With Election Day coming on Tuesday, News Now Warsaw reached out to those in the contested races for the Warsaw Common Council, which included Districts 1, 2, 3 and 5.
District 1 includes incumbent Jeff Grose (R) against Sara M. McNeal-Strahan-Lenfestey (D)
District 2 includes Josh Finch (R) against Chris Plack (I)
District 3 includes incumbent Michael Klondaris (R) against Roxanne Coffelt (D)
District 5 includes incumbent Diane Quance (R) against Jack Brunetto (D)
Questions that each were asked included:
- What do you feel is thriving in your district? What do you think needs to be improved in your district?
- How do you plan on involving residents on decisions regarding your district? For the city?
- What is your take on the financial status of the city? Do you feel that spending is where it should be?
- What are your thoughts on the downtown area? Do you feel it is thriving, healthy and successful?
- Do you feel there are any unresolved issues in the city? If so, what do you think they are and what would you propose to correct/resolve those issues?
- Do you think the city does an efficient job of bringing in new business? If not, what could be done to improve on that?
- If (re)elected, what are three goals you have in mind for your district? For the city? For yourself as a member of the common council?
- Is there anything additional you want to address to the voters?
District 1
What do you feel is thriving in your district? What do you think needs to be improved in your district?
Grose: “Over the past few years, communication and advice from district one constituents greatly assisted my efforts with: Main Street infrastructure improvements, adding more sidewalks now – and more in the future – near Lincoln Elementary School, sewage line improvements and plant expansion, future infrastructure improvements to Hodges Addition in 2020, modifying trash and recycling services, landscaping improvements at the WPD, providing a summer water credit related to sewage billing, appropriate deer reduction efforts, and implementing a new asphalt-repaving program.
Strahan: “The beautiful unity parks are amazing. We do need better lighting in our streets for the safety of our community.”
How do you plan on involving residents on decisions regarding your district? For the city?
Grose: “Like always, I have strived to make sure people know they can contact me if they have questions about an issue or a problem with our current city services. My phone number (574-549-3322) is public and my home is located directly across the street from Lincoln Elementary School at 1801 East Clark Street.”
Strahan: “Monthly Community Forums are part of my plan. My doors are always open. I will also be available via Social Media, Text, phone, email. I am here for everyone whenever they need me.”
What is your take on the financial status of the city? Do you feel that spending is where it should be?
Grose: “Changes in our economy, along with the statehouse influencing the way we finance local governments, will require local officials to constantly examine, and re-examine, the way we provide important services for our residents. I have observed first hand Mayor Joe Thallemer, Clerk-Treasurer Lynne Christiansen, city department heads, as well as former and current members of the Warsaw Common Council making every effort to use our tax dollars wisely. In fact, because of these efforts, I am pleased to say that we have not increased the city property tax rate for the past three budget cycles.”
Strahan: “Overall I feel our city is financially strong. I do feel we could better allocate some of our funds to help people in the area that are going through hardships including assisting our local non-profit agencies. Also, I know there are many concerns regarding improving our roadways.”
What are your thoughts on the downtown area? Do you feel it is thriving, healthy and successful?
Grose: “Over the past two decades, many stakeholders have been attempting to maintain and promote our downtown. I have strongly supported the façade program, first Friday activities, farmer’s market, and many other programs and events to encourage residents to frequent and enjoy our “downtown” business district.”
Strahan: “There is a lot of untapped potential in our Downtown area. If we had more Breweries/Wineries, Shopping, destination areas, etc, it will draw more people to the community.”
Do you feel there are any unresolved issues in the city? If so, what do you think they are and what would you propose to correct/resolve those issues?
Grose: “I would like to think as issues arise in our community, that my constituents know and trust that I will always listen to their concerns, consider and respect our conservative values, and always faithfully attempt to do the right thing for as many people as possible. This is not easy, but I hope my efforts over the years have earned the trust of my friends, neighbors, and fellow citizens in our city.”
Strahan: “We still have serious issues with the sewer system. I would like to see us get grant money from the state.”
Do you think the city does an efficient job of bringing in new business? If not, what could be done to improve on that?
Grose: “Like I have done in the past, my daily approach as a district councilman will be to encourage other local officials to make fiscally responsible decisions connected to the “day to day” operations of local government so we can offer the incentives and tools necessary for the proper expansion of industrial and commercial development within the city limits. At the same time, and this is just as difficult, I will also protect our already developed residential neighborhoods by reminding others not to forget about the importance of maintaining and preserving our “small town” atmosphere and quality of life.”
Strahan: “If we improve the living environment of our city, we can improve new business. A Vibrant community attracts new business.”
If (re)elected, what are three goals you have in mind for your district? For the city? For yourself as a member of the common council?
Grose: “Serving in this community as a District One Warsaw City Councilman has been a great privilege and a very rewarding experience.
1) Over the past two decades, I have learned so much about the local policy making process. I firmly believe this vast amount of experience, along with my willingness to learn and serve even more, will help me represent my constituents in the future. I enjoy serving the public and I am excited to serve another term if re-elected on November 5.
2) During my years of public service, I have learned to appreciate and understand the important role local government plays in protecting and promoting our quality of life. I want to make sure our city government continues to make wise decisions to promote and protect our private sector.
3) On a personal level, I am raising my family in the same neighborhood I grew up in as a child. I want to focus on making the kind of decisions that will encourage my children, along with other young adults, to consider living, working, and raising their families in our wonderful community just as I have done over the past thirty plus years.”
Strahan: “An additional reliable/affordable transportation system for all people. A free Dental Clinic/Heath Clinic similar to Matthew 25 in Fort Wayne. Adult Daycare program- available for the Medicaid Waiver Program. A transitional housing/detox center.”
Is there anything additional you want to address to the voters?
Grose: “I have received so much guidance and support in my life from others in our community and it is now a pleasure giving back what I have received as a husband, father, public school teacher, basketball coach, church member, and civic leader. I want to thank the citizens and voters of District One for trusting me to be their representative in previous elections. If re-elected in November, I look forward to serving all of the citizens of District One for another term.”
Strahan: “We really need a parking garage we need to draw people downtown. First Fridays are awesome….we need to bring multimedia open for everyone; Learning Lab, sensory-friendly programs, hands-on experience….we have so much untapped potential.”
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District 2
What do you feel is thriving in your district? What do you think needs to be improved in your district?
Finch: “There is a strong mix of commercial to residential properties in district two, which is a strength. There is also a nice mix of housing available to all income levels, however, with housing being an issue citywide, we could see some other ways to continue to improve here. Improvements can be made using the southern TIF to hopefully spark some new development and generate a mixed density of housing opportunities.”
Plack: “I see families thriving in District 2. I see small businesses thriving in District 2. Despite thriving though, the families and businesses in District 2 need someone to fight for them. They need someone to fight to continue improving our infrastructure. They need someone that’s going to fight to lower the tax burden placed on them. They need someone that’s going to fight to lower rent. I’m going to be the councilman that fights for our families and businesses in the District.”
How do you plan on involving residents on decisions regarding your district? For the city?
Finch: “I have given everyone my email address and phone number. I encourage them to reach out to me as often as they’d like. I will also hold some “town hall” type meetings to listen to needs and concerns of the constituents. We are all in this together.”
Plack: “When elected, I’ll hold monthly meetings with my constituents to inform them of what I’ve been doing as their city councilman and get their input on issues facing the city. Before every bi-monthly council meeting I will post the agenda on my Facebook page as well as email it to anyone interested in receiving it. I’ll also hold live AMA (Ask me Anything) sessions after the meetings so constituents can give me their direct feedback on the pressing issues.”
What is your take on the financial status of the city? Do you feel that spending is where it should be?
Finch: “I think that this is a conservative city and that includes financial status. I do think spending could be looked into more deeply, especially in years where we know tax increases may be coming up for a vote. The constituents, myself included, often times have wondered if taxes really need to go up, or if we can cut down on some spending instead.”
Plack: “I think the city is in fine shape financially, as we continue to grow. However, just today we’ve gotten word of one business closing and another moving jobs out of Warsaw. So it’s absolutely vital that the Mayor and city council control spending and keep a sound budget in the event times are about to get tough. I don’t foresee this, but we rarely ever do. I’m a firm believer in small government spending and will apply that principle to managing the budget as the representative for District 2.”
What are your thoughts on the downtown area? Do you feel it is thriving, healthy and successful?
Finch: “Downtown needs a face lift. It should be the focal point of the city. I’m not sure that’s the case. Improvements are being made occasionally, but overall, it’s not where it could be.”
Plack: “We have amazing businesses downtown. Businesses like 110, The Downtown, Three Crowns, The Lab, 1eighty Digital, Mad Anthony’s, B-Macs, The Jerky Shop, and others enjoy my patronage often (my belly is proof). So it’s definitely an exciting time for our city, but there’s always room for improvement. We have empty storefronts downtown and it’s the council’s job to be a spark for businesses to thrive. We need to be open to new ideas, and be a partner with entrepreneurs with the grit and determination to open a business of their own.”
Do you feel there are any unresolved issues in the city? If so, what do you think they are and what would you propose to correct/resolve those issues?
Finch: “Specifically, for district two, Paws and Claws comes to mind. I know a lot has been done to try and alleviate flooding, but I think we can do more. I have looked into this and do feel we can provide some additional solutions to help this business. Citywide, there is a safety concern with some railroad crossings. There needs to be collaboration between the city and the railway companies to come to terms on a solution.”
Plack: “I think a city always has unresolved issues. When those issues arise, it’s up to the government to be completely transparent and upfront with the people that have elected us as we work to resolve matters that affect the common good. When issues come up, I will always approach them with the mentality that it’s not about me, but the people that elected me to represent them. I will hold nothing back from my constituents, always keeping them in the loop, and relying on their feedback to make decisions.”
Do you think the city does an efficient job of bringing in new business? If not, what could be done to improve on that?
Finch: “Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation (KedCo) and the Warsaw Community Development Committee (WCDC) do great things for new business in the community. I think there is always room for growth and expansion of our industry, so I won’t say I’m entirely satisfied, but there are a lot of great people working hard to bring new jobs and businesses to the city. However, like I previously mentioned, downtown needs some improvements and could benefit from more diversity in its storefront options.”
Plack: “I think the city works very hard to attract new businesses, but as with anything there is always room for improvement. I applaud the work of an organization like KEDCO, but I’m a Warsaw guy. I want to see Warsaw succeed as a city above all. So I would be in favor of doing more to encourage established businesses to move here as well as do more to help entrepreneurs fulfill their dream of starting a business.”
If (re)elected, what are three goals you have in mind for your district? For the city? For yourself as a member of the common council?
Finch: “The three goals I would have align with what I would consider the three biggest issues facing the city. Housing, infrastructure needs due to growth, and attracting people to fill the many open jobs we have. I have already talked about the housing, but we need to create all different kinds of housing opportunities, and not just single family. Infrastructure will always be an issue as we grow. We need to develop a strategic plan to accommodate this growth and be sure to see it through. Lastly, by creating a thriving downtown environment, and fun atmospheres around the city, we can attract those who currently may not want to work here, due to a lack of “things to do,” thus surging our industries forward by filling open positions.”
Plack: “District Goals: 1. Continue improving our infrastructure. Specifically addressing the flooding on Winona and Market Streets; 2. Build more workforce housing; 3. Bring more small businesses to the district.
City Goals: 1. Empower small business growth throughout the city; 2. Increase the tax base thereby lowering the tax burden on our citizens and small businesses; 3. Battle the opioid crisis in our city through education and rehabilitation.
Personal Goals: 1. Work closely with the mayor and other city council members to find common ground solutions that always put the people of Warsaw first; 2. Be in constant contact with my constituents and represent them to the absolute best of my ability; 3. Represent the hard working people of District 2 with the grit and dedication that they so richly deserve.”
Is there anything additional you want to address to the voters?
Finch: “Please just remember to vote. It is an important privilege we all get. The three foundations of my campaign are faith, family, and integrity. I truly appreciate your consideration.”
Plack: “In 1993, a young kid from Anchorage, Alaska became pen pals with a girl in a small little town in Indiana. For 15 years we wrote letters back and forth before I left Alaska behind to be with the girl I knew was “the one”. We’ve now been married 10 years and are raising our twins, Sully and Charlotte. Warsaw is the kind of town someone that leaves his world behind can find a home in. I’ve succeeded here. I’ve failed here. But most of all, I’ve always been supported here. I love this town and will fight every day to make it the best town for my kids and yours.”
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UPDATED NOTE: Michael Klondaris has submitted his response. You can find that below the questions.
District 3
What do you feel is thriving in your district? What do you think needs to be improved in your district?
Coffelt: “District 3 is mostly residential, and there are some new residential developments going in, so I would say that is thriving. It doesn’t have a lot of commercial or industrial. While I would tend to look at that more on a city-wide basis, I do think we need a grocery store in either District 3 or District 4 west of downtown. Even if it was a small store, I would like to see something that had basic food items, including fresh fruits & vegetables, so people didn’t have to drive so far every time they need a few items. In addition, many seniors in the area may not have access to transportation. If a normal grocery store can’t compete maybe a health food store or coop could.”
How do you plan on involving residents on decisions regarding your district? For the city?
Coffelt: “I think communication is key for the district and the city. The city needs to do a better job communicating what issues are being discussed at which meetings. That way people who have an interest in those issues can come and voice their concerns and ideas. The more input the city gets, the better informed their decisions will be.”
What is your take on the financial status of the city? Do you feel that spending is where it should be?
Coffelt: “I have not reviewed the budget or financial statements of the city. On the surface, especially compared to many other cities, it seems to be doing fairly well. My concern is not so much about the level of spending as the appropriateness of the spending. I want to make sure that the taxpayers are getting value for their money, that spending decisions are made fairly and, where appropriate, a bidding process is used. Also, it seems that many people feel the roads are not being maintained to the level they should be.”
What are your thoughts on the downtown area? Do you feel it is thriving, healthy and successful?
Coffelt: “Absolutely not. As is the case with most small towns, there is way too much empty space downtown. This is not unique, and Warsaw is competing with every other town to fill those spaces. The only way this will be fixed is with some out-of-the-box thinking that makes our downtown different from all the other downtowns. I will discuss this more in question 6.”
Do you feel there are any unresolved issues in the city? If so, what do you think they are and what would you propose to correct/resolve those issues?
Coffelt: 1) The fairgrounds racing issue – this one will be decided by the courts; 2) Whatever is going on with the police department. I’m pretty sure that the incident that came to a head when our police chief “assisted [an elderly man] to the ground” may be officially resolved, but unofficially is still unresolved. Since It is mostly a personnel issue, I am not privy to what, exactly, is going on here; 3) Whatever is going on in the Republican party that they felt the need to challenge their own mayor in the primary. Obviously, that hasn’t been resolved and I’m guessing many people are still bitter about it. All I hear is rumors, so I’m not going to comment on them; 4) In order to resolve these, and other issues, I think we need to start with transparency and communication. Without having discussed these issues with the parties involved I really can’t be more specific.
Do you think the city does an efficient job of bringing in new business? If not, what could be done to improve on that?
Coffelt: “I have a few suggestions: 1) Rather than spending so much effort trying to bring in new businesses (or bribe businesses to come here), why not put more effort into growing the businesses that are already here? There are many tiny businesses, in-home businesses and start-ups. These people are already here. They don’t need to relocate and don’t require any bribes paid for with tax dollars. If they grow, they will grow in Warsaw unless you give them reason to leave. I will give credit to Kosciusko Economic Development Corp (KEDCO) here because I know they are starting to work on this; 2) How about a business incubator or some other kind of shared office complex? This would entail a bunch of single offices with a common reception area including receptionist, copier/printer, phone system and high-speed internet. This would be a stepping-stone for start-ups and home-based businesses that can’t afford to have their own office but want a professional presence; 3) The city needs to come up with a campaign to encourage spending money locally. When you spend locally, you help your local economy; 4) For downtown, in my opinion, there is only one solution. You need to make Warsaw’s downtown different than everyone else’s. The fact that Warsaw is the orthopedic capital doesn’t make anyone visit the downtown. It needs a theme or something else to make it special. I’m going to use Iowa examples because that is what I am more familiar with. Pella, Iowa has a Dutch theme with Dutch bakeries and I think Dutch furniture, and other dutch things. West Des Moines, Iowa’s Valley Junction started out as antiques but also has specialty shops. Des Moines Court Avenue is a couple of blocks of restaurants and bars, which makes it a really hopping nightlife destination. (I envision the block that Mad Anthony is on becoming like that.) Warsaw could decide to capitalize on its Polish heritage and strive to have all things Polish on the square. It really doesn’t matter what it is, as long as it’s something you can’t find in every other town. Something to make people driving along 30 think about stopping. This also doesn’t have to be just for downtown. I would like to see a funky-artsy neighborhood as well, and I envision this on the near west side; 5) Some people will disagree, but we need to embrace diversity. Diversity made our country strong, and it can make our community strong. Lack of diversity drives people away. I know the lack of diversity here has been difficult for me, and I am a white Midwesterner.
If (re)elected, what are three goals you have in mind for your district? For the city? For yourself as a member of the common council?
Coffelt: “My goal for myself would be just to do my best. My goals for the city and district are pretty much the same: 1) Transparency and accountability in government, including encouraging communication and citizen input; 2) Smart economic development (without giving away taxpayer money for private use.) Any incentives should pay for themselves, and also be available to anyone who meets the criteria rather than special deals for a particular company. This would include getting some sort of grocery store on the near west side; 3) Government-community partnerships to solve some of the pressing problems such as the drug epidemic, the shortage of affordable housing and availability of child-care options.
Is there anything additional you want to address to the voters?
Coffelt: “Remember back when the Nintendo Game Boy Color was all the rage? I understand that’s the last time voters in Warsaw had a choice when they went to the polls for a city election. I think it’s important to have choices, don’t you? I would urge voters to consider the candidates rather than voting a straight party ticket.”
Michael Klondaris submitted a response to us on Saturday afternoon:
“There are many issues facing our city. Many, if not most of them, intersect with the issue of “controlled sustainable growth”.
We need to keep Warsaw Municipal Airport relevant and keep improving its’ functionality. Our airport is extremely important to the continued economic vitality of the City, but the county and surrounding communities as well.
Traffic congestion is becoming a problem. Most would say “it’s already a big problem”, but I think it’s just the beginning and it’s only going to get worse. We are continually striving to better our roads and intersections. I wish people would slow down a bit and stop with the red light running.
Affordable housing is at the top of everyone “to do” list. To incentivize developers and homebuilders the state has given cities the ability to create “Residential TIF” districts, the city is working on this issue and has recently held 4 public input meetings to explain the concept.
South side shopping is minimal. With the loss of Marsh and the downtown Owen’s everyone living south of the Center Street line has to drive through Warsaw to shop for most of their groceries. WE need a grocery store!
The City continues to grow and expand. These are just a few concerns pertaining to controlled and sustainable growth from a District 3 perspective. They are interconnected and part of a sustainable growth puzzle:
It is imperative we consider these aspects in a very well thought out and workable solution that meet peoples needs and attracts new housing and businesses, as well as grocery shopping, in order to continue our growth in a controlled and sustainable way.
I feel I am the best candidate for the Warsaw Common Council, District 3 position because I am dedicated, approachable, organized, have a great eye for detail and I show up prepared.
As a lifelong resident of Warsaw, I feel I am qualified for this position because of my dedication to the people in District 3 and my never ending drive for progress and forward momentum of the City.
My passion is another qualification. I try to ignite my co-councilors and inspire them to bring their best ideas to the table and to fruition. I’ve relied on the skillsets I’ve learned as a businessman throughout my tenure as a member of the City Council.
Also, I have been able to find my niche within the council and try to support everyone’s efforts. For example, I’ve been involved with several council projects and feel I’m able to recognize other’s skills and work in a way that amplifies them in order to achieve the intended goal.
Being a member of the City Council involves lots of teamwork, time, effort and research. I feel this is a work style in which I excel.
I appreciate the people of District 3’s past support and I look forward to representing their best interests going forward. Thank you very much.”
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District 5
What do you feel is thriving in your district? What do you think needs to be improved in your district?
Quance: “District 5 has exploded in population, retail, services and industry. Residents care about their homes and property and our neighborhoods are inviting. Traffic congestion is a major issue with US 30, Anchorage Road, Husky Trail, north 15 and the airport all located in the 5th District as well as several major retailers that our residents and visitors frequent. 30 and 15 are long term projects that the city needs to be prepared to give input on but we will not control the outcome. Anchorage and Husky Trail need to continue to be assessed to increase surface area for lanes, safe walking options for pedestrians and smooth movement of traffic. We also need to address the continuation of Mariner Drive through to 200 to provide another north/south access into our city and lessen the need to travel US 30 to get to services and retail.”
Brunetto: “Businesses are expanding in the district and more homes are being built. More housing in various price ranges is needed in our area.”
How do you plan on involving residents on decisions regarding your district? For the city?
Quance: “I go where people are so that I am readily available for residents to give me input. I promptly respond to emails and phone calls. I frequently make public appeals to the press to request input on issues that come before council. I have worked to make our agenda more easily understood to the average person and make sure issues are clarified during public meetings. I attend public meetings so I can hear input and concerns. I have made myself available to meet with residents in smaller home or neighborhood settings and will continue to do that. We will have several meetings as the Anchorage Road project moves forward, just as we did with the Husky Trail project. As city council president and a person known to listen, I regularly receive input from people outside my district. I make sure their representatives are aware of their concerns and communicate with our council at large members about my district concerns.”
Brunetto: “I plan to have as open communication as possible so the concerns of all the citizens are heard. A list of issues would be posted online asking for citizens’ input as well as public meetings on important topics.”
What is your take on the financial status of the city? Do you feel that spending is where it should be?
Quance: “News this week of two major companies in our community reducing or eliminating jobs is a wake up call to all of us to not take the current economic health of our community for granted. The city is in an enviable financial position with a healthy general fund balance and a solid financial plan for the future. We have been careful with our spending but not negligent in taking care of our infrastructure. Any homeowner knows that if you don’t take care of the leaking roof, you develop a whole host of other problems. No expense should just be rubber stamped without analysis. A primary function of a city council is to create the budget and scrutinize the requests in light of a cost benefit ratio to our citizens. As we grow we need to look carefully at what services need to be expanded to take care of the safety and well being of our citizens and not just hold the line when there are demonstrated needs. At the same time, we need to be prepared for a potential loss in tax revenue if we experience another economic downturn and be prepared to provide essential services to our citizens.”
Brunetto: “Taxes have been kept pretty flat for the last several years. I would like to see that continue as long as possible while keeping the infrastructure up to date. Our current administration does an excellent job of applying for grants that keep our taxes down and the projects moving forward.”
Quance: “Right now I think people come downtown to do business and engage in fine dining, but it is not yet a retail destination. I would like to see a continuation of the campaign to attract unique, local shop owners. I think we need more of a mix to remain vibrant and healthy. The downtown basically shuts down in the evenings except for our outstanding restaurants. That is not going to attract more residential or retail growth. I am also deeply committed to keeping Central Park accessible to all citizens regardless of age or economic status. We need to preserve the green space and lake shore that is already there. “
Brunetto: “I feel the downtown is doing pretty well but we still have a lot of empty stores that would be nice to fill. The draw downtown needs to be more than just First Fridays. We need to attract residents downtown to regularly shop and eat but leave the streets accessible so they can do this. I have had many people tell me when they go to town and Center Street is closed, they just go elsewhere.”
Quance: “I had to chuckle at this question. Where there are people living in community there are issues. I’m going to tackle an overarching one- people are disconnected from their neighbors, their city and their country. It is easy to text, tweet, snap chat, post, order online and choose who to allow into your circle and who to reject without ever engaging face to face with another person. Despite video feed of every meeting, social media presence and going door to door people still tell us they don’t know what is going on and are surprised when things start being implemented that have been in the planning stage for months or years. People in recovery need support and community. People who feel discrimination need positive interaction with their neighbors. I will not give up trying to provide places, events, opportunities for our community to interact and work on solutions to our issues together.”
Brunetto: “Downtown needs to have more stores and restaurants. This would give residents a reason to come to town and spend some time there. The stores downtown need to be open later in the evening so people can get there when they are off work and out of school.”
Do you think the city does an efficient job of bringing in new business? If not, what could be done to improve on that?
Quance: “We spend money and attention on downtown businesses but we have some neighborhood businesses that we would be hurting if they moved out. I still haven’t adjusted to the loss of a certain hardware or grocery store. There needs to be more of a forum to share so we know when businesses are struggling or transitioning and we can act instead of react. Perhaps changing the location of First Friday type of events would help bring community awareness to our local treasures.”
Brunetto: “Yes, the city works with the economic development company, KEDCO, to attract businesses to our area. We need to encourage builders to provide more competitively priced homes for the workers. Apartments are also a need not addressed often. Most factories in the area pay too much to qualify for subsidized rent but not enough to support the young families of the people who work there. It is often hard for these families to find housing in our area.”
If (re)elected, what are three goals you have in mind for your district? For the city? For yourself as a member of the common council?
Quance: “District: Keep our lakes healthy and accessible, improve traffic flow and walk ability,create a northern park
City: Improve safety with increased patrol presence and improved pedestrian crossings; increase safe, desirable housing opportunities for the lower and middle class; provide relevant educational opportunities and the support needed to access those opportunities
Myself: Continue to be accessible and approachable; be a leader in improved communication and transparency; be thoughtful and careful in allocating resources.”
Brunetto: “I want to make sure citizens feel comfortable bringing their issues to the council. Many have told me they feel decisions are made long before the subject is brought to the attention of the residents of Warsaw. I would like to lessen the number of times the downtown streets are closed. I think some events need to be moved to the parks or the fairgrounds and keep the traffic moving through town. All residents should have confidence their concerns are heard. I want to be sure everyone in my district knows I will listen to them. I may not be able to address all of the issues, but I will do my best to help them.”
Quance: “Please vote. Please communicate your concerns and dreams. Please be willing to step up if you can be part of the solution to a community issue.”
Brunetto: “I would like to see the safety speed signs that are going up on Husky Trail put at all of our schools before another child is injured.”
