The Marathon County Board candidates: Wausau districts
Part I of II of our county board coverage
There are 30 candidates in Marathon County Board races this spring, seeking 15 of the 30 races. It’s the most I’ve ever seen, and I think this election overall has seen more contested races than any I’ve covered in my nearly 20-year career.
I decided to divide these up into two posts: Wausau districts and everyone else. For no real better reason than it splits it down the middle, and the posts are also huge.
Also, since they’re still both huge posts, I posted them directly to the website and just sent out a link to them via email.
So, without any more pre-amble, here are the candidates:
District 1
John Kroll, 40, building science researcher
Why did you decide to run for office?
I’m very active in the local Wausau community by serving on two city of Wausau committees and attending neighborhood meetings and events. I’m also fortunate that my profession allows me to travel Wisconsin and greater Marathon County to visit homes and listen to residents’ personal issues. I believe combining my active community participation with my unique career shows that I have the skills and experience to be an excellent county board representative for my district.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Confronting the childcare crisis - parents are leaving the workforce, childcare costs are big percentages of families’ monthly budget, and licensed childcare facilities are dwindling. If Marathon County wants to attract workers and be a state leader in public health, it needs to commit resources to the current unsustainable childcare system.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Supporting the Marathon County Public Library system: Many District 1 residents are still concerned the library will be a focal point. I intend to support the library through proper funding and autonomy.
Addressing homelessness: As a member of Wausau’s Citizen’s Advisory Committee, we saw an uptick in local organizations searching for funds to continue operating as budget cuts happened. This issue will not be solved by just Wausau and needs county support.
Creating a framework for Marathon County to move toward energy independence that reduces the tax burden on residents for county energy costs.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I’ve embodied District 1’s highly active and engaged voter base mindset for years: I attend neighborhood meetings and volunteer my time to two appointed committees - chair of the Sustainability Committee and member of the Citizen’s Advisory Committee. My work leads me to all corners of Marathon County and I also bring the perspective of a working-class parent with young children; I’m experiencing firsthand the current childcare access and budget challenges that many families are facing.
Ken Tokarz, 70, retired fan and vent business unit general manager and current leadership role at St. Vincent de Paul
Why did you decide to run for office?
As a 35-year resident of Wausau’s Southeast Side, where my wife Marcia and I raised four children, and now have 10 grandchildren, five of whom live in Wausau, I want to help make Marathon County a more vibrant and sustainable community. I also want to better-integrate NCHC & Social Services with other human service providers to improve our delivery system for mental health and substance abuse treatment, the homeless, and those living in poverty. I think my skill set, collaborative approach, and extensive experience make me well-suited for the job.
What are the top three issues you think the county faces in the upcoming term.
Through my leadership roles at Greenheck for 27 years and at St Vincent de Paul for 15 years, I’ve been exposed to many of the Marathon County Life Report Calls to Action. My webpage www.kentokarz.org describes in more detail how I’ve already been impacting these issues. For me Marathon County needs to:
Attract, support, and retain a labor force by reversing net migration and attracting more people to live in our communities. This includes convincing developers and investors to construct more living space and amenities, with infrastructure support from local government, making us a more desirable destination for skilled workers, talented professionals, entrepreneurs, and new businesses.
Expand mental health services and substance abuse prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
Reduce barriers, such as lack of affordable childcare and transportation, for people who want to enter the workforce.
What do you think the county should be doing differently, and how would you go about affecting that change?
Play a larger role in the Economic Development of Wausau. As Wausau goes, so goes Marathon County. Similar communities in Wisconsin are doing much better than we are. Not to oversimplify our situation, but Marathon County’s labor force is shrinking, and new businesses and talented workers are not moving here because evidently we don’t have the necessary housing and may lack the vitality needed to attract them. I was surprised to hear that I was the only County Board candidate to meet with the Chamber of Commerce regarding this issue. I would like to help County Government be a key player in implementing the Regional Economic Development Strategic Plan as a participant in the Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership.
District 3
Kody Hart (I), 31, Deputy City Clerk, City of Wausau
Why did you decide to run for office again?
I am running for office again because I love living in Downtown Wausau and representing people on both sides of the river here. This is an incredibly progressive and diverse area and I want to ensure that we are moving forward as a community. My goal has always been to represent the people that live here and I am proud to have addressed the concerns of many constituents by listening and helping those who reach out.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Right now the number one issue I hear is ensuring that we protect the Marathon County Public Library. I have always supported the library by voting against all of the proposed budget cuts to the system and voting against the removal of Library Board members who held firm against a push to ban books. The other main concern that I have heard from those in my district is supporting more affordable housing. The county has been able to, in my term, reform the way we deal with tax delinquent properties which often end up vacant in the downtown area. With this reform we are able to get these vacated properties back to the market much sooner to become housing again and help make living in this area more affordable.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Protecting the Marathon County Public Library to support funding and push back against those who want to ban books.
Support policies that ensure affordable housing and access to quality child care within the county.
Create a working relationship between the City of Wausau and Marathon County to provide services to unhoused individuals who are often constituents of my district.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
In the last few years, I have had residents reach out to me asking for me to support their viewpoints as their voice on the county board. I have been proud to always be in agreement with those viewpoints. As I stated before, this is an incredibly progressive district and I think that I will best represent the people because I have done so successfully already. It needs to be clearly stated that I am the only progressive person on the ballot here.
Jo Ann Egelkrout, 63, retired early childhood development and health insurance, current part-time Catholic Charities Good Shepherd Shelter
Why did you decide to run for office?
I am running for office because I believe citizens must become more involved in the decisions that directly affect their lives and the lives of their families and neighbors. I also believe it is important to have a choice when you go to vote. There was a huge effort to keep that from happening. Justice prevailed. So many of our elected officials never have a challenger and therefore stay in office, seemingly forever, losing touch with the people they represent
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
As I knock on doors, meeting and talking with people, it seems the library is on everyone’s minds. People feel strongly about the scrutiny our library has undergone over the past few years. I am 100% against the banning of books. Books contain generations of thought and knowledge, present new ideas, challenge the mind, or simply entertain. I believe there should be some oversight as to where books get categorized and whether young children should have unfettered access without the knowledge or guidance of their parents or guardians. We need to protect the health and safety of our young; mind, body, soul.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Mental Illness, Addiction, and the Unhoused. These issues are growing and need to be addressed.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
My loyalties will not be divided. Unlike my opponent, I am not a city of Wausau employee whose main loyalty may be to his employer. Wausau is part of Marathon County, but there is more to Marathon County than Wausau. It’s time for a change.
District 5
Orlando Alfonso, 66, retired from 25 years in financial derivatives trading, owned and operated a proprietary investment firm “Copper Trading.” Also helped start and operate the St Vincent de Paul Store
Why did you decide to run?
Over the years, I have been asked by friends and residents to do so, to run for “something.”
What is the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
The biggest challenge to Marathon County, I am afraid, is a financially unstable Wausau, its biggest metropolis. The County itself is in good financial shape, such that I would like to see a “direct” investment in its people. Cut our taxes now!
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
1) Overall fiscal restraint.
2) Repeal the wheel tax. It was supposed to be temporary. It’s regressive and hurts the poor most. The road fund has plenty of money. Let’s keep our promises!
3) I have a particular desire to work with Wausau on the homeless issue, the “truly” needy. I believe Police Chief Matt Barnes is on the right track. My background at St Vincent de Paul may be helpful.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I don’t know that they necessarily should. Voters are smart and I refuse to pander to them. Rather than list my qualities, or my abilities to broker two sides of an issue, I will simply say that I am an unapologetic small government conservative. I believe government “help” should be for the truly needy only. I believe we should stay out of divisive “cultural” issues. And that is how I will vote. Voters deserves clarity, and this I provide.
Gary Gisselman (I), 81, retired Marathon County Public Library librarian
Why did you decide to run for office (or run again)?
I ran because of encouragement to run from friends and from my constituents
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
The biggest challenge facing Marathon County is the balancing the necessary services such as good roads and good parks with the constant pressure to cut taxes
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
My top three priorities for Marathon County:
+ that social and mental health services continue to be provided at the highest level
+ Managing the county budget while trying to meet the service needs of the population
+ continue broadband expansion
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I am a life-long resident of Marathon County. My past experience in city and county government provided me a knowledge of the county and the variety of services that it provides.
District 6
Stacey Morache (I), 53, retired educational interpreter for the deaf
Reason for running:
I have lived in Wausau my entire life, and have witnessed many changes in our community through the years. I felt it necessary to get involved with local government to help ensure Marathon County continues to be the best place to live, work and raise a family. I am proud to say that two of my sons have chosen to move back to the Wausau area with their wives to do just that. Clearly, Marathon County has a lot to offer and I will work to continue to champion our community.
Biggest challenge:
Marathon County faces several challenges, but I believe workforce development is one of the biggest. Our childcare desert is a major factor, and working on solutions to alleviate this crisis will require public private partnerships. Discussion is ongoing with a child care workgroup of which I am a member. Additionally, supporting the Marathon County Development Corporation’s (MCDEVCO) programs such as the GEARS Certificate of Excellence Program, various classes and workshops and their GAP financing initiatives are key to promoting a strong and prosperous workforce.
Top 3 priorities:
1) Promote initiatives to increase services for alcohol/drug abuse programs and mental health by using the gap analysis recently approved by the board to determine the best course of action to effectively utilize the opioid settlement funds.
2) Monitor the newly established Deflection Program along with the other diversion programs by establishing key performance indicators to ensure we are getting a positive return on investment; making changes if necessary to warrant the success of these programs by reducing recidivism.
3) Focus on finding solutions to the challenges Marathon County faces regarding workforce development and child care so that we are able to attract new talent to our area. We all know that Marathon County is the best place to live, work and raise a family. We need to find the best solutions to promote that so others will want to do the same.
Why choose me?
I work hard in this role by being well prepared and staying abreast of business conducted in all of the committees, not just the ones I’m assigned to. I have also volunteered for additional committee/workgroup assignments. I believe communication with constituents is vital, and I encourage them to reach out if they have questions or concerns because I value their opinion and input. I also attend both the Forest Park Neighborhood meeting and the Riverview meeting monthly. In addition, I send out a monthly County Board newsletter to participating constituents, and have often heard how much they appreciate it. People are busy, and this allows them an easy way to stay current on county business.
Jeff Johnson, 64, retired probation and parole agent, criminal justice consultant
\Why did you decide to run for office?
I care deeply about the community that we share and I want to see our local governmental bodies reflect the common sense that is displayed by most Marathon County residents on a daily basis. We need to put the needs of our citizens first and leave any personal agenda at the door. Serving in public office is an honor and those in office need to put the public first. I am running in order to restore common sense to the Board of Supervisors by seeking common ground and solutions for real problems. I have no personal agenda to push other than getting the best county government for the residents of Marathon County.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
To refocus the Board of Supervisors away from their personal agendas and back to the will of the people. As Governor La Follet famously said, “The will of the people shall be the law of the land.” We need a common sense approach to the issues of the day and quite frankly to make county government boring again by making it work well.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Attracting and retaining an expanded workforce, addressing the opioid and mental health crisis, and maintaining our fiscally responsible approach to county government. All of these issues must be approached by working together to find common ground and by listening to the residents of Marathon County.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I have a proven record of being a strong advocate for citizens and for finding common sense solutions to real problems. I do not have any personal agenda as opposed to my opponent who appears to be very concerned about what library books should be available to others. I also believe in science, including medical science, I am pro vaccines as they have led to a significant decrease in polio, measles, and a host of other illnesses. My opponent does not believe that the Marathon County Board of Health should promote any vaccination program. In a nutshell I want all citizens of Marathon County to have the freedom to make choices for themselves and their families without any government body deciding what is best for them.
District 7
Alex Eichten, 33, marketing & communications coordinator, North Central Health Care
Why did you decide to run for office?
I love Marathon County and I am committed to its growth and prosperity. I want to actively contribute to its continued success and ensure it remains a vibrant and thriving place for generations to come.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Attracting and retaining talented professionals. This challenge not only impacts our economic vitality but also affects crucial services like behavioral health care. Without a strong workforce, we risk falling short in delivering essential care to those who need it most.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
1. Fostering a Modern, Vibrant, Inclusive Community - Marathon county is FUN and offers many diverse activities, events, and cultures. My priority is advancing and highlighting our unique community, making it a primary choice to travel to or reside within.
2. Creating A Thriving & Attractive Economy - I aim to prioritize attracting skilled workers and entrepreneurs, making Marathon County a desirable place to build successful careers and businesses.
3. Protecting Our Natural Resources - Marathon County boasts abundant natural spaces and resources. Preserving these areas is crucial for their vitality. Safeguarding our drinking water is also paramount. We must remain proactive in keeping our drinking water safe, ensuring the health and well-being of our community.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
My decision to run stems from a deep-rooted passion for our community's future. I bring a fresh perspective and a commitment to realistic goals and ideas. Unlike partisan politics that often divide us, my campaign is founded on positive and solution-focused conversation. I pride myself on being open-minded and committed to understanding all sides and perspectives before making educated, accurate, and informed decisions. Moreover, I offer genuine, nonpartisan advocacy. As the only self-funded candidate in District 7, I am free from political obligations. My decisions are solely driven by the needs of Marathon County, not by the agenda of a political party.
Deb Hoppa, retired manager of St. Vincent de Paul, financial and bankruptcy counselor, Catholic Charities
Why I’m Running:
I’m running for the County Board to try to balance the scales of justice. Marathon County is a wonderful place to live and raise families. It has changed over the last several years and the old way of thinking of “dump more money into it and it will be good” doesn’t work anymore. Money has to be used strategically to better the county but also keep the budget balanced. Programs and guidelines need to be clear and straightforward. No hidden meaning or agendas. I’m all about transparency and honesty. And we need to think about the people. Not just some of the people.
Biggest Challenge of Marathon County
1) North Central Healthcare Center debt
2) Untreated Mental Health issues
3) Education of the public. Many people I’ve talked to while knocking on doors don’t even know there is a county board or they don’t know what the board does.
Why choose me?
I truly care about the people in my district. They are hardworking and honest, wanting what’s best for their families. I want to serve them all and be available by phone and email. Please see my webpage at meetdebhoppa.com
District 8
Sarah Watson, 44, social science instructor
Why did you decide to run for office?
I'm running for the county board as a write-in candidate because I'm committed to democratic principles. I want to give residents a real choice and make sure their voices are heard. Serving on both the county board and city council, I aim to bring a unique perspective for more coordinated efforts in addressing community needs. This dual role will help create a better living environment by navigating issues seamlessly and collaborating between county and city levels. I am dedicated to upholding democratic values, providing more choices, and promoting efforts that enhance our community's quality of life.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
The shortage of affordable housing for our residents is a pressing issue. According to the 2022 Wausau Metro Regional Housing Study, the eight municipalities analyzed predict a shortfall of over 2,000 housing units by 2025. This deficit directly affects 2,000 families, recent graduates, and seniors who may find themselves without a home. Access to housing is a fundamental necessity that should be available to everyone. The repercussions of lacking a stable and secure living space extend far beyond mere shelter. It significantly impacts one's health and well-being. My aim is to align with the County's strategic plan, working towards promptly, efficiently, and safely increasing the availability of affordable housing options for Marathon County residents. Addressing this housing challenge is not just about roofs over heads; it's about improving the overall quality of life for our community members.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
My top three priorities align seamlessly with the County's strategic plan, focusing on housing construction, childcare options, and natural resource protection. In the realm of housing, I've already emphasized the urgent need for increased availability. Shifting attention to childcare, this vital service addresses a severe community need. Recognizing that children represent our community's future, I emphasize the critical importance of early pre-K learning and development. Moreover, working parents and grandparents require safe and reliable childcare options to sustain their livelihoods and support their families. In parallel, the preservation of our natural resources is of utmost importance, not only for our current well-being but also for our economic prosperity, particularly in the tourism sector. Clean water and well-managed land contribute significantly to our community's health and wealth. These three priorities—housing, childcare, and natural resource protection—harmonize to propel our community towards growth. By attracting and retaining workers, fostering business, and enhancing tourism, we lay the foundation for a thriving and sustainable future for our residents.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
My four-year aldermanic tenure, during which I served as the chair of the Economic Development and Affordable Housing Task Force, has fortified my expertise in economics, sociology, and political science. This experience has equipped me with the insight needed to collaborate effectively with my colleagues, advocating for policies through a community-focused lens. I recognize that residents prioritize the bottom line of projects, and I possess the ability to balance their desire for improvement and progress with the associated costs. Effecting substantial change in our communities requires a strategic approach to utilizing tax dollars from federal, state, and county investments. My commitment lies in optimizing these resources for the benefit of our constituents. Attending meetings consistently has been a hallmark of my dedication, and I pledge to maintain this diligence at the county level. I come prepared for every agenda and discussion, ensuring that the interests and concerns of our community are well-represented in the decision-making process.
Kim Ungerer (I) did not respond to multiple requests to fill out our questionnaire, and other interviews couldn’t be found either.
District 10
Randy Radtke, 53, lead operator for Graphic Packaging, vice president of Northcentral WI Central Labor Council.
Why am I running?
Our youngest child is graduating this year, giving me more time to run for office. My experience with various organizations brings a different perspective and voice to the Marathon County Board. I’ve been thinking of running for awhile and feel now is the time to make the commitment to help make Marathon County a better place to live, work and play.
Biggest problem facing marathon county?
I would say not doing enough for mental illness and not addressing that issue leads to other things such as drug abuse, homelessness and crime.
Three most important issues
Health care. Specifically mental health and drug abuse. We need to do more to help with drug abuse and mental health. I feel we’re not addressing that problem enough and it’s costing us more money and lives. It costs more because these types of issues lead to more crimes and health care costs. Cheaper to help than not.
The Library. Making sure that the library is properly funded and people have the freedom to decide which books they want to read and not the government telling us what we can or cannot read.
Creating and maintaining our infrastructure like roads, parks which will help attract employers to our area and help create good paying family supporting jobs. Make sure if we do hire contractors they’re using local labor and work to get responsible bidder language which would protect the county from shoddy work and unscrupulous contractors who bid low, bill high and cheat to compete.
What sets me apart from my opponent?
My experience with various organizations would bring a different perspective and voice to the Marathon County Board.
Donna Krause (I) did not respond to multiple emails to fill out our candidate questionnaire. The 75-year-old told the Wausau Daily Herald her top issues are health needs including affordable dental care, affordable housing and expanding Metro Ride bus service.
District 11
Randy DeBroux, 71, part time at Will Heating and Cooling, Inc.
Why did you decide to run for office?
People asked me to and to give the majority of people in my district a voice. I complain about the way politics are going and if I am going to complain I feel it is my duty to try and do something about it.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
As I talk to the people in my district it appears to me that the majority of them are conservative. I don’t believe their voices are being heard. Also people are losing faith in our political system. Whatever the subject l believe it is not that complicated. You use common sense, honesty and morality to get the correct answer. I don’t understand why sometimes the budget can’t be cut more than it is. If I am wrong then convince me I am wrong. I would like to bring trust back into our political system.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Honesty, trust, and common sense. Listening to the people and trying to satisfy most of them, you will never satisfy them all.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I honestly can’t say I know a lot about my opponent. All I can do is tell you what I will do and what I stand for and let the people decide. I believe that is the way it is supposed to be done.
Bruce Trueblood, 56, teacher
Why did you decide to run for office?
I'm running for office to help effect the change I want to see. This is an opportunity for me to be an example of what I am teaching to my students - get involved to build a better community.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Population declines and the economic impact of an aging workforce are big challenges that will continue to impact the county. Forward thinking with projects such as the Regional Forensic Science Center will help when government is part of the solution. The board will need to work with businesses and the community to ensure the county is a viable location for entrepreneurial thinkers as well as business expansion.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
My top three priorities are keeping the Regional Forensic Science Center project on schedule, continuing to expand rural broadband access, and preserving gems that draw visitors to the county. The Regional Forensic Science Center will be a benefit to Marathon County, northern Wisconsin and the UP. Rural broadband is one piece of the economic viability, Broadband is a tool to spread the word about some of the wonderful places and things Marathon County has to offer such as Marathon Park, which is bordered on three sides by District 11.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
Teaching has prepared me to serve - listening, engaging my students, getting them to see the bigger picture, facilitating communication between different groups. In a local customer service course, they use the statement, “The customer may not always be right, but they are always the customer.” The customer may not have all the facts or may be looking at the issue from a different perspective, but they still deserve the trust and respect of a customer. This is true for the constituents of Marathon County District 11. I offer them a listening ear, and an open, thoughtful mind.
Thank you for reading The Wausonian. We believe elections are important and we are committed to providing our election coverage free of charge, other than the occasional analysis. Please consider subscribing to The Wausonian because it supports our mission of bringing indepth journalism to Wausau. And if you want to see all we publish, consider a paid subscription today.
Already a paid subscriber? Refer your friends and earn a discount on your subscription when your referred friends subscribe! Check out your unique referral code in the link below: