Mike Stammel prides himself on being there for the community. The representative of the City of Rensselaer in the Rensselaer County Legislature, Stammel stays busy as a volunteer in different community organizations. He serves as a coach in Little League and Pop Warner, is a volunteer for the city Fire Department and the Rensselaer Volunteer Ambulance Association. "Serving as either a coach or an emergency service volunteer helps in staying on top of important issues in the City of Rensselaer," said Stammel, a lifelong resident of Rensselaer. “Giving back something to my city is important. It has also been a great way to stay close to the people and keep up with events and issues in Rensselaer,” said Stammel. As legislator, Stammel has worked to improve and maintain county services relied on by Rensselaer residents. He voted to add Sheriff’s Department patrols at the train station and waterfront, and voted to protect senior, veteran and youth services. Stammel also supported a sales tax distribution agreement that has provided Rensselaer nearly $3.5 million. He also provided funding each year to the Rensselaer Boys and Girls Club, which plays an important role in the lives of city youth. Stammel has also been supportive of key economic development projects in the city. “My top priority is getting the services and funding Rensselaer needs to have a better future. There has been progress made in revitalizing the city and I want to continue to play a role in those efforts,” said Stammel. Stammel was elected as the legislative representative of the City of Rensselaer in 2001 and re-elected in 2005. Prior to this, he served as a member of the Common Council beginning with his election in 1993 and re-elections in 1995 and 1997. He was elected President Pro Tem of the Council in 1998. During his service on the council, Stammel worked in support of the development of a new train station, and helped attract state funds for the improvement of Third Street and Third Avenue and a new boat launch. An employee of Amtrak, Stammel also serves as a county representative to the Capital District Regional Planning Commission and the Capital District Transportation Committee. He serves as chairman of the Legislature’s Local Government Committee and as a member of the Contracts and Agreements Committee. “Mike knows and loves Rensselaer. He works hard for the city and fights in the Legislature to make sure Rensselaer gets their fair share,” said Chairman of the Legislature Neil J. Kelleher. Stammel lives on Broadway and is the father of two children. |