NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 12, 2025
Contact: Kathleen Hoyle, Director of Parks & Recreation, (269) 329-4405
City of Portage Appoints New Director of Public Safety
The City of Portage is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew V. Wolfe as the new Director of Public Safety. The Portage City Council approved the appointment during its regular meeting on December 16, 2025. The appointment follows the retirement of Director Nicholas J. Armold after more than a decade at the helm.
“With deep appreciation, the City of Portage thanks Director Armold for his steady leadership and commitment to our residents,” said City Manager Pat McGinnis. “We wish him the very best in his retirement.”
To ensure continuity of command, Mr. Wolfe was appointed Interim Director of Public Safety effective at 3 PM on December 16, 2025, immediately following Director Armold’s final call.
Director Wolfe has been a dedicated member of the Portage Department of Public Safety since 1996, serving the community for nearly three decades with professionalism, integrity, and a deep commitment to public service.
Throughout his career, Director Wolfe has held a variety of increasingly responsible positions within the department, including Police Officer, Kalamazoo Valley Enforcement Team Investigator, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Assistant Police Chief. He has been recognized for leading the department’s efforts to earn accreditation and received multiple letters of commendation. He has demonstrated leadership and expertise that will guide the department into its next chapter.
Director Wolfe holds a BS in Criminal Justice from Grand Valley State University, received specialized training in Police Staff and Command from Eastern Michigan University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy Class #285 where he earned a Graduate Certificate from the University of Virginia. His extensive experience and education make him exceptionally well-suited to overseeing the department’s operations, which include police, fire, and emergency operations.
“We are excited to appoint Matthew Wolfe as our next Director of Public Safety,” said City Manager McGinnis “His long-standing service, proven leadership, and dedication to the City of Portage make him the ideal choice to lead the department and support the safety and well-being of our residents.”
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