The Marathon County Board Candidates: Outside Wausau
Part II of our county board election 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 14
Ken Charneski, retired from independent business
Why did you decide to run for office?
I believe the current supervisor has not served the interests of the people of District 14, and that his voting record makes it clear, in my opinion, that he does not relate to the people of the district. I think that after 8 years of this, the people are ready for something better, and I am here to give them a choice .
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Respect for taxpayer money and good financial management is the perennial issue that is a problem with a lot of people. I think there is also a lot to work on regarding prioritizing infrastructure maintenance and essential services over special interest issues.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
First, is to learn and adapt to how the County Board does things, as opposed to how the Village conducts business. Then doing a good in-depth evaluation of County finances. Supervisor Baker has done some excellent work in this area, and I plan on supporting any efforts to get spending under control. Third, I would look into what can be done to create businesses in areas outside of the Wausau metro area. Local businesses throughout the County would spread the tax base, and create employment opportunities that reduce the need for long commutes.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
As stated above, I believe the district is currently without true representation. My work ethic as Village Trustee is there for anyone to see; I work for the interests of the people I represent. I plan on advocating for the best interests and values of the people of this predominantly rural district, rather than being obligated to prioritize Wausau's wants and needs. I can work with anyone who seeks to serve the best interests of the county as a whole, but I won't act to unjustly benefit one municipality, at the expense and detriment of other areas of the county.
Rick Seefeldt (I) did not respond to a late request for an interview. There don’t appear to be interviews with other publications either.
District 15
Randy Fifrick, 39, economic development manager, city of Wausau
Why did you decide to run?
The Village of Kronenwetter and Marathon County Board have had some challenging times over the past few years. We need local government representatives who are forward thinking and open minded that represent the best interest of the village and the county as a whole. I’ve lived in Kronenwetter since 2010 and see the great potential our community has and want to do my part to see that potential fulfilled. The pandemic has introduced a multitude of new problems that we must address to maintain low taxes and still provide high level services to our county residents.
What are your top three priorities?
My District is home to many young families with school age children and younger. The lack of affordable and available childcare has made it difficult for some people to join the workforce especially after the pandemic. This ties in with the overall workforce shortage issues we are seeing. Whether it be employer funded childcare or some other innovative solution; this is a problem that requires collaboration from both the public and private sector. Additionally, my background in economic development leads me to focus on housing affordability and access to quality broadband as two of the other pressing issues to Marathon County. It’s crazy to think that in 2024, we have over 25% of our residents in Marathon County underserved or unserved by broadband, with one of those huge holes being in Kronenwetter.
What do you think the county should be doing differently, and how would you go about affecting that change?
The county needs to redefine their role in economic development. Over the last decade, the county has done an adequate job of working with its municipalities to provide support in various aspects of economic development. With the growing challenges of workforce shortages and lack of affordable and available childcare it’s time the county looks at dedicating staff to the sole purpose of economic development, broadband and workforce development issues. There are opportunities to shift existing staff around to make this happen without adding additional staff.
Joel Straub (I) did not answer our questions but said voters should search Facebook for “Committee For Civil Discourse 2024”
District 16
Bill Conway, 55, operations manager, Northern Valley Industries
Why did you decide to run for office?
I believe the county board should return to a model of financial sustainability and act in a civil and responsible manner.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Worker shortage.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Prioritize Elder Care
Protect the Library
Support the Sheriff’s Department
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I have a proven record of success, both professionally and as a county supervisor, whereas my opponent’s voting record shows fiscal irresponsibility that is penny-wise but dollar-foolish.
Tony Sherfinski (I), engineer
Why did you decide to run for office again?
I’m a constitutional conservative – government needs to be focused and limited. Two years ago, the Marathon County Board was nonfunctional. Instead of focusing on local issues many board members focused on divisive social issues. Instead of bringing people together and building a stronger future for all of us in Marathon County, they were tearing the community apart. I felt it was time to bring common sense back to the County Board.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Attracting new people and businesses to the area. Particularly giving our young adult population good reasons to stay and start their working and professional lives here in Marathon County / Central Wisconsin.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Promoting Marathon County as a great place to live, work and play.
Helping the people and businesses working to expand opportunities in Marathon County. Committed to keeping Marathon County as the lowest county tax rate in central Wisconsin.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I am focused on delivering good common sense, fiscally responsible programs and services to our residents.
Marathon County is a wonderful place to live. Let’s work together to build up Marathon County for the next generation!
District 23
David Baker (I), 64, factory automation consulting and contract engineering
Why did you decide to run for office again?
I originally ran for Marathon County Board Supervisor in 2022 because I disagreed with actions and decisions that the County Board and county government had made in 2020 and 2021. I am running for re-election because I have been very effective in my first term, but there are still ongoing challenges that require attention.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
County Departments consistently demonstrate commendable performance in providing essential services to our residents, reflecting a dedication to excellence. While we recognize these achievements, specific areas of concern are North Central Health Care and the Criminal Justice Diversion program. In addition, enhancing financial transparency across all aspects of the county’s operations, understanding its critical importance in optimizing efficiency would also be a focus that would benefit taxpayers.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Improving County Financial Transparency, Improving safety at 2 county intersections in Kronenwetter (X-XX-Pine and XX- Terrebonne Drive-Tesch Lane), and improving childcare safety and availability including through our unofficial work group. See my blog, supervisorbaker.blog, for further details.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I would ask voters to examine my performance, initiatives, and accomplishments in comparison to my opponent’s previous tenure and attendance record as county supervisor. For additional insights into my endeavors promoting financial transparency, minimizing property taxes, and addressing the surge in County debt, visit my blog at supervisorbaker.blog.
It is also worth noting that my opponent, who seeks the county board seat, currently holds the position of president in the Village of Kronenwetter. This dual role raises legitimate concerns about his ability to effectively manage the responsibilities of both positions within the constraints of time. Voters in District 23 must weigh whether they prefer a county board supervisor fully dedicated to county matters or one who may face challenges in balancing competing obligations.
Chris Voll, 60, product manager
Why did you decide to run for office?
I first began working within my community as a Jaycee, taking that service with me during moves to other towns. When I moved here to Marathon County, I joined the Wausau Area Jaycees and participated in many ways, getting to know the area and the people. Then, as now, I believe in what the Jaycee Creed says: “Service to humanity is the best work of life” and I am privileged to provide service to my community. I believe that giving my time and talent to others is what we are meant to do in our lives. We are meant to give our lives lasting value by our good deeds.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
The main issue is the rating and likely banning of books, and the effort to defund the library by the current District 23 supervisor. The talk of book banning raises First Amendment issues and I am vehemently against prohibiting or restricting library materials for religious reasons. The very good library staff work to bring materials to the public in the vetted and approved ways that experts review. My goal is to provide the library staff with the opportunity to offer the services they do. An issue in my area is the dangerous intersection at X and XX. The first step was to get interested parties to the table to discuss the issue, which we did about a month ago after I suggested to Kronenwetter Village CLIPP committee chairman Chris Eiden to host this meeting. I knew that when the village helped put the Village Crossing gas station in, the county reserved enough room to install a roundabout. I have pushed this issue in the past when I was county supervisor and I will continue to push this issue until it has been resolved. I’m confident that a solution can be found. And yes, I have been working on this issue for a number of years. It isn’t new and my opponent hasn’t done anything that is new.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Providing the library with the tools they need to be successful and continuing efforts related the broadband initiative. It’s important for all residents to have accessible internet. The economics of the population in this area make the broadband initiative a big concern and important priority. School children need internet connectivity to continue their education and we need an educated population. Reconstruction of the X-XX intersection has been an ongoing issue and until we find resolution, it will continue to be my priority.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I have been the Kronenwetter Village President for 9 years, previous county supervision for 6 years. Having begun my fourth term as the Kronenwetter village president, I’m in the unique position to be able to pass information up and down the chain effectively. Both the village and county receive benefits by my ability to share information. My challenger has fallen woefully short in this area. I have no hidden agenda, look back at my 15 years of total service and you’ll see an individual that cares for his community and the well-being of its residents. I do believe that we need to continue assessing the return on investment for the taxes we’re paying and work to keep expenses low, therefore keeping taxes low. I want this area to continue to grow, for all people to be welcome and feel that Marathon County is a good place to live, and that personal agendas by supervisors is wrong and harms all residents, not just those who can vote.
District 32
Kurt Gibbs (I), retired owner and operator of accounting/tax preparation business
Why did I run again?
I am running again to continue to provide fiscal conservative values and leadership. To continue to reduce the tax rate while still providing the valued county services expected by the citizens of Marathon County such as roads, public safety, broadband, and recreational opportunities, just to name a few.
What is the biggest challenge facing Marathon County:
One of the biggest challenges facing Marathon County is work force and its shortage. We are an aging population and increasing our workforce for our employers including Marathon County is critical to the economic success of the county and its businesses. The way that Marathon County can assist is ensure access to the varying recreational opportunities that Marathon County has responsibility for. By ensuring that the county is safe and secure by providing sufficient police protection. By ensuring our transportation infrastructure is sound and appropriate to accommodate safe travel for everyone. By providing the appropriate mental health care access through the tri county entity North Central Health Care.
If elected in April what are your top three priorities:
Continue to provide the appropriate size of county facilities and its workforce, while providing opportunity to repurpose the vacated facilities on River Drive and Thomas Street. Continue to expand Broadband in rural, unserved or underserved areas. All while continuing to evaluate opportunities for consolidation of services and therefore resulting in cost saving to the taxpayers.
Why should voters choose me:
I have 18 years of proven leadership, including 10 years as chairman leading to the reduction of the counties tax rate from $5.69 per thousand of property valuation in 2006 when first elected, to a rate of $3.99 per thousand of property tax valuation on the 2024 budget that was approved November 2023. All while not reducing the services that the citizens of Marathon County have come to expect.
Cindy Beaty, 66, retired engineer/teacher
Why did you decide to run for office?
I believe that government should be "of the people, by the people, and for the people." I hope to restore representation to the people of our great county.
What's the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
The rules of the county board state that the board chairman not only assigns members of the board to standing committees, which is mandated by statute, but he also chooses the chairman of each committee. This gives him the power to hand pick the executive committee which controls the agenda of each meeting. In effect, this gives the current chairman an inordinate amount of power. In turn, it diminishes the amount of input county residents have through their individual supervisors.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Review the chairman's responsibilities and distribute those that can be, so the chairman has greater accountability to the board at large.
Require financial transparency and responsibility. Board members should be receiving a monthly financial statement, but they don't.
Work to improve EMS to rural areas. We need a system that would provide efficient service from a local point of service.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
My opponent has been in his position long enough to lose his concern for the needs of his constituents. I am running to restore a voice to those who would like to have a say in the happenings at the county level. I will be an advocate for those fighting the installation of wind farms in Marathon County. I will also listen to the concerns of rural residents who question the need for a large assemblies ordinance.
District 36
Fred Schaefer, 59, attorney specializing in environmental and toxic tort litigation
Why did you decide to run for office?
I am running to ensure that the residents of Rib Mountain have strong representation on the County Board. Marathon County faces various challenges, including defining the proper role of the board. As a policy-making entity, the Board plays a critical role in guiding our county’s direction. I understand that government should facilitate prosperity rather than hinder it. If elected, I will bring my experience and problem-solving mindset to the board, ensuring efficient operations and promoting growth and prosperity for the people of Marathon County and the 36th District in Rib Mountain. As a resident of Marathon County, I’ve raised my family here alongside my wife. Our community is family-oriented, making it an ideal place to live, work, and play. My goal is to ensure that Marathon County continues to be a sought-after destination for families, where they can thrive and enjoy all that our beautiful area has to offer.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
Marathon County faces several significant challenges as it charts its course forward.
Here are three priorities I would like to highlight:
Economic Resilience: Our county has witnessed both growth and setbacks. To ensure prosperity, we must focus on workforce development, talent acquisition, and emphasize the need for diversification and resilience.
Property Taxes and Services: Striking the right balance between property taxes, county services, and the needs of our communities remains an ongoing challenge. Sustainable growth hinges on finding that equilibrium.
Clear Policies and Direction: As a policy-making entity, the County Board plays a critical role in guiding our county’s direction. Providing clear policies and effective support to our talented departments and associates is vital.
In this intricate landscape, thoughtful leadership and community collaboration will be our compass. Together, we can navigate these challenges and build a stronger Marathon County!
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
Here’s why voters should choose me over my opponent in the April 2, 2024 election:
Experience: I’ve proudly served as a Rib Mountain town board supervisor and now as a village trustee for 27 years. During this time, I’ve contributed to Rib Mountain’s prosperity while keeping taxes and regulations to a minimum.
Community Success: Rib Mountain’s success lies in having less government interference and lower taxes than neighboring areas. As a resident, I’ve worked to expand essential government services like fire, EMS, plowing, and parks—all while maintaining a low tax rate.
Clear Policies: I believe our talented departments and associates deserve clear policies, effective direction, and support from the county board. As a policy-making entity, the board plays a critical role in guiding our county’s direction.
Pragmatic Leadership: My philosophy is straightforward: government should facilitate prosperity, not hinder it. If elected, I’ll bring my experience and problem-solving mindset to the board, ensuring efficient operations and promoting growth for Marathon County and Rib Mountain.
Scott Poole, 58, legislative aide for the Wisconsin State Legislature
Why did you decide to run for office?
I believe we are at a pivotal moment. We have substantial challenges but with that we also have opportunity for positive change. I believe I can help achieve that in this county. I want to ensure we have a county government that operates efficiently and effectively, one that not only addresses existing challenges but also anticipates and prevents new ones from arising.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
The biggest challenge our county faces right now are issues related to workforce. In meetings I’ve been in as a part of my job with the state legislature, almost every business and industry group discussing their priorities lists this as one of their top challenges. The county’s strategic plan does an excellent job focusing on this in the prosperity section, which I support.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
My top priority will always be the residents of the district, followed by fiscal responsibility and public safety.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
My work as a legislative aide provides me with firsthand understanding of issues and legislation at the state level which affect the county. Additionally, the district of the state representative I work for is in Marathon County. I am frequently in meetings and work on local concerns with constituents, businesses, community organizations, and government representatives from Marathon County. Through this I’ve gained a great deal of insight into the issues, process and function of government.
There are two County Board districts in Rib Mountain. My opponent is on the Village Board of Trustees, which I respect. However, so is the supervisor for the other County Board district. This is a repetitive experience. Further, having two individuals holding four elected offices representing residents of the village is a degree of political inbreeding that is unhealthy. My experience working for the legislature would bring a healthy balance.
District 38
Brandon Jensen, 39, information technology manager
Why did you decide to run for office?
I am running for county board supervisor because I want to ensure there is a candidate for District 38 that brings common sense and fiscally sound principles to the board. In my conversations with district residents, it is apparent that we share many of the same values and vision for Marathon County. Things such as personal responsibility and accountability, the desire to have safe, drivable roads, to focus our spending on essential needs, and keeping Marathon County a great place to live, work, and visit.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
One of the prominent challenges currently facing Marathon County is the shortage of workers across various skill sets and trades. Our local economy spans diverse sectors, all seeking employees, yet competing for the same limited pool of resources within our communities. While addressing this issue solely within the County's capacity is limited, I am optimistic that we can explore and bring about solutions to address this pressing need.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
I would prioritize three areas within the strategic plan. Public safety with an emphasis on drug prevention and enforcement practices; improvements and maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and transportation-related services; identify cost saving measures that promote fiscal responsibility in our services provided. Long-time residents or individuals considering a move to Marathon County are looking for a community that is safe, well-maintained, and has a low tax rate.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I believe it's important to vote for the candidate who genuinely represents our shared values and will advocate for you. My principles are deeply rooted in faith, family, and a love of community, which motivated my decision to run for this position. With 19 years of experience at a local manufacturer, I possess the necessary skills and transferable expertise to serve effectively if elected. Let's work together to create a brighter future for Marathon County.
Jonathan Fisher, 40, senior finance director
Why did you decide to run for office?
Service. I want to serve on behalf of my neighbors, residents of District 38, and all of Marathon County. I am driven to make sure local voices are heard and represented at the county level and above. We must do everything possible to keep the cost of government in check, ensuring that each tax dollar is spent wisely and efficiently. Every effort must be made to make sure our local municipalities have a seat-at-the-table when it comes to county level decisions that impact the local tax base.
What’s the biggest challenge Marathon County is facing right now?
Our employers are bursting at the seams with available jobs. The county board needs to work with every available entity, both locally and regionally, to retain and attract talented individuals to fill these roles. This will allow our industries to continue to grow and thrive, keeping the economic engine of central Wisconsin humming. The state unemployment rate is currently 3.2%, while the greater Wausau/Marathon County rate is 2.5%, workers are in demand, this is a huge opportunity to help everyone succeed.
If elected in April, what will be your top three priorities?
One, that our towns, cities, and villages are listened to at the county level. Two, that we keep the tax burden in check and use our tax dollars efficiently. Three, making sure our essential services that folks use every day are fully funded.
Why should voters choose you over your opponent this April?
I have the experience to do this job and have shown the drive to represent District 38 constituents day in and day out on the County Board. Knowing how to navigate the complexities of committee structure, having non-profit board leadership experience, and a track record of enacting good ideas by working with everyone seeking to improve our whole region puts me in the best position to represent this district.
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