KEEP MIKE RADWANSKI

As Newport Commissioner

A Commissioner for Everyday Citizens

Welcome!

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about my campaign for re-election as Newport City Commissioner. I value your time, so I’ll keep it straightforward. I am fourth on the ballot, and I hope I can earn one of your four votes this November. I appreciate your support and for the opportunity to serve the residents of Newport. Together, we can continue building a stronger, safer, and more vibrant city for everyone.

— Mike Radwanski

Candidate for Newport City Commissioner

If re-elected, I will continue to focus on the priorities that matter most to our community:

  • Working for all residents, whether you’ve lived here your entire life or recently made Newport your home. If you’re new to our city, welcome! I’m glad you’ve chosen to be part of our community.
  • Ensuring our Public Works employees and first responders have the equipment and resources they need to keep residents safe.
  • Supporting the completion of James Taylor Park and Festival Park through partnerships and funding opportunities with our state legislators.
  • Creating a volunteer portal that makes it easier for residents to find meaningful ways to give back and get involved.
  • Supporting the development of a Bourbon Tourism Center to strengthen economic development and increase Newport’s self-reliance.
  • Advocating for pedestrian and cyclist safety by pursuing roadway improvements and funding opportunities through partnerships with other organizations.

My Record

Accomplishments Since Joining the Commission

  • Passed legislation creating the Buena Vista Historic District with practical, reasonable guidelines. This effort later led to the creation of a grant program in partnership with Habitat for Humanity and ReNewport.
  • Helped bring back the Wheels on Monmouth Car Show and worked with city staff to establish a sustainable funding model that allows the event to cover its operating costs.
  • Served as an early advocate for the Newport Entertainment District (NED) and community-building events such as pub crawls that support local businesses and bring residents together.
  • Supported bringing Kroger to West Newport, expanding access to walkable grocery shopping and providing an additional option for residents.
  • Recognized long-standing businesses and community organizations through proclamations and public recognition.
  • Led by example through volunteer service and personal contributions supporting community events such as Garden Walk, Italianfest, the Wheels on Monmouth Car Show, and the Mammoth Arts & Music Festival.
  • Prioritized infrastructure investments by supporting the city’s acquisition of the Purple People Bridge and working with state legislators to secure $2 million in funding.

Ideals

Tried, Tested, and True

  • Champion safe transportation options for seniors, cyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Continue to bring the community together with events big and small.
  • Ensure safe and secure neighborhoods from Basin to Hill.
  • Reinforce strong and vibrant neighborhoods.
  • Remain an advocate to improve our parks via grant and State funding sources.
  • Back our small businesses and the creation of jobs throughout our city.
  • Maintain fiscal responsibility.

Experience

  • Over 20 years of resolving problems from the shop floor to the boardroom for companies like Honeywell, Johnson Controls and GE Aerospace.
  • Certified Master of Municipal Governance from the Kentucky League of Cities.
  • Served on citizen and neighborhood committees and boards prior to holding public office.
  • Represent you best by having perfect in-person attendance at all City Commission meetings.

Bio & Background

Commissioner Radwanski started his service in January of 2023. A Metro Detroit native, Mike graduated from Wayne State University in Detroit with a Bachelors’ in Technical Skills & Interdisciplinary Studies. He began his career as a sub-contractor for GE Aviation before being hired and spending 12 years working on high-temperature composites with increasing responsibilities. Mike holds nine U.S. Patents as well as an acclaimed Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Mike worked remotely for Honeywell and later Johnson Controls as a Continuous Improvement Professional. In April of 2023, Mike rejoined GE in their Aerospace division as an Engineering Operations Leader within their Defense and Systems organization.

Mike moved to Newport in 2012. He quickly became involved in the East Row Historic Foundation by serving as Gateway Neighborhood Representative, which provided an opportunity to attend Board of Commissioner meetings. This paved the way for Mike’s service on the 2020 Comprehensive Plan and Riverfront Parks Steering Committees, followed by service on Newport’s Code Enforcement board.

In 2025, Commissioner Radwanski obtained his Level III Master in Municipal Governance certification through the Kentucky League of Cities. He has already started to obtain credit hours for his Certified Municipal Officer training through KLC.

Outside of work and City service, Mike is an avid homebrewer and has won many homebrewing medals. He also enjoys restoring and improving his vintage home, though admitting it’s a seemingly endless task. Mike’s parents also purchased a home in Newport in 2017. In 2025, they became full-time residents.

Support

Email to request a yard sign, volunteer, or click here to donate!