A Rutland High School graduate, Mayor Mike Doenges returned to his hometown in 2016 with his family, determined to make a difference. Since taking office, Mayor Doenges has delivered on his promise to address Rutland’s most pressing challenges while laying the foundation for a vibrant future.

Under his leadership, Rutland launched the transformative Roofs Over Rutland program, securing $8 million in state funding to bring new housing online at no cost to taxpayers. His ambitious housing initiatives have already sparked record-breaking development, with 76 new permits filed in 2024 alone—the highest since the 90's.

Mayor Doenges has also been a champion for public safety and community well-being, spearheading efforts to stabilize neighborhoods, improve traffic safety, and combat drug-related crime through innovative, multi-departmental collaboration. He has prioritized helping unhoused families by securing transitional housing solutions, ensuring children remain in school and families stay together.

A forward-thinker, Mayor Doenges secured Rutland’s first Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district to fund infrastructure improvements tied to economic growth. Projects like the new downtown hotel and upcoming apartment developments will bring much-needed revenue and vibrancy to the city.

His vision doesn’t stop there. From advocating for stronger public safety legislation to streamlining development processes and reimagining vacant spaces, Mayor Doenges has built partnerships and engaged the community to create lasting change.

Rutland’s progress is undeniable, but there’s more work to be done. With another term, Mayor Doenges will continue building on this momentum to make Rutland the best place in Vermont to live, work, and thrive.