ABOUT MIKE

• Introduction: Mike Poniatowski announces his candidacy for the At Large Seat of the Volusia County Council in the 2026 elections.
   
• Background:
   
  • Lifelong resident of Volusia County, grew up on the beach and graduated from Spruce Creek High School in 1977.
     
  • Diverse career in public safety: Firefighter (5 years),  Police Officer/Deputy Sheriff (37 years), Paramedic/EMT (35 years), SWAT  Team member, flight medic, marine deputy, EMS instructor, and Director  of Operations for EVAC Ambulance (22 years).
     
  • Extensive leadership experience as Emergency Manager for  Florida’s largest hospital system and US Government contractor  overseas.
     
• Community Involvement:
   
  • Resides in Port Orange with his wife Lydia; have lived in the same home for 37 years.
     
  • Active participant in preserving the rural character of  Tomoka Farms Village, fighting against development threats for over  three decades.
     
• Concerns for Volusia County:
   
  • Witnessed rapid growth, erosion of green spaces, and  lagging infrastructure development causing traffic congestion and  flooding issues.
     
  • Advocates for better management of taxes and fees with tangible results for residents.
     
• Educational Credentials:
   
  • Holds degrees in Emergency Medical Sciences, Management  and Supervision, Political Science, and pursued advanced studies in  Homeland Security, Emergency Management, and Public Health.
     
  • Certified EMT and Paramedic with numerous national and international credentials.
     
• Vision and Commitment:
   
  • Pledges to represent citizens as his sole "special interest."
     
  • Promises fiscal responsibility, careful evaluation of  development projects to prevent flooding, and protection of residents'  homes and legacies.
     
  • Plans to address flooding issues with urgency and replace ineffective staff if necessary.
     
• Personal Life:
   
  • Family-oriented with three daughters, three granddaughters, a brand new Grandson, pets, horses, and wildlife at home.
     
  • Enjoys outdoor activities like shooting sports and teaching community courses on active shooter survival and emergency response.
     
• Closing Statement: Mike looks forward  to serving Volusia County residents with dedication, listening to their  concerns, and working tirelessly to improve their quality of life.
   

Paid for by Mike Poniatowski for Volusia County Council at Large