For many years, Olkives was active in political and labor-related positions in Kenosha, including his service as president of the Kenosha Trades and Labor Council (for nine years), as public relations counsel with the Kenosha Manufacturers Association, and as president of the Kenosha City Council while an alderman. He also served on the Mayor's (or Veterans') Emergency Housing Committee, as vice-chairman of the Kenosha Housing Authority, and as business manager and treasurer of the Brittles Recreation Match Bowling Team.
