![](https://cdn.socast.io/6616/sites/389/2020/09/03105908/MIKE-STRAZA-REFORMATTED-860x573-300x200.jpg)
By Heart of Illinois ABC
BLOOMINGTON – Another candidate is stepping in to join the race next year for Ward 5 Bloomington alderman.
Mike Straza will officially announce his campaign Thursday for the ward located in north-central Bloomington. He joins fellow candidate Patrick Lawler, who announced his own bid at the end of June.
According to an official media release, Straza is a Bloomington resident of 37 years. After graduating from Illinois State University, he has held various positions including business consultant, mentor, and entrepreneur.
Straza currently serves on Bloomington’s Zoning Board of Appeals, which is an appointed position.
“I’m passionate about growing business opportunities, advancing our infrastructure, and strengthening the relationships within our community,” Straza said in a prepared statement.
Incumbent Joni Painter is yet to announce whether or not she will run again for office.
The announcement will happen on Straza’s official campaign Facebook page. You can find it by following the link here.
Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected].