The City of Portage is entering a new era of public safety leadership as longtime Director Nicholas J. Armold retires and Deputy Director Matthew V. Wolfe steps into the top role. The Portage City Council approved Wolfe’s appointment at its regular meeting on December 16, 2025.
Director Armold concludes more than a decade leading the Department of Public Safety and a distinguished 38-year career in law enforcement. Under his leadership, the department expanded its community engagement efforts, strengthened public safety operations, and navigated major initiatives and regional challenges with professionalism and care. His years of service leave a meaningful and lasting impact on the City of Portage.
“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.”
Stepping into the role of Director of Public Safety is Matthew V. Wolfe, a nearly 30-year veteran of the department who has served the Portage community since 1996. Wolfe’s career includes service as Police Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Assistant Police Chief. He has played a central role in the department’s accreditation efforts and received multiple letters of commendation.
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 in police operations, administration, and emergency response make him well-equipped to oversee the city’s police and fire divisions, and emergency services.
“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 deep commitment to Portage make him the ideal choice to guide the department into its next chapter.”