Name three long-term goals you have for the Village and why you chose them.
- End the Politics at Village Hall. My opponent has spent years complaining about assessments on Hwy V, Foxconn, and other issues but never offers solutions; he only votes no. For example, instead of working with others to fill the empty board seat this year, he said in the Racine Journal Times “I personally like the idea that this board would be at a stalemate… I don’t really, at this point, have any want for a swing vote when right now there seems to be a standoff.” That’s wrong, the Village deserves Trustees that can work together. I don’t care who is on the Board, I will work with them to find solutions.
- Hold the Line on Property Taxes. I understand running a business and managing a budget and will work with others to find ways to keep your taxes low. I will hold the line on property taxes, keep spending low, and focus on government spending on core services like Police, Fire, and EMS.
- Support local jobs and promote development. As an owner of a local family business since 1959, I understand the needs of small businesses. Businesses want to come in, develop, and grow in the Village. As Village Trustee, I will understand their perspective, hear their concerns, and work to create a welcoming business environment for big and small businesses.
What are the three biggest challenges the village faces and how would you address them?
- Mount Pleasant has so many positive things in its future. Unfortunately, the stalemate in Mount Pleasant, led by my opponent, has crippled its ability to solve problems and develop a long-term plan. We have many challenges in the near future but the stalemate is preventing us from moving forward.
- The Village finances are chaotic. As a business owner, I understand managing a budget and reducing costs. We need to get our spending under control. I promise to hold the line on property taxes and ensure that your taxes dollars are accounted for and properly used.
- Creating a long-term vision. The stalemate and dysfunction on the Village Board have prevented any discussion about long-term planning. If we want to move our Village forward and create a positive community, we need to create a vision. Once we have a vision, the Board can properly plan and find solutions to the challenges that we face.
The Village is poised for growth. How should it adapt to that growth?
This is the first time in decades that a major company has chosen to move to our community. First, there are developmental concerns, and we must consider the homeowners that have been in the area for generations. We must ensure that our citizens are protected from any environmental or developmental issues. But let’s use this as a chance for long-term planning. The Village Board needs to use recent economic development to create smart growth and ensure that our neighborhoods remain positive areas for families to come, live, and raise families.
How would you describe your leadership style?
As a small business owner, I aim to solve problems. Throughout my life, I have always tried to lead by example. As a Trustee, I will work with anyone on the board to address the challenges that face us. I will always be honest and do what I believe is right.
Why should people elect you?
I am not a typical candidate for elected office, I don’t make speeches or run to the newspaper. My goal is to work hard, lead by example, work as a team, and do what I believe is right. I will always be honest and straightforward and believe that we can disagree without being disagreeable. I was appointed by Village President Garski to serve on the planning commission and have owned a family business since 1959. As your Trustee, I won’t play politics or have a political agenda, I will end the stalemate and restore faith in the Village.
Learn about Floyd “Skip” Leonard’s opponent, Gary Feest.
The Spring election will be held on Tuesday, April 3rd, 2018.
Find your polling location here.
Learn more about the other Village Trustee candidates.
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