[May 06, 2011] Candidates' Answers [Isthmus] Tweet (Isthmus Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Pull out to save this supplement to Isthmus, Madison's weekly newspaper Spring General Election: April 5, 2011 Candidate Information has been compiled by the League of Women Voters of Dane County from questionnaires sent January 5, 2011, to covered candidates at the local. Dane County level. Responses were due January 14, 2011. For candidates running for Wisconsin Supreme Court and for Wisconsin of Appeals. District 4, information, questions for the candidates , as well as candidate photos and responses were handled by the state League LWV-Wisconsin Education Fund). The League of Women Voters of Dane County is non-partisan, making neither endorsements of candidates and parties nor recommendations about candidates and parties. Candidates' replies are printed verbatim. The candidates at the local, Dane County level were given a 100-word limit for each question. If the 100th word appears in a particular sentence, that sentence is generally left complete. Text beyond such consideration, however, is cut and the response is marked [Word Limit], The designation NO REPLY is used when candidates do not submit a response or when they do not respond to a particular question. The designation Refused to Answer refers to a candidate's stated policy not to answer questionnaires. Candidates' Answers is distributed in Isthmus, the free weekly newspaper. The voter guide is also posted on the LWVDC Web site: http://www.lwvdanecounty.org/ . Reference copies are available at public libraries and city clerks' offices. Permission to copy and distribute this publication is granted, provided that no candidate's answers are altered in any way, that equal treatment is afforded all candidates for a given office, and that credit is given to die League of Women Voters of Dane County Candidates' Answers is prepared by the League of Women Voters of Dane County, funded by die LWV-Education Fund." It is produced dianks to die work of League members and staff, the expertise of Isthmus, and information fiOm the Wisconsin State Journal, and the offices of die Dane County clerk, die city clerks in Dane County, and die Wisconsin Government Accoiuitability Board. Elections Division. Celebrating Its 91st birthday this year, the League of Women Voters is an organization of women and men diat is nonpartisan, community-based, and organized at die local, state, and national levels. Its goals for die 21st century include a renewed commitment to: * Reconnecting citizens with government * Enhancing voter participation * Including all voices in civic life * Strengthening the democratic process through reform In our community, die League of Women Voters of Dane County registers voters: issues the Candidates ' Answers: provides information on voting; moderates live candidate forums and televised candidate interviews; invites speakers to public forums to* address topics under study by the membership; and makes statements at hearings in support of its positions based on extensive study of issues. We would like to acknowledge the following supporters of the Candidates' Answers project for their recent contributions: Kim Barovic; Paid and Suzanne Buckner; Philip L. Cox; Ann Lacy; Anonymous. The league of Women Voters of Dane County invites you to become an active and informed citizen by becoming a member. For more information about membership or any of our programs, please contact us. Help Support Candidates' Answers If you appreciate the printed version of Candidates' Answers, please help to support it. To make a tax-deductible contribution, send a check made out to "LWV Education Fund" to: League of Women Voters of Dane County 2712 Marshall Court Suite 2 Madison, WI 53705 VOTING INFORMATION Voter registration information is available on the Web site of Wisconsin's Government Accountability Board (G.A.B.) [formerly known as the State Elections Board] at http:// gab.wi.gov. or the Dane County Web site, www.countyofdane.com/clerk/. Information on voting can also be obtained by calling your municipal clerk or the League of Women Voters of Dane County at 608.232.9447. To check individual voter registration status and polling place, as well as sample ballots, visit the G.A.B. 's Voter Public Access site: http://vpa.wi.gov. Statewide Voting Information. Eligible voters are United States citizens age 18 or older who have resided in a municipality (city, village, or town) or ward within a municipality for 10 days before any election, with no present intent to move. Any persons convicted of treason, felony or bribery are not allowed to vote unless their civil rights have been restored, fin Wisconsin, civil rights are restored when their prison term and terms of parole or probation have been completed, known as being "off papers."] How to Register to Vote. Registration by mail occurs until the third Wednesday or 20 days before an election. To register by mail, print an Application for Voter Registration Form (Form GAB-131) from the Web site: http://gab.wi.gov/forms. (Click on GAB-131 Voter Registration Application). Complete and mail the form to your municipal clerk's office. Be sure to include on the form your Wisconsin Driver License number. If you have not been issued a Wisconsin Driver License, you may provide your Wisconsin Department of Transportation-issued I.D. card number, or the last 4 digits of your Social Security number. If you have never voted in Wisconsin before, a copy of proof of residence must accompany the application. Your municipality for voting purposes is where you actually live, not necessarily die same as your post office or phone. Late registration in person at your city, town, or village clerk's office can occur until 5 p.m. on the day before election. After 20 days before an election, since the clerk may not be able to get the voter's name on the poll list, the late registrant will receive a certificate of registration to bring to the polls. Voters registering to vote in the clerk's office during late registration need to present proof of residence to the clerk. Address Change within Wisconsin. Registered voters with an address change from a different city in Wisconsin should complete a new GAB131 form and submit it to their new city, town, or village clerk's office. Changes of address within the same city should be reported to die city, town, or village clerk's office. Registration is also allowed at the polls on Election Day in Wisconsin. The new voter must show proof of residence and provide a Wisconsin Driver License number to register. Voters without a Wisconsin Driver License may provide the Wisconsin Department of Transportation issued I.D. card number, or die last 4 digits of your Social Security number. How to Vote Absentee. Absentee ballots may be voted in person at your city town, or village office, or currendy registered voters may obtain an absentee ballot by mad from their municipal clerk. Absentee ballot requests must state your voting address within die municipality where you wish to vote, die address where die absentee ballot should be sent, if different from your voting address, and your signature. A reason for voting absentee is not required. Absentee ballots are available 30 days before the partisan primary' and general elections and must be received in time to allow for delivery to the polling place before the polls close on Election Day To register to vote, to vote absentee, to report address changes, or to find polling place locations, visit your City Clerk. Note diat all Municipal offices are required by statute to remain open until 5:00 PM on the day before the election. Fitchburg City Clerk, 5520 Lacy Rd.. 608.270.4200. 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM www.cityfitchburg.wi.us (Under Departments. City Clerk. Voting and Election Information) Madison City Clerk, room 103. CityCounty Bldg., 210 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.. 608.266.4601, 8 AM -4:30 PM www.cityofniadison.com /clerk (Under Voter Information) Voters may also register to vote at any Madison Fire Station 7 days a week during reasonable hours or at any Madison Library during regular hours (Library hours announcement, 608.266.4811). Middleton City Clerk, 7426 Hubbard Ave., 608.827.ia50, 7:45 AM 4:30 PM www.ci.middleton. wi. us ( Under Departments. City Clerk. Voting and Election Information) Monona City Clerk, 521 1 Schlüter Rd., 608.222.2525. 8 AM - 5 PM www.rnynionona.com (Under City Government. Elections) Stoughton City Clerk. 381 E. Main St., 608.873.6677. 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM www. ci.stoughton.wi.us (Under Departments. City Clerk /personne I. Elections & Voting) Sun Prairie City Clerk, 300 E. Main St., 608.837.2511. 8 AM 4:30 PM www.cityofsunprairie.com ( Under Departments. City Clerk. Elections & Voting) Voters may also register to vote at die Sim Prairie Library (1350 Linnerud Dr.) during regular business hours. M-Th 9 AM - 9 PM, F & Sat 9 AM - 5 PM. Sun 1 PM - 5 PM Verona City Clerk, 111 Lincoln St., 608.848.9947, 8 AM - 4:30 PM www.ci.verona.wi.us (Under Elections. Election Information) Voters may also register to vote at die Verona Public Library (500 SUent St.) during regular business hours. M-Th 9 AM - 9 PM. F9 AM -5 PM. Sat 9 AM -4PM Town of Madison City Clerk. 2120 Fish Hatchery Rd., 608.210.7260 Other Dane County Town and Village Municipal Clerks. www.countyofdane.com/election clerks.aspx WISCONSIN WISCONSIN SUPREME COURT JUSTICE ten-year term Information, questions, photos, and responses were provided by the state League. LWV-WI Education Fund. The state's highest court is composed of seven justices and is located in die State Capitol. The Supreme Court may review cases decided in any lower court or may hear original actions. The Supreme Court has administrative and regulatory authority over the courts and the practice of law in the state. The justice who has served the longest continuous term serves as chief justice unless he or she declines the position. Wisconsin Supreme Court Justices are elected in statewide non-partisan April elections to a 10 year term beginning August 1. In the event of a vacancy, the governor may appoint a justice until an election can lie held. A justice must have been a licensed attorney in Wisconsin for die five years preceding election to judicial office. Judicial candidates may not be members of political parties and may not make promises or commitments on any case, controversy or issue that may come before them if elected. Once in office, a justice may not hold or campaign for any non-judicial public office during the term for which he/she was elected, even tf he/she resigns from judicial office. According to the Wisconsin Blue Book 2009-2010. the salary for a Supreme Court Justice is S144.495 and for the Supreme Court Chief Justice is $152.495. JOANNE F. KLOPPENBURG Kloppenburg for Wisconsin Supreme Court. P.O. Box 5464. Madison, WI 53705; 608.231.3859; campaignlâJkloppenburgforjustice.com; www.kloppenburgforjustice.com 1. I've been a litigator and prosecutor at Wisconsin's Department of Justice since 1989. serving under Attorneys General from both parties. My legal experience includes constitutional, appellate, civd litigation, environmental prosecution, administrative and some criminal law. I've argued numerous cases in circuit courts, the Wisconsin Supreme Court and Wisconsin Court of Appeals. I graduated with honors from UW Law School (1988). Yale (BA 1974). Princeton (MA 1976). I was a law clerk for Chief Judge Barbara Crabb. and interned for Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson. I've taught at the UW I^aw School since 1990 and volunteered in many legal and community venues 2. The Wisconsin Supreme Court is an appellate court with the power to determine what appeals it hears from any court in Wisconsin. It can also take "original actions." cases that have not started in lower courts. The Court takes about 100 of the thousands of cases that begin Ln Wisconsin courts each year. About 75% of the cases are civil; about 25% are criminal. Supreme Court Justices decide the most important legal disputes and set rules for state courts and lawyers. It is critical that Wisconsin residents are confident that Justices are independent, impartial decision-makers, unaligned with special interests. 3. It is imperative Wisconsin residents have coiuidence in the Courts as impartial and independent. That is why public financing for Supreme Court candidates who limit fundraising and spending is so important. The effect of the law on people's lives is profound and powerful. American democracy is built upon our willingness to accept the decisions courts reach as lawful, whether we agree with those decisions or not. The huge spending, the attack ads and partisan-style tactics in Supreme Court campaigns undermine the confidence our residents must have in courts and justices whose power and responsibility are so great. 4. The judicial, legislative and executive branches of government are co-equal. There must be checks and balances for democracy to work. This election offers votes a very clear choice when it comes to independence. My opponent has said he has "the most partisan background" of any current Justice. His campaign said that re-electing him would protect "the conservative judicial majority" on the Court which would then be a '*complement" to the new Republican governor and legislature. It is wrong for Judges to prejudge cases based on political ideology. 1 will decide cases on the law and the facts. DAVID T. PROSSER, JR. incumbent [Response received 2/8/2011. too late to appear in the printed Primary Election edition of Candidates' Answers] Prosser for Superne Court. 709 Milwaukee St. Suite C. Delafield. Wl 53018; 262.646.3073; [email protected]: www.justiceprosser.com 1. My 12 years as a Supreme Court Justice are my most obvious qualification. I have written 132 majority opinions and participated in 9(X) published decisions. Eighteen former state bar presidents and many judges have endorsed me based on my performance. No other candidate has judicial experience. In addition, I have worked at all levels of government and in all three branches of government: law teacher (UW, IUPUI); staff attorney. Office of Criminal Justice; administrative assistant to Congressman; elected district attorney; 18 years in Wisconsin State Assembly: Assembly Speaker; Tax Appeals Commissioner; Uniform Laws Commissioner. This breadth of experience is unprecedented. 2. Most cases begin in circuit court where a judge or jury hears factual evidence and makes a decision. The losing party may appeal, pointing to some error in procedure or deficiency in the applicable law and asking for a different result or chance to start over. The Supreme Court is the highest appellate court in Wisconsin. It hears important civil and criminal appeals on legal issues that will affect many people beyond the immediate litigants. It also makes rules affecting courts and the practice of law. supervises and disciplines attorneys and judges, and works to obtain funding for the judiciary. 3. The Supreme Court hears and decides many controversial issues. The members of the court have strong views. Disagreements among justices have always existed, are inevitable, and not inappropriate. What is essential, however, is that disagreements are handled with collegiality and mutual respect that recognizes the constitutional role of the chief justice and the role of other justices, and encourages all justices to participate and contribute to the betterment of the whole. Public squabbling demeans ttie court. To assure that the court achieves its maximum potential, we shoidd seek an objective evaluation by neutral, impartial observers and experts. 4. Supreme Court Justices should decide cases based on the facts and the law They shoidd not sit as ideologues and attempt to politicize the judiciary to advance a particular point of view. Justices who act with consistent impartiality are seldom subject to outside pressure. 1 have never felt outside pressure to decide a case. The Supreme Court serves as a check on abuses and excesses by other branches and "interests." Judicial independence assures that the court is able to perform this vital function, irrespective of who controls the other branches or how powerful the "interests" might be. Questions for Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. Describe in lay terms the duties of a Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice. What types of cases are heard by the court? 3. What procedural or legislative changes might improve the operations of the court? 4. How will you as a Supreme Court Justice advocate for the independence of the courts? The LWV-Wl Education Fund offered candidates for Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice an opportunity to update their answers for the Spring general election; only Joanne Kloppenburg responded, submitting updates for questions 3 and 4. WISCONSIN COURT OF APPEALS ten-year term According to the Wisconsin Blue Book, the Court of Appeals, created August 1. 1978. is divided into 4 appellate districts covering the state, and there are 16 appellate judges. The "court chambers", or principal offices for the districts, are located in Madison. Milwaukee. Waukesha, and Wausau. Designed to handle 1,200 cases per year, the Court of Appeals has mostly mandatory jurisdiction, meaning that litigants have die right to appeal their cases from the circuit court to die Court of Appeals. The court usually sits as a 3-judge panel to dispose of cases on their merits. However, a single judge may decide certain categories of cases, including juvenile cases; small claims; municipal ordinance and traffic violations: and mental health and misdemeanor cases. The Wisconsin Supreme Court appoints a chief judge of the Court of Appeals to serve as administrative head of the court for a 3-year term, and the clerk of the Supreme Court serves as the clerk for the court. Appellate judges are elected for 6-year terms in the nonpartisan April election and begin their terms of office on the following August 1. They must reside in the district from which they are chosen. Only one Court of Appeals judge may be elected Ln a district in any one year. The authorized salary tor appeals court judges Ln 2009 was $136,316, according to the latest Wisconsin Blue Book. WISCONSIN COURT OF APPEALS, District 4 Includes the following counties: Adams, Clark. Columbia. Crawford, Dane. Dodge. Grant. Green. Iowa, Jackson, Jefferson, Juneau, La Crosse, Lafayette, Marquette, Monroe, Portage, Richland, Rock. Sauk, Vernon, Waupaca, Waushara, Wood PAUL B. HIGGINBOTHAM incumbent - NO REPLY 2780 Osmundsen Rd, Fitchburg, Wl 53711 Questions for Wisconsin Court of Appeals candidates 1. What educational, occupational, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. Describe in lay terms what the Court of Appeals does and how it does it. What types of cases are heard by the court? 3. What legislative or procedural changes might improve the operations of the court? DANE COUNTY Questions for all Dane County-level positions were created by the LWV of Dane County. DANE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT, BRANCH 2, six-year term MARYANN SUMI incumbent 51 White Oaks Ln, Madison, Wl 53711 1. 1 am a 1976 graduate of the University of Wisconsin Law School. I served as an Assistant Attorney General prior to my appointment to the bench in 1998. and was elected to six-year terms in 1999 and 2005. 1 am currently presiding judge of Dane Comity. My caseload includes criminal, family and civU cases. I serve on the statewide Criminal Jury Instructions Committee and as a Dean of the Wisconsin Judicial College. I serve on the Board of United Way of Dane County. 2. The Circuit Courts are responsible for the fail· and impartial resolution of civil, criminal, family and juvenile cases. Circuit Courts provide a forum for the peaceful and orderly resolution of disputes between citizens, businesses and government, understanding that litigants are entided to their day in court. Judges must lead by example, maintaining the highest ethical standards and avoiding partisanship and partiality 3. Courts must examine every step of the criminal justice process, from arrest to sentencing, to recognize sources of conscious or unconscious bias. When imposing sentence, courts must always consider non-incarceration dispositions first, and incarcerate only when failure to do so would unduly diminish the seriousness of the offense. The Circuit Court must also insure dud its employee hiring and retention practices encourage a racially diverse court system. Questions for Dane County Circuit Court candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What is your understanding of the primary responsibilities of the Circuit Court? 3. What do you think the Circuit Court can or should do, if anything, about the disproportionate rate of incarceration of minorities? DANE COUNTY CIRCUIT COURT, BRANCH 9, six-year term RICHARD G. NIESS incumbent 360 West Washington Ave #P204, Madison, Wl 53703; www.electjudgeniess.com 1. For twenty years, I was either die managing partner or president of a law firm employing up to twenty people, so I understand all aspects of running a small business. I served on the boards for the Westmorland Saints (youth hockey) and Independent Living, a not-for-profit organization devoted to the needs of die elderly, particularly low income. I am a member of the Wisconsin Judicial College faculty, teaching new and experienced judges about case management and civü law issues. I teach annually at the law school, and mentor law students as interns and new lawyers. (See www.electjudgeniess.com) 2. Circuit court judges serve as guardians of the rule of law. We are trustees of the public interest, as expressed in the United States and Wisconsin constitutions, legislative enactments, and higher court precedents. We carry out our fiduciary obligations one decision at a time, by applying the law as it is written and previously interpreted to the facts before us, with an even hand and without a hint of malice or personal gain. Our judgment must be informed with liberal doses of common sense, compassion, civility good faith, and humility. Our goal is justice as fairness under the law. 3. Other than ongoing judicial training directed at this specific issue, my most direct involvement with incarceration rates is at the time of sentencing. By then, the defendant has already been found guilty at trial or by plea. 1 must ensure that race is never a consideration in sentencing, and that the opportunities for probation and treatment programs designed to reduce the risk of re-offending are offered to ail defendants regardless of race. If I ever suspect that race is a factor in any phase of a case, I must investigate and .act as needed to eliminate any cause for concern. BRIANE F. PAGEL, JR. -NO REPLY Briane F Pagel, Jr. is no longer actively campaigning for the office; his name, however, will still appear on the ballot. DANE COUNTY EXECUTIVE, two-year term EILEEN BRUSKEWITZ 5134 Reynolds Ave, Waunakee, WI 53597; 608.235.1814; [email protected]; eileenforexecutive.com 1. In my 11 years serving on the County Board. I've learned how government works and how to improve it. I have a proven record of working with all units of government-town, village, city, and state. I worked for die North Mendota Parkway, opposing excessive shoreland zoning regulations, giving the people a chance to vote on sales tax and commuter rad referendum. I earned a BS in Sociology, and worked as a Registered Nurse at UW Hospital. I am dedicated to correcting the excessive borrowing, spending, and taxing of recent budgets. I will listen to the people of Dane County. 2. My top priority is to reduce taxes and to stop excessive borrowing and spending. Taxpayers have been hard hit by die economy yet county taxes went up LO % over die past two years. That is wrong. I oppose any increase in the sales tax. Dane County's economic prospects are weak without changes in our zoning and development processes. Our reputation as a difficult place to do business must change. 1 would invite the business community to identify how the County can help them. Human services for Lhe truly needy must be preserved. 3. The County has a duty to care for those who require the safety net of human services as well as to provide for sendees that everyone uses, such as roads, public protection, lakes, and libraries. Since prosperity emanates from the private sector, our future economic health depends upon a thriving business environment. I would conduct a careful analysis of current ordinances and regulations that prohibit environmentally sound residential and business development from occurring. The quality of life of all citizens and especially the most vulnerable, depends on it. The Executive must have a good working relationship with the state legislature. 4. Real estate taxes, utility costs, maintenance for code compliance, costs to manage, costs of financing and many other factors go into the actual cost of providing housing. Affordability is based on the income of the person seeking housing. The mismatch of the cost of housing and the income of the person renting or purchasing housing is the crux of the problem. In the current economic and development climate, new projects may not be given permits and/or there is no financing. Bringing jobs to Dane County may allow more people to afford to live here. 5. Dane County's d isproportionate minority incarceration and the school drop out rate for youth of color is alarming. As Executive. I would use my political influence to support initiatives such as the all boys school with a structured and high expectation environment. I worked with a the Madison Police Chief and the Gang Task Force and a private company to pdot a program where young gang members were recruited to work at a job and get life coaching. The results were spectacular. I wotdd encourage this approach which will have a lasting impact and reduce youth in the justice system. JOE PARISI P.O. Box 3042. Madison. Wl 53704; 608.886.2967; [email protected]; parisifordane.com 1. I served as Dane County Clerk for 8 years beginning in 1996. In that post, I streamlined and modernized operations through the use of technology to save Lhe county money. I fought for critical election reforms, and made county government more transparent and accessible. I'm currently State Representative for parts of the east and soutii sides of Madison, Monona, Village of McFarland, Town of Blooming Grove, and Town of Dunn. I'm also the Former President of the Board of Directors at Operation Fresh Start, and served on Board of Directors for Goodman Community Center. 2. As County Executive, I will focus on job creation and retention by creating the Office of Economic Development within die County Executive's office, a one-stop shop that will work with local businesses and help them get the resources they need to retain and create jobs. When addressing economic development, you also need to tiiink hard about how you want to grow. 1 will focus our growth on making the county a leader in family-supporting clean energy jobs. Finally, I will work to protect vital human and public services that keep our famdies and our community safe during tough budget times. 3. A lot of our planning in the short term, and the long term will depend on budget realities on the local, and the state level. But I believe our immediate needs are also our long-term needs. An initial investment in economic development and protecting human services that our famdies depend on wdl help maintain oui' high quality of life in the long-term. This wdl keep our county strong, and allow us more opportunity to continue a balanced approach to the environment and land-use policy, and explore ways to make transportation initiatives such a commuter rail a reality. 4. Increasing affordable housing is clearly a need in Dane County, and not just for lowincome families. As County Executive, I will work to make sure a real regional conversation continues on this issue, and encourage continued cooperation from the independent housing authorities of the county and the City of Madison. We will be facing real budget concerns on the county level, but in this area, and in ad areas of government, we must find creative ways to find cost savings to support our priorities, not just throw up our hands in despair. I'm open to finding ways to move forward on this issue. 5. I had the opportunity to work on this issue when I served as the Chair of the Assembly Committee on Corrections and the Courts. I support the work the Implementation Team and County Executive FaLk has already done, including bringing the courts, the DAs office, and the sheriff's office together to work on this issue, and addressing license reinstatement among minority youth. Driving with a revoked license can lead to greater involvement in the criminal justice system, and is an obstacle in getting a job. As County Executive I wdl continue this work so we can make disproportionate incarceration a thing of the past. Questions for Dane County Executive candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. Name your top priorities for your term as County Executive, and explain your reasons for your choices. 3. Job creation and care for the sick, homeless, and mentally ül are immediate needs. Environmental protection, land use planning, and transportation policy are among many long-range considerations. As County Executive, what criteria will you use to balance immediate needs against the need to plan for a safe and prosperous future? 4. What wiU you do to increase the amount of affordable housing in Dane County? 5. How will you support the work of the Implementation Team on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System? Questions for Dane County Executive candidates 1 What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. Name your top priorities for your term as County Executive, and explain your reasons for your choices. 3. Job creation and care for the sick, homeless, and mentally dl are immediate needs. Environmentarprotection, land use planning, and transportation policy are among many long-range considerations. As County Executive, what criteria will you use to balance immediate needs against the need to plan for a safe and prosperous future? 4. What wiU you do to increase the amount of affordable housing in Dane County? 5. How will you support the work of the Implementation Team on Racial Disparities in the Criminal Justice System? CITIES EDGERTON EDGERTON ALDER District 1, two-year term ANDREA EGERSTAFFER incumbent NO REPLY 308A Belaire Dr, Edgerton. WI 53534 District 2, two-year term CANDICE DAVIS - NO REPLY 434 Fairfield Cir, Edgerton, Wl 53534 MATT MCINTYRE incumbent 3 Mechanic St, Edgerton, Wl 5353¿ 608.884.3780; eternaHyforty® charter.net 1. Having served in elected government over the years, I have gained a lot of general knowledge of how city government works effectively and efficiendy. Over die years I have been part of helping Edgerton grow in a lot of ways. Helped create 100 acre industrial park with two active businesses; renovate an old decaying factory that has produced several companies. VVe have also opened up four new subdivisions, improved streets, and maintained a safe city: I have always prided myself in being very active in die issues that face Edgerton by doing the very best to communicate these issues back to my constituents. 2. Jobs, economic development, business expansion, keeping the city as safe as possible, approving a fair budget every year that gives operating room to provide stable growth for the city of Edgerton. By keeping our community in the forefront and always striving for economic vitality is a major criteria that communities face in these trying times. By having constant contact with city administration, department heads, county and state representatives; I believe this has given me the strength, ability, and knowledge to keep the place in which we live in a good place to live, do business in, and work. 3. By constantly referring to our comprehensive land use master plan is one way to grow our city in a balanced environmentally wed planned out way. The principals outlined Ln this plan always gives us a reminder when we locate businesses, plan out subdivisions, and set up park systems for our city. Also by walking and driving our city over the years, we can see how well we have adopted to our planning strategies in what we might have to tweak or alter as we continue to grow in a careful, steady, balanced manner. Getting feedback from our citizens plays a crucial role. District 2, one-year term DAVID THOMAS - NO REPLY 816 West Fulton St, Edgerton, Wl 53534 District 3, two-year term MARK WELLNITZ incumbent NO REPLY 4 1/2 N. Catlin St, Edgerton, Wl 53534 BRENNON RUOSCH noreply 621 E. Fulton St, Edgerton. Wl 53534 Questions for Edgerton Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are die most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? FITCHBURG FITCHBURG MUNICIPAL JUDGE four-year term HAMDY A. EZALARAB incumbent - NO REPLY 5785 Clermont Ct, Fitchburg, Wl 53711 Questions for Municipal Judge candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What changes would you make to die way the current system is handling traffic violations including DWI (Driving Whde Intoxicated)? 3. How would you handle youthful offenders with a goal to reduce and discourage repeat offenses especially among youth of color? FITCHBURG MAYOR two year term JAY ALLEN incumbent - NO REPLY 2881 Commerce Park Dr, Ste E, Fitchburg, Wl 53719 SHAWN PFAFF 5205 Day Lily Pl, Fitchburg, WI 53711; 608.278.8344; [email protected]; www.shawnpfaff.com 1. I serve as an Alder on the City Council where I have focused on improving the City's economy, building die new library and working collaboratively with my colleagues on the Council. I am also a member of the Dane County 911 Center Board and a former member on the City's Police and Fire Commission. I am actively involved in the Fitchburg IJons Club and several other service organizations. Also. I have served as the local government liaison to Governor Jim Doyle during his first term where I worked closely with local government, business and community leaders from across the state. 2. My main goal is to bring Fitchburg together to move it forward by articulating a vision through working collaboratively with Council members, city staff and citizens to implement that vision. Our current mayor is too divisive and does not have the vision and leadership to get this done. I will work to accomplish that goal in three ways. First, encourage economic development opportunities while protecting our environment. Two, make the tough choices to rein in spending by investing in core government services, and third, allowing ALL voices to be heard at City Hall by listening first and speaking second. 3. There is no question that the next state budget will be very difficult. As mayor of Fitchburg. I will work the City Council to be prepared for a lack of state funding as we put together our next budget. Fitchburg is blessed with opportunities to grow our tax base, so we are not as reliant on state shared revenue as other communities. However, to overcome an expected state funding shortfall, City Hall wdl have to be prepared to do more with less while still making sure that we divest in core services like police and fire protection and snow removal. Questions for Fitchburg mayoral candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What goals would you hope to achieve during this term in office? 3. Wisconsin shares revenue with municipalities - how will you ensure that your community gets adequate shared revenue? FITCHBURG ALDER two-year terms District 1, Seat 1 DOROTHY KRAUSE 2105 Apache Dr, Fitchburg, Wl 53711; 608.271.7532; [email protected]; http://krause4alder.com 1. Since buying my house Ln 2002. I've been working toward making the Allied Drive area a safe and productive community. Because the area closely links Fitchburg and Madison, there is a lot of crossover between the two cities. I participate in most related meetings, in both cities, and have good working relationships on both sides. I've closely followed planning for the Beltline ' Verona Road project over the years, plus have contributed to many land use and SmartCode Charrettes along with other Fitchburg events. People have encouraged me to run because I already do the work and am so involved! 2. Improving the Allied area'will continue to remain a focus, with a lot of exciting projects coming up, involving cooperative efforts between Fitchburg and Madison. The highway construction project will generate many conversations in my district, and cause significant disruption for everyone in die area. The economy is going to remain interesting for a number of years yet. Projects to watch for in the near future include a new fire station (and plans for the old), the new library, new businesses and expansions of existing businesses. I'm looking forward to learning more about parts of Fitchburg outside my corner of it! 3. I am a strong advocate of sustainable planning and eagerly followed Fitchburg's implementation of SmartCode zoning. I recognize the value of quality construction and aesthetics but keep a strong eye on costs. Through my involvement in community gardening, I've developed a strong interest in urban agriculture and hope to be able to help develop an urban ag center in Fitchburg. As the owner of the local Freecycle.org group. I've been working toward reducing landfill waste by encouraging reuse of unneeded items. I choose to live modestly and tread fairly lightly in my use of natural resources. KEVIN PETERSON -NO REPLY 5803 Danville Dr, Fitchburg, Wl 53719 District 1, Seat 2 CAROL W. POOLE incumbent 4518 Crescent Rd. Fitchburg, Wl 53711 1. I am the current elected Alder Ln this seat. I serve on the Parks Commission, the Public Safety & Human Services Committee, the Personnel Committee and the Landmark Preservation Commission. Prior to being elected, I was active in Belmar neighborhood issues and a board member of the Dunn's Marsh Neighborhood Assn. for many years. I was also appointed as a neighborhood representative to a Dane County BUILD committee and the US 18-151/Verona Rd Plan Advisory Committee. I have lived in Belmar Hills since 1982. 1 have worked in the broadcast industry for 33 years. 2. The biggest challenge we face is balancing the needs of a growing community with keeping taxes in line. There are a lot of projects we need to accomplish and many that the citizens want. Tough choices will need to be made. We need to strive to be creative and diligent in making sure that the right projects are prioritized and completed in the most cost effective way possible. We simply can't afford to have another double digit tax increase. 3. Economic growth is vital to our city We have very exciting developments that are being planned for the northeast part of our city. These areas have great potential to significantly increase the valuation of our city, bring many good jobs and more housing options. These areas also contain some environmentally sensitive areas. Fitchburg has great tools in place to make sure we develop wisely. I wdl look for balance by making sure the developments in our city make financial sense for the developers, benefit the city as a whole and preserve or make the best use of natural areas. District 2, Seat 3 SWAMI SWAMINATHAN incumbent 3026 Bosshard Dr, Fitchburg, WI 53711; 608.274.3168; [email protected] 1. I have lived in Wisconsin for over 40 years, of which, 17 years have been in Fitchburg. After graduating with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, 1 worked at the UW -Medical School for thirty years directing a number of federal- and state- funded research projects aimed towards understanding cancers caused by exposure to chemicals Following retirement from the UW. 1 joined a local Biotechnology company as a business development manager. I have volunteered in die Madison School Space and Science Committees, political campaigns; organizations that help feed the homeless and for the past two years served as an Alderman in Fitchburg. 2. The issues that are of utmost concern to all of our residents are: reduction in city expenditures and property taxes without compromising on vital services; improvement in public safety and security; expansion of inter- and intra- city transportation facilities so that it is efficient, affordable, and frequent. In districts 1 and 2, there is a dire need for neighborhood parks and recreational programs for young adults. Lastly, residents in our community are concerned about sustainability of economic growth and maintenance of a high quality of life without causing a (hastie ecological imbalance. 3. The Fitchburg city has developed a comprehensive, well-balanced, long-range plan for overall development. As a council member, 1 will strive to promote organized, efficient, sustainable and well-thought out projects. We should have an open-forum, discussing the merits of these projects and how they will positively impact the quality of life of our community. The city should prioritize and encourage reputable developers to implement projects that are likely to have a major impact on economic growth, safety, convenience. energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability. District 2, Seat 4 PATRICK STERN 2969 Bryn Wood Dr, Fitchburg, Wl 53711; 608.616.5798; patricK.caterniaigmail.com; www.votepatnckstern.com 1. I hold a degree in political science from the UW - Madison, and come from a long line of civic-minded and community involved individuals. I also belong to several civic and community organizations. More than that, however. I work in Fitchburg, which is a claim no other Alder can make, dius making me uniquely qualified to asses the impact of the decisions the city makes on both residents and businesses. 2. The most important issue with any municipal election is always taxes. Looking at Fitchburg's current capital improvement plan coupled with the recent tax levy increases, it's clear that something unsustainable is happening. The question that will plague every level of government for the foreseeable future is "how can we do more without spending more money?'' We cannot proceed with business as usual. We must be forward thinking. Fitchburg must also do better at listening to its constituents. Many recent decisions at city hall have been controversial and without input from the community. That is unacceptable in a growing city such as ours. 3. I will judge every project, plan and regulation on its merits. That said, my perspective is to seek balance at all times. We must grow .md create good paying jobs so that we prosper as a community, but we cannot simply pave over everything to get there. We can be smart about growth, and target areas like the East Fitch burg Rail Corridor for development, while still preserving the rural areas of our city. The recent passage of Smart Code gives Fitchburg flexibility for mixed use and traditional growth patterns that will be needed hi the coming years. DARREN STUCKER incumbent 5785 Dawley Dr, Fitchburg. WI 537?: 608.230.8300; [email protected] 1. I have real experience from performing my Fitchburg alder duties for the past 4 years. With degrees in communication, education and political science I develop corporate, civic and community· projects. I listen. I stimulate consensus on important issues. In Madison I organized The Wisconsin Institute for Intermedia Studies, which produced The Equinox Festivals in the 1970s and ran Gallery 853. 1 helped organize The Madison Community Access Center and local campaigns supporting art in public places. As a teacher. I help people understand that global and local issues all relate. As an alder I help to make that happen. 2. The economy is our overriding issue. Incomes are down. Taxes. Up. We need new Fire Stations. Can we afford them? I look for frugal solutions and find examples that can help. I talk with people, listen and hear that, especially elders, can no longer afford the taxes on their homes. Foreclosure notices increase. They tell us that people need help. My district has some of the wealtiiiest and poorest people in our city I help them all. I pledge, to listen and to do what I can to affordably achieve what our city and its people need. 3. Voters know that Fitchburg's future is important. Some are satisfied. Some not. A library transportation system, even a school or post office requires more revenues. Revenues can come from development. Developments require more services. Tax bills came. Letters did too. A bright vision about the city's future is held by some. Others feel tapped out by high taxes and layoffs. A balance of local 'regional planning and informed, common sense makes for good, creative decisions. I pledge to frugally look forward and to help all parties consider how our city's growth should be. District 3, Seat 5 RICHARD BLOOMQUIST incumbent - NO REPLY 5743 Wilshire Dr. Fitchburg, Wl 53711 District 3, Seat 6 WILLIAM HORNS incumbent 2642 Pennwall Gir, Fitchburg, Wl 53711; 608.276.8594; [email protected] 1. I have been a member of the Fitchburg Common Council for six years. During that time I have served on the Finance Committee, the Plan Commission, and the Parks Commission. My undergraduate and graduate training is in mathematics, biometry, and zoology. 1 have worked in Great Lakes fisheries research and management for the past 26 years, and I am currently employed as the Great Lakes Fisheries Specialist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. 2. Fitchburg is a diverse city with issues ranging from the concerns of aging urban neighborhoods to those of an agricultural community, hi the short run we will be chadenged to hold down the tax levy while at the same time sustaining city services. As the economy pulls out of the recession Fitchburg is well situated to enjoy an exciting period of development and growth along the lines described in our Comprehensive Plan. Our greatest challenge may be to make sime that as that happens we adequately address the needs of our less affluent and more ethnically diverse northern neighborhoods. 3. Economic growth, environmental protection, and good land use planning are mutually supporting goals. Our Comprehensive Plan reflects a balanced approach to all three. Central to that Plan is our commitment to a long term urban growth boundary' that protects farmland and wetlands while encouraging development in the northern part of the city and along an eastern highway and rad transportation corridor. I am confident that by adhering to that Plan Fitchburg can see healthy economic growth while protecting our environmental and agricultural resources. DENISE SOLIE NO REPLY 2753 Florann Dr. Fitchburg. Wl 53711 District 4, Seat 7 STEVE ARNOLD incumbent 2530 Targhee St, Fitchburg, Wl 53711; 608.278.7700; Fax 608.278.7701; [email protected]; http://Arnold.US; Facebook: http://facebook.com/ArnoldforAlder 1. After degrees in ecology and statistics and teaching at the university level. I started a career in information technology. I managed my own consulting company for 15 years, working on key business processes for large enterprises. On the Fitchburg Common Council since 2005, I've served on land use and transportation planning, environmental protection, and public safety committees and commissions, frequently as chair. I have also been active in intergovernmental activities and related non-profit organizations. In my current appointment at UW-Madison, I facilitate technology transfer for business processes among Wisconsin's largest and best-known companies. Details are at http:// Arnold.US. 2. Fitchburg and our region must achieve financial and environmental sustainability in a time of little or no economic growth. We need to examine which policies are borrowing against the future and replace them. New challenges include high energy and health care costs, and ever increasing disparities between the affluent and the needy. I believe that we cannot continue to borrow against the future or hope that economic growth will resume and all will be well. Finding new ways to be successful in this difficult environment will require the cooperation of private citizens, businesses, and government at all levels. 3. I believe that family-supporting green jobs are Wisconsin's future. Land use and transportation planning can direct new development and redevelopment into patterns that are more satisfying for residents and visitors, with a lower cost of living, including lower taxes. Doing the right thing for the environment, such as replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy sources and protecting our water resources, is cheaper Ln the long run and affordable now. Only when we insist on business as usual do environmental protection and economic progress seem to be at odds. ANDREA PARKS -NO REPLY 6059 Vroman Rd, Verona, Wl 53593 District 4, Seat 8 BECKY BAUMBAGH 2629 Targhee St, Fitchburg, Wl 53711; 608.239.0221; [email protected] 1. I recently retired as the Vice President for Strategic Advancement at Madison Area Technical College where I was involved in the management of a large public educational institution. I have gamed skUls in large scale decision making, fiscal responsibdity and accountability, long range planning, economic development, working with Boards and listening to constituents. I formerly worked for Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire. WI and served 2 elected terms on the Chippewa County Board of Supervisors. I served on the Zoning Rewrite Committee in Fitchburg. 2. It will be important that the programming of the library reaches out to fulfill its mission of serving the entire city. It will be important to implement the Comprehensive Plan and the new zoning code in a way that also expands and encourages economic development. Most of ad, fiscal needs and services continue to grow, and Fitchburg will need to be creative in holding expenses through finding new and innovative ways of doing things while increasing the tax base through economic development so that it remains an affordable place to live. 3. All three must move forward with the others in consideration. Many past Fitchburg leaders have created well laid plans for land use in a well designed Comprehensive Plan. Much energy and tune has gone into this in die past and I believe we are at a point in time financially where economic growth needs more emphasis and attention with the land use planning and environmental groundwork that is in place as a foundation. Questions for Fitchburg Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria wid you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? Questions for Fitchburg Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? MADISSON MADISON MAYOR four-year term DAVE CIESLEWICZ incumbent 2309 Eton Ridge. Madison, Wl 53726; 608.663.3941; [email protected]; www.daveformadison.com 1. I'm proud of what I've accomplished as Mayor and where we're headed as a city. In the face of recession, Madison has made smart investments and choices, and avoided the fate of most other cities- drasticcutbacks in services, a halt on economic development projects, and double-digit unemployment rates. We've added two new fire stations and 64 police officers in the past eight years, and as a result we were recently rated the most secure city in America. We've maintained excellent basic services, all while keeping an eye on the bottom Line. 2. Madison has always been a leader in all we do, and the next step is to be a worldwide leader in the new economy. All the pieces are in place to compete globally, attract and retain talent, foster innovation, and provide sustainable job creation. Building on our successful partnerships between the city, private sector, UW-Madison & Madison College, and ad levels of government, we can implement and defend policies that are key to the new economy -regional transit, the domestic partnership registry, stem cell research, investments in locally produced fuel sources, our world class university, and so much more. 3. I would develop relationships with the new administration and legislature to ensure that we receive our fair share. One area in particular of focus is payments for municipal services-the amount die state pays for police and fire services rather than paying property taxes. Right now, they're only paying about 60°i> of what is owed, and I would work to ensure Üiat we receive the full amount. Even though I expect to clash with many of the newly elected officials in state government. I believe it's possible to disagree without being disagreeable and to still work together. 4. We must do ad we can to provide affordable housing, and I've made a number of improvements over the years. I created the Housing Diversity Committee, who's recommendations will be out later this year. After a cut in federal funding, we increased levy support for public housing by five times the original amount. I pushed for immediate use of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. I've introduced a resolution to reclaim funds for affordable housing from the Inclusionary Zoning fund that had been allocated to the general fund. We re-made Allied Drive into a much safer, yet affordable neighborhood. PAUL SOGLIN 121 Standish Ct, Madison, Wl 53705; 608.231.3859; Fax 608.218.1203; [email protected]; www.soglinformayor.com 1. My experience includes five years as a City Councd member and 14 years as Mayor. I've worked in the private sector as an investment advisor and as a project manager for a major Dane County corporation. I've worked on area-wide economic development and housing issues for the State. I have remained active in a number of civic and community causes including efforts to combat poverty and infant mortality, and supporting local arts groups. I have also worked closely with private businesses and dozens of non profits. 2. We need to get Madison's fiscal house in order by reducing borrowing and fixing the structural deficit the current administration created. We need greater diversity of opinions and individuals on City Committees. We need a coordinated effort with the County and the private sector to identify the impediments and solutions to providing employment and training programs for all residents in the areas of housing, transportation, health care, financial literacy, and quality child care. We need to ensure Madison's economic engine keeps moving us forward and that its impact touches all sectors of our economy and all our residents. 3. I have the best record of getting new shared revenues for Madison, and reversing the loss of shared revenues, regardless of which party Democratic or Republican - is in control of State government. The way to do it, is to engage all the stakeholders including the community and the city council. We need all hands on deck, not just the mayor. A successful program that brings more shared revenue must engage the city councd. the city's legislative analyst, and local business and civic leaders. 4. Unfortunately many developers who build outstanding affordable housing projects utilizing tax credits in Milwaukee are reluctant to work in Madison. The city must unite neighborhood residents, housing activists, and these developers. With neighborhoods desiring affordable housdig for people who work in their community, and developers who wish to budd. the role of the city is to bring them together. Questions for Madison mayoral candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What goals would you hope to achieve durig this term in office? 3. Wisconsin shares revenue with municipalities - how will you ensure that Madison gets adequate shared revenue? 4. What will you do to increase the amount of affordable housing Ln Madison? MADISON ALDER two-year terms District 1 BRIAN DRISGOLL 8201 Mayo Dr # 212, Madison, WI 53719; 608.345.0581; [email protected]; www.DriscollforDistrict1.com 1. I have been a community servant my entire adult life. During my 15 years in Madison. I served as a public school teacher, a liaison for the Governor's Office, and currently I serve as the Community Relations Director in the Office of Energy Independence (OEI). As a teacher. I developed and promoted a strong classroom community. At OEI, I created, supervised and administered multi-million dollar programs while working with over 140 local leaders - county executives, mayors, village presidents, and town chairs to make their operations more efficient. This includes a §20 million federal grant that benefits Madison. 2. There are three important issues facing our community: public safety, basic services, and economic opportunity for till residents. Our public safety system is strong, but there are ways we can improve together as a community. Basic services, such as snow plowing, recycling and garbage pick-up can always be made more efficient. The need for good, family-supporting jobs continues for all of our neighbors. By focusing on these issues, together, residents of District 1 can experience the quality community connections that we deserve. Madison is a great city, but we must work to make it great for everyone. 3. I want to hear from residents. Recently, I've reached out to all of District l's neighborhood associations like Midtown Commons. Hawk's Landing. High Point Estates, Newbery Heights. Park Ridge, Green Tree and Prairie HdIs. I've visited with residents and even given out my personal cell phone number. That openness w Ul continue via frequent in-person meetings, phone, email and a District 1 resources webpage. When I am elected, I plan to continue all methods of communication and promise to be responsive to the needs of District 1 residents. LISA SUBECK 818 S. Gammon Rd #4, Madison, Wl 53719; 608.271.1004; [email protected]; www.lisasubeck.com 1. PrafessionaUy, I am the Executive Director of NARAL Pro-Choice Wisconsin. Previously, I managed the YWCA's Second Chance tenant and financial education program and the Second Chance Apartment Project. I've also worked as a Program Manager for Head Start and operated a childcare business. Outside of work, I've served the on the Southwest Neighborhood Plan Steering Committee developing comprehensive plans focusing on safety and quality of life, on the city's Community Service Committee and Equal Opportunity Commission, on the Wisconsin Youth and Family Center board, and more. I'm also the former President and current treasurer of the WoodhiU Condominium Association. 2. Increased crune and poverty are significant issues facing most of District 1. We've experienced stu-ges in serious crime and disruptive behavior. The addition of officers provided some relief, but long-term solutions require a leader who'll bring both prevention and enforcement resources to the southwest side. Other concerns include neighborhood traffic problems and rising taxes Ln tough economic times. I'll ensure our doUars are weU spent and the southwest side is not neglected at budget time. I'll prioritize public safety, basic services and infrastructure, economic development, and community services for seniors and youth. I will work for a high quality of life at a price we can afford. 3. I will provide accessible, responsive, and accountable service to my neighbors in District 1. As an active and engaged resident, I understand the chaUenges our neighborhoods face and am ready to meet those challenges head on. I will regularly attend neighborhood association meetings and community events. I plan to reach out to District residents through emad lists, by attending meetings, and by holding listening sessions. Most importantly, District 1 residents can expect a response when they call or emaU me. Whenever a constituents have questions, concerns, or opinions on an issue coming before the CouncU, I wül ensure their caUs and emails are answered. District 2 BRIDGET MANIACI incumbent 744 E. Johnson St, Madison, Wl 53703;608.516.3488; [email protected]; www.bridgetformadison.com 1. I have degrees in Political Science and Economics from UW-Madison. I interned direcüy within City Hall my last year of coUege. Fm now an incumbent Alder, and I had a very active first term that has contributed to my experience, success and accomplishments within public service. In addition to a substantial background in policy-making, I have a background in journalism, having worked for The DaUy Cardinal, The Capital Times and The Onion. 2. With much of my neighborhood bordering on the underdeveloped E Washington Avenue, the city has a great responsibüity to encourage development of economic, housing and employment opportunities so oui- neighborhood will grow into the city's 21st century center of job growth. Public safety, health and welfare are aU linked by the condition of the century -old housing stock and bringing the quality of living in these homes up to modern standards is one of the foremost issues facing my neighborhood. In the process, we must work to ensure affordable housing options are improved and new housing is created to ensure that a diverse mix of residents can afford to live downtown. 3. I regularly attend the monthly neighborhood association meetings that are held. I write a column in the quarterly newsletter for the Tenney-Lapham Neighborhood Association and frequenti}' make use of the established neighborhood listservs to get out information to my neighbors. I plan to continue to use these efforts to maintain communication and I am exploring how to best and effectively use new media, such as Twitter, to reach out to an even broader constituency base that might not be plugged into the traditional neighborhood communication outlets. SAMUEL STEVENSON 406 E. Washington Ave #4, Madison, Wl 53703; 608.616.9290; [email protected]; www.samformadison.com 1. I am a professional student in the Masters of Public Health program at the UW-Madison. I have been a campus and community activist for many years as well as a columnist for the student newspaper and volunteer in a county- wide program advocating for neglected and abused children. My history in activism locally has included labor solidarity campaigns, efforts to grant the LGBT community fuU civil rights, efforts to protect immigrant communities, and efforts to make higher education more accessible to lowincome families. 2. As in the rest of Madison, I feel that the most important issues the community has to address are those that are the source of the greatest amount of human suffering. Based on that principle, I feel the struggle to address the plight of the homeless and those living in poverty must remain a top priority for city officials. Protection for other marginalized groups including renters, minorities and the mentaUy Ul must also be addressed with a creative and impassioned application of city resources. Historic preservation and better mass transit are also priorities for district residents. 3. In contrast to my opponent, who has alienated a number of neighborhood leaders with an inattentive attitude and lackluster responsiveness, I believe passionately in popular democratic institutions and participation. I will not merely sustain neighborhood associations by regularly attending their meeting and promptly addressing their concerns, but I will also work to recruit residents into them as part of my efforts to keep the community organized and nurture civic participation. If elected alder, my loyalty wiU lay unambiguously with my constituents and not politicaUy powerful and moneyed interests outside of the district. District 3 LAUREN CNARE incumbent 5218 Kevins Way, Madison, Wl 53714; 608.226.0987 1. I have a Communications degree, and work for a statewide healthcare association. With experience on the Plan Commission, Water Board, Community Services Commission, Senior Citizens Advisory Committee, Madison-Dane County Board of Health and the recent Overture Ad Hoc Committee, I have extensive experience learning the issues and working with citizens and city staff to develop appropriate legislation and decisions. Volunteer experiences include: leadership with two neighborhood associations, Girl Scouts, school volunteer, and board member of Madison Mounted and Capitol View Farmer's Market. My commitment to responsive representation and my ability to share and explain issues and ask for input helps me accurately represent the district. 2. The most important issues facing the 3rd District are traffic, a re-start to development. strengthening neighborhood associations, learning about and understanding new neighbors to the far east side, and maintaining Madison's quality of services without unaffordable taxes. 3. As a professional communicator, I use electronic, face-to-face and written channels to share information back and forth between residents and me. I make it a point to place neighborhood meetings, events and interaction with neighborhood associations as a priority. I can best represent people when I know what they are thinking and talking about. Additionally, my Sounding Board e-maU list gives me good advice, as do my neighborhood walks and volunteer work. District 4 MICHAEL VERVEER incumbent - NO REPLY 614 W. Doty St, Madison, Wl 53703 District 5 SHIVA BIDAR-SIELAFF incumbent 2704 Kendall Ave, Madison. WI 53705; 608.220.6986; [email protected]; www.voteshiva.com 1. 1 have had the honor of serving as District 5 alder for the past two years. I have a long standing and deep commitment to civic engagement. Prior to my election as alder, I served on several city and county committees and non-profit boards such as the Madison Public Health Commission, the Dane CountyEqual Opportunities Commission and die Madison Police & Fire Commission. I have worked on numerous hands-on community projects. As the UW Health Community Partnerships Director, I represent a complex organization in the community, working coUaboratively with independent groups to forge solutions to community issues. 2. Over the past two years we have embarked on a number of critical initiatives that need continued focus: improving our neighborhood's walkabüity and bikeabUity and promotüig speed reduction to maintain our quality of life and for community safety; finishing the Olive Jones-Randall School Park renovation; and approval of the University Avenue Corridor Plan by the City. From a city policy perspective, in our continued difficult economic elunate, we must work to strike an appropriate balance between the need for funding city services and the financial challenges our taxpayers are already, facing. 3. I accomplish things through an open and responsive leadership style. Communication is a central piece of my work as alder and over the past two years I have kept my constituents informed of district and city-wide issues by being visible in my district, where 1 have lived and worked for 13 years, through walking, shopping, dining; by using existing lines of communication to share and receive information, including Regent Neighborhood Association meetings and newsletter, neighborhood listserves, Facebook, email, phone, and meetings; and being responsive to constituent inquiries and ensuring that issues big and small are addressed. District 6 TWINK JAN-MgMAHON 2018 Helena St, Madison, Wl 53704; 608.886.3379 1. I co-founded and colead Sustainable Atwood, a progressive community environmental organization working toward a brighter, greener future. After the loss of trees that once shielded residences from public view, I organized the Bike Path Tree Replacement Plan with neighbors and city staff. This successful project was built on mutual respect and creative problem solving. I co-wrote and received a DNR grant to inventory our neighborhood's urban forest- the first project of its kind. As a neighborhood councd member, I have worked with schools, community organizations, business associations, city staff, and neighborhood leaders toward a just and sustainable future. 2. District 6's most serious issue is water quality. Water is the nexus for social, economic and ecological sustainabUity. Water related health risks disproportionately affect the poor and directly affect our economy. Unfortunately we are over-pumping and over-paving. Roads and parking lots seal over our aquifers and also cause floods and runoff that harm our lakes; yet we are expanding road budgets several times faster than population growth. Paving budgets need to focus on state-of-the-art infiltration, burying power lines, tree protection, permeability, and paving reduction. 1 wdl work with the Water UtUity to step up conservation pricing and rebate programs. 3. As a grassroots community activist, 1 have been part of many sfi-uggles to improve our quality of life and live by the philosophy, when the "last" are cared for first, everything else will fall in line. 1 will expand the definition of "stakeholder" to include "community" to foster broader input. This district is home to skUled and Innovative people. I wül always work to empower their progress. My deep involvement in my district's neighborhood, business & sustainabUity organizations wiU continue. I will continue to link people, skUls and interests through electronic, print, art and emerging media. http://twinkforalder2011. blogspot.com/ MARSHA RUMMEL incumbent 1029 Spaight St #6C, Madison, Wl 537Q3; 6Q8.772.4555; [email protected]; www.marsharummel.com 1. B.A Political Science, UW Madison 1979. Co-manager of Rainbow Bookstore Cooperative a local independent bookstore serving downtown Madison and the progressive community since 1989. Member Greater State Street Business Association. Marquette Neighborhood Association member since 1994, MNA President 2002-2007; developed MNA protocols for development review process and created MNAs Preservation and Development Committee. Olbrich Botanical Society. Board of Directors, 2008-present. District 6 Alder, AprU 2007-present. Currently serve on Urban Design Commission. Central Park Design and Implementation Task Force, Community Development Block Grant Committee. Madison Arts Commission, Cultural Plan Steering Committee and Housing Diversity Planning Ad Hoc Committee. 2. After years of planning, the Capitol East District and Central Park have jumpstarted the revitalization and greening of the historic factory district in the rail corridor. Land banking Don MiUer creates opportumties for housing, employment and commercial development. The footprint of Central Park has expanded and community input will be gathered to finalize a park plan with the help of environmental artist Lorna Jordan. A new vision for Union Corners will be sought to direct future development of the site. Future plans for Public Market Square -the Madison Municipal building and Government East parking lot wiU be an important issue. 3. 1 w Ul attend Neighborhood and Business Association meetings, write articles for neighborhood newspapers, send announcements of city business and initiatives to neighborhood list serves and write occasional electronic newsletters. I wUl organize neighborhood meetings to review land use and alcohol license applications. I wiU reply to emaUs quickly and phone calls as timely as possible. I will meet with residents, business owners, developers, city staff, and die Mayor to address and resolve the issues of the district. I wiU use my official alder webpage to share info about my committee assignments, adopted legislation, press releases and newsletters. District 7 NATHAN JUDNIG 6402 Pizarro Cir, Madison, WI 53719; 608.669.4021: [email protected]; nathanjudnic.net 1. I have a law degree from Drake University Law School with a certificate in legislative legal practice. I have a degree in political science and public administration with an emphasis in public policy from UW-Green Bay. I have been employed with the State Elections Board/Wisconsin Government Accountability Board in a regulatory capacity since 2005 focusing on election law. campaign finance, lobbying and ethics of public officials. I am the current secretary of the Sandstone Ridge Homeowners Association, a member of the State Bar of Wisconsin, Dane County Bar Association and a member of St. Maria Goretti Parish. 2. I think it's important to find new and creative ways to spur economic development and job growth by working with the business community to provide targeted incentives that will produce and maintain good paying, family sustaining jobs in our neighborhoods. Working with local law enforcement and community members to maintain safe neighborhoods for families to raise them children is also very important in growing the city and attracting new businesses to move here. Maintaining and improving quality of life sendees like snow removal, garbage collection and park maintenance is what makes Madison unique and important to many residents. 3. The use of technology is one way to keep better connected with neighborhood associations, business leaders and residents of die community. Maintaining an informative and responsive website, using social networks like Facebook and Twitter and maintaining a weblog of important city council debates and issues are all ways I can keep connected with my district. I also think a quarterly electronic newsletter summarizing actions of the city council and promoting community events could also be of great value. Of course technology can only go so far, and in-person attendance at community meetings and association events must occur to hear the concerns of constituents. STEVE KING incumbent 6948 Country Ln, Madison. Wl 53719; 608.235.9868; jstevenking@ gmail.com; www.steveformadfson. com 1. I am a first term Alder for District 7 currently serving on the Transportation Planning Board, Public Safety Review Committee and several other committees. I have a Masters in Political Science from the UW-Madison. where I designed and taught an upper division public policy course, and I belong to a number of local professional organizations. I am a graduate of the Citizen Police Academy and Leadership Greater Madison. I regularly teach and facilitate leadership development skills, and I hope to use those skids to accomplish win-win solutions to the complex issues facing the residents of my district and Madison. 2. Succinctly stated, residents want to continue to enjoy an excellent quality of life within a cost effective and accountable process. They have been very consistent in voicing their concerns in the district: traffic, crime and taxes generate the most feedback and requests. Residents are genuinely concerned about speeding in their neighborhoods and the congestion created by development at the periphery of the city. They are concerned about crime, especially personal crimes such as car and home burglary They want us to prioritize the efficient and effective delivery of basic sendees and they demand that we be judicious in spending priorities. 3. I will continue to regularly attend as many neighborhood association meetings that I can in the district and inform residents about issues that affect them. I'll continue to actively listen and solicit their input and when necessary coordinate district listening forums on important issues such as traffic and public safety I wtil also continue to attend any other meetings already scheduled where 1 can learn more about constituent concerns and share more information about what's going on in the district and city. I plan to establish an e-mail listserv and make available important information and newsletters on my city website. District 8 SCOTT RESNICK 661 Mendota Ct #1401, Madison, Wl 53703; 608.807.7962; [email protected]; www.resnickfordistrict8.com 1. For the last two years have been the President of the State-Langdon Neighborhood Association, working on issues of campus safety, housing tenant relations, liquor licenses and downtown development, In November of 2009, Mayor Dave Cieslewicz appointed me to Madison's Joint-Southeast Campus Area Committee. During this time, I provided input on projects that impacted campus such as the Charter Street Heating Plant and !he new Kohl Center addition. Professionally, I am the Vice President of an entrepreneurial software company, which has grown over the past three years into a thriving tech company. 1 graduated from UW-Madison in '09. 2. For the residents of District 8. the most important issue is campus safety, h" you cannot walk home from the library or gym without feeling safe your experience on the university campus is impaired. 1 wiU work to secure funding for new lighting in the Spring Street neighborhood and further advocate for the Downtown Lighting Initiative. Furthermore. I will push to enforce housing laws that require landlords to replace locks on all exterior doors when new tenants move-in and work with property managers to install better lighting on community paths between easements. Student safety is my number one priority 3. Due to the turnover of students in my district outreach can be difficult; however, as President of the State-Langdon Neighborhood Association, I have been able to develop an excellent working relationship with campus leaders in the student government and Greek communities. I have learned that neighborhood meetings are important, but knocking on doors is equally as effective for outreach. My background is in new media technology and I plan to introduce a free sendee that aUows residents to TXT their city councd member. This nudti-facet approach wiU better connect the neighborhood and improve communication regarding important city issues. KYLE SZARZYNSKI 240 W. Lakelawn Pl #6, Madison, Wl 53703; 414.617.2686; [email protected]; www.kyleformadison.com 1. I am a senior at UW-Madison majoring in History and Psychology Since arriving on campus as a university freshman, I have dedicated myself to community advocacy and progressive activism. My political involvement includes employment with the Sierra Club and Citizen Action. In 2009, 1 was elected to the leadership of the student government, serving as Vice-Chair of the Student Services Finance Committee and fighting for a just funding model for student organizations, particularly those traditionally treated unfairly by the system. I have also written for the campus press and served as an editor of Illumination (Undergraduate Journal of the Humanities). Finally, 1 have been deeply entrenched in political organizing, working on issues such as immigrant rights, military recruitment and fab- labor practices. 2. District 8 is an overwhelmingly tenant district, so all issues relating to die rights and interests of renters are paramount. Security deposit returns, the legal date by which landlords can start showing prospective renters apartments and maintenance requests are all important issues relating to student renters. Community safety and a responsible use of police resources are also top concerns. Students are also interested in downtown entertainment policy, including the issue of alcohol licenses. FinaUy. as an overwhelmingly progressive bunch, students are very much concerned with larger issues of social and economic justice, such as immigrant rights and the interests of labor. 3. As an elected official, I wiU do everything necessary and more to stay in touch with my constituents. This includes regular attendance at groups like the State-Langdon Neighborhood Association and holding regular alder hours. I wiU also have all of my contact information readily available for all concerned residents of the community. Finally. I intend to participate in and solicit the active support of organizers on and off campus. I intend to utilize the ideas and harness the organizing power of organized labor, anti-poverty groups, immigrant rights' organizations and other progressive forces to ensure that their interests are protected and advanced on a local level. District 9 RICK CRUZ 625 N. Pleasant View Rd #201, Middleton. Wl 53562; 608.334.3749; [email protected]; www.voterickcruz.com 1. I currently sene as a commissioner on the Madison Equal Opportunity Commission and Executive Committee discussing and promoting policy related to the fab- and equal treatment of Madison's diverse population. My years of experience in state service demonstrate my dedication to serving the public while my extensive background as an IT business consultant affords me strong listening skills and attention to individual and group needs in order to provide smart, affordable solutions to provide long term business growth and efficiencies. 2. I believe the growth and retention of small business in District 9 is essential to continuing the overall Madison recovery. People are drawn to District 9 because of its existing commercial and business infrastructure. But there are plenty of vacant commercial spaces which could be filled with additional tax relief or other incentives to moving to the west side. Recent tax increases in Illdiois provide a great opportunity, with the right promotion, to attract further business development in our area. Pedestrian safety and lowering crimes rates also need to be addressed more fully. 3. My interactive website www.voterickcruz. com allows District 9 residents constant contact with me and allows them to answer survey questions or send direct messages to me 24 ? 7. I have set up monthly, in-person meetings at our local Madison Library Branch (Alica Ashman) beginning February 12, 2011. 1 believe it is the responsibility of the alderman to be in constant contact with his constituents to know their diverse and changing needs. It is my responsibility to express the people's wül at the Common CouncU and the only way to do that is to listen all the time, not just during election time. PAUL SKIDMORE incumbent 13 Red Maple Tr, Madison, Wl 53717; 608.829.1921; [email protected] 1. I have been the alder of the 9th district, City of Madison for the past 10 years. I currently serve on the Parks Commission. Public Safety Commission. County 911 Center Board, Board of Public Works, Ped Bike Motor Vehicle Commission, LTRPC, MPO. and several other City boards and commissions. Prior to my election as alder, I sened for ten years on the Park Commission. I am a home owner in my district (Tamarack). I am ven active in community issues, particularly public safety and public sendees. I attended die UW Madison. I am a licensed landscape architect and security officer. 2. The two most important issues facing the 9th district are public safety and public works. 1) The City needs to maintain a consistent and predictable level of police, fire, and ambulance coverage in our neighborhoods. 2) The City also needs to maintain a consistent and predictable level of basic public services to our neighborhoods, (snow removal, trash and recycling, road maintenance). I have worked hard over the past ten years to maintain and improve these services Ln my district. These wiU be my two top goals over the next two years. 3. I maintain open lines of communications in my neighborhoods Ln several ways: I attend neighborhood meetings. I receive many e-mails and phones for requests for senice - 1 try to respond in a timely maimer. I closely follow neighborhood issues, and stay in touch with neighborhood leaders to solve problems. I walk the neighborhood streets and talk to my constituents about what is important to them. Finally, 1 am a vocal advocate for neighborhood issues. I have worked hard to get traffic signals, additional police officers, and a new fire station Ui our district. District 10 TOM FARLEY 2309 Rowley Ave, Madison. Wl 53726; 608.209.1983; [email protected]; www.farleyforward.org 1 I graduated from Georgetown Ui 1985 and spent the next seventeen years in New York, acquiring extensive global experience in marketing and financial senices. In 1999, 1 created the nationally recognized Chris Farley Foundation, focusing on substance abuse and youth issues. Since returning to Madison in 2003, 1 have worked at the Greater Madison Convention & Visitors Bureau and sened on the Dane County Human Senices Board. I currently serve Madison on the Madison Arts Commission and the ALRC. I'm a New York Times bestselling author, a professional speaker and a nationally known advocate for youth and recovery issues. 2. It is crucial that each neighborhood understands they are a vital part of Madison, and feels confident that city government is working for them. This district is one of son's more populated and important areas - wonderfuUy diverse with strong elements of commerce, education and arts. Such a demands an Alderperson who is an active, vocal leader on the Common Council. The district's key issues are; continuing to build the improvement successes of Allied Drive, enhancing the creative elements of Monroe Street, and ensuring high levels of safety and quality of life across the entire district. 3. Foremost, I am a communications and public relations professional and I take great pride in ray abilities and gifts in this area. I'm an accomplished writer and a noted, engagdig public speaker. These skills have enabled me to become a powerful and passionate My communications style is open and honest; am not afraid to say what needs to be said, hear what needs to be heard. My gift of enables me to keep communications and non-threatening. By reputation I am accessible and approachable, and prefer to my time Ln front of people. BRIAN SOLOMON incumbent 2148 West Lawn Ave, Madison, Wl 53711; 608.446.1362; [email protected]; www.briansolomon.org 1. I have a Master's Degree in Public Policy and many years experience volunteering for numerous community organizations. As alder for the last four years, I've been privileged to sene on die AUied Area Task Force, Community Services Commission (CSC), Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC). and Transit / Parking Commission (TPC). I've also been involved in the Aided neighborhood association and many ad hoc committees and groups, including subcommittees on housing, safety and security issues, employment, and more. My day job is Director of Wisconsin Job Senice. where I work to help people throughout Wisconsin find jobs. 2. There are many important issues facing Madison. These include land use planning, transportation and mass transit, environmental quality, and affordable housing. With that said, I'd argue die two most Important issues facing our community are those related to quality economic development and economic justice / equal opportunity Madison is not doing enough to sustain and recruit quality jobs, especially for those individuals without a college degree. This divides Madison, creatmg a city of haves and have-nots. We must invest in jobs that provide famüy supporting wages and benefits to ensure economic justice and equal opportunity to the most vulnerable Madisonians. 3. As alder. I've been avadable via phone, emaü, and hi person. I create a monthly district report that I send to hundreds of residents throughout the district. I'll continue to add names and create informative pieces that are of interest to District 10 residents. I also try to maintain a visible presence in the district, attending meetings, celebrations, and other events whenever possible so I can talk with constituents and find out their needs. District 10 is blessed with a number of active, engaged citizens who are not shy about approaching me and advocathig for those causes they hold dear. District 11 CHRIS SCHMIDT incumbent 4210 Odana Rd, Madison, Wl 53711; 608.239.0940; [email protected]; www.chrisschmidt.org 1. I am the incumbent District 11 Alder. Prior to my election I was the Vice President of the Westmorland Neighborhood Association and Chair of its Planning and Development Committee, which produced our neighborhood plan. I have held leadership positions in the Democratic Party and been active in supporting many Democratic issues and campaigns. I work as a meteorological satellite researcher at the UW where I manage budgets, bureaucracy, and personalities. Those experiences lead to my strongest qualification: my ability to listen to my constituents, analyze and anticipate problems, and effectively represent the issues and values of my district's neighborhoods. 2. The cost and quality of city services are a huge concern for my constituents. Despite the economic downturn the cost of city services continues to rise, pushing up taxes while simultaneously leading to incremental cuts in those sendees. The quality of our environment, both the natural part including our air and water and the part we've built including public safety, traffic, and community senices are high priorities for my constituents as well. Last but not least, my constituents want a vibrant and healthy local economy that provides jobs and security and maintains Madison's status as a great place to live. 3. Open lines of communication are critical; it is very important that we feel that our representatives are responsive and listening to us. As Alder I have distributed the District 11 e-mail newsletter, contributed to neighborhood newsletters, attended neighborhood association meetings and events, and responded to many calls and e-mails. I also take and make opportunities to speak to constituents about the issues that concern them. The neighborhoods have begun to develop neighborhood plans; I encouraged and assisted that process because it fosters broad outreach and consensus budding across physical and social boundaries and improves interactions between residents and the City BRANDON WHITE - NO REPLY 4801 Sheboygan Ave # 215, Madison, Wl 53705 District 12 SATYA RHODES-CONWAY incumbent 2642 Hoard St, Madison, Wl 53704; 608.242.4426; [email protected]; www.satyaforcitycouncil.com 1. In my two terms on the Common Council. I've worked hard to be an effective neighborhood advocate. I am accessible and responsive to my constituents. With input from them, I advocated for better bus service and fought the Metro fare increase; helped update the zoning code; got the new Northside Plan passed; and addressed pedestrian, bicycle and traffic safety issues. I am an active member of numerous city committees and regularly attend neighborhood association meetings. Next term, I will continue to provide exceUent constituent sendee, increase bicycle and pedestrian access, create opportunities for economic development and improve community safety. 2. Economic Development: We must focus on supporting our existing local busmesses and helping them grow, in addition to improving our infrastructure and marketing avadable properties to new or relocating businesses. I will focus particularly on the Northport/Sherman area and the Capitol East District. Youth Programming: Despite our wonderful community centers, it's clear that we need more afterschool and summer opportunities for our young people. Warner Park: I secured funding in the 2011 and 2012 budgets to conduct a master planning process so we can have a community conversation about what uses and infrastructure we want in the park. 3. Neighborhood, Business Association, and Planning Council meetings, which I regularly attend, are important ways for me to get information to and hear from constituents. I make sure to provide an Alder Report to each of our many neighborhood newsletters, insist that any development proposals in the district have a neighborhood meetbig and have worked with the police to hold meetings on public safety in every neighborhood in the District. Being an active, accessible representative for District 12 is critically important to me and I look forward to even more interaction with my constituents in my third term. District 13 SUE ELLINGSON 1922 Vilas Ave, Madison, Wl 53711; 608.259.1824; [email protected]; www.sueellingson.com 1. In 2004, at age 52 and with no experience, 1 entered politics. I had moved to Madison in 2000 and worked as an environmental advocate. I was active with Friends of Lake Wnigra, Madison Audubon, and WUd Ones Natural Landscapers. In 2004 1 realized environmental advocacy would be pointless uidess we won some elections. Since then I've run campaigns for Julia Kerr (our current alder), county board, state assembly, and helped with Falk and Obama. My commitment and hard work have resulted in endorsements from Julia Kerr, Isadore Knox, Dave Cieslewicz, Kathleen Falk, Mark Pocan. Terese Berceau, and many others. 2. I've knocked on the doors of hundreds of voters. Almost aU are happy with the city, and complaints tend to be about noise, ttaffic, or parking. Responsiveness and working for real solutions are important for these day-to-day concerns. In addition, we must continue to buiid our great city, with a sound environment, a vibrant community, and an effective government. Within those categories, the most important issues are: * Built Environment: Revitalize Park St and degraded student housing. * Natural Environment: Improve lake quality. * Community: Reduce poverty and discrimination. * Government: Improve the city's citizen committees. 3. I'm retired from paid work; I have the time to devote to being responsive and doing this job well. I wdl continue to knock on voters' doors regularly throughout my term. I will send regular newsletters to the district. I will attend neighborhood association meetings, and I already subscribe to their e-mail lists. I will respond to constituents' phone calls and e-mail promptly. Frankly, I just like talking to people. TJ MERTZ 1210 Gilson St, Madison, Wl 537-15; 608.215.1942; [email protected]; www.Mert2forMadison.com 1. I am a history instructor at Edgewood Codege. Before teachmg, I managed smad businesses. Unlike my opponents, my civic work has been in local matters and community nivolvement. I am a Co-Chair of Community and Schools Together working to maintain strong education fundüig for Madison schools; sene on the Board of the Wisconsin Alliance for Excellent Schools and was a member of Madison's School District's Equity Task Force. Throughout my extensive involvement on local issues, I have worked for expanded opportunities, meaningful community engagement and smart public budgeting. I will be an independent, responsive, and effective representative for District 13. 2. The most important issues facing Madison and District 13 are improvement in the lives of our community's most vulnerable members, restoration of faith in our government and public engagement. This includes helping people living in poverty who need compassionate and efficient services, and businesses impacted by the economic downturn who would benefit from more comprehensive approaches to city planning. The political machinations surrounding the Edgewater project have led many to perceive that government primarUy serves powerful insiders. I believe that everything the city does - from sidewalk repairs to major initiatives - benefits from a reinvigorated commitment to communitywide participation. 3. An Alder's most important role is to serve as a conduit between their constituents and the city, someone who will listen to all points of views and assist in negotiating through thorny red tape. I wül be accessible by phone, emaU, and social media, and at events around the district, keeping District 13 resident informed by providing regular updates to newsletters and the city website and through emaU alerts. Meaningful and informed public involvement and an independent Alder produce the best results. We need the combined talents and views of everyone to make Madison work for all. District 14 TIMOTHY BRUER incumbent -NO REPLY 3310 Lyton Ln, Madison, Wl 53713 District 15 LARRY PALM incumbent NO REPLY 2502 Dahle St. Madison, Wl 53704 District 16 JILL JOHNSON 6102 Fairfax Ln, Madison, Wl 53718; 608.338.8308; [email protected] 1. I hold a degree Ln economics and an MBA from the University of Wisconsin - Madison, and I continue to pursue studies in healtìi care and in law. Professionally, I have held executive positions at CUNA Mutual Group mid at PIC Wisconsin where I managed large budgets and worked coUaboratively on team projects. I have also worked as an independent consultant. I have sened as volunteer President of the Highpoint Pool, tutor at Literacy Network and have also volunteered for Hospice and for UW Hospital. I have four chUdren and have volunteered for their school activities. 2. "Responsible growth" is the phrase that sums up our challenge. We must support businesses that provide jobs, while at the same time maintaining our city as one of die best places to live in the country. My District must weave together the interests of neighborhood groups, individual homeowners, schools, businesses and others. We must balance die need to keep spending in check with the requirements of clean water and great city services. My job would start by being a good listener and by working hard to educate myself and others on each issue facing the District. 3. If elected, I will communicate with constituents in die way they prefer. I wül be available by phone or emaU with a pledge to respond to most requests within 24 hours. Personal conversations are my own preference because that is how relationships are built. Beyond that, I will present at neighborhood association meetings and other District functions and wiU use the Common Council website. Finally, I will be open to developing other communications tools, such as a newsletter, based on feedback from my constituents. RYAN McKEE Ryan McKee is no longer actively campaigning for the office. His name, however, will still appear on the ballot. District 17 JOE CLAUSIUS incumbent 18 Clarendon Ct, Madison, Wl 53704; 608.244.5066; [email protected] 1. I have resided in District 17 on the east side of Madison since 1991 and have been involved in Madison at neighborhood, community and local government levels as listed below: Vice-President Clarendon HdIs Homeowners Association; Volunteer Co-Coordinator Concerts On The Square; Past Chairperson Madison Affirmative Action Commission; Past Vice-Chairperson Madison Board of Public Works; Former member Dane County Youth Commission; Madison District 17 Alder, member Board of Estimates. Parks, Economic Development, Affirmative Action Commissions & numerous subcommittees. As a result, I have the reputation of being an in-touch. experienced alder for District 17 and the city. 2. The recession continues to chadenge local government and taxpayers. However, we must continue economic development initiatives such as the East Washington Development District, enhanced street and rati infrastructure and creation of job opportunities tiirough projects like the Bio Ag Gateway. These investments will position the city to take advantage of the eventual economic upturn. Residents also demand and deserve increased public safety. The city must meet this demand by continuing to fund both maintenance and improvements for the fire and police departments. Continued investment m public safety services eliminates having to play personnel and equipment catch-up in future years. 3. As an officer in our homeowners association since its inception, I am a strong believer in grass roots power of neighborhood associations. My district boasts five active neighborhood associations along the East Washington Avenue corridor. I contribute to their newsletters and attend meetings as my alder schedule permits. In addition, I host public meetings on issues such as public safety, new development and road improvements. I carry a supply of my alder business cards and encourage residents to contact me. Plus, I have a standmg offer to personally deliver a safety "Slowdown" yard sign to any resident requesting one. SPENCER WHITE - NO REPLY 3810 Orin Rd, Madison, Wl 53704 District 18 PENG HER 5310 Arapahoe Ln, Madison, Wl 53704; 608.628.3903; [email protected]; www.pengforcitycouncil.com 1. Currently, I am the Execute Director for East Isthmus Neighborhoods Planning Council advocating for the needs of neighborhoods and a former business owner. My civic experience include: current member of Madison's Economic Development Committee assisting in the creation of Madison's 3-5 Year Strategic Plan, TlF policy, and reviewing Madison's development approval process, current member of the Water Utilities Eastside Citizen Advisor Panel, and former member of Dane County Human Services Board advocating for seniors, youth, and those with disabilities. My community experience include: President of the Cherokee Park Neighborhood Association. Chair of Communities United, member of Northside Planning Council, and Community Groundworks. 2. There are many issues facing the Northside. Safe neighborhoods, safe drinking water, businesses closing, protecting the environment, and government accountability to ensure the City uses our tax dollars wisely to reduce borrowing and not raise our taxes. I want to serve on the CouncU to bring your ideas and energy to the task of finding opportunities for the Northside. To bring new ideas, new vision, and diversity to tackle some of the issues we face. To move us forward it is going to take experience, leadership, and a withngness to work hard. We have a lot of work a head of us but I am confident TOGETHER we can make Madison a better place to live. 3. Maintaining open lines of communication is very important to me. As alder I pledge to be a responsive returning calls and emails promptly. I have an open door policy and my phone number is 628-3903 and my email is pengheri« sbcglobal.net. 1 want to hear what issues are important to you. As a former member of the Northside Planning CouncU I have had the honor and privdege of getting to know and work with all the neighborhood associations. I will continue meeting regularly with each of the neighborhood associations, its members, and any resident in the District. I would be honored by your vote on Feb. 15. ANITA WEIER 22 Golf Course Rd, Madison, Wl 53704; 608.320.5820; [email protected]; www.anita4northside.com 1. My famdy and I have lived on the Northside for 17 years and I have a record of active involvement in environmental, economic and neighborhood issues. I have been a member of die Northside Planning CouncU and helped that group focus on economic development and jobs; a board member of Friends of Cherokee Marsh: a volunteer reporter for the Northside News; and a volunteer at the Lakeview Branch Library Professionally, I was an award- winning newspaper reporter and editor for 30 years. I have degrees in journalism and library and information studies from the UW-Madison. 2. Working together, we can sustain die things that make the Northside a great place to live and work wliUe finding answers to the tough challenges we face. Those chaUenges include economic difficulties, evident in unsold homes and empty storefronts; environmental challenges such as basement flooding and damage to Cherokee Marsh and our lakes. We must work to keep our neighborhoods safe and hold the line on property taxes. The Northside has a history of identifying die needs we have and advocatmg for creative and lasting solutions to meet those needs. As an alder, I wiU be part of that tradition. 3. The diversity of the Northside and the many neighborhoods that make up this community is one of our greatest strengths. I will form a committee of people who represent various areas, ethnic groups and businesses in the district to advise me on issues and plans. I will attend neighborhood association, civic and business group meetings. I will disseminate information in a variety of formats and m a timely manner about city policies and proposals that will affect our area. I will promptly respond to e-mail messages. I will submit timely updates to the Northside News and other information outlets. District 19 MARK CLEAR incumbent 110 Shiloh Dr, Madison, WI 53705; 608.695.5709; [email protected] 1. I have sened District 19 on the Madison Council since 2007 and was elected council president in 2010. 1 serve on the Board of Estdnates, Economic Development Committee, Commission on People with Disabilities, Transportation Planning Board and the Common Council Organizational Committee. In "real lue." I have run a small software business, IMS, for sixteen years. My wife Janet works at the UW and our two daughters attend Madison schools. But the most important experience I've had over the past four years is meeting with and listening to my neighbors and constituents about the issues that are important to them. 2. Creating and keeping good jobs is the most important issue. That's why I've been a leader on economic development. I supported the Edgewater project because of the jobs and tax base it will create and die opportunity to restore a historic building. I created a land banking fund that preserves development opportunities until the economy improves. I support University Research Park ? and the BioLink incubator that wdl create hundreds of great jobs. A second issue is our transportation infrastructure, which is why I led the way to reconstructing Old Middleton Road with sidewalks and bike lanes to improve safety. 3. Communication is vital to effective local government. That's why I meet regularly with the neighborhood associations in my district, and maintain e-mail lists for general district issues as weU as special lists for specific projects or topics. I am ven responsive to calls and e-maUs and make myself avaUable as much as practical between my day job and evening meetings. As an IT professional. I also work closely with the city's IT department to improve the communication tools used by city departments. I support a 311 system that would centralize non-emergency communications and give citizens better access to city services. District 20 DAVE GLOMP 1705 Redwood Ln, Madison, Wl 53711; 608.271.8531 or 608.235.6325; [email protected]; DaveFor20.com 1. As a 39year resident of District 20, member of the Meadowood Neighborhood Association Board, and 2008 County Board candidate, I understand the issues, problems, and concerns of my neighbors. Was an organizer/ moderator for the Crime and Public Safety meeting at St Maria Goretti. Testified before the City CouncU supporting hiring 30 new police officers, for the Chronic Nuisance Ordinance and construction of Hy-Vee Grocery Store. Have 36 years with community, church, neighborhood, and volunteer organizations. Graduate-Madison Citizens Police Academy On DOT Advison Committee studying the Verona Road /Beltline Corridor. 28 year manager of professional associations. B. S. Degree in Mass Communications. 2. The most important issue facing residents is addressing crime, public safety and quality of life problems and concerns. Others include; reduction of property taxes and unnecessary city spending. We must protect or senior citizens, those on fixed incomes, and working families from being taxed out of their homes. Deliven of basic services like: police, fire. E.MS, sanitation, road maintenance, etc. must be insured before we spend on other less critical items. Greater business development will create needed jobs. Affordable and effective public transportation and housing are also priorities. Support should be provided to neighborhood watch programs to assist police efforts. 3. As 2-1/2 year member of the Meadowood Neighborhood Association Board, I am already communicating and working with area residents to provide information, programs and sendees. I believe that attending neighborhood meetings, listening to both the individual residents, and all district neighborhood association's leadership, by phone, mail, emaU, a website, and face to face are critical to good representation. I will send regular periodic newsletters sharing information with everyone I will represent. I will promptly answer all constituent inquires and address their stated concerns. My website will contain information on city senices and issues pertinent to all area residents and groups. MATT PHAIR 2322 Tanager Tr, Madison, WI 53711; 608.298.7602; 608.772.1187; [email protected]; Phair4council.com; Facebook: Friends of Phair 1. Being an active neighbor has given me great insight into the workings of the city and District 20. I am the co-founder of a committee to renovate Meadowood Park which has attained funding to begin major improvements this summer and a member of the South West Community Organizing Committee which works on a myriad of issues to improve the quality of life for southwest residents. I sene on die City of Madison's Public Safety Review Committee and the Dane County Commission on Sensitive Crimes. As a teacher for six years I will be a strong advocate for quality education Ln Madison and a renewed partnership between the city and MMSD. 2. As a candidate who has knocked on over one thousand doors in District 20, two important issues have come to the surface - restoring safe neighborhoods and budding a vibrant economy. As a father of young children both issues are important to me and will requbre a comprehensive approach, one that brings people together who have creative ideas and are genuinely committed to pursuing solutions. I look forward to facilitating such discussions and actions plans. To be considered a top tier city Madison must have safe neighborhoods, excellent schools and an economic development plan that focuses on attracting and retaining busmesses. 3. I have already reached out to neighborhood leaders to gather their thoughts and concerns and will continue to work with them if I am elected. I will regularly attend neighborhood meetings and look forward to developing an email listsen so as to remain in regular contact with as many of my constituents as possible. I wdl communicate through a Facebook page and respond to phone calls and emads as promptly as I can. Most importantly I will reach out and respond to ad of my constituents regardless of their topic of concern, question at hand, ideological leaning, or political persuasion. Questions for Madison Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. How will you maintain open lines of communication with neighborhood associations and individuals you wid represent? Questions for Madison Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you bel ieve qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. How will you maintain open lines of communication with neighborhood associations and individuals you will represent? Questions for Madison Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. How wiU you maintain open lines of communication with neighborhood associations and individuals you will represent? MIDDLETON MIDDLETON MAYOR three-year term KURT SONNENTAG incumbent - NO REPLY 6414 Stonefield Rd, Middleton. WI 53562 Questions for Middleton mayoral candidate 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What goals would you hope to achieve during this term in office? 3. Wisconsin shares revenue with municipalities - how will you ensure that your community gets adequate shared revenue? MIDDLETON ALDER two year terms District 1 PAUL A. KINNE incumbent -NO REPLY 7315 Elmwood Ave, Middleton, Wl 53562 District 3 JOANNA RICHARD incumbent 1720 Mayflower Dr, Middleton, Wl 53562; 608.831.3514; [email protected] 1. Having sened on the Dane County Board of Supervisors, I am familiar with local government process. I have also sened on the City of Middleton Landmarks Commission. Dane County Airport Commission, Regional Planning Commission and Monona Terrace Convention Center Board. My husband and I have been residents of Ward 3 for 24 years. I have also been a long-time member of LWV, studying local issues. 2. The most important issues are balancing the cost of government senices with the maintenance of our quality of life. Middleton is the best community to live and raise a family. It is also a great place to operate a business. Middleton has properly balance economic development while also protecting excellent city services Like our library, parks and recreation and downtown businesses. 3. Gaylord Nelson was right when he said that our environment drives our economic development, not the other way around. I will fight to ensure sound environment policies that properly balance our need to grow with our need to protect our community. Water and air quality is as important to business as it is to our residents and seeking long range planning to protect both will be my priority. District 5 HOWARD TEAL incumbent NO REPLY 7124 Companion Ln, Middleton, Wl 53562 District 7 HANS HILBERT incumbent NOREPLY 3209 Cedar Tr, Middleton, WI 53562 Questions for Middleton Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most Important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? MONONA MONONA MAYOR two-year term BOB MILLER 5907 Winnequah Rd, Monona, Wl 53716; 608.222.1922; [email protected] 1. I am a 21 year resident of Monona, with over 30 years of business management experience. I am a former Monona Alder and serve as CDA chair and on the Monona Drive and Sustainabdity Committees. Previously. I chaired or served on Personnel and Finance. Mass Transit, and Telecommunications Committees. I helped fundraismg for the Monona Library building expansion. I own Compound Profit - Wisconsin. Previously, I was VP/GM of WKOW-TV I served on the boards of the U W-Journalism School, Downtown Madison Kiwanis, Yahara Lakes Association, Natural Step Monona, Urban League of Greater Madison and the Madison Museum of Contemporan Art. 2. I will work to continue and enhance the fiscal strength of Monona to hold down taxes while still providing the essential senices that residents desene and expect. I wdl be actively involved in Monona Drive redevelopment, supporting current businesses while "Monona's Mainstreet" continues to be rebudt. I will work with the CDA to continue providing 0% interest loans to residents with our Renew Monona Loan Program. With the Council, CDA and Chamber, I will actively pursue businesses and developers to come to Monona, bringing valuable jobs and financial resources. I will advocate for clean and well managed lakes. 3. Monona is not heavily reliant on shared revenue to extent of most otiier communities; receiving approximately $150,000 of our total levy of $5.4 million from the state. Potential cuts in that area, although important, would have a minimal affect on the city's budget. That being said, all sources of revenue are important. I wdl work directly with our state senator and representative and work with the associations to which we belong (League and Dane County cities and villages) to ensure the governor and entire legislator hear the message that local government provides essential services and shared revenues are just that. JEFF WISWELL, SR. 1213 Birch Haven Cir, Monona, WI 53716; 608.222.1000 1. My wtfe. Tammy, and I have three sons, Jeffrey Jr. (27). Christopher (24) and Matthew (22). I'm an MGHS graduate, have a BS in psychology and public administration from UW- Whitewater, and taking graduate classes toward an MPA at UW-O. I am president of Wiswell Group, and sene as a public affairs counsel. During 4 terms as a Monona alderman. I've chaired the Public Safety. Public Works. Flood Mitigation, Cable Television, Economic Development, and License Review committees; and sened on the finance committee. CDA, Plan Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals. I've sened as a Dane County Board Supervisor (1980-1990). 2. First, we'll deliver basic city senices at an affordable price, with reasonable taxation; improve customer sendee for our citizens and visitors. Second, we'll enhance public safety, upgrading EMT's to paramedics, establish a fire department intern program. Improve radio interoperability, and provide even-handed traffic enforcement through-out Monona. Third. we'll attract new businesses and shops, revitalize North Monona Drive, upgrade city streets, make buildings more energy efficient, and complete the official parks plan. And fourth, we'll attract new residents of all ages, especially young families with school age children; keep local schools open and vibrant, with as many grades in Monona as possible. 3. Shared revenue based upon each local unit's total property valuation - with "property poor" units receiving more, "rich" units less - began in the 1970's. Replaced in 2004 with County-Municipal Aid its formula modified slightly, funding cut $90 million, and total allocation frozen, now at $895 million. The pre-2004 formula hurts Monona with its high valuation. In 2009, Monona received $22 per capita in shared revenue, verses $101 state- wide. Only the legislature can ensure Monona get its fair share. It needs to re-configure this program when it solves the $3.5 billion deficit. Tinkering at the margins won't do. Questions for Monona mayoral candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What goals would you hope to achieve during this term in office? 3. Wisconsin shares revenue with municipalities - how will you ensure that your community gets adequate shared revenue? Questions for Monona mayoral candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What goals would you hope to achieve during this term in office? 3. Wisconsin shares revenue with municipalities - how will you ensure that your community gets adequate shared revenue? MONONA ALDER 3 two year terms JAMES BUSSE incumbent 5012 Maywood Rd, Monona, WI 53716; 608.221.8911; [email protected] 1. As a member of the Monona City Council I have had the opportunity to serve on the Community Development Authority, Plan Commission, Libraiy Board. Public Safety Committee and Zoning Board of Appeals. I serve as Chair of Plan Commission and Zoning Board. These opportunities have given me a breadth of insight into the challenges facing Monona. I have been employed twenty years in community management and development with Gorman & Company. A Monona resident for 27 years, I served as Trustee for IHM and am on their Endowment Board. I am a member of the Monona Grove Business Men's Association 2. Maintaining senices, continuing to upgrading our infrastructure, improving our commercial and retad areas and keeping taxes at a palatable level is not easy. Across the country property values have dropped, foreclosures have risen and communities are facing uncertainty with respect to intergovernmental revenue sources. Monona is not immune and leadership focused on fiscal responsibility is needed to continue to provide quality sendees and achieve growth in our business community. Focusing on what is best for Monona. not personal agendas, coupled with obtaining input and ownership in the budgeting process from all departments will help us tackle these issues. 3. Monona, a landlocked community, focuses on redevelopment, which allows us to bring sites up to current standards. New developments such as the Yahara and Meritor Clinics usnig Leed construction guidelines and reducing the amount of impervious surfaces provide a great balance of economic growth, land use and respect for the environment. The City's investment in Broadway has generated benefits with improvements to existing businesses and new developments. As a member of the CDA and Plan Commission we are currently working on a redevelopment area along the north end of Monona Drive. Applying Broadway's formula for success, Monona Drive is next. CHAD SPEIGHT 4209 Winnequah Rd. Monona. WI 53716; 608.345.2423; Fax 608.221.1809; [email protected]; http://chadformonona.blogspot.com 1. I have been active in Monona politics since 2003, when I started serving on the Transit Commission. I was elected to the Council in 2008. sening as chairman of Transit and Zoning; co-chair of Public Safety and Public Works. Since 2009 1 have sened on Family Attraction, and the Library Foundation. As a leader in the remodeling industry, I specialize in costeffective, sustainable budding practices. As a business owner, I understand the importance of accountability, high standards, and excellent customer senice. I pride myself in honest communication, addressmg issues with a pragmatic can-do attitude. I am responsive to constituents, and I show up. prepared. 2. Monona needs to plan for upgrading city buildings with an understanding of the total cost to build and operate these structures. Similarly, Monona needs to successfully complete the Monona Drive project while encouraging commercial redevelopment. We should be active in advising the new Regional Transit Authority, to improve transit senices for our citizens while making sure that the quality of current senices is maintained. Lastly, Monona needs to make sure that busy residential streets are designed to safely accommodate pedestrians, especially around Winnequah School and our parks. 3. Monona is a lakefront community, and healthy lakes improve our property values and quality of life. When the city builds, remodels, or purchases vehicles, we need to consider the TOTAL cost of operating and maintaining these assets. Energy-efficiency makes since from a purely economic perspective. to reduce operatbig costs and reduce taxes. Monona should reward sustainable practices while encouraging residential and commercial revitallzation. in 2008 I successfully proposed the ordinance which limited parking, painted stripes along the curb, and created "virtual sidewalks" so that kids could walk to Winnequah School more safely I will continue to seek practical compromise to improve our city. MICHAEL VESERAT incumbent 6305 Southern Cir, Monona, WI 53716; 608.220.7392; [email protected]; VoteVeserat.com 1. Monona Grove Graduate, U. W. Madison. Madison Edgewood. Elected to the City Council in 2009. sening on various committees. I am married to Jeryn Veserat and we have two children attending the Monona Grove schools. My background as a local retailer has enabled me to be in the most unique position among all the candidates; I have sened three generations at Monona's Village Pedaler. As your self-imposed community servant. I am sure you will find my customer service focus, buying skills and contract negotiating experience an asset. 2. The biggest issue facing our community is debt. Rating agencies have awarded us high marks, but they have also called us a community with high debt (see opinion from 09). I have established a test for spending and it is simple. Identify, if the project is a need or a want. When borrowing costs go up, the "want" category will surely suffer if we don't keep a close eye on spending. We are fortunate to have many assets in our community. My goal if re-elected to the city council is to continue to focus on basic needs (EMS. Police, water) etc. 3. As a landlocked community, I believe, keeping Monona. Monona will sene us well. We need to keep our reputation as a place that is friendly to families, business and a community that values our schools and educational opportunities, I believe that our unique location, in Dane county, wid make us a competitive choice for professionals and their famdies to locate in our wonderful city. DOUG WOOD incumbent [email protected]; http://mononadoug.blogspot.com/ 1. Experience and background: I have sened on the Monona council since 2003 (and also 1989-1993). I sit on the following committees: Family Attraction & Retention, Sustainability, Finance & Personnel. License Review, Ad Hoc Monona Drive, and Ad Hoc Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety: I have lived in Monona for over 25 years. I belong to the Friends of the Monona Public Library, Historic Blooming Grove Historical Society, and volunteer for the Aldo Leopold Nature Center and Woodland Park, and formerly for Monona youth soccer. These experiences help me understand the concerns of Monona residents to restrain spending while maintaining quality of life and municipal services. 2. Most important issues: Despite the most challenging economic conditions of my adult lifetime, we froze the city's 2011 property tax levy without hurting senices. Commercial growth can limit the burden of residential property taxes while providing for the city's long-term economic health so ttiat we can maintain our quality of life and continue to support our award-winning library, parks & recreation programs, and senior services. We must complete the rest of the Monona Drive project as successfully as the first part. The project will not only replace crumbling instrucrure. but will generate business reinvestment. The city must proactively support reinvestment by existing and new businesses. 3. Economic growth, environment, and land use planning: Monona is land-locked and must look to redevelopment for economic growth. In the past 8 years, we have successfully promoted strong economic redevelopment whde stay ing true to our environmental stewardship as evidenced by the Aldo Leopold Nature Center expansion and other the LEED-certified redevelopments. Our biggest immediate challenge and opportunity is Monona Drive. Monona Drive is at a turning point; this is our chance to get it right. It will be our legacy one way or the other. We must also take special care to maintain and improve our existing infrastructure (streets and utilities), our beautiful parks, our excellent libran, and our local schools. Questions for Monona Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? STOUGHTON STOUGHTON ALDER three-year terms District 1 TIM SWADLEY 1617 N. Page St. Stroughton, WI 53589; 608.235.0824 1. I have lived in Stoughton since 1984. My wife and I have been local business owners and Chamber of Commerce members since 2003. I am employed locally by Stark Company Realtors, and by Fastenal as a Sales Representative. In addition I have many years of management experience. I have served on the Stoughton Board of Education the past seven years, currently as Vice President. I have chaired the Finance and Facilities Committee. I have served as a member of city's Economic Development Committee, and as a hoard member of the Friends of the Stoughton Area Youth Center. 2. Providing the services the residents of Stoughton expect, deserve and enjoy within the state spending limits and the current economic conditions will be an ongoing challenge. The Council must show leadership by working with the mayor, city staff, and the community to Identify and prioritize our local values, and create strategies to preserve and reallocate available resources. Building relationships with the school district and townships are important ways to increase economic development and grow the tax base. Quality of life and affordability make Stoughton an attractive place to live, shop and work. 3. Stoughton has been recognized in many ways for being environmentally friendly. Examples include being a Tree City USA the past 15 years, and a Green Power Community. I find the number of vacant buildings very concerning. I would like to develop a plan to encourage the utilization of existing resources, while expanding our business parks. Improving accessibility to our city would make Stoughton a safer and more desirable place to live. Utilizing our Comprehensive Plan and working with our neighbors, county and state agencies to develop a long-term plan are examples of how I would address the issue. District 2 PAUL LAWRENCE incumbent-NO REPLY 305 S. Page St, Stoughton, WI 53589 District 3 GREG JENSON incumbent 724 Berry St. Stoughton, WI 53589: 608.873.9567; [email protected] 1. I believe that the past three years on Stoughton city council are my best qualifier for returning to serve my constituents for another term. During that time I have worked through three budgets with three different Mayor. I have been present at all but one council meeting. Even with that experience I feel my greatest asset is my ability to listen to all sides of an issue. Other than that, I am pretty much your average citizen. A ligelong resident of Stoughton, Stoughton High School graduate. U.S. Coast Guard veteran, and 38 year employee of Nelson Industries (retired Sep. 2009). 2. The most important and difficult issue facing the City of Stoughton is maintaining the current level of services without busting the budget. To that end. The Mayor and Finance Director have proposed to city council a new tool called "budgeting for outcome". Every year this process is being adopted by more and more communities across America with good results. This process was approved by council late last year and city staff is now being trained in the concept. I truly believe this is an important and positive step forward for the city and the taxpayers. 3. It is my feeling that there are adequate Federal and State environmental regulations in place to safeguard our community. The problem we face is convincing business people that Stoughton is a good place to locale (or relocate) their business. This is something the Mayor and her staff have as a priority and I support that effort. VVe cannot grow this community without good jobs to help support that growth. District 4 Vacant Seat - Write-in Questions for Stoughton Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? SUN PRAIRIE SUN PRAIRIE MUNICIPAL JUDGE four-year term ROBERT W. BERNDT 962 Kingston Cir. Sun Prairie, WI 53590; R 08.837. 8580; 608.228.2886; [email protected] 1. I graduated from UW-Madison with degree in sociology and correctional administration. I retired from the Sun Prairie Police Department with the rank of Lieutenant after being a cop for 30 ½ years. I retired being the third highest ranking officer in the department. I have supervised investigators, dispatch, records and court services (county and municipal). I was court officer to the municipal court for about two years. I decided to run for the office of municipal judge after being approached by several city aldermen, police officers and citizens in the community. I have received the endorsement for the office from the Sun Prairie Professional Police Association. 2. The most important change needed, is to make first offense DWI a traffic crime prosecuted by the district attorney. Wisconsin needs to join the other 49 states that have done this. The main reason I am running for municipal judge is because of the way the current judge bandies DWIcases. He ALWAYS gives the defendant the minimum fine and time of suspension. He does this even thou statutes allow to increase lhe fine and suspension for high BAC's and mitigating circumstances. This judge, I feel, would not even suspend a license if he was not required by law. [Word Limit] 3. I will use my considerable experience to deal with youth offenders as a municipal judge. From 1987 till 1994 I was a youth officer with the Sun Prairie Police and was very effective handling all types of youthful offenders. I will make these offenders accountable and advise them of the serious impact law violations can have on their futures. I am an advocate of the use of peer court for juvenile offenders. Having juveniles judged by other juveniles has in many cases a stronger impact on the youth then even a formal court would have. I also would require the attendance to some type of AODA treatment, counseling for alcohol and drug offenses. TOM HEBL incumbent 308 Windsor St, Sun Prairie. WI 53590; 508.837.4325; Fax 608.834.4325; [email protected]. 1. Graduated Sun Prairie Senior High School; Graduated University of WI - Whitewater; BBA Accounting; Graduated John Marshall Law School, Chicago, IL; Trustee Sun Prairie Civic Theatre; WI State Representative to the Assembly '96-04; President Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce; President Sun Prairie Rotary Club; Former Volunteer Fire Fighter City of S. P.: Charter member Sun Prairie Education Foundation; Recipient Exchange Club Book of Golden Deeds Award. Recipient James Reminger Lifetime Achievement Award; President Cardinal Title: Senior Partner Hebl. Hebl & Ripp LLP 35 years; Dane County Court Commissioner 25+ years; Municipal Judge '07-'11 2. Effective July 1, 2010 Wisconsin law requires people convicted of driving while intoxicated with a BAC of .15 or higher to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Municipal Courts are working at implementing this law and are dealing with informing the defendant, providing information regarding vendors, cost, the installation, use and length of time the device has to be installed. The legislature has responded to the public's desire to deal more with drunken drivers. We await the result to see if this new law has the effect of curtailing the number of drunk drivers on Wisconsin roads. 3. Our Court uses teen court for non-traffic first offenders or voluntary surrender for first time traffic offenders. With new legislation, we are working on establishing an effective Community Service Program that can be used to offset forfeitures in exchange for working in the community. Generally since these youthful offenders are in court for the firsl time, I make sure they realize what will happen to them if they don't change their behavior. I attempt to work out an individualized program that will hopefully give the youthful offender incentive to change their behavior to conform to what is expected. Questions for Sun Prairie Municipal Judge candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What changes would you make to the way the current system is handling traffic violations including DWI (Driving While Intoxicated)? 3. How would you handle youthful offenders with a goal to reduce and discourage repeat offenses especially among youth of color? SUN PRAIRIE MAYOR two year term JOHN MURRAY 3110 Prospect Dr. Sun Paierie, WI 53590; 608.332.7298; [email protected] 1. My qualifications for being Mayor of Sun Prairie include over twenty years of professional experience as a public policy advisor as well as being a parent and a taxpayer I am in my second term on the Sun Prairie City Council and am currently the Council President, I am also a member of the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC), President of the Sun Prairie Economic Development Council and a former member of the Sun Prairie Library Board and Park, Recreation and Forestry Commission. 2. My priorities will be to continue providing quality city services within the means of the taxpayer. As a member of the Sun Prairie City Council, I am proud of our efforts over the past three years to hold the city tax levy flat while funding core city services including police, fire, EMS, street plowing, maintenance and reconstruction, storm water and sanitary sewer upgrades and a quality park, recreation and forestry system. I also intend to continue working to retain and grow our local businesses while attracting high quality economic development projects to our city. 3. Sun Prairie has made some tough budget decisions in order to hold the cuy tax levy steady while funding core services. As local government leaders, we have an obligation to communicate with state officials about funding for the shared revenue, expenditure restraint and local transportation aids programs. At the same time, we need to stand ready to make tough local budget decisions should funding for those programs remain flat or be reduced. Given limited financial resources, my priorities as Mayor of Sun Prairie will be public safety, infrastructure improvements and economic development. Questions for Sun Prairss mayoral candidate 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What goals would you hope to achieve during this term in office? 3. Wisconsin shares revenue with municipalities - how will you ensure that your community gets adequate shared revenue? SUN PRAIRIE ALDER two year terms District 1 RUSSELL W. FASSBENDER incumbent - NO REPLY 436 Clara St, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 District 2 STEVE VILLAND incumbent -NO REPLY 380 E. Klubertanz Dr, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 District 3 ZAGHERY J. WEBER incumbent NO REPLY 1161 Heritage Ct, Sun Prairie, Wl 53590 District 4 WAYNE HACKLER 211 Broadway Dr, Sun Prairie. WI 53590 1. I am a graduate of the University of California. Berkeley with a major in American History, and a minor in Military Science and Served as an officer in the United States Army I was a real estate agent in Sun Prairie. Follows both local and national politics very closely and I have monitored the growth of Sun Prairie over the past seven years, noting changes both good and bad. 2. Sun Prairie is at a turning point between small town and medium city, with the problems and challenges that face a community at this point in development. Growth, with fiscal responsibility, without reducing the quality of life, and hopefully increasing the quality of life that residents have been accustomed to and ensuring that services are not cut or reduced in quality, while promoting growth and keepbig crime m check. These are just a few of the challenges that Sun Prairie faces. 3. I will make sure that growth is balanced with retention and quality of sendees. Decisions will be based upon the philosophy that the needs of the many far outweigh the needs of the few. and people are just as important as businesses, remembering that one is dependent upon the other. I wdl make sure that frivolous spending stops, ensuring that short-term and long-term consequences are evaluated. 1 wid make sure that Sun Prairie remains a desirable place to live, raise children and do business in and with. MICHAEL KOSTELNIK 2135 Frawley Dr. Sun Prairie, WI 53590: 608.834.0904; Fax 608.834.8282; [email protected]; www.citizensforkostelnik.com 1. Three years ago I volunteered for the Sun Prairie Board of Review and I later participated on the 20-year development planning committee. Both responsibilities, plus a closely fought campaign I ran last year, gave me an inside look into the issues facing Sun Prairie and the primary concerns of its citizens. I learned exponentially as the campaign progressed and 1 stand even more prepared to represent my district. As a successful businessman who earned an MBA from the LIW I also offer business acumen and an educated allegiance to the area. 2. Sun Prairie offers a unique blend of diversity, safety, opportunity and proximity to a world class university and major corporate headquarters. One challenge is to celebrate diese qualities without compromising our resources. By increasing the percentage of single family housing and adhering to the 20-year plan developed by the city for future land use planning, we can ensure continued growth without overburdening our government and our tax payers. The economy continues to test municipalities and the citizens they serve so the city budget remains an important concern as well. 3. Sun Prairie had the foresight to develop a 20-year plan for land use planning and regulation which gives us an excellent, well thought out road map. I've learned to balance these growth and environmental concerns and land use regulations as a business owner and outdoorsman. I built my business from a local warehouse to one that spans five states and in the 26 years I've been involved in industrial distribution, we've never had an environmental issue. I also own land in Northern Wisconsin and have worked closely with the DNR to protect and develop it. Questions for Sun Prairie Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? VERONA VERONA ALDER two-year terms District 1 CLARK SOLOWICZ incumbent- NO REPLY 320 Westridge Pkwy. Verona, WI 53593 District 2 STEVE RITE incunibent - NO REPLY 619 Rovalia Dr. Verona, WI 53593 District 3 RICHARD STREtCH Incum bent - NO REPLY 824 Enterprise Or, Verona, WI 53593 District 4 EVANT0UCHETT -NO REPLY 612 E. Hillcrest Dr. Verona, WI 53593 BERNARD A. VERING 4IO New Age Cir, # 224, Verona, WI 53593; 608.239.8522; [email protected] 1. Education: BS degree in Agriculture from West Texas State University. MS degree from New Mexico State University in Plant Breeding. Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of Arizona. I worked for Garst and Thomas Seed Co for 21 years and managed at different times their sorghum production, wheat production and sorghum parent seed programs. From 2003 until 2009 I was a financial advisor, earned a CFP1' designation and worked as a financial planner. I have been on the pastoral council of St Christopher Parish, President of the Downtown Madison Kiwanis Foundation and started the Verona Kiwanis club. 2. Verona is a community that has had rapid growth which has slowed the last couple of years but will probably begin growth again as the economy recovers. I am a firm believer in listening to the people that I would represent and making sure that their input is heard and considered. I know lhat there are diverse opinions among citizens and I wdl have an open ear to hear their opinions. I see the alderman's duties to represent the people by producing a government that meets the citizens' needs in the most efficient manner possible. 3. A ffiorough study has to be done before a decision can be made that balances economic growth, environmental concerns, land use and regulation. By working with the builders and the opponents involved, frequently modifications can be made diat will address most issues. AU viewpoints need to be considei-ed and addressed before a final decision is made, but everyone needs to work together to reach the best decision for everyone concerned. Questions for Verona Alder candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What are the most important issues facing the community you seek to represent? 3. What criteria will you use to balance economic growth, environmental concerns, and land use planning and regulation? SCHOOL DISTRICTS BELLEVILLE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 two-year term TROY PANKRATZ NO REPLY W 3262 Schaefer Rd, Belleville, WI 53508 PAM SCOTT incumbent - NO REPLY 7008 Little Lakes Rd, Belleville, WI 53508 Questions for all school board candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What is the value of including the following in the school curriculum: a) civics; b) bilingual education for all children; c) music and art; d) 4-year kindergarten: e) preparation for the work force: f) physical education? 3. What criteria would you use to evaluate proposals for charter schools in your district? 4. How would you ensure that ad staff are aware of how cultural differences and poverty affect student learning? CAMBRIDGE SCHOOL DISTRICT 3 three-year terms GLENN BOLT W8888 Deer Run Tr, Cambridge, WI 53523; 608.423.4084; [email protected] 1. My qualifications for Cambridge School board span a career of working with school officials, improving educational facilities, developing youth programs along with supporting parents and teachers. Professionally. I'm a senior program manager with the McKinstry Company and have been working on energy savings program development and implementation for area districts. In my church and community, I've worked with area youdi locady and on mission trips. Additionally, I've volunteered as a parent in sports and music programs throughout our school district. I'm a willing listener, proactive problem solver and take a positive approach in all that I do. 2. A balanced curriculum should develop lifelong learners and students who are dexible and prepared to compete hi a global marketplace, starting at the primary school level. Facilities and programs that support educators to deliver diat curriculum with excellence should be a priority for school officials. Well-rounded programs include fine arts like music, which have been a positive influence in my own education and are important in creating a balanced student experience. Civics and physical education, as well as workforce preparatory courses and foreign language classes are also keys in preparing oui' students for their life journey. 3. I have been involved hi conversations and meetings with an existing charter school as well as a future one. Some key elements of these schools are sustainability as well as outdoor learning curriculum. I would look to see that these items were present in evaluating such a proposal. 4. Increasingly schools are under financial pressure to creatively deliver an excellent education with limited resources. I believe school board members must be smart stewards with an open ear to the cultural and financial challenges Impacting die community, students and teachers. They must be knowledgeable about funding, revenue caps, referendum issues and how financial decisions impact teachers, students and the community. GREGORY ENGELSTAD incumbent NOREPLY 108 Dahlen Cir, Cambridge, WI 53523 TRACY SMITHBACK-TRAVIS incumbent - NOREPLY 1466 Kraby Dr, Deerfield, WI 53531 ANN STRIETER -NO REPLY N 4404 Riedel Ave, Cambridge, WI 53523 DEERFIELD COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 three-year terms DOUGLAS CWIK 3065 Evergreen Dr, Deerfield, WI 53531; 608.764.1423; [email protected] 1. I served four years as a member of the Deerfield School Board, holding the position of Clerk for two years. I have attended seminars, workshops, and conventions to achieve a Level 2 Member Recognition Award from WASB. This additional education provided me an understanding of educational and legal issues, and negotiating practices and strategies. I have served almost 12 years as a council member for St. James Ludieran Church, which helped me to further develop strong leadership, negotiation, and problem solving skills to apply to the opportunities we have in the Deerfield School District. 2. An effective 4K program provides districts the opportunity for early intervention and provides a strong foundation for learning, and can reduce future costs in education. We should prepare ALL students for life after high-school, whetlier that is the trades, college, or the workforce. Music and art programming are essential for a well rounded educational experience, and have proven to keep kids engaged and improve graduation rates. Bilingual education can strengthen success in a global economy, but Is expensive and difficult to maintain In small districts. Civics and physical education are required, and shoidd be taught as life skids. 3. I would need to understand what gaps the charter school Ls attempting to address, and evaluate whetlier or not tfiose gaps can be address within the existing District Schools. We have very successful educational programming in Deerfield and consistently achieve strong scores in WKCS and ACT testing. I would focus on enabling an innovative environment in our current school system and promote community and parental involvement in our existing structure. Understanding the funding impacts to the District, and assessing the viabdity for sustained funding and performance of the Charter School to ensure its longevity and success for those students electing to enroll is essential. 4. We must be both understanding and accepting of the increasing diversity within our community. I would hold administration accountable for incorporating effective education and training plans for all faculty and staff. Understanding the impacts of poverty and cultural differences in the classroom, and fostering the creativity needed to engage a diverse group of students must be encouraged and supported. I would take a leadership role in demonstrating the importance that diversity plays in education, by actively reaching out to the community and supporting district efforts to provide our chddren with an effective multicultural education that fosters awareness, respect, and acceptance. RHONDA GULBRANSON NO REPLY 4449 Windschime Way, Cottage Grove, WI 53527 PAUL HAAG 309 North Atwood Ln. P.O. Box 13. Deerfield. Wl 53531; 608.764.8725; Fax 608.764.2600; [email protected] 1. Rachel and I have two children in Deerfield. I graduated from UW with an agronomy degree and have worked as a self-employed crop consultant since 1990. I was a Deerfield Vdlage Board member for 6 years, chairing the Public Works Committee. A wrestling coach for 28 years, I'm in my 11th season at Deerfield, where we established a Youth Wrestling Club. I'm a CMCA member and have served on the district's Forward Together group, two school referendum committees, and principal interview teams. I'm a member of an ad hoc advisory group on student/booster accounts. I also mentor confirmation students at Deerfield Ludieran. 2. I believe a civics curriculum should be taught in appropriate settings such as diversity or government. Staff should also take advantage of opportunities to demonstrate the value of civics as teachable moments throughout the school day. Music, art. and phy ed need to be maintained as high-value assets to the educational experience. Curriculum addressing the needs of students joining the work force is essential - an innovative curriculum may be the most critical for these students. Deerfield is in its 3rd year of 4-year kindergarten so I'm not sure we know its true value yet. I don't favor a mandatory bilingual curriculum. 3. I think charter schools should be given serious consideration when the current educational system can not or will not provide for the students targeted by the charter schools. If the charter school is an opportunity for students who aren't reaching their potential to flourish, why wouldn't you seriously entertain their proposals? 4. Deerfield is the smallest school district in Dane County. WhUe this poses some challenges, it also affords us the advantage of knowing each student's situation. After coaching in the district for 11 years, I am amazed at the excellent job our staff does helping individual students achieve - even though there may be issues with poverty, low self-esteem, or simply feeling like they don't fit in. I never cease to be impressed with the progress that so many students make when, despite tough situations, they realize that they're really valued by the staff and administration. SHELLEY MACK incumbent -NO REPLY 3507 Sky Terrace, Deerfield, WI 53531 DEFOREST AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT Town of Windsor, 2 three-year terms MARTIN PALUS incumbent -NO REPLY 3982 Shadows Ct. DeForest, WI 53532 SUE PAULSON incumbent- NO REPLY 4607 Oak Springs Cir, DeForest, WI 53532 Town of Burke, three-year term GLENN OLSON incumbent- NO REPLY 3729 Festival Way, DeForest, WI 53532 EDGERTON SCHOOL DISTRICT 3 three-year terms AMY H0RN-DELZER incumbent - NO REPLY 6400 West Valley Springs Rd, Janesville, WI 53548 DONALD McFARLANE -NO REPLY 137 Forest Ave. Edgerton. WI 53534 JAMES G. SAUMES -NO REPLY 9208 N. Highway H, Edgerton, WI 53534 SUE TRONNES incumbent 739 Highway 73, Edgerton, WI 53534 1. I have served on the Edgerton School Board for the past 6 years and I am very interested in the quality of our Education as a parent in the district and also for our community as a whole. I have been involved in business for many years and that has provided me with many useful experiences including the balancing of budgets and the abdity to deal with issues fairly. The chddren in our schools today will be the citizens of our community tomorrow. It is very important that we provide a good quality education for our chddren and also provide a good value for the taxes that the citizens of our district pay. 2. I believe that all of the areas listed are important to be included in school curriculums; however, balancing the abdity of the district to pay for all programs with current budgets is also very important and ddficult. Eliminating any of these programs would involve difficult decisions that Impact student learning and each area must be considered very carefully regarding the benefits and costs of each program. 3. I have no experience with Charter schools in our district and can not answer this question with any experience or exposure to that type of school. However, I do use the following criteria In my evaluations of all new programs. I would begin by considering the impact that the program would have on the quality of education for the chddren our district. Financial impact and our district's ability to successfully execute the program would also be considered. I have a lot of confidence in our school's administration, and when proposals are presented to the board, I have found them to well-researched and well-planned. 4. The staff at Edgerton Schools has received training on how to be aware of cultural differences and to identify the effects of poverty on student learning. In our district, many of our famdies have been affected by the closing of General Motors and other businesses and I feel they have been very aware and sympatiietic to the needs of chddren facing family difficulties and cultural differences. Our administration routinely informs the board about the areas of framing our teachers and staffs receive. MADISON METROPOLITAN SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 three-year terms Seat 6 MARJORIE PASSMAN incumbent 3118 Todd Dr. Madison. Wl 53713; 608.334.2043; mpassman.k12.wi.us 1. Earned K-8 teaching credentials at UW, BA from Hunter College majoring in history, with minor in political science and high school education; an MA in 18th century British history I have taught High School in inner city New York, elementary and middle schools in Madison, England and toured schools in India, China, Israel. Received MMSD Distinguished Service Award, Distinguished Teacher of Teachers from UW, Crystal Apple from NBC. Wrote my second book. My Side: Reflections of a Public School Teacher. Board duties have included Co-Chair of the Planning Committee, Chair of Equity; member of Achievement Committee, Member of the City Ad Hoc Housing Diversity Committee and the Standing Housing Committee. 2. Our Public Schools must: guarantee equal opportunities for all children, unify a diverse population, prepare people for citizenship in a democratic society, improve social conditions, instill in our young people a love for a lifetime of learning and help them bring a richness and depth to their lives. The earlier we offer education to our chddren the better their chance of success. I have, therefore, supported a 4K program. 3. My criteria: 1) Can they provide something our schools cannot. From the inception Nuestro Mundo and Badger Rock MS did just that. 2) Can they complement and help inform the curriculum in our schools? Again, NM proved that we could develop our own dual language program. 3) Can they be financially efficient or will they take financial resources from the majority of our students for just a few enrolled. 4) Will the school be able to attract and retain a diverse student body. With declining school funding we must ensure that all our students are receiving the equity they need. 4. The new K-12 alignment process has, at its core, the achievement gap, our Strategic Plan stresses cultural competency, and we have a strong mentoring program for first year teachers. However, we must hire more teachers of color, and provide more support for both students and staff. All Elementary, Middle and High Schools now have budt in collaboration time to discuss these issues. The new 4K and our already existing Early Chddhood programs will reach more students much earlier than before. The key here is the sooner we reach students the better their chance of success. Seat 7 ED HUGHES incumbent 2226 Lakeland Ave, Madison. WI 53704: 608.241.4854; [email protected]; www.edhughesschoolblog.wordpress.com 1. I am completing my first three- year term as a member of the Madison School Board. I have previously served on a number of boards and commissions. I am a partner in the law firm of Stafford Rosenbaum. LLP. Last June. I completed a 20-year run as a parent of one or both of our children attending Madison public schools (Laphain, Marquette. O'Keeffe. East). 1 am a graduate of Georgetown University and the University of Chicago Law School. I write on local school issues at www. edhugbessclioolblog.wordpi-ess.com. 2. Everything on the list is valuable and complements our core academic curriculum. The challenge is fitting it all into a six-hour school day. There are practical impediments to expanding our day, but we're looking at smarter approaches to summer school options. Examples are encouraging incoming ninth graders to take physical education or health classes in the summer to open room in their schedules for electives and adopting a "fifth quarter" approach for more summer work in core academic areas for struggling students. Thankfully, next year Madison will join the vast majority of Wisconsin school districts that offer voluntary 4-year-old kindergarten. 3. A charter school is a means to an end. not an end in itself. If there are Impediments to learning we can't address or opportunities for improvement we can't provide through our neighborhood schools, a charter could be an effective alternatives 1 enthusiastically supported the Badger Ruck charter proposal, which allows us at modest cost to partner on an exciting sustainability project and locate a middle school in an underserved area. Questions remain unanswered, but the Urban League's Madison Prep is an intriguing charter proposal to attack our achievement gap with an intense academic focus for students who are behind. 4. Our goal is higher levels of achievement for all our students. Students' cultural differences and poverty can stunt learning by impeding effective communications between teachers and students. The school district's strategic plan calls for implementing culturally relevant teaching strategies, in particular addressing African American students, across the content areas to enhance all students' achievement levels. Pilot programs for research-based implementation of this goal are underway at Mendota, Falk and Lowell elementary schools. We'll see if these programs actually help our students learn more effectively. If they do. we'd expand the beneficial aspects of the program more widely throughout the district. MARSHALL SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 three-year terms BONNIE CLAYTON 1090 Highway 19. Marshall. WI 53559 1. I am a recently retired 36year veteran public school teacher and librarian, earnbig a master's degree in information technology, and a life's license to teach physical and health education in Wisconsin. While employed. I directly worked with students, staff, administration and community, and managed an annual multi-thousand dollar budget. My children and I are Marshall High School graduates, and I've resided in this school district for over 50 years. 2. Early learners must begin to build a foundation of knowledge that will provide support for all future learning. School curriculum must integrate technology, art. music and bilingual education for students in our classrooms. A sound mind needs a healthy body for life, which requires active learning experiences through physical education. Students need critical thinking skills and tools for post high school, be it further education or directly to work. 3. While every student has the right to an education, it's the student's responsibility to attend and cooperate. This volunteer program has clear admission standards, while it generates and sustains a sense of community that supports a family atmosphere. Along with high academic standards, a charter program has attendance policies, behavior, supports social emotional growth, employability skills and requirements. Characteristics of successful programs aren't identical, but instead reflect the needs of the local student population and community. A. Deportations happen. Although not impossible, it's uncommon for supervisory administrators to fully understand the barriers of living in poverty while trying to learn in a foreign language. Teachers and paraprofessionale are deeply aware that the impact of poverty and culture negatively affect student learning. The daily teacher student relationships that are forged impart a level of understanding and trust that must be maintained and re-enforced daily. The kids can trust what we say because they know we care EUGENE HENNING incumbent NOREPLY 6415 Deansville Rd, Marshall. WI 53559 JOHN R. LUTZ NOREPLY 1475 Highway T. Marshall, WI 53559 DIANA SKALITZKY incumbent 138 Elm St. Marshall, WI 53559 1. I have lived in Marshall since the early 80s. and have had two children go through the Marshall schools. My volunteer activities in Marshall cross many years and organizations. I work in the community as public library director. My position gives me the opportunity to interact with our students and their parents as they look for materials for school assignments and projects. I work hard to see the "big picture" and to see an issue from other perspectives. 2. All of the listed classes have value for children. Giving children access to a variety of subjects, even if limited, could spark them onto a clear career path. However. I believe we need to re-think our class offerings in light of our rapidly changing world. Our school system has done a good job with curriculum review and mapping. The final test of our efforts is are the majority of our students graduating with pertinent, useful skids? I think we can do better. This isn't a challenge just for Marshall, it's a challenge for the US school system. 3. We must ensure that the credibility and accountability are built in and adhered to. We need to ensure that nothing could compromise the strides we have made in offering this alternative. For those kids who have succeeded from this kind of second chance, it's wed worth the effort we put out. but only if the student leaves with skills for the real world. 4. Good teachers, it seems to me. have empathy built in. They also have professional development opportunities to further develop this awareness. Staff that may have less interaction with students, and especially students from different socio-economic and cidtural backgrounds could be required to participate in one on one activities. That would be a win win situation. McFARLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT three-year term THOMAS ALLEN incumbent NOREPLY 6201 Spring Pond Ct, McFarland, WI 53558 MIDDLETON-CROSS PLAINS SCHOOL DISTRICT Area II, three-year term BOB GREEN incumbent -NO REPLY 3094 Creekside Way. Cross Plains. WI 53528 Area IV, two-year term ANNETTE ASHLEY 3702 Mandimus Ct, Middleton, WI 53562: 608.836.9882; [email protected] 1. As a lawyer for ten years with a Washington DC association, 1 conducted legal research and prepared materials used to educate legislators nationwide. Upon moving to Middleton my focus turned to my family and their educational experience. I recently completed two years as the Kromrey Middle School PTA president, and for three years before that, led a parent group at Northside Elementary implementing fitness and nutrition education for students and parents. The nutrition program received recognition from Gov. Doyle. I was also a 2010 recipient of the Middleton Good Neighbor Award recognizing community service. 2. School curriculinns should prepare students to be productive members of society and for post-high school education. Educational achievement requires a strong foundation (d): living in a multi-cultural world requires a global component (b); enhancing creative opportunities prepares employees to adapt to our ever-changing world (c); teaching students healthy habits is a cost-saving benefit to society (f); emphasizing the importance of being engaged in society is essential to preserving our democratic system given that voters under thirty are the least likely to vote (a); combining all of these provides a well-rounded education preparing students to enter the work force (e). 3. Charter Schools are viewed as new. innovative, community approaches to providing public education with the potential to specialize in certain areas (i.e. math, science, the arts). For evaluation purposes. I would suggest these criteria: access, academic excellence, accountability and community support. Student selection must be random to assure that every part of the community has open access to opportunities. Due to its unique approach, setting higher academic standards than traditional public schools requires the collection of data to substantiate academic achievement along with financial accountability. Strong support from parents, teachers and community resources is necessary for success. 4. Generating staff awareness of the impact of cultural differences and poverty on learning can be achieved through professional development. Training should provide mentoring and observation opportunities and the creation of school partnerships to share experiences; instruct teachers on differentiated learning in the classroom to address student learning needs at all levels: and adow ample time for collaboration among teachers and social sendees staff to identify specific student needs. The underlying goal would be creating a staff capable of embracing and celebrating our differences, and the compassion necessary to provide a safe. secure environment in which to build trusting relationships with their students. BOB HESSELBEIH 1420 N. High Point Rd. Middleton, WI 53562; 608.628.9024; [email protected] 1. A commitment to ensuring our children are well-prepared to face the future, and a lifetime of service to my community and nation, are the cornerstones of my qualifications. Asa long term resident of Middleton. a father with children attending different public schools, and as a tax-paying citizen. I am committed to ensuring the very best education for our children and the very best value for our tax dollars. I stand qualified: a father, neighbor, a re tired lieutenant colonel and current airline pi lot; a former union officer of over 12,000 airline pdots; a listener, a writer, and importantly, a doer. 2. School curriculinns must provide comprehensive preparation. Our graduating stu dents lace a highly-competitive world withoul economic boundaries that require their best efforts to succeed. Our curriculums must provide the necessary education and proper skill set to confront a seamless global environment. I believe preparation should begin at the earliest possible age because our graduates must possess a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, science, writing and language, technology, people, cultures and government. This must include: understanding our governing structures: bilingual education for communication and. importantly, an understanding beyond mere words; music and art for the soul, and physical education for healthy bodies and teambuilding. 3. I would partner with fellow school board members, the district administration, academic professionals and concerned citizens to precisely determine what benefits the MiddletonCross Plains Area students would gain from the proposed charter school. Criteria should include evaluation of the proposed school mission, curriculum, goals, students served, methods of assessment, possible examples of other similar charter schools, support in the district, and criteria for annual evaluation of the school. In the current economic environment, costs would be an important factor in the determination process, as wed. 4. We are fortunate that the Middleton-Cross Plains Area School District has a strong professional development program to ensure that the staff is sensitive and responsive to individual student cultural and economic differences. The ongoing Ruby Payne Framework for Understanding Poverty workshops are an example of this. A specific MCPASD goal is "...To increase overall student achievement and reduce the achievement gaps that are connected to ethnicity, socioeconomic status." I support this goal, and as a board member will monitor the District's established "Continuous Improvement Process" to ensure that ad possible actions are taken to recognize, address and eliminate achievement gaps MONONA GROVE SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 three-year terms DEAN BOWLES 1403 Joyce Rd. Monona, WI 53716; 608.222.5573; [email protected] 1. My experience includes (a) graduation from a public high school in California, a B.A.. Yale University, and IvI. A. and Ph.D.. Claremont Graduate School; (b) Marine Corps lieutenant: (c) high school teacher of English, history, and government; (d) education staff with the Caldornia State Assembly: (d) professor of Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis, UW-Madison (M years): (e) City council & Mayor. City of Monona: (D Deputy State Superintendent of Public Instruction: (g) Fulbrigbt Scholar & Overseas Teaching ( Finland, St. Lucia. Latvia. & United Kingdom); (h) school district Consultant; and (i) VP of the Monona Grove Education Foundation. 2. Civics ought to be taught K- 12 to educate our children for citizenship in American democracy. Reading and speaking a 2nd language is essential for the global education of our children m an increasingly multhingual world. Physical education, music and the arts are important for ad children K-12, and boards should resist cuts in these areas due to NCLB. Preparation for the work force should be designed for all students, including collegebound students, and include partnerships with the business community. 4-year old kindergarten is important but should be directed toward social skids and educational "readiness," not competitive, test-driven, "cognitive" instruction. 3. I would use the following criteria to evaluate charter school proposals: (a) Is it initiated by or does it enjoy support of the staff, parents, and community: (b) Does it employ innovative teaching and learning opportunities not offered in the regular program; (c) Will it address needs or interests of students not found in the regular program; (d) Will it fit within the mission, goals, and objectives of school district; (e) Does it offer the potential for innovation in the regular program: (D Will it lead to higher student retention and academic performance; and (g) Is it relatively cost neutral. 4. To ensure staff awareness of the impact of cultural differences and poverty on student learning the board should assure that (a) Appropriate language is included in mission and goal statements, school district policy, and staff evaluation criteria; (b) Hiring practices reflect a staff with the similar cultural differences or experiences as the student population; (c) Curriculum is reviewed periodically with an eye toward its cultural diversity and impact on learning, and (d) Professional development is ongoing for the board, administration, teachers and support staff and emphasizes not only performance data, curriculum, and teaching practices but also community relations. SOSAN FOX incumbent 4637 Tonyawatha Tr. Monona. WI 53716; 608.222.5015: [email protected] 1. A 27-year resident of Monona, retired from 28 years of teaching MG middle and high school. I was elected in 2008 and now serve in my second year as board president. My roles as a district teacher, parent, taxpayer, and school board member, give me a unique perspective and the ability to see issues from all these viewpoints. While my three children attended MG schools. I gained familiarity with all grade levels while volunteering in elementary classrooms, serving as PTO president, volunteering in various roles related to their high school music and sports activities, and serving on numerous board adhoc committees. 2. Recent research shows all students need the same level of reading and math skills, whether their post-secondary plans include college or workforce training programs. All these curricular areas, including a 4K foundation and the brain-developing results from music, art. and bilingual opportunities, are important in educating well-rounded, high functioning citizens who. in addition to competing for jobs in a global economy, will be consumers, producers, voters, leaders, and parents. Strong career and college readiness skills, confidence, healthy habits, and an ability to appreciate and work with people of diverse backgrounds promote a greater likeldiood of future success and contribution to society. 3. I would look for a clear explanation of need and of what the charter school would provide that the regular district schools cannot, whether in the model for delivery of instruction, enhanced student engagement, and or curriculum emphasis. A clear statement of goals. a design for delivery of rigorous curriculum, aligned with common core state standards, and a professional development plan would be required. I would expect annual implementation of a meaningful norm-referenced test based on research-based benchmarks, such as Measures of Academic Progress and Explore/Plan/ ACT, to inform teaching and learning as well as to measure growth in student performance. 4. School board members' policy and budget development roles include the responsibility to direct and provide for continuing quality professional development. Such staff training to build knowledge and skills in this and other areas includes: staff -conducted equity and diversity training workshops, teacher participation in school-organized reading and discussion groups, and participation in training through CREATE, the White Privilege Conference, and other workshops. Conference attendees share knowledge and strategies gained with others, in ongoing efforts in our schools, led by district and building administrators. We also employ two half-time diversity coordinators to work with teachers, coaching and advocating for minority students. MOUNT HOREB AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT, 2 three-year terms MARY M. ANDERSON 308 Green St, Mount Horeb. WI 53572; 608.235.2599: [email protected] 1. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and am currently a graduate student pursuing an MBA at Edgewood College. I've been a health care executive and auditor for nearly 20 years; served on the Board of Directors for Children's Community School in Mount Horeb and the Atwood Community Center in Madison. Perhaps most importantly. I'm the mother of two school-aged children. and an active volunteer in their schools. I have a genuine and vested interest in assuring the quality of education and facilities in the district on a long-term basis. 2. Any opportunities to enrich a child's academic experience are important. I believe that the central role of a school board is to ensure that the district is strategically positioned to offer the maximum opportunities to aid ui a child's academic, cultural, physical and social development from early childhood through high school. Our ultimate goal should be to produce not just good students, but good citizens as well. To that end. I see civics, bilingual education, music, art, physical education and work-force preparation as key components in enhancing the overall education experience and affording maximum life choices for students. 3. Charter schools provide another positive opportunity to expand academic choices. The challenge is in identifying when a charter school might be appropriate, considering economic factors and the perceived shortcomings in our current curriculum that they might help address. For consideration of a proposal, charter schools should have a well-defined mission and vision statement, strong leadership and oversight by a governing board, comprehensive academic and enrichment programs, a means to assess student performance and continued progress, accommodations for a diverse population, demonstrated ability to effectively manage financial operations, and adherence to applicable state and federal laws. 4. As our community and schools become more diverse, our educational system must foster understanding, tolerance, and acceptance of multicultural students. To raise awareness, it is crucial that our school board, administration and teachers have open and on-going communication on the issues and the challenges they present. The school board should serve an active role in oversight and policy making to assure that our curriculum is effectively designed to mcorporate multicultural educational themes, and that support services (including counselors and advisors) are adequately staffed and trained to successfully serve the needs of families of all cultural and economic statuses. JACK MISNA NOREPLY 10097 Blessing Way. Mount Horeb. WI 53572 JIM SAUTER incumbent NOREPLY 209 South 2nd St. Mount Horeb. WI 53572 PETER STROBE NO REPLY 908 Vista Ridge Dr, Mount Horeb. WI 53572 OREGON SCHOOL DISTRICT 3 three-year terms Area II COURTNEY ODORICO incumbent NO REPLY 5228 Old Indian Tr. Fitchburg, WI 53711 Area III LEE J. CHRISTENSEN NOREPLY 2342 White Oak Tr, Oregon. WI 53575 Area IV WAYNE MIXDORF 5469 Marie Rd, Oregon, WI 53575 1. I have degrees from the UW-Madison; including a BA degree in Social Work and a Master's Degree also in Social Work. 1 am a licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. My experience includes: budget development and management; capital projects: policy and procedure development; personnel management and evaluation; staff training and contract negotiation and compliance. I have served on a local task force to implement a Youth Court in Oregon. I am a past president and board member of the Oregon Atldetic Booster Club and am the past treasurer and board member of the Oregon Soccer Association. 2. Civics teaches students about the origins of government, governmental institutions and the role of the individual in government. Bi-linguai education exposes students to the diversity of language, customs and culture that exists in the world today. Music and the arts aUow students to experience their creative abilities which may be otherwise overlooked. Four year old kindergarten provides small group socialization and early education preparation for chddren to enter the full year educational process. Transitional work experiences teach students work place expectations and skills for future success. Life time fitness, life sports and nutrition shoidd be emphasized to promote healthy lifestyles. 3. The mission and goals of the proposal should be evaluated for compatibility with the mission and goals of the district. Budget evaluation of physical space, capital equipment, specialized staff, increased staff, reoccurring costs and outside revenue sources are important considerations. Input from administrators, teachers and support staff should be included with information from parents, parent organizations, business and community members. Finally, information from the student body should be included in any charter school evaluation. Any implemented charter school should have measurable performance outcomes that could be reviewed to determine continuation or program modification to meet outcomes. 4. Qualifications for staff vacancies should be assessed for education, training or life experiences relating to cultural or economic differences. Ideally, successful candidates for employment would be able to demonstrate knowledge and education in dealing with these issues. During performance reviews of existing staff, staff should be encouraged to attend classes or ongoing education to continue their individual education of new methods and developments in the field of cultural awareness and poverty. The district should also address diese issues globally through policy, in-service training of all staff and by having district leadership model appropriate behavior relating to culture and poverty issues. STOUGHTON AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT 3 three-year terms PETER C. KOCHER -NO REPLY 416 N. Page St, Stoughton, WI 53589 AMY S. McFARLAND 2677 Rolling View Rd, Stoughton, Wl 53589; 608.877.0207; [email protected]; Facebook: Amy McFarland for Stoughton School Board 1. My education and professional training, with a BA in English and a Master's in Social Work, give me strong skills in communicating with people, solving problems coUaboratively, and respecting the rights and interests of others. My many years of experience in the Stoughton community as a school volunteer, member of several School District committees, member of the Stoughton Tornado Recovery team, and numerous other areas of community sendee and have given me a broad and enthusiastic understanding of the strengths and diversity of our district, as well as both the challenges it faces and its potential for excellence. 2. All of these areas are of vital importance in helping our students become thoughtful, prepared, respectful, and healthy contributors to society. Specifically, I have always been an active advocate for music and the arts, and feel it is essential in our schools. I believe in expanding our offerings in world languages, as well as in providing supportive sendees for our students who are English language learners. Over all, 1 feel our School District should provide a strong foundation where our students can become self-sufficient adults who feel they matter in their community, and in the larger world around them. 3. One of the main tenets of a charter school by definition is its accountability to its mission and to the district which sponsors it. I would first want to understand the needs expressed in the proposal and explore how those senices could be provided, whether in the district as it stands, or in a charter school. If a charter school were to be developed. I would want assurance that appropriate policies of instructional quality, student safety, and diversity and equity would be maintained. 4. In the many years I served on the District's Diversity and Equity Committee, this issue was an area of significant concern to me. As a Social Worker. I believe that cultural as weU as socio-economic diversity must be truly understood by staff, families and students, in order for a healtby and productive school environment. I have always been in favor of increasing staff training in diversity, as well actively developing for all students a stronger understanding and appreciation of, and respect for. the many cultures and life experiences within our school district. Without this understanding, education is significantly compromised. ELIZABETH MENZER incumbent NOREPLY 411 N. Harrison St. Stoughton, WI 53589 BRETT SCHUMACHER incumbent 1324 N. Page St. Stoughton. WI 53589 1. I am currently sening out the term of a retiring member of the Board. I've learned quite a bit from the other members, and eagerly look forward to working on more great things for the school district. I hold a Bachelor's of Science degree from UW-Madison. and have worked in a GMP/ FDA regulated environment for 14 years. I admit that I am new to this type of position, but I owe it to my young children to help shape the best educational experience a district can provide. 2. There is value in including any and every program in a school curriculum that will help prepare a child for life, whether it is basic education, social and communication skills, enrichment, team-building or myriad other facets that help form an individual. The pace of our society only ever increases, and we need to best prepare kids to meet that challenge. Healthy minds and bodies are our best tools to meet the demands of the future. 3. The primary criterion for charter schools shoidd be accessibility: Who/ how many would benefit from it? Other very important questions woidd be: What goals does it seek to fulfill? Does it duplicate anything that exists in the current curriculum? How would it be funded, and how would it mediate budget challenges? What opportunities would it provide to its students? If enough participation is shown, could it be integrated into the school system'.' How does it address changing needs? How can parents integrate to strengthen its method at home? What metrics will measure effectiveness? 4. The best way to promote awareness of any issue is through open dialogue. This can take many forms, and should be adapted to best fit the group it is designed to enlighten. It's an opportunity for creativity. Some examples are: written reports, electronic communications, continuing education, community involved multi-cultural events, guest lecturers, student projects or community forums. The more we know about the diversity of the people in the district, the better we are to successfully sene their needs. SUN PRAIRIE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 three-year terms JILL CAMBER DAVIDSON incumbent 1826 Barrington Dr, Sun Prairie, WI 53590; 608.834.0172; [email protected]. us 1. I am seeking re-election to the Sun Prairie School Board. I served terms as citizen representative (finance and education policy committees) prior to being elected in 2007. My education includes a BS degree from UW-Madison (dietetics/ agricultural journalism), clinical internship at UW Hospitals and graduate coursework at UW Madison. I have held appointed and elected leadership positions in local, state and national professional organizations and have received peer recognition for leadership. I have been active in community coalitions and statewide consortiums relating to childhood obesity and school healtb. I work in nutrition education, and am involved in academic standard and curriculum development, teacher trainings, and technical assistance to schools relating to health and nutrition. 2. Curriculum decisions and die value programs provide is a priority for me. School curricula needs to provide rigor, relevance and reality in the courses offered to all students so graduates are inspired and ready for die next step in their live, whether it is the work force, higher education, and/or the military. Job skills and work force preparation needs to be cross-curricular, to serve all students no matter what their path after graduation. All of these classes have value in a well-rounded education, and provide for proactive, informed citizens that can communicate and contribute to their community. These courses reach all students in different ways; help them connect to the learning environment, and support learning and achievement in and outside of school. 3. Charter schools provide unique opportunities for students. A charter school decision is not made by the board alone. Input from the community, parents, staff, administration, current and previous students, business leaders and higher education representatives is needed on the proposal. The evaluation process should investigate the needs to be met, why the current system is not meeting these needs, or can the current system be changed to meet these needs (such as with another program, magnet school, etc.), how the needs will be met. and the desired outcomes of the charter school. Funding sources, admission criteria and other operational factors, such as staffing, transportation, and curricular approaches will need to be addressed as part of the evaluation as well. 4, Ad students and staff have unique talents and abilities: it is important board members to recognize this, and encourage and support trainings on cultural competence, diversity and how poverty impacts learning. However. it is the responsibility of every staff member administrator and community leader to work for school environments that are warm, welcoming and responsive to all student needs, and this is the foundation for setting up an environment for success. The board can support the recruitment, hiring and retention of diverse staff, but it is at student level that staff needs support for their work and interventions. Monitoring academic data (closing achievement gaps), truancy data, disciplinary statistics, and graduation rate, and holding administration accountable for results are ways for board members to ensure all students are reaching academic potential. DAVID STACKH00SE incumbent NOREPLY 131 Jones St, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 TOM WEBER 2243 lnnsbrooke Dr, Sun Prairie, WI 53590: 608.235.0963; [email protected] 1. I have lived in Sun Prairie for 19 years and have two children in Sun Prairie public schools. I currently volunteer as a member of my children's school community organization and I am the Cub Master for our local Cub Scout Pack. I have two degrees from UW-Stout; the first in Industrial Technology and the second in Business Administration. I started, owned and operated a business in Sun Prairie for 15 years and am currently involved in business operational planning and project management. I am currently a member of the Sun Prairie School District Finance Committee. 2. Success in today's world requires more than basic reading, writbig and arithmetic. A weU rounded education for all of our students needs to be our goal whether the student has plans for further education after graduation or directly entering the workforce. The arts, languages, physical education, history and other social studies are all imperative for our students' success. In an era of potential cuts due to budget concerns, these areas are too important to even be considered for elimination. As our world becomes smaller and more diverse, we have an obligation to supply a diverse and relevant education. 3. I would apply tbe same criteria that I would use for any proposal that comes before me - by asking how this affects student achievement. Does it give us the ability to reach more children and increase their chance for success after graduation? Additionally. I would look to experts in the field as well as the public in our district to gauge the interest in the program. Lastly, we need to compare the overall benefits of the program against the costs involved to the tax payer. 4. Cultural differences and poverty are ever increasing in our district and we know that it affects student learning. We send our staff through diversity training and educate them on how these issues have an effect on student achievement. I think it is also very important that our staff is actually made up of a diverse population at all levels. This way we have a wide array of personal experiences that are shared first hand with other staff members, as well as with our students in the classroom, or on an individual level. VERONA AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT Al-Large, three-year term ROBERT OTREMBA 122 N. Main St. Verona. Wl 53593 1. My past experiences in life have prepared me for this office. My current occupation as a Professional Engineer in the building energy services market makes me well suited to address building and grounds issues facing the district. Likewise, my 5 years in the United States Marine Corps have taught me volumes on how to interact with a broad range of people with varying perspectives. My strongest qualification is that I have two kids in the district system. 2. AU of the above listed areas of curriculum have value and are important for our chddren to do well in school and to become productive valuable members of society. I do not have space bere to address each item separately. I feel strongly that exposure to a broad range of criteria in school is helpful in achieving a well rounded mentally llexible student. We need to prepare our children for a rapidly changing world. By exposing them to a wide range of curriculum and ideas, they will have a better chance of adapting to changes and to be successful. 3. This question cannot be answered with a blanket statement. Various proposals will require different approaches for a thorough evaluation. In general, some of the first criteria that come to mind for a "typical" proposal would be: potential benefit to the district or students, financial, social, staff time commitment requirement and ease of implementation. As each proposal will require a tailored set of criteria, some of the above may be deleted or special factors could be added as needed. 4. I don't think it is the responsibility of die school board members to reinforce education tenets. I do diink it is everyone's responsibility to remind educators that each student is an individual and diat different people learn in different ways. This can be compounded by cultural and socioeconomic factors. This issue would fall under die social criteria from question »3. The best way to keep this issue on die forefront is to voice this concern, as proposals come forth it would be my responsibility to ask how a proposal would affect students and parents for district members with varying backgrounds. JEANNIE S. PORTER 556 Poplar Way, Verona, Wl 53593; 608.848.8245; [email protected] 1. I believe that I am qualified to be a member of die Verona School Board. I am a lawyer by ttade and, as such, have learned how to communicate effectively and work both individually and on teams with diverse populations. I am an adjunct Instructor, which has given me some insight into teaching and the challenges diat teachers face. 1 have volunteered at school for the I5TA and in my children's classrooms, taught religious education classes at church, and been involved in various activities that have helped me learn to think practically 2. AU of the categories listed have great value in our schools. Each subject includes very important lessons for our future generations and provides students with different ways to help them fit into the world as they grow and graduate from school. The problem that schools face, however comes not in determining the value of the subjects, which is high in all cases, but in funding all of the programs and caning enough time out of each day to include the core topics, as well as other important items. 3. Verona Schools already have two charter schools that function very well in our community. If we were to evaluate proposals for additional charter schools, I would want to know how these schools would function differently than what we already have. What would they bring to our community that our students are not already being provided? What benefits and drawbacks would our community face in trying to implement the schools? How would adding additional charter schools affect our school budget and financing? And how would the schools fit into our existing structure? 4 I think that people today, for the most part, are aware that cultural differences and poverty affect people in a wide variety of ways, including how they learn. In the classroom setting, these differences can be barriers to learning, in some cases. I think that conversations and training about this topic are a good way to increase that basic awareness and to help the staff to adjust to these differences so that students can get the most out of their education whatever then- social situation happens to be. Portion 3, City of Verona, three-year term DENNIS BERES incumbent NO REPLY 770 Aspen Ave. Verona. Wl 53593 WAUNAKEE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT Village of Waunakee, three-year term DAVID DOCHERTY 1107 Bluebird Tr, Waunakee. WI 53597; 608.850.9234; ddocherty@charter. net 1. I have a deep passion for Waunakee and its excellent schools. With over IS years of experience improving organizations and guiding them through large transformations. I can help make them even better. I am also a graduate from the Leadership Greater Madison civic program. There will be many tough (in some cases ven polarizing) community discussions that will need to occiu over die next several years where my diplomatic style and experience wdl help us find common ground in the community wlide ensuring die need of aU our children to receive the best quality education is always the top priority. 2. School curriculum should include a strong emphasis on reading, writing, math and sciences but also valuable content to enhance social, physical and creative abilities of our students. This should include high quality early education programs and a focus on the development of workforce skills needed in our global, diverse and technology driven society. 3. I wiU always listen and be open to new ideas that demonstrate a commitment to our children and our community. Any charter school proposal should contain a clear mission and goal aligned with a specific educational H(1Cd not currently provided by the district's schools. I would also expect a solid long-term financial plan with clear measures and accountability for producing results. 4 I would certainly support investment in education to continue to build awareness in these areas. This should include specific tactics for addressing factors that place children at risk for learning along with on-going actions that can be taken to build the relationships between the cultural values of all students and values emphasized in the schools. JULIE WANER 1810 Savannah Way, Waunakee, WI 53597; 608.849.9067; sisfisch(á>aol.com 1 Completed one threeyear term on Waunakee School Board 2007-10, served as Board Clerk two years. Voting delegate representing Waunakee Schools three years at Wisconsin Associated School Boards state convention. Mother of three recent Waunakee High School graduates, member of St. John the Baptist Parish Faith Formation Commission 2005-07, faith formation instructor seven years. Frequent guest student at UW-Madison. Bachelor of Science degree from South Dakota State University in Textiles - Fashion Retail. 2. Bilingual education has an increasing role to play in adequate preparation of students for the work force. Music and art contribute to creativity and self-expression that are part of the 21"st century skills that will distinguish future work force. 4-yr-old Kindergarten can help even the playing field for an increasingly diverse state of readiness our youngest learners exhibit. Physical education could incorporate co-curricular and on-line components to lead to lifelong healthy lifestyles. Civics can be demonstrated by fostering positive school climates and should be integral to the entire public educational experience. Preparation for the work force should be the ultimate goal across the curriculum. 3. Charter schools should meet specific learning goals that come from the community. Student population and parent priorities should be paramount considerations for any charter school proposal. Careful consideration must be given to available resources to not only launch the school, but keep it operating without draining resources from existing public schools. 4. The best way to ensure staff understands the learning implications of cultural diversity and poverty is to hire staff from such diversity. There has been increasing emphasis on this topic as part of most new teacher training. Staff development opportunities shoidd be made available to experienced staff to highlight and further promote this understanding. Any opportunity to involve diverse members of the community in school functions should be explored. Outreach and open communication would be paramount. Town of Westport, three-year term JOAN ENSIGN 5739 tmerald Grove Ln, Waunakee, Wl 53597 1. I am committed to the quality of education in the Waunakee School District. I went to school in this district and came back after coUege to teach in this district for 33 years. I currently have a granddaughter who will be in the Waunakee Schools. 1 have invested my life in the district and feel my understanding of die community and the school system will help assist in the decisions facing the district to continue having a quality educational system. 2. We have a responsibility to prepare ALL children for their futures. The programs listed above are part of the equation m that preparation for productive adults. If there are 10O0 students in the school, there are 1000 different needs to address. The list of necessary curriculum programs needs to attempt to meet these needs within the budget constraints. 3. Charter schools need to be evaluated based on the target population, the anticipated cost and the alternatives available for these children. AU students need an opportunity to receive an education which meets their needs, but all students need to take advantage of the current opportunities withm the district. Charter schools need to fit student need, but budget constraints as weU. 4. This is a concern of the individual building principals. It is certainly very important and if a need is present I would support whatever needs the principals see; from aU staff in-service to individual training and counseling. I would encourage a reference to this sensitivity in all interviews when hiring new staff. WISCONSIN HEIGHTS SCHOOL DISTRICT 2 three-year terms SUE BEIL incumbent -NO REPLY 10363 Hudson Rd. Mazomanie. Wl 53560 TOM TURK incumbent NO REPLY 4896 Highway F, Black Earth, Wl 53515 Questions for all school board candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What is the value of including the fol lowing in the school curriculum: a) civics; b) bUingual education for all children; c) music and art; d) 4-year kindergarten; e) preparation for the work force; f) physical education? 3. What criteria would you use to evaluate proposals for charter schools in your district? 4. How would you ensure that all staff are aware of how cultural differences and poverty affect student learning? Questions for all school board candidates 1. What educational, professional, civic, and community experiences have you had that you believe qualify you for this elective office? 2. What is the value of including the following Ln the school curriculum: a) civics; b) bilingual education for aU children; c) music and art; d) 4-year kindergarten; e) preparation for the work force; f) physical education? 3. What criteria would you use to evaluate proposals for charter schools in your district? 4. How would you ensure that aU staff are aware of how cultural differences and poverty affect student learning? REFERENDA DANE COUNTY REFERENDUM: "Should die United States Constitution be amended to establish that regulating poUtical contributions and spending is not equivalent to limiting freedom of speech, by stating that only human beings, not corporations, are entitled to constitutional rights?" ____ Yes ____ No MADISON REFERENDUM: "Shall the City of Madison adopt die foUowing resolution: RESOLVED, the City of Madison, Wisconsin, calls for reclaiming democracy from the corrupting effects of undue corporate influence by amending the United States Constitution to establish that: 1. Only human beings, not corporations, are entitled to constitutional rights, and 2. Money is not speech, and therefore regulating political contributions and spending is not equivalent to limiting political speech." ____ Yes ____ No WISCONSIN HEIGHTS SCHOOL REFERENDUM: "Shall the foUowing Resolution be approved? RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SCHOOL DISTRICT BUDGET TO EXCEED REVENUE LIMIT FOR NON-RECURRING PURPOSES. BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of the Wisconsin Heights School Disü-ict, Dane and Iowa Counties, Wisconsin that the revenues Included In the School District budget be audiorlzed to exceed the revenue limit specified in Section 121.91, Wisconsin Statutes, by $175,000 for the 2011-2012 school year and by $675,000 for the 2012-2013 school year for nonrecurring purposes." ____ Yes ____ No The League of Women Voters in Dane County and Madison City Channel Present Know Your Candidates: 2011 General Election Replay Schedule of Televised Interviews with the Candidates Dane County Executive Sunday, April 3 at 8:00 p.m. City of Madison Mayor Friday, April 1 at 8:00 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 1 Saturday, April 2 at 11:00 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 2 Saturday, April 2 at 10:30 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 6 Saturday, April 2 at 10:00 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 7 Saturday, April 2 at 9:30 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 8 Saturday, April 2 at 9:00 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 9 Saturday, April 2 at 8:30 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 11 Friday, April 1 at 11:00 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 13 Friday, April 1 at 10:30 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 17 Friday, April 1 at 9:30 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 18 Friday, April 1 at 9:00 p.m. Madison Common Council: District 20 Friday, April 1 at 8:30 p.m. Log onto www.madisoncitychannel.com/ kyc.html for streaming video of Know Your Candidates. All polling places in Dane County will be open on Tuesday, Apr. 5. Polls open at 7 am. and close at 8 p.m. Voters can call the League office at 608.232.9447, 9 a.m. - noon to determine their polling place. (c) 2011 Isthmus Publishing [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]