P. Michael Sturla, state representative for the 96th Legislative District (Lancaster County) was born and raised in Lancaster County. He graduated from Garden Spot High School in 1974 and from the University of Kansas in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design. While still in college, Mike started a small painting and renovating business with his brother that later became Sturla Brothers, Inc. Construction and Contracting. Mike would later form Aarchitrave, an architecture and design business with several partners.

Mike began his public service in 1987 when he was elected to Lancaster City Council. He also served as a member of the Lancaster County Planning Commission in 1990 until his election to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1991. For more than 17 years, Mike has diligently served the citizens of the 96th District, which includes Lancaster City and parts of Lancaster Township and Manheim Township. He also volunteers in the community and serves on various boards, including the Shreiner-Concord Cemetery and Lancaster County Workforce Investment Board.

Throughout his legislative career, Mike has served on a variety of House standing committees, including Appropriations, Transportation, Health, Education, Urban Affairs, and Aging. As chairman of the Professional Licensure Committee in the 2007-08 session, he shepherded through 22 laws. He also has been a member of the Capitol Preservation Committee and the Chesapeake Bay Commission.

Mike was elected by his Democratic colleagues to the leadership position of Majority Policy Committee chairman for the 2009-10 session. In this role, he will help craft the caucus’s policy agenda.