garden Club & Garden Walk
• Mammoth Arts & Music Festival (2025)
My ask for you is to give me one of your four votes on or before November 3rd. I’m number 4 on the ballot, but you and the people will always be number one in my heart.
More about my platform and background can be found at mike4newportky.us.
Mike Radwanski is a candidate for reelection to Newport Board of Commissioners.