PORTAGE – Iron Workers Local 395 has volunteered equipment and manpower to help the city of Portage replace a series of flagpoles in front of city hall.

“We want people to know that we are accessible to the community and that we are not just a giant entity headquartered in Washington. Like everyone else, we are members of the community,” said Business Manager Douglas Strayer. “This is about giving something back, but it also offers an opportunity for apprentices to apply their skills in the field rather than just inside the shop.”

Mayor James Snyder said a new flagpole was necessary after the removal of two large evergreens from the front of the building that limited the line of sight for emergency responders entering and exiting the building.