Courier Hub The
Stoughton
McGEEVER for
Mayor
Thursday, March 22, 2018 • Vol. 136, No. 35 • Stoughton, WI • ConnectStoughton.com • $1.25
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Spring election 2018
Candidates jab on growth, trust McGeever, Swadley draw clear distinctions in forum
Swadley charged that if his opponent is elected, the city administration will operate largely as it has for the past eight years, while McGeever accused his opponent of leading a BILL LIVICK AND JIM FEROLIE “do-nothing group” on the council and said it’s time to get the city growing again. Unified Newspaper Group The two took jabs at one another’s posiMayoral candidates Bob McGeever and tions on the riverfront redevelopment Tim Swadley participated in a candidate effort, Kettle Park West, the current Comforum last week that highlighted their dif- mon Council, transparency, economic development and management in front of ferences.
an audience of about 50 people Thursday night, March 15. The forum, co-hosted by the Stoughton Courier Hub and Stoughton Chamber of Commerce, was televised by local-access station WSTO, which posted a recording on its website Friday. It also allowed time for the seven candidates for alder to introduce themselves at the beginning of the forum. But the main event was the mayoral debate.
McGeever, a former Plan Commission member and alder who served 15 years on council, said he has been paying attention to city affairs since leaving the council in 1999 and was inspired to join the race because of the “do-nothing” council. He hammered away at what he said was the most important issue Stoughton faces: its lack of growth. He criticized Swadley numerous times for
Turn to Forum/Page 16
Redevelopment Authority
Forging ahead Future of blacksmith shop key to redevelopment progress BILL LIVICK Unified Newspaper Group
Photo by Amber Levenhagen
Stoughton High School junior Kaliyah Tribune, 16, holds a sign of support as she leads more than 100 students during the walkout Wednesday, March 14.
‘Show our fear and our care’ AMBER LEVENHAGEN Unified Newspaper Group
M eg a p h o n e i n h a n d , Colette Vitiritti, 17, perched on a stepstool in the corner of the United Methodist Church parking lot, surrounded by more than 200 of her peers from Stoughton High School. The SHS senior organized
the gathering to mirror what schools around the country were participating in at that same moment- a walkout sparked from concern about gun violence one month after 17 people were killed at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla. Around 150 River Bluff Middle School students also participated in the walkout. An email from a parent who went to observe said they sat silently on the pavement for 17 minutes. Students, along with
Courier Hub
s o m e fa c u l t y t o m o n itor the procession, left the high school at 10 a.m. We d n e s d a y, M a r c h 1 4 , walking across the street to the church- which had “#enough” and “we stand with students” flashing across the digital marquee throughout the day. A small group of students- ranging from freshman to seniors- took turns reading each of the names of those killed at the Parkland shooting, followed by a moment of silence. After reading the names,
the students went back into class. “We wanted to show our fear and our care by reading their names,” Vitiritti said. “I really wanted to have it as a simple in remembrance demonstration and not have it so politically focused, because not many kids know where they stand on guns – I don’t really either – and I just feel they were more comfortable remembering those students in a peaceful demonstration.
Turn to Walkout/Page 14
This month: A look at the conflict April: Stoughton’s history with historic buildings May: The history of the blacksmith shop and Highway Trailer complex June: Future possibilities for the blacksmith shop least for now – a part of the complex known as the blacksmith shop. Stoughton has a history of salvaging historic buildings, most notably the City Hall, Stoughton Opera House, Stoughton Area Youth Center and Luke Stoughton House. Now, the 100-plus-year-old,
Turn to Building/Page 8
Kruse named top in state SCOTT DE LARUELLE Unified Newspaper Group
As a high school principal, you never know quite what the new day will bring. Tuesday will be one of those days Stoughton High School principal Mike Kruse will remember with a smile for a long, long time. At a surprise assembly at the high school gym
Tuesday afternoon, Kruse was honored as this year’s “Secondary Principal of the Year” by the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators. Kruse, the school’s principal since 2008, will represent Wisconsin later this year at an event in Washington, D.C., where he
Turn to Kruse/Page 11
Deana M. Zentner
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SASD students participate in nationwide walkout
Less than one month ago, the Redevelopment A u t h o r i t y ’s r ive r f r o n t redevelopment project inched forward after being largely stalled for much of the past year. When the Common Council voted Feb. 27 to provide the RDA with funding to demolish most of the Highway Traile r c o m p l ex a t 5 0 1 E . South St., it represented a step toward realizing the long-awaited riverfront redevelopment project. But the funding decision was far from unanimous, with three alders voting against and another expressing strong reservations. The vote also represented a compromise, as the council reinforced its desire to preserve – at
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March 22, 2018
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Greg introduces his new dog, Sylvia, to his wife, Kate. From left, Sheri Meland, Nicole Hale and Bryan Royston. Sylvia and Greg cuddle up on the couch. From left, Nicole Hale and Bryan Royston.
Photos by Amber Levenhagen
Left, Greg and a fellow dog owner sit and chat about love, life and dogs at the local dog park. From left, Tim Stoughton Village Player’s production of “Sylvia” continues this weekend. The performance, directed by Sam White, explores love and relationships as it tells the story of Markle and Bryan Greg, his new dog, Sylvia, and his marriage to Kate. Royston. The play will run at 7:30 p.m. March 22-24, at the SVP theater, 255 E. Main St. All tickets are $13 and are available at stoughtonvillageplayers.org and at McGlynn Pharmacy.
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Beatrix Johnson stops at Elsing’s Second Hand Shop to deliver a “Kegonsa Cares” package to owner Philip Elsing.
PHIL CARAVELLO
The City of Stoughton is seeking nominations to highlight one special volunteer for the 17th annual “Stoughton Volunteer of the Year”. City officials are also seeking nominations to highlight a “Stoughton Business of the Year”. Recipients will be chosen by Mayor Donna Olson and staff based upon information regarding their contributions to our community included in the nomination letter.
CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2
Vote April 3
Winners will received plaques at a reception in their honor Tuesday, April 17th from 3-4 pm in the Mayor’s Office.
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Nominations must be received no later than Monday, March 26 Send your nominations to: Stoughton City Hall, 381 E. Main Street, Stoughton, WI 53589 Attn: 2018 Volunteer of the Year/ 2018 Business of the Year. You may also email your nominations to: mdemcak@ci.stoughton.wi.us
Photos by Scott De Laruelle
Kegonsa Elementary School fifth-grade teacher Kristi LaPointe leads student council members on a special trip last month to recognize downtown businesses as part of their “Kegonsa Cares” community project.
Authorized and Paid for by : Caravello for Council, Peter Manley Treasurer: 341 W McKinley St., Stoughton, WI 53589
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EASTER BRUNCH
Kegonsa Elementary put a new twist on Valentine’s Day with “Kegonsa Cares” last month. Student council members wrote in an email that they planned activities to “show others kindness and the students’ caring hearts,” including delivering “Kegonsa Cares” kindness bags to downtown Stoughton businesses and other locations on Feb. 27 to show their appreciation. Kegonsa fifth-grade teacher Kristi LaPointe and school counselor Jake Schultz accompanied the students on the long walk downtown and back on a rare, warm mid-winter day.
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March 22, 2018
Elected officials are supporting an effort to allow the keeping of bees in Stoughton. On Tuesday, March 13, the council voted unanimously to encourage a committee to continue looking into allowing bee colonies in the city. The council also authorized the city attorney to conduct a legal review of options for such an ordinance. The proposed ordinance would have to go through the Public Safety committee and the Planning Commission before coming back to council for final approval. The details of what to include have yet to be determined, but the Public Safety committee has been discussing the idea “for the past five or six months,” said Ald. Scott Truehl (Dist. 4). He said last month a proponent urged the committee to bring the idea to the council soon, because if people are interested in establishing a bee colony this year, they would have to start the process in coming months. “We want to find out if there’s interest from council for this,” Truehl said. “We would spend money to have the attorney work on an ordinance and want to make sure there’s support before
Board approves safety resolution SCOTT DE LARUELLE Unified Newspaper Group
Monday night, the Stoughton Area School Board unanimously approved a resolution calling on legislators to take action to “keep schools s a f e ” a n d “ e ff e c t ive l y address our nation’s persistent and pervasive gun problem.” Citing last month’s school shooting in Florida, the resolution stated that “legislative leaders at the state and federal level have not only the ability but the responsibility to act on behalf of our children.” The board supports immediate passage of legislation to “make universal background checks mandatory, ban assault weapons, ban aftermarket ‘rapid-fire’ devices and keep people who are subject to domestic violence protection orders from having guns.” Also, the resolution “wholly rejects the misguided suggestion, that it is either desirable or appropriate to arm teachers in schools, for any purpose.” “The board supports the passage of a comprehensive and sustainable school safety package that keeps our schools safe and meets the social and emotional needs of our students and therefore calls on lawmakers to use this moment to stop playing politics with school safety and security and do the most good for our students and
schools.” Board vice-president Donna Tarpinian said she would pass the resolution along to state lawmakers, who are debating school safety issues this week in Madison, including Gov. Walker’s proposal for a $100 million school-safety bill. “ We r e a l l y b e l i e v e strongly that (state legislators) should do something,’” she said. “To me, it’s important we pass this tonight. Other districts are doing this as well or have already done this, and time is of the essence.” School board president Scott Dirks noted that Walker’s plan is “still nebulous,” as it doesn’t say where the money will come from. “If it’s going to come out of school aid, I don’t think it’s going to be much help to any of us,” he said.
at is For Service th
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The Fab Lab at Stoughton High School was abuzz with more than the usual noise of 3D printers and busy students last Friday, as Ian Bormett explained to Sen. Mark Miller and Rep. Gary Hebl how he created an artificial hand for a local boy in that very lab. The legislators were at the school to deliver the SHS senior an official state commendation for his work. It’s the latest in a recent string of awards and honors for Bormett for building the hand, including being named the Courier Hub’s co-Citizen of the Year in 2016. In February, he was named a finalist for the Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a national award that honors outstanding community service. Shortly after the legislators arrived, Bormett, who plans to study electrical engineering at UW-Madison this fall, explained the unique challenges of designing a prosthetic hand, and talked about a new prototype he’s working on; the fourth he’s made for Jonah Friedrich, a Stoughton 12-year-old family friend born without a left wrist or
Photo by Alexander Cramer
From left: Rep. Gary Hebl, Mike Connor, Ian Bormett, Chris Wiemer, and Sen. Mark Miller. They gathered to commemorate Bormett’s “outstanding community service” in creating a prosthetic hand for 12-year-old Jonah Friedrich, and offer an official commendment from the state Legislature. hand. Bormett invited Jonah to the Fab Lab when he was working on the second hand to introduce the youngster to technologies in the lab so that Friedrich can make the next one himself. Without Bormett, Friedrich would have been unable to be fitted for a prosthesis until he was fully-grown, the legislative citation noted. Bormett didn’t want to take undue credit, making sure to note he had help along the way and adapted his design from plans he had found online, working on it in the Fab Lab. “It would be faster if I could work for hours on it,
but I have only 50 minutes per day in here,” Bormett said. Friedrich is getting better at using his prosthesis, Bormett said, shooting hoops and even eating soup while holding the spoon in his left hand. But what really floored the legislators is that Friedrich can now ride his bike with both hands, with both saying how integral a bike is to a 12-yearold and their sense of independence. Bormett plans to incorporate sensors and motors
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into his next prototype, with the goal to pick up electrical inputs from muscle contractions on Jonah’s forearm. Those inputs would tell small motors in the prosthesis to open or close parts of the hand. T h e l eg i s l a t o r s w e r e impressed with Bormett’s work, peppering him with questions and trying to drive home the importance of what he has done. “Every day, when (Friedrich) wakes up, he thinks of you,” Hebl said. Bormett seemed genuinely grateful for the recognition, though he was keen to use the moment to acknowledge those who helped him in this project, explaining how useful the technology at the Fab Lab was, and how beneficial the proposed Innovation Center would be for kids like him. After the legislators were gone and the photo op was over, Bormett and a handful of students remained in the room, each concentrating on their work turning ideas into reality. Contact Alexander Cramer at alexander.cramer@wcinet. com.
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doing so.” Truehl and fellow alder Kathleen Tass Johnson (Dist. 2) said the committee has been reviewing ordinances from other communities in an attempt to design one that fits Stoughton. It also has gotten advice from fire chief Scott Wegner, who has a business raising bees and knows about best practices and what might work in the city. Several alders raised questions or made suggestions about what should be included in an ordinance. Issues involved regulating the distance colonies should from schools and other places where the public gathers, determining how many colonies would be allowed per acre, and not including a “flyway barrier” that the committee found in other municipalities’ ordinances. Attorney Matt Dregne advised the council not to concern itself with such technical details, saying they would be determined by the committee and then brought before the council for approval. “The committee wants to know what your gut feeling is,” he said. Ald. Regina Hirsch (Dist. 3) supports the effort and said colony collapse disorder has threatened the long-term existence of honey bees. “More hives would build resilience,” she said. Ald. Sid Boersma (Dist. 1) said he used to raise bees in the country and thinks colonies can be safely kept in the city, as well.
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Staff will create ordinance; would still need approval
Senior printed a hand for 12-year-old
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Beekeeping gets support
Legislature honors SHS’s Bormett
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March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
Letters to the editor
McGeever is a leader Stoughton needs I’m supporting Bob McGeever for Mayor because we need real, not made up, leadership. Until his back was up against the political wall, Bob’s opponent did everything he could to stall progress on the riverfront redevelopment area and the Kettle Park West project. Kettle Park West would have helped the elderly folks on fixed incomes to hold the line on their taxes being raised each year. Bob’s opponent forgets that our city is 20-25 percent elderly on fixed incomes. Throw in the riverfront project delay, which would also help with property taxes. While there’s no doubt the riverfront redevelopment will help our downtown and the rest of the community, others on the council kept it on the backburner for nearly a year. Then the social media postings started piling up. And April 3 suddenly loomed. Presto! Bob’s opponent morphs into a “leader.” Meanwhile, our school district
slowly dies on the vine. City taxes are zooming skyward. In a number of important ways, Stoughton is now at or near the bottom of the heap in Dane County. Did you know that of the 61 taxing districts in Dane County, only three others – Madison being one – have a higher tax rate than the City of Stoughton? The response from “pre-leadership” is “what, me worry?” Well, figure something out. As a Stoughtonite with deep roots and very deep involvement with our community, Bob McGeever will give us true leadership. Instead of endless hesitation and delay, Bob will work collaboratively with stakeholders to chart an effective path forward for our community. Forget false claims of “leadership.” Get the real thing. Please join me in voting for Bob McGeever on April 3. Sonny Swangstu Former alder
Swadley has history with Stoughton As a whole, my politics lean to the right, so seldom do I support a candidate endorsed by the Dane County Democratic Party. However, in Stoughton’s mayoral race, the best person to run the city is candidate Tim Swadley. A business owner and long time resident, Mr. Swadley is familiar with local issues and local government. He has an extensive history of public service includes terms on the School Board and
City Council. While on the school board with Tim, I learned he listens to every side of any issue and works to balance the taxpayers needs with benefits to our community. Stoughton’s future and long term well being will benefit from having Tim in the mayor’s office. Fred Hundt City of Stoughton
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From the editor’s desk
To move into the future, admit history is an issue H istoric preservation is a funny thing. There’s a fine line between honoring the legacy of our ancestors – cherishing our history and traditions – and hoarding. Nobody wants to see a bunch of old buildings falling apart, bringing down property values. Then again, once a building is destroyed, it’s gone. And old buildings mean different things to different people, which is why the whole discussion is fraught with emotion Ferolie and urgency. On one side, you have people interested in cleaning things up, making blighted areas safer and moving on. On the other, you have people who imagine a chic, stylish way to honor Stoughton’s heritage and still make buildings useful. One takes longer than the other and offers fewer options, but might be better in certain situations. Neither is right or wrong. I’ve seen some extremely cool redevelopments using existing building structures that added character to a shopping or residential destination, such as Louisville’s Butchertown area. But that doesn’t work everywhere, and it’s expensive and has a high risk of failure. When I lived in Davenport, Iowa, I recall a similar building in a prime location that went through business after business and didn’t get a stable set of tenants until five years ago – two
decades and a second renovation after it was redeveloped. It requires just the right treatment, just the right developer and owner and just the right market timing. But if you give up on it, you can’t change your mind five, 10 or 50 years later. It’s too late. It’s a story I’ve been watching play out in all our weekly newspapers’ communities in the last few months. Oregon has been rehabilitating its downtown and water tower and recently had a big dustup over a draft plan to allow the village to contribute if some historic homes were removed. Verona almost razed one of its oldest homes before selling it to a local businessman to restore. And in Fitchburg, some residents were horrified to see a century-old stone barn on Seminole Highway torn down last fall. Here in Stoughton, we’ve been seeing it with the 1892 high school building and the Highway Trailer complex. I’m glad to see the city has decided to tear down the ugliest, most decrepit part of Highway Trailer, though it’s taken far too long. The remaining piece, the blacksmith shop, is massively blighted, however, and if left as-is would only be a stain on the area. Now, if it can be rehabilitated – turned into a market, museum or some public draw connecting to local history (and do so without a large public expense), it’s a win. But we don’t want to save it just for the purposes of not tearing it down. Nobody knows the right answer, because there is none. There are only choices.
Stoughton has a lot of old buildings, most of which are privately owned. If the community has the will, it can go out of its way to rehabilitate a bunch. Certainly some of them can use it. But we should come up with a plan, not a one-off gut feeling each time and not just letting them go. To do that, the community as a whole needs to admit this is an issue and deal with it head on. Perhaps there could be a historic property workshop, with people pinpointing properties they feel should get special consideration and ranking them. As last year’s charrette did with the riverfront, a community workshop could galvanize those who attend and ensure everyone has an opportunity to speak up. Then, the city and historic preservation advocates and donors could focus their efforts and maybe even spur economic development from within, rather than simply from peripheral growth. It could very well be that idea is ineffective, not worth it or just not interesting enough to the community at large. And if that’s the conclusion we come to, that’s fine. But either way, it’s not fair for people on to lob grenades at those on the other side and say they’re holding up development or they’re callous about history. Each side has a good case, and we must cooperate to come up with the right balance. Jim Ferolie is the editor of the Stoughton Courier Hub.
Regina Hirsch is a leader on the City Council Spring elections are fast approaching. While I have only lived in the city for a couple of years now, I’ve had family here for decades. I’ve been watching Stoughton grow and develop into the city it is today. With the revitalizing of the downtown and the focus on improving our schools, I see an overall vision for the future. I believe Regina Hirsch in the third district has been a big part of that focus. Through her leadership on the city council, she has helped to
increase the police force, pushed for solar and environmental developments, installed new bike routes and oversaw the city’s new comprehensive planning process. Regina has truly made Stoughton not only her residence but her home. I recently was able to chat with her on her regarding the riverfront development area and was thoroughly impressed with her wisdom in the overall strategic development of the area with regards to Stoughton as a
whole. She has the foresight and experience to understand how its development will impact the entire area. Her top priority is to listen to what the residents of Stoughton have asked for during the charrettes while placing an emphasis on sustainability, both financial and environmental. Join me in voting for Regina Hirsch for Stoughton City Council on April 3. Christine Welcher City of Stoughton
Dorann Bradford knows, understands Stoughton’s issues In many local elections, we do not have a choice. This year Dist. 3 does. We can choose to gaze at the past or look ahead to the future of Stoughton. I support Dorann Bradford for City Council and would urge you to vote for a change in leadership. Dorann has lived in Stoughton since 2016 but she has been in Stoughton much longer. She helped me move here in 1990 when I chose to become part of this great city. We have been friends since 1978. After many visits to Stoughton, Dorann decided to make it her hometown too. Her activity in the past two years has been amazing to watch. Dorann studied and became a real estate agent within the first six months of moving to Wisconsin. She began reading about the city’s history and development
right away. She attended the charrette for the entire event and was excited about the possibilities. Getting to know residents and making friends led her to run for alderman. In preparation for that, she met with every city department head and found out their concerns and hopes for the future. She talked to the Chamber of Commerce, shop owners and developers. She has grounded herself in the work that is and is not occurring. She knows Stoughton’s issues. This is very consistent with her background of organizational work, church development work, and having lived in a variety of communities worldwide as a former military wife. The Dorann I know is loyal, hard-working, quick witted and open to listening and sharing
with others. She has passion for causes that she adopts. She has a love of architecture, design, and people. She is active in charity work for national organizations as well as the local food pantries. She is a mother and grandmother with her family moving here to be near her. She will learn, adjust and be flexible as she addresses the many issues the council deals with. She will maintain her Independent learning and consider all sides to an issue. The City of Stoughton will be first in her thoughts as she has to make decisions and votes. We have a choice in Dist. 3. I ask you to choose Dorann Bradford. Erlene Bishop Killeen City of Stoughton
March 22, 2018 Stoughton Courier Hub Opinion 5 Swadley is ‘open and transparent’ Vote in best interest, candidates that fairly represent constituents
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Open and transparent government might seem like a no brainer, but based on our recent history, it should never be taken for granted. Tim Swadley has made open and transparent government his number one goal. I’ve lived in Stoughton for over 30 years. Although Stoughton has many great qualities, I’ve never felt that the mayor and city council were interested in the average citizen. Too often the city government seemed to be run by handful of people looking out for their own self interest or that of their close knit group of friends. On the few occasions when I’ve spoken before the mayor and council, I felt like I was talking to a brick wall.
Everyone had already made up their mind. It didn’t matter how reasonable or logical my reasons were, it wouldn’t make a difference. From comments I got later, it was apparent that some of them didn’t even bother to listen to what I had to say. With Tim Swadley, I’ve never gotten that feeling. He is open to ideas and different opinions. Tim and I don’t agree on everything, but he is well informed and willing to listen and have an open discussion about the pros and cons of any number of issues. He knows how to work cooperatively. I support Tim Swadley for mayor. John Hallinan City of Stoughton
Vote McGeever on April 3 Luann Alme and Cathy Rigdon ask Mr. Swadley, “please don’t tote cost savings on the backs of our city employees.” We have never been prouder to call ourselves public servants. Luann Alme, a 19-year former employee of the City of Stoughton was first hired in the finance department and ultimately become the city clerk and human resources director. Cathy Rigdon, a 29.5 -year retired employee, served 18.5 years as deputy treasurer and the last 10 as the director of Stoughton Area Emergency Medical Services. We are only two of the many, many devoted past and current employees of the City of Stoughton. Over the years, it has been collective bargaining that provided employees with a voice to negotiate wages and benefits. In recent years, wages were not increased in lieu of better benefits – such as health insurance. Governor Walker’s Act 10 took away that bargaining, resulting in employees having no voice. Now, Mr. Swadley says he: “Saved money by changing employee health
care plan.” Instead of controlling costs by decreasing benefits of city employees, how about thinking forward? How about strengthening Stoughton’s economy by increased sustainable growth, generating revenues that will bring Stoughton’s taxes in line with other municipalities vs. Stoughton’s ‘claim of shame’ to be the fourth highest tax district in Dane County. How about working toward increased sustainable growth that will strengthen our schools and bring enrollment up? How about working towards increased sustainable growth that will help the elderly in our community? How about increased sustainable growth that will benefit Stoughton’s residents and its dedicated employees in public service? Mr. Swadley’s record leads us to believe he won’t do any of that. That’s why we’re supporting Bob McGeever. We urge you to do likewise. Cathy Rigdon and Luann Alme Retired city employees
Vote Crawford for county judge On April 3, voters will elect a new Dane County circuit court judge. I strongly endorse Susan Crawford for this seat. She is an experienced, respected lawyer who is the best fit for the job. Susan has defended workers, public education, women’s health and voting rights in court as a lawyer with the Madison firm Pines Bach. She has handled hundreds of cases, not just in the Dane County court but in circuit courts around the state, the Wisconsin Court of Appeals, the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the federal courts. Susan has broad legal experience in both private practice and public service. She served as an assistant attorney general, as director of criminal appeals for the Wisconsin Department of Justice and as chief legal counsel in the office of governor Jim Doyle. Susan is the only
candidate with experience in Dane County courtrooms and criminal cases. This is important because the judge elected to the court this spring will preside over mostly criminal cases. Susan is thoughtful, intelligent and kind, and will treat all who appear before her with respect. She is acutely aware of disparities in the justice system and will work to address those. But don’t take it just from me. Susan is endorsed by Sheriff Dave Mahoney, County Executive Joe Parisi, Gov. Jim Doyle, Kathleen Falk, District Attorney Ismael Ozanne and hundreds of other community leaders and attorneys. Dane County judges, who know the job the best, overwhelmingly support Susan in this election. Please vote Susan Crawford for Dane County Judge on April 3. Sheila Sullivan City of Stoughton
As I travel around the city, I have seen several larger signs that list several candidates on them, including one of the mayoral candidates and three individuals running for City Council. This shared “ticket” approach suggests to me that these individuals are already agreed upon a specific agenda and approach to key issues, regardless of what their various constituencies might really want.
So, are any of them able to fully represent the particular interests of the citizens who are being asked to elect them? Further, I find it to be very ironic that these same candidates are known to call for “transparency,” when it would seem to be the case that their minds are already made up no matter what their fellow citizens actually think. Apparently, “transparency” means no need to let
the facts get in the way of implementing a preconceived agenda. Finally, I also note that the mayoral candidate on those signs, which reference the theme of “Leadership,” proudly notes in one of his mailings that he is endorsed by the Dane County Democrats and the South Central Federation of Labor. Given where things now stand in Stoughton with declining student enrollment and
issues providing adequate fire and police protection due to long-term lack of economic growth, I’m thinking it’s high time for the citizens of Stoughton to stand up and elect someone who reflects their own views as to how to rectify these problems, rather than continuing to follow the ideological “leadership” provided by these outside groups. John Cook City of Stoughton
Stoughton is ‘lucky’ to have Frank Sullivan for school board Spring election season is here and Stoughton is fortunate to have Frank Sullivan among the candidates for school board. Frank is an experienced school board member, currently serving on the board and having served once before. He understands the complex issues facing our schools, ranging from budgets to safety and everything in between. Frank’s “day job” as an attorney in the
Wisconsin Department of Justice provides a helpful background for both these issues and public service generally. Frank and his wife, Sheila, are also parents of students in the district, as well as a recent graduate. Frank recognizes that our school district’s best asset is the teachers and the other professionals who educate our kids. He is committed to continuing to improve employee
relations, ensuring teachers and staff are treated fairly and with respect. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it is key to keeping the teachers we have and recruiting high-quality employees in the future. Frank is dedicated to making our schools the best they can possibly be. Ensuring students receive a great education is foundational to this belief, but so is attracting young
families to Stoughton. Frank will work to stop declining enrollment in the district, and will help ensure others knows what he knows – that Stoughton, and our schools, have so much to offer. Thank you for considering Frank Sullivan for school board on April 3. Christa Westerberg City of Stoughton
Wiessinger’s priorities are ‘fiscally responsible, transparent’ Dear citizens of Dist. 4. I am endorsing Nikki Wiessinger in her run for City Council. I live and work in the Stoughton area and know Stoughton is at a crossroads in its life as a city. We need to grow in a purposeful way and I believe
Nikki can help steer us in this direction. Nikki chose to return to Stoughton where she has family and raise her three children here. She wants to help our city continue to attract new families. She has spent her career dedicated to education and
served an interim term on the school board. She coaches youth basketball and is on the board for Sustainable Stoughton. Nikki Wiessinger believes we can have balanced growth, fiscally responsible budgets and transparency in local government.
She wants to help facilitate sustainable, balanced growth that would make Stoughton both a great place to live and a place people want to visit. I urge you to vote for Nikki Wiessinger for Dist. 4. Sarah Bukrey City of Stoughton
Wiessinger’s skills and experience are ‘a rare combination’ I strongly encourage you to vote for Nicole Wiessinger as your City Council Dist. 4 representative. I know Nicole from local activities. Her interest in City Council got my attention because I served on City Council and the economic development authority in Washburn, the nation’s first eco-municipality. Sometimes people share their political aspirations with me. After hearing the reality of serving, people often change their minds. Nicole is different.
She has the intellectual stamina and willingness to dig into issues to understand causes and possible solutions. She knows the responsibility is to synthesize information and make decisions representing the best interests of the constituents- not her feelings. Nicole has roots in Stoughton and chooses to raise her family here. She’s a candidate who appreciates our city’s traditions, and simultaneously plans for sustainable, healthy growth. Talking about how things can be improved
is easy- Nicole gets involved. She filled a school board vacancy, and believes our schools should be a reason why young families stay in/move to the community. Nicole volunteers coaching. She’s on the executive board of Sustainable Stoughton. She shows up. Nicole holds a Bachelor’s degree in education and Master’s degree in educational administration. Her experience includes teaching, business, science and administering
community outreach programs. Nicole offers optimism tempered with fiscal responsibility and an understanding of how systems work. A rare combination. Forming opinions about issues is easy. Understanding underlying precedents and constraints takes patience, diligence and intelligence. Nicole Wiessinger possesses these characteristics. Suzanne VanGilder City of Stoughton
Student supports Regina Hirsch for City Council As elections for the city of Stoughton approach, I am hoping that I can persuade younger residents to go to the polls on April 3 and vote. I’m a senior in high school, and although I will be beyond the bounds of Stoughton for college next year, the half-frightening-half-exhilarating transition away from home would be made easier if I knew that the city was in secure, forward-looking hands. With help from the education system and other organizations, my youth in Stoughton was exemplary, and I hope to see similar opportunities for generations to come. Regina Hirsch, a friend of my family for over ten years, is running to represent
Dist. 3 on the City Council, and I wholeheartedly believe that she will continue to contribute to a progressive future in the Stoughton community. Regina has received extensive education from accredited universities, has aimed to maintain sustainability in Stoughton through public projects, and has helped plan the development of our town’s numerous attractions, validating her commitment to improving the quality of our city. If re-elected, she will work toward growth in our school systems, increased transportation options, improved houses and roads and seeking out new jobs for our quality
workers. I’ve always believed that some of the aspects that contribute most to Stoughton’s charm are the small businesses, interactive events for residents and history. Regina Hirsch would like to preserve these factors of the city, while building on their value. If you live in Dist. 3 and hope to see Stoughton grow while conserving its unique, small-town traits, I encourage you to vote for Regina Hirsch on April 3. Olivia Panthofer City of Stoughton
Correction In the March 15 issue of the Hub, Peggy Tipple’s name is misspelled on page 13. The Hub regrets the error.
6
March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
ConnectStoughton.com
Coming up
Community calendar
Pansy sale
a kid’s meal voucher for Texas Roadhouse. The event is sponsored by local Kiwanis with assistance from the Stoughton Area Key Club and the Aktion club. For information, call 669-2501 or visit stoughtonkiwanis.com.
The Partners of Stoughton Hospital is offering pansy plants for sale through Friday, April 13. They are offered as a pre-order, prepay basis. Plants are $9 for a 10 in. pot. Plants must be picked up between 1-4 p.m. April 18 near the Foundation office. A receipt of purchase is required Easter bake sale to pick up plants. Second Chance Animal Advocates For information, visit stoughtonhos- will hold their annual Easter bake sale pital.com and click Partners of Stough- from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March ton Hospital on the right navigation bar. 24, at their location, 1321 E. Main St. The Golden Retriever Rescue Group Math help will be there with adoptable dogs. All Learn how to help children with profits will help animals in need. their math homework from 6-7:30 p.m. For information, call 205-6636. Thursday, March 22, at the senior cenCommunity meal ter. The program, led by experienced Visit First Lutheran Church, 310 E. teacher Holly Tellander, will discuss Washington St., for the free monthly state standards, brief history of math “Our Daily Bread” meal from 4-6 p.m. instruction, practical explanations of Sunday, March 25. “new math” or common core, as well The meal will be served at 4:30 as sharing free resources for kids and p.m. and includes egg bakes, sausage, families. cheesy potatoes, fruit, muffins, coffee For information, call 873-8585. cake, orange juice, milk and coffee. No carry-out meals are available; for Easter egg hunt transportation to dinner, call 873-7494 The Stoughton Kiwanis Club will by 10 a.m. March 25 and leave a mesoffer an Easter egg hunt for families sage. Rides are provided free within with children eight and younger at the the Stoughton Area School District. Mandt Park ball diamond starting at 11 This month’s meal is sponsored by a.m. Saturday, March 24. Covenant Lutheran Church. In addition to the egg hunt, there will For information, call 873-7761. be photo opportunities with the Easter Game Day bunny. The first 100 families will receive The senior center will host a game
Baha’i Faith
Covenant Lutheran Church
For information: Alfred Skerpan, 877-0911 or Gail and Greg Gagnon, 873-9225 us.bahai.org Stoughton study classes.
Bible Baptist Church
1525 N. Van Buren St., Stoughton • 873-7494 covluth@chorus.net • covluth.org Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. Worship Saturday: 5:30 p.m. Worship Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Worship, 10 a.m. School
Christ Lutheran Church
515 E. Main St., Stoughton • 834-9050 ezrachurch.com Sunday: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
2095 Hwy. W, Utica 873-7077 • 423-3033 Sunday: 10 a.m. - Worship; 6 p.m. - Worship
Ezra Church
700 Hwy. B, Stoughton 873-9353 • e-mail: office@clcstoughton.org Sunday worship times: 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., 9:10 a.m. family express worship, 9:40 a.m. Sunday school.
Christ the King Community Church
First Lutheran Church
310 E. Washington, Stoughton 873-7761 • flcstoughton.com Sunday: 8:30 & 10 a.m. worship
Fulton Church
401 W. Main St., Stoughton • 877-0303 christthekingcc.org • Sunday: 10 a.m. - Worship
Christian Assembly Church
1844 Williams Drive, Stoughton • 873-9106 Saturday: 6 p.m. worship; Sunday: 10 a.m. worship
Good Shepherd By The Lake Lutheran Church
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
1860 Hwy. 51 at Lake Kegonsa, Stoughton 873-5924 Sunday Worship: 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Education hour for all ages: 9:15 a.m. Adult Bible Study: 9:15-9:45 a.m.
825 S. Van Buren, Stoughton 877-0439 • Missionaries 957-3930 Sunday: 9 a.m. Sunday school and Primary
Cooksville Lutheran Church
9209 Fulton St., Edgerton 884-8512 • fultonchurch.org Sunday: 8 and 10:30 a.m. Worship Services Coffee Fellowship: 9 a.m. Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Varsity (High Schoolers): 12-3 p.m. AWANA (age 2-middle school): 3-5 p.m.
11927 W. Church St., Evansville 882-4408 Pastor Karla Brekke Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship and Sunday School
LakeView Church
2200 Lincoln Ave., Stoughton 873-9838 • lakevc.org Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Worship
day for families from 1-3 p.m. Monday, March 26. Several options for card and board games will be available but families are invited to bring their own. For information, call 873-8585.
Travelogue Tour Yosemite via a documentary screening at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, at the senior center. Travelogue: Yosemite will explore the national park with a National Geographic documentary about the park’s 700,000 acres, waterfalls, sequoias, El Capitan rock formation and animals including black bears, bats and foxes. For more information, call 8738585.
Salad luncheon Enjoy a salad luncheon at West Koshkonong Lutheran Church, 1911 Koshkonong Road, at noon Saturday, April 7. The lunch will feature salads, pies and beverages. A $10 ticket includes a cookbook with recipes of featured salads and pies. There will also be a drawing for door prizes. Only 140 tickets are available and can be purchased at the Nordic Nook, All in the Family Hair Care and the West Koshkonong church office. A portion of the proceeds will go towards the Mandt Park Projects and the Stained Glass fund. For information, call 873-9456.
Seventh Day Baptist Church of Albion
616 Albion Rd., Edgerton 561-7450 • albionsdb@gmail.com forministry.com/USWISDBGCASD1 Worship Saturday 11- Sabbath School 10 Fellowship Meal follows service on first Sabbath
Stoughton Baptist Church
Corner of Williams Dr. & Cty. B, Stoughton 873-6517 Sunday: 10:30 a.m. - Worship; 6 p.m. - Evening Service
St. Ann Catholic Church
323 N. Van Buren St., Stoughton 873-6448 • 873-7633 Weekday Mass: Nazareth House and St. Ann’s Church Weekend Mass: Saturday - 5:15 p.m.; Sunday - 8 and 10:30 a.m.
United Methodist of Stoughton 525 Lincoln Avenue, Stoughton stoughtonmethodist.org Stoughtonumc@Wisconsinumc.org Sunday: 8 a.m. - Short Service; 10 a.m. - Full Worship
West Koshkonong Lutheran Church 1911 Koshkonong, Stoughton Sunday: 10:30 a.m. - Worship
Western Koshkonong Lutheran Church
2633 Church St., Cottage Grove Sunday: 9:30 a.m. worship 11 a.m. Bible study
Thursday, March 22
• 3:30-4:30 p.m., Youth Art Month: Mindfulness drawing (teens grades 6 and up), library, 873-6281 • 6-7:30 p.m., How to help kids with Common Core class, senior center, 873-8585 • 6:30-8 p.m., Plant your flag- Charing your own course (registration requested), Terra Simpla Retreat Center, 845 State Road 138, permaculture.terrasimpla.com • 7:30 p.m., Stoughton Village Players present “Sylvia” (tickets $13), Stoughton Village Players Theater, 255 E. Main St., stoughtonvillageplayers.org
Friday, March 23
• 9:30 a.m., Morning storytime (ages 0-5), library, 8736281 • 10:30 a.m., Morning storytime (ages 0-5), library, 873-6281 • 2-6 p.m., Red Cross blood drive, St Ann’s School, 324 N Harrison St., redcrossblood.org • 7:30 p.m., Stoughton Village Players present “Sylvia” (tickets $13), Stoughton Village Players Theater, 255 E. Main St., stoughtonvillageplayers.org
Saturday, March 24
• 11 a.m., Kiwanis Club Easter egg hunt (free for kids 8 and younger, accompanied by an adult), Mandt Park ball diamond, 669-2501 • 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Second Chance Animal Advocates bake sale, 1321 E. Main St., 205-6636 • 7:30 p.m., Stoughton Village Players present “Sylvia” (tickets $13), Stoughton Village Players Theater, 255 E. Main St., stoughtonvillageplayers.org
Sunday, March 25
• 4-6 p.m., Community meal, First Lutheran Church, 310 E. Washington St., 873-7761
Monday, March 26
• 1-3 p.m., Game day for families, senior center, 8738585 • 3 p.m., Music appreciation series: “Retro Swing Band,” Stoughton Opera House, 381 E. Main St., 8738585
Tuesday, March 27
• 6:30-8 p.m., Page Turners adult book discussion: “The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley” by Hannah Tinti, library, 873-6281
Wednesday, March 28
• 1-2 p.m., Page Turners book discussion, “The Twelve Lives of Samuel Hawley” by Hannah Tinti, senior center, 873-6281 • 1-2 p.m., Patsy Cline music by Karen Wickham, senior center, 873-8585 3-4 p.m., Travelogue-Yosemite, senior center, 8738585
Thursday, March 29
• Noon to 5 p.m., Volunteer income tax assistance (appointments required), senior center, 216-3613 • 3:30-5 p.m., Youth Art Month- Open maker night (teens in grades 6 and up), library, 873-6281
Tuesday, April 3
• 3:30-5:30 p.m., Pizza and art (teens in grades 6 and up), library, 873-6281 • 6:30-8 p.m., Hungry for Change nutrition course (registration and study guide required), Terra Simpla Retreat Center, 845 State Road 138, permaculture.
Support groups Diabetic Support Group • 6 p.m., second Monday, Stoughton Hospital, 628-6500 Dementia Caregivers • 2 p.m., second Thursday, senior center, 873-8585
1358 Hwy 51, Stoughton
adno=551530-01
873-4590
Pete Gunderson Mike Smits • Dale Holzhuter Martha Paton, Administrative Manager Sara Paton Barkenhagen, Administrative Assistant Paul Selbo, Funeral Assistant Alyssa Halverson, Funeral Dir. Apprentice
221 Kings Lynn Rd. Stoughton, WI 53589 (608) 873-8888
adno=551550-01
www.gundersonfh.com
www.anewins.com
You Shall Not Pass This Way Again “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.” – Stephen Grellet The French-born Quaker Stephen Grellet came to the United States in 1795 after escaping execution during the French Revolution, since he was a member of the King’s guard. Though he was raised Catholic, he was deeply moved by the writings of William Penn, George Fox and other Quakers, and in 1796 he joined the Society of Friends, the official name of the Quakers. The Society of Friends believe that every human being has experiential access to “the small light within” them, i.e., that God is within every human being. They also place emphasis on the “priesthood of all believers,” a doctrine found in the first epistle of Peter (1 Peter 2:9). After joining the Society of Friends, Grellet devoted himself to missionary and charitable work and was granted meetings with many rulers and dignitaries. By all accounts he led an exemplary life, encouraging charitable work and reforms in education, prisons and hospitals. He spoke out against what he saw as the evils of his age, such as slavery, and was a man of faith who put his faith into constructive action. Reflect on how you might do more to serve your fellow man and then put your plan into action. – Christopher Simon
Crohn’s/Colitis/IBD Support Group • 5:30 p.m., third Wednesday, Stoughton Hospital, 873-7928 Grief Support Groups • 2 p.m., third Wednesday, senior center, 873-8585 Low Vision Support • 1-2:30 p.m., third Thursday, senior center, 873-8585 Parkinson’s Group • 1:30-2:30 p.m., fourth Wednesday, senior center, 873-8585 Multiple Sclerosis Group • 10-11:30 a.m., second Tuesday, senior center, 873-8585
Submit your community calendar and coming up items online:
ConnectStoughton.com ungcalendar@wcinet.com
ConnectStoughton.com
March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
7
Letters to the editor
Swadley is respectful, ‘refreshing’ Bradford would be an ‘outstanding fit’ on City Council On April 3, I intend to cast my vote for Tim Swadley for mayor. As your elected representative to the Dane County Board of Supervisors, I have had the pleasure of working with Tim on many issues affecting our community over the past six years. I have first-hand experience of his commitment to communicating and collaborating with county and state officials regarding local issues such as public safety, affordable housing and transportation. Tim’s actions of respecting and promoting community involvement; relative to the health and well being of our city, is a refreshing contrast to his opponent’s use of public statements to
diminish the judgment and effectiveness of our civic leaders elected by this community. Tim is a candidate who will work with elected civic leaders, community groups and most importantly you and me. His experience and insight into our city’s future potential for growth and prosperity, makes him an invaluable asset to our community. With Tim Swadley as our mayor, I am excited about what the future holds for our city and its residents. Please join me in casting your vote for Tim Swadley for Mayor on April 3. Carl T. Chenoweth City of Stoughton Dane County Board of Supervisors
Vote Wiessinger on April 3 I am supporting Nicole Wiessinger for Stoughton City Council Dist. 4. Nicole has a strong connection to the community through generations of her family, and reinforces this by choosing to also raise her family here. She has a background in public education with additional experience in strategic planning, policy analysis and leadership development. My first-hand experience of her abilities and commitment to Stoughton was during our time on the SASD Board of Education. The initial learning curve for that position is quite steep, and she handled the information download masterfully. She was always prepared for every discussion, having drawn on internal expertise, external information sources and garnering the opinions of the community. She asked the difficult questions, the sort that were often from a perspective that hadn’t been considered, but were completely germane to the issue at hand. There were often debates, and she sought to understand the opposing position to move toward a consensus that was agreeable to everyone. Her experiences gained in that forum will serve as an excellent groundwork for the City Council. Her goals are to leverage her experience and
background to work with members of the City Council to refine their vision of what Stoughton is, and how we want our future to manifest. Building a focused strategic plan with direct input from the community, and executing on that plan, will foster further engagement from citizens who may have been disenfranchised from past efforts. Creating the common vision is the first stage of establishing a brand for the city that encompasses Stoughton’s greatest strengths: its people, its heritage and its history. Broadcasting that vision out is the next stage to continue vibrancy and vitality, as people will want to share in the experience of living in Stoughton that many of us get to enjoy. A sustainable and strategic growth will continue to add amenities like the whitewater park, additional bike trails, Veterans Memorial, and many more ideas from young families who haven’t moved here yet. The residents of Stoughton can place their trust in Nicole, as she will be a strong advocate for the community on the City Council. Help start that visioning process by voting Wiessinger on April 3. Brett Schumacher City of Stoughton
Vote Tim Swadley for mayor Stoughton has been fortunate over the years to have had some outstanding candidates in the mayoral elections. This year we have such a candidate in Tim Swadley. Tim’s years on the City Council and Stoughton Area School Board have given him an excellent understanding of how those bodies should, and can, work together to meet the needs and desires of our Stoughton community. In my years working with Tim on the school board, I found him to be a thoughtful, independent thinker. He listens and questions respectfully. He is particularly good at bringing all
ideas into the open for consideration, and his ability to organize people and priorities are valuable assets. During Tim’s tenure as City Council President significant progress was made on numerous plans, projects and collaborations. Stoughton has many opportunities for improvement to our quality of life and strategic growth. Tim has proved he has the ability, leadership qualities and dedication to lead Stoughton forward. Please join me in voting for Tim Swadley for Mayor of Stoughton. Ruth Fortney City of Stoughton
I am proud to endorse the candidacy of Dorann Bradford for alder from the Dist. 3. She is intelligent, a problem-solver and an effective communicator. With her on the City Council, we will not witness disrespectful conduct towards others on the council, the mayor or city employees (which sadly has occurred in the past). She understands that rapidly declining school enrollment needs to be addressed (and not just with the promise
of additional meetings, committees and surveys – am I the only one tired of the “analysis paralysis”?). She understands the critical issue of funding adequate levels of police and fire protection. She understands that without smart growth, Stoughton cannot maintain its services. It just can’t. If you look at the DPI’s membership report, you see that Stoughton is surrounded by growth (even in Edgerton and Evansville). If you look at
the building permit list by cities in Dane County for 2017, you see that Stoughton is struggling compared to our neighbors. We need to do better. Dorann understands the critical issues facing Stoughton. I’m impressed with her ability to actively listen and consider viewpoints of others. This skill allows her to gain a deep understanding of what her fellow citizens are really concerned about. Her work and volunteer experience
has taught her how to analyze long-standing problems, develop a solution with the appropriate stakeholders (considering how local resources can be used in new ways) and implement the solution quickly for the betterment of all concerned. She sounds like an outstanding fit. Please join me in supporting Dorann Bradford on Tuesday, April 3. Thank you. Jerri Kittleson City of Stoughton
Vote Nicole Wiessinger for City Council on April 3 I urge you to vote for Nicole Wiessinger to represent Dist. 4 on the City Council. I first met Nicole after she was appointed to fill an empty school board seat. Her knowledge of the school district, educational background including a bachelor’s degree in education, a master’s degree in educational administration, and professional experience working in education and most recently for UW-Madison impressed
me. She also has deep ties to the community with her parents and grandparents having lived here and having made the choice with her husband to raise their three children here. Nicole’s education, work experience and commitment to improving Stoughton give her needed perspective to make informed decisions impacting our community. This is why I am supporting Nicole in her bid to represent the 4th
district. Nicole believes in sustainable growth with new elements that make Stoughton a place where people want to visit and live. She supports local initiatives such as improving public transportation, creation of a whitewater park and the continued development of our bike trails. Her intimate knowledge of the school system issues will aid the City Council in collaboration with the school board to tackle pressing issues in
our community. She is for fiscally responsible budgets with transparent and communicative government. In Dist. 4, she wants to improve safety at busy intersections such as at the Roby Road and Hwy. 51 intersection, preserve natural landscape in residential areas, and explore commuter solutions such as a park and ride. Dist. 4, vote Nicole Wiessinger. Matt Bartlett Dist. 4 alder
Swadley has ‘fiscal experience, leadership skills’ needed for mayor Tim Swadley is the right choice to lead us into the future as Mayor of Stoughton. Tim has the fiscal experience, the management skills, the leadership skills and the drive to be the effective leader this city desperately needs to heal the unnecessary division of many years. Tim has served this community well for 14 years
with seven years on the Stoughton Board of Education and the past seven years on City Council. Tim has served on many committees in a leadership capacity and the past two years as council president. Tim is an outstanding choice to move Stoughton forward. Tim will continue to represent the best interests of Stoughton’s
tax paying citizens and its small businesses. Tim has been a local business leader for many years. Tim listens very carefully to his constituents and community leaders. Tim’s vast knowledge of local government, local business and community affairs along with his compassion to represent the people’s interests makes
Tim the right choice for mayor. Tim Swadley will serve the community with integrity, honesty and openness. Please join me in voting for Tim Swadley for Mayor of Stoughton on April 3. Michael Engelberger Dist. 2 alder
Hirsch has ‘energy, commitment,’ experience with Stoughton On April 3, I encourage you to vote for Regina Hirsch for Dist. 3 Alderperson. I have worked with Regina and she has exhibited a thoughtful and reasonable demeanor. She is fiscally responsible and has saved the taxpayers money. The Nordic Ridge park shelter will have a solar panel which will generate enough electricity to run the splash pad. Regina was mindful of the water use at the splash pad and insisted on motion
detectors along with other water saving devices. Saving money while providing fun for the kids is a winwin. Regina and I worked together to plan the Riverfront Redevelopment charrette. She found a graphic designer to develop the poster, asked businesses to display the poster, invited and kept the community updated during the event via social media, and ensured food was available for the community dinner. In addition, she was
present for many hours listening to feedback from the community. This is a leader who listens, learns and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty to get the job done. Regina has been an important member of the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) not only asking questions but thinking outside the box to offer solutions. She wants to make decisions based on facts and not emotions because these solutions will serve the community better. I have watched her as she
has offered solutions that combine ideas from different people on the committee. This shows respect to all members present. On April 3, vote for an alderperson who has energy, is committed to a thoughtful approach to problem solving and is respectful. Please vote for Regina Hirsch for Alderperson from Dist. 3. Denise Duranczyk Dist. 1 alder
Swadley will move city forward with fiscal responsibility Clear differences emerged between the two candidates during the recent mayoral debate, check it out on WSTO if you missed it. Tim Swadley shared specific plans to move the city forward with fiscally responsible, strategic economic development. He articulated an impressive understanding of city finances, strategic growth and the importance of collaboration. Tim has been an active community member for many years.
You’ll see Tim at community and school events, restaurants, the farmers market and festivals. Tim asks opinions of his neighbors, alderpersons and city leadership. He evaluates the long-term fiscal, environmental and community impact. He balances facts and figures with creative solutions. Tim understands that decisions city leaders make today, have long term positive or negative impacts that can last for many years. I have had the privilege
of working with Tim not only on council but on committees. He’s diplomatic and fair, but not afraid to ask tough questions. Transparency and accountability are not a slogan for Tim. These are core values that will serve our city well when he becomes Mayor. We have a charming city with enormous potential. To attract young people, we must provide quality housing, great schools, green space, recreation, arts, music and a vibrant
community. Tim has the leadership and vision to make it happen. By contrast, Tim’s opponent lacked specifics, a vision or a plan. Let’s not bring back the economic development practices of the 1980’s. We can do better. Please join me in supporting Tim Swadley for mayor. Lisa Reeves Dist. 2 alder
8
March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
ConnectStoughton.com
Building: Council weighing ‘risk’ vs. ‘historic significance’ Continued from page 1 14,000-square-foot blacksmith shop is being considered to possibly join them. But a decision on whether it’s possible, likely or realistic could still be months away, and it remains to be seen whether that holds up the rest of the riverfront project – a potential economic driver that seems universally desired in the community. Many old buildings are demolished unceremoniously. For example, there was no dissent over taking down the six-building MillFab complex and the Carpet Warehouse building next to Highway Trailer. OthPhoto by Amber Levenhagen ers, such as the power plant The blacksmith shop is the one structure that remains probuilding on South Fourth tected of the six at the Highway Trailers complex. Street along the river and some of the old warehous‘Nothing saves ‘To say this building es near the railroad tracks, draw private interest for a building more has no historic their aesthetics, materials or than having a use significance is just nostalgia. The debate over Highfor it.’ silly.’ way Trailer took many peoArlan Kay, historic Peggy Veregrin, Landmarks ple by surprise, not least of preservation architect Commission which was the RDA, which had owned the building for five years before voting to remove it to clear the way for redevelopment. Over the next several months, the Saturday, March 24th city lost its master developfrom 1-3 pm er, closed East South Street Nauti Norske for safety reasons and wait324 S Water St, Downtown Stoughton ed for updated cost estimates while it considered what to do with the building complex. Now that there is at least agreement on the largest, adno=565093-01 most unsafe part of the Authorized and paid for by Citizens for a Better Stoughton, Jerri Kittleson treasurer building, the city faces a
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The blacksmith shop is on the left of the Highway Trailer complex, in the foreground. MillFab behind it and the Carpet Warehouse building to the right are both being demolished. decision on the blacksmith shop, which some would like to keep and others would like to destroy. The building remains under a demolition moratorium. Eventually, supporters of preserving the building and of demolishing it alike envision a new development linking the city’s downtown with Mandt Park, featuring a riverwalk and public spaces – but no one knows when that might happen and whether the blacksmith shop will be part of it.
A shift in thinking The recent history of the redevelopment project involves a lot of planning that was halted by the council’s demolition moratorium. The RDA was established in 2007 and has been acquiring blighted properties in the roughly 12-acre area along the Yahara River since 2012, when it paid $150,000 to buy the Highway Trailer property from Stoughton Trailers. It acquired the six-acre MillFab industrial property for $750,000 in 2016. The RDA’s 2009 Railroad Corridor Neighborhood Plan led to the creation of a tax-increment district project plan in January 2010, allowing the city greater flexibility with taxpayer money in order to encourage development that would eventually pay back the debt. But between that time and when the RDA sought proposals for a master developer in the fall of 2016, the composition of the council changed. The RDA chose Tanesay Development Inc. last February to serve as master developer, and a month
later it voted to demolish the Highway Trailer complex, which the council blocked. Though the moratorium was soon reduced to the blacksmith shop in April 2017, the debate over saving the complex continued. A three-day design planning exercise – known as a charrette – was delayed from April to June, and while it was well-attended, master developer Mark Geall withdrew from the project in July, citing the council’s inability to find common ground. Some of that “indecision” still lingers, as indicated by one-third of the council last month voting against funding the Highway Trailer demolition.
Where to from here? Members of the RDA and the council differ over whether the blacksmith shop should go or stay as part of the redevelopment project. One of the city’s leading preservationists, Peggy Veregin, chair of the Landmarks Commission, spoke against the council’s decision to provide $750,000 to raze the Highway Trailer complex. She said the entire complex, including the blacksmith shop, is eligible for Local Landmark status, which provides a level of protection from demolition. “To say this building has no historic significance is just silly,” she said. Others, including council president and mayoral candidate Tim Swadley, initially supported saving the complex but over time have come to believe the community does not want to keep the building, particularly if it means holding back the
redevelopment project. The police department has been monitoring the fenced-in site to make sure civilians don’t enter it, but the monitoring is not 24 hours every day. “We consider the whole complex a risk,” police chief Greg Leck said during a Feb. 27 council meeting. A vocal contingent in the community advocates saving the blacksmith shop, however. RDA members Roger Springman and Regina Hirsch are among them. Springman reported that the architect who worked with Tanesay Development and attended the charrette, Mark Ernst of Engberg Anderson Architects, told him of “three developers who could have an interest in a building like the blacksmith shop.” He said with its open floor plan and large size, the building has the potential to become a space for public events, a farmers’ market or some other kind of public market, among other things. So far, the RDA has not attempted to market the building or plan for a feasibility study. And without a realistic assessment of the cost to restore the structure – which might not be practical until the larger complex around it is gone – it’s anyone’s guess as to the building’s future. H i s t o r i c p r e s e r va t i o n architect Arlan Kay’s told the Hub the key to the building’s future ought to be simple. “Nothing saves a building more than having a use for it,” he said. Contact Bill Livick at bill. livick@wcinet.com
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC FREE TO ATTEND GREAT FOOD SAMPLES DEMONSTRATIONS DOOR PRIZES
Thursday, April 19 5:00-7:30 PM
Mandt Community Center 400 Mandt Parkway, Stoughton
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Pictures of the riverfront property were on display during the charrette.
Photo by Amber Levenhagen
Jeremy Jones, sports editor
845-9559 x226 • ungsportseditor@wcinet.com
Anthony Iozzo, assistant sports editor 845-9559 x237 • sportsreporter@wcinet.com Fax: 845-9550
Sports
Thursday, March 22, 2018
9
Courier Hub For more sports coverage, visit: ConnectStoughton.com
Boys track & field
McHone wins 55-meter dash with third-fastest time in SHS history ANTHONY IOZZO Assistant sports editor
Senior Sam McHone started the indoor season strong Saturday for Stoughton boys track at the Nelson-Daniels Classic small school meet at UW-Whitewater. McHone won the 55-meter dash with
a personal-record time of 6.61 seconds, which was the third fastest time in school history. Stoughton took third as a team with 37 points. Monona Grove (98) and Catholic Memorial (52) were first and second. McHone took fourth in the prelims (6.79) to make the finals. Senior Weston Beylor finished 13th in
the 55 dash with the 11th fastest time in school history in 7.02, also a personal record. McHone joined senior Jake Deutsch, senior Anders Goetz and freshman Brooks Empey on the 4x200. Goetz and Empey were newcomers to the relay, and
Turn to Boys track/Page 10
What’s next Stoughton travels to UW-Platteville for a meet at 5 p.m. Thursday before traveling to Ripon College at 10 a.m. Saturday for the Ripon College Showcase.
Boys basketball
Trio of Vikings earn all-conference Schipper, McClain make first team, Fernholz makes second team ANTHONY IOZZO Assistant sports editor
Senior guard Brady Schipper and senior forward Tommy McClain each earned first-team All-Badger South Conference honors this winter for the Stoughton boys basketball team. Senior guard Max Fernholz joined his teammates as a second-team selection when the teams were announced following sectionals. S c h i p p e r, a n u n a n i m o u s pick, averaged 13.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. He finished with 329 points to lead the Vikings. The 6-footer scored a game-high 38 points in a win over Monona Grove in January. He finished the season 127-for-253 (50 percent) from the field. Coach Nolan Weber said Schipper bounced back from his junior season, when a shoulder injury hampered his play. “By the end of the year, he was our best offensive and defensive player and put us on his back,” Weber said. The 6-foot-4 McClain averaged 10.8 points, 7.1 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. He finished with 259 points and added 170 rebounds including 67 offensive boards. McClain added 34 blocks and shot 110-for-211 (52 percent) from the field. Weber said he was impressed with how much McClain improved not just from a freshman to a senior but from a junior to a senior. “His maturity and basketball IQ are so impressive. He is such a smart player,” Weber said. Monona Grove senior forward Jake Schroeckenthaler – also named Player of the Year – Monroe junior forward Kade King, and Monona Grove junior guard Caden Nelson also earned firstteam selections. Fernholz (6-foot-1) was in the next group of five. He averaged 10.9 points per game and finished with 240 points. Fernholz was 65-for-206 (32 percent) from beyond the arc. Fernholz missed a few games at the end of January due to an ankle injury. “His ability to shoot and spread the floor was crucial to everything we did,” Weber said. “He had a really good three-year varsity career.” Tw o S t o u g h t o n m e m b e r s left off the all-conference team were senior guard Aidan McGee and sophomore forward Adam
File photos by Anthony Iozzo
Senior guard Brady Schipper was named to the first-team All-Badger Senior forward Tommy McClain was named first-team All-Badger South Conference, joining teammates Brady Schipper (first-team) and Max Fern- South Conference, and he was selected to play in the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association Division 2 All-Star game to play with the South team. holz (second-team). Hobson, and Weber said he was a little disappointed for them. McGee averaged 7.1 points and 2.8 rebounds per game and was often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best player. “His toughness and rebounding and ability to guard a good player and take charges was key for us,” Weber said. “I thought he had a really great season, and two seasons in a row where he outdid my expectations.” Hobson, who Weber said has a “bright future ahead,” averaged 7.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. Both McGee and Hobson were starters with Schipper, McClain and Fernholz. Hobson is the only underclassman of the group and will be back as the lone starting returner next season.
Schipper named to WBCA D2 South All-Star roster Senior guard Brady Schipper will be representing Stoughton boys basketball on the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association Division 2 South All-Star team. The All-Star game is at 2:15 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at JustAgame Fieldhouse in Wisconsin Dells.
Participants are asked to help raise money for the Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer Fund. To donate money and sponsor Schipper, visit wisbca.org/allstargame and follow the links to the Boys D2 South rosters. Under Schipper’s name, click on the Donate/Create My Ad button.
All-Badger South First-team: Jake Schroeckenthaler, sr. (Monona Grove, Player of the Year), Brady Schipper, sr. (Stoughton), Tommy McClain, sr. (Stoughton), Caden Nelson, jr. (Monona Grove), Kade King, sr. (Monroe) Second-team: Jessi Kutz, sr. (Fort Atkinson), Brayden Zettle, sr. (Monroe), Sam Hepp, jr. (Monona Grove), Michael Merrigioli, jr. (Edgewood), Max Fernholz, sr. (Stoughton) Honorable mentions: Trevor Tietz, sr., Ben Smith, sr., and Alec Lauersdorf, jr. (Watertown), De’Andre Burrell, sr., Ethan Victorson, jr., and Erik Victorson, fr. (Oregon), Jimmy Thome, sr., and Max Nelson, sr. (Monona Grove), Mandela Deang, sr. (Edgewood), Connor O’Brien, sr., (Fort Atkinson)
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March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
Girls basketball
Pickett to coach Girls D2 South All-Star team Stoughton High School girls basketball coach Brad Pickett was selected to be one of the coaches in the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Pickett game. Pickett will coach the Division 2 South girls team at 2:15 p.m. Friday, June 16, at JustAgame Fieldhouse in Wisconsin Dells. Participants and coaches are asked to help fundraiser for the Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer Fund. Participants are asked to help fundraiser for the Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer Fund. To donate money and sponsor Pickett, visit wisbca.org/ allstargame and follow the links to the Girls D2 South rosters. Under Pickett’s name, click on the Donate/ Create My Ad button.
ConnectStoughton.com
Girls track and field
Distance runners excel in opening meet ANTHONY IOZZO Assistant sports editor
Juniors Margaret Ross and Anna Wozniak, sophomore Grace Jenny and the 4x800 relay opened the indoor season Saturday with the highest finishes for the Stoughton girls track and field team at the Nelson-Daniels Classic meet at UW-Whitewater. Ross took second in the 3,200 in 12 minutes, 30.68 seconds, and Wozniak and Jenny added thirdand fifth-place finishes in the
1,600 – Wozniak in 5:41.18 and Jenny in 5:42.12. Ross also joined junior Abby Kittleson, sophomore Molly Olstad and junior Gigi Zaemisch and took fifth in the 4x800 in 10:42.19. Junior Emma Kissling, junior Renee Anderson, Ellie Trieloff and Kittleson finished sixth in the 4x400 relay in 4:29.4. Sophomore Micah Zaemisch tied for sixth in the pole vault with a height of 7 feet, and sophomore Amber Hodkiewicz was
What’s next Stoughton travels to UW-Platteville for a meet at 5 p.m. Thursday before traveling to Ripon College at 10 a.m. Saturday for the Ripon College Showcase. seventh in the high jump with a height of 4-10. Freshman Gina Owen took eighth in the 800 in 2:41.28, and junior Audrey Killian took eighth in the shot put with a throw of
30-6 3/4. Stoughton finished tied for ninth with Clinton and East Troy with 22 points. Grafton (57), Jefferson (50) and Monona Grove (46) finished first through third.
Boys track: New look 4x200 relay finishes fourth Continued from page 9 they finished fourth in 1:38.14. S e n i o r S e a n M c L a u r y wa s third in the 800 in 2:05.17, which coach Trevor Kramolis said was impressive since McLaury had
a limited break from basketball season. Senior Ian Bormett took fifth in the 400 in 54.84. He also joined senior Joey LePine, Deutsch and Goetz in the 4x400, which took third in 3:43.33. Senior Evan Ouk was fifth in
the pole vault with a height of 11 feet, 6 inches, and senior Elijah Krumholz PRed in the shot put with a throw of 45-8, which was good for seventh. Senior Tanner Hanson was eighth in the 3,200 in 11:19.9. Kramolis wrote in an email
that freshman Carter Keo also had a great day. He was 19th in the triple jump with a PR of 36-4 3/4, and Kramolis wrote there is potential for improvement and that he will make a great addition to the jumps team.
Wrestling
Seven youth wrestlers qualify for WWF Kids State meet Friday-Saturday The Stoughton Wres- Federation Kids State meet, in Madison. The two finishers earned tling Club qualified seven which is Friday-Saturday at to the Wisconsin Wrestling the Alliant Energy Center a trip to state at Saturday’s Stoughton regional, and third-place finishers are named as alternates.
G r i ffi n E m p e y ( 2 1 0 pounds), Chance Suddeth (90), Reese Koepke (94) and Claire Spilde (105) all won titles. Trenton Dow (115), Beckett Spilde (140)
and Trevor Ray (80) all took second. Cole Sarbacker (85) finished third and is an alternate. - Anthony Iozzo
Coffee with a RepoRteR Come hang out with Courier Hub reporters to share a story idea, ask a question Amber Levenhagen or give some feedback. Like our Stoughton Courier Hub Facebook page or check our community calendar section to find out where we’ll be and when.
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March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
11
Kruse: Named secondary principal of the year by administrators
High praise The Secondary Principal of the Year selection committee includes representatives from the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators, the state Department of Public Instruction, the Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators and the Wisconsin Association of School Boards. Jim Lynch, executive director of the Association of Wisconsin School Administrators, said SHS principal Mike Kruse has “proven to be an incredible leader who is dedicated to student achievement.” “Mike exemplifies what can happen when a high school principal is truly effective at ensuring students have the resources, support and learning environments they need to be fully prepared for college and career,” Lynch said in an SASD news release.
Continued from page 1 will be joined by 49 other state principals of the year. He will also receive $1,000 to apply to a project of his choosing at the school. Each year, 12 principals around the state are nominated to receive the Kohl Leadership award from the Herb Kohl Foundation, with one selected as Wisconsin Secondary Principal of the Year. The annual award recognizes school leaders who have helped “drive student learning, foster instructional collaboration and create safe and positive school environments,” according to a Stoughton Area School District news release, with recipients selected based on their “dedication to professional excellence, leadership skills and service to their communities.” Stoughton Area School District superintendent Tim
fabrication laboratory in Wisconsin,” Onsager wrote in the news release. “In recent years, the school has consistently scored ‘exceeds expectations’ on the state school report card and has been nationally recognized for its inclusionary work.” Onsager credited Kruse as being “connected, visible and engaging with stakeholders throughout our school community,” and said his leadership “has led to considerable gains at our high school.” “He is an exceptional leader who is committed to continuPhoto submitted ous professional growth and At a surprise assembly at the high school gym Tuesday afternoon, encouraging others to succeed,“ March 20, Stoughton High School principal Mike Kruse is honored Onsager wrote. “It is a treas this year’s “Secondary Principal of the Year” by The Association mendous honor for our school of Wisconsin School Administrators. district to have an exceptionOnsager said Kruse has “taken “This has involved forging al principal like Mike receive significant steps to improve the stronger connections with the such an award.” school culture, address achieve- Stoughton community, includment gaps and promote stu- ing through the creation of the Contact Scott De Laruelle at first-ever public school STEM dent-centered leadership.” scott.delaruelle@wcinet.com.
Obituaries
Robert C. Wheaton
Robert Wheaton
Dr. Robert C. Wheaton, 88, of Burlington, passed away p e a c e f u l l y, s u r r o u n d e d by his family, on Sunday, March 18, 2018, at Aurora Memorial Hospital-Burlington.
Cress Funeral and Cremation Service 206 W. Prospect St., Stoughton 608-873-9244
Born May 20, 1929 in La Crosse, he was the son of Carroll and Theodora (U’Ren) Wheaton. He spent his early life in Fairchild, Wis., Superior, Wis. and Stoughton, where he graduated from Stoughton High School. He furthered his education at UW Madison and UW School of Medicine. On June 19, 1955 he was united in marriage to Mary Alice Falk. He served his Internship in Galveston, Texas. In 1957 he entered the US Navy where he was stationed in Pensacola, Fla., Miramar Naval Base in San Diego and Iwakuni, Japan where he was a Flight Surgeon. Upon return from the military he opened his private practice in 1959, which he maintained for 41 years. He served as Memorial Hospital staff president and medical advisor for the Burlington Area Rescue Squad, was a member of the board of Ethics at Burlington Hospital, a member of Cross Lutheran Church, PHI Beta PI Medical Fraternity, Racine Co. Medical Society, Wisconsin Medical Society, American Academy of Family Practice,
159 W. Main St. • 873-5513 Serving Stoughton since 1989.
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Wisconsin Medical Alumni Association, where he served as president of the Burlington Chapter. He volunteered with the Racine Co. Boy Scouts where he served as the Regional Medical Director. He was medical director at Mount Carmel for 25 years, medical director of the Ski Patrol at Alpine Valley and a member of the Browns Lake Yacht Club. He enjoyed golfing, skiing, riding his motorcycle, playing tennis, deer hunting, snowmobiling, sailing
Pamela Kay “Pam” Gander, age 56, peacefully passed away with her family by her side after a twoyear battle with cancer on Tuesday, March 13, 2018. She was born on Sept. 18, 1961, in Portage, the daughter of Kenneth and
Dorothy Weidner. Pam loved to make others laugh, enjoyed cooking and was always the person to turn to for advice. She lived each moment to the fullest no matter what she faced and never let it change her heart. Pam spent her days with her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her 10 children, Isaac (Tina) Carlson, Monica (Ben) Loomis, Robin Lytle, Austin Lytle, Christi (Blake) Swalheim, Eric Gander, Cody Gand e r, S a m a n t h a ( Ty l e r ) Schwoerer, Laynee Gander and Brooke Gander; her parents; a sister, Cynthia (James) Butzloff; 12 grandchildren; a niece; and two nephews. Pamela’s children would
like to thank Agrace HospiceCare and her oncologist, Dr. Ryan Porter, who cared for her through her final journey. A funeral service was held at Gunderson Stoughton Funeral and Cremation Care, 1358 Hwy. 51 N. Jackson St., Stoughton, at 3 p.m. Friday, March 16, 2018. Visitation was held at the funeral home from noon until the time of the service on Friday. Online condolences may be made at gundersonfh. com. Gunderson Stoughton Funeral & Cremation Care 1358 Hwy. 51 N. Jackson St. (608)873-4590
and spending time with his family. Bob is survived by his wife, Mary Alice; children, David (Holly) Wheaton of East Troy, Dr. Doug (Dr. Jenny) Wheaton of Detroit, Mich., Jules Wheaton of Burlington and Karen (Scott) Jehn of Wind Lake; grandchildren, Crysta (Adam) Wolter, Chandra (Matthew) Price, Max Wheaton, Maddie Wheaton and Quentin Jehn. He is also survived by great grandchildren, Chloe and Espen Wolter and Georgia
and Grant Price; his sister, Connie Fellows and nieces, Susan, Nancy and Pam. He was preceded in death by his parents. The family asks that memorial contributions be sent to City of Burlington Rescue Squad or Aurora at Home Hospice. A special thank you goes out to the Burlington Rescue Squad and the wonderful staff at Burlington Hospital ER and ICU, as well as Aurora at Home Hospice. Services for Bob w i l l b e h e l d a t 5 p . m .
Sunday, March 25, 2018, at Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home. Visitation for family and friends will be at the funeral home from 2-5 p.m. Sunday, March 25.
Pamela Gander
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory 625 S. Browns Lake Drive Burlington, WI 53105 (262) 763-3434 danielsfamilyfuneral. com
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Wednesday, March 28,10AM
2,050 acres
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- Feed Lot with 100 x 456 Cattle Shed, additional outbuildings and home - Hog Facility with 4 Barns and 16 Bins - Brick Rambler w/ 40 x 60 Pole Building - Numerous Tracts w/ Machine Sheds
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Donald J. Flattem, age 85, passed away peacefully Tuesday, March 13, 2018, at Dycora Transitional Health-Fort Atkinson. He was born Feb. 4,
Pamela K. Gander
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Donald Flattem
them. A graveside service will be held at 11:30 a.m. Friday, March 23, 2018, at Cooksville Cemetery. Special thank you t o D y c o r a Tr a n s i t i o n al Health-Fort Atkinson, especially Nicole Sommerfeldt and Jill Noyce for all their caring and help, and to Agrace HospiceCare for their comfort in Don’s last few days. Please share your memories at CressFuneralService.com.
1933, in Stoughton to the late John and Lucile (Richard) Flattem. He was married to Ella Jane Flattem. Donald worked as a welder at Stoughton Trailer for many years. He is survived by his sister Marion Blabaum; daughter Susan (Daniel) Caulfield; other relatives and many dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife Ella Jane Flattem in 2006, son Donald William “Billy” Flattem in 1963, seven siblings and special friend Vernel Stenjem. “Grandpa Don” has been a very special part of the Stenjem family for the past several years, and he will be greatly missed by all of
2018
Donald J. Flattem
12
March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
Alder candidate questionnaires
ConnectStoughton.com
(D-1), to return a questionnaire. with incumbents not returning. Dennis Pince. Each candidate was asked to limit District 2 features Phil Caravello The election is April 3. The Hub also encouraged unop- answers to 100 words on two quesagainst Franklin James, and District 4 is Nicole Wiessinger against posed incumbent Sid Boersma tions and 50 on the others.
The Hub sent questionnaires to In District 3, incumbent Regina each candidate for City of Stoughton Hirsch is getting a challenge from alder this month about themselves Dorann Bradford. and current issues facing the city. Districts 2 and 4 are both open,
City of Stoughton District 2 spring election 2018
City of Stoughton District 2 spring 2018
Phil Caravello
Franklin James
Age: 53 Family: Single Originally from: Madison, WI Lived in Stoughton since: 1995 Education: High School diploma, some college Occupation: O w n e r, S t o t o n Cycle Employer/job title: Self-employed Political experience: Member of the City of Stough- Caravello ton River and Trails Task Force. 2014 District 2 write-in candidate. Other notable affiliations: Endorsed by Stoughton Dems and Progressives, Dane Dems, South Central Federation of Labor; Member of the Founding Board of Yahara River Grocery Co-op; Helped create fundraising runs and bike rides that benefit the Stoughton Food Pantry, Yahara River Grocery Co-op and Victorian Holiday Celebration; Provided basic bicycle maintenance clinics and mechanical assistance to local Cub Scouts, Dane County Sheriff Department, Stoughton Safety Camp, Oregon Rotary and Stoughton High School; Member Wisconsin Bike Fed. Why are you running for alder? I feel strongly that when you are part of a community, you work to contribute to its health and vitality. I’d like to contribute my skills and
abilities to create a stronger community and keep Stoughton moving forward. Why are you the most qualified person for this office? I’ve been a Stoughton resident and downtown business and property owner for 23 years. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to interact with and listen to numerous residents. This has given me insight on a wide range of issues and opinions, which will help me make well-reasoned decisions. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? * Being part of the team that sets the groundwork for successful redevelopment of our riverfront into something that future generations will be proud of and impressed by. * Focusing on urban infill where we already have infrastructure to support development. * Seeing Stoughton connected to the lower Yahara River trail. * Creating and connecting Stoughton to a larger regional transportation network. Is there anything the city has done in the last two years you would have done differently? I would not have committed the use of TIF dollars for the Kettle Park West development. My priority would have been to dedicate available TIF funds to the riverfront and railroad corridor and downtown revitalization.
What can the city to do attract (and keep) young families? How important is this to you as a candidate? We can help by promoting and marketing Stoughton and our schools in a way that will attract families to our community. Stoughton is a quaint, friendly and welcoming town with good schools, and that needs to be marketed in a more effective way. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? The City has not been transparent with some of its past decisions. Increasing and improving the City’s ways of disseminating information and communicating with its residents will help to increase transparency and encourage citizens to be part of the decision-making process. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and challenges? The assets that we currently have, and should build upon, are our strengths: the river, the quaint and attractive downtown, the sense of community, our location and our schools. Some challenges we have are: staying focused on smart, sustainable growth; making sure we have a clean, safe environment; figuring out how we can be part of a larger regional transportation plan; and making sure our historic downtown remains a vibrant component of our City.
Age: 25 Family: Two parents and three brothers Originally from: Stoughton Lived in Stoughton since: 1992 Education: Stoughton Class of 2010; some college Occupation: Line cook Employer: Viking Brew Pub Political experience: None Other notable James affiliations: None Why are you running for alder? I am running to be an alder because I want to do my best to represent my district; and to help keep my community continuing on the path to a prosperous future. Why are you the most qualified person for this office? My age and enthusiasm would bring a rarely seen perspective to the council, which would bring balance to representation of my district. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? I hope to continue the progress on the development of the Riverfront, curb the heroin/methamphetamine epidemic, and to get others in my demographic excited to become involved in city governance.
Is there anything the city has done in the last two years you would have done differently? I would have led city council through the Wagonworks situation in such a way that we would arrive at the inevitable and expected conclusion in a more timely and cost effective manner. What can the city to do attract (and keep) young families? How important is this to you as a candidate? The city can increase opportunities and public awareness of vocational and STEM programs in the district, which would attract and retain young families. This is vital to the city’s tax base and future. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? The number of closed sessions has been unprecedented, giving the public the impression that there is no transparency. The city could keep more sessions open that don’t require to be closed. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and challenges? Stoughton’s biggest strengths are its strong identity and history, and that we are a full service community with clinics and a hospital. There are also numerous employment opportunities. Stoughton’s biggest challenge is to bring the opiate and other IV drug epidemic to light.
City of Stoughton District 4 spring election 2018
City of Stoughton District 4 spring election 2018
Dennis Pince
Nicole Wiessinger
Age: 67 Family: Wife Terry, two grown children, three grandchildren Originally from: Superior, WI Lived in Stoughton area since: 1977 Education: North Central Technical College Occupation: Broadcast Producer – Pince Director Employer: State Bar of Wisconsin – Retired Political experience: Stoughton Opera House committee and the Stoughton Cable Commission Why are you running for alder? I believe City Council could show more progress toward residential and business developments to benefit our community. I can, and will, work respectfully with my fellow alders, the mayor, and staff to achieve these goals. I will trust committees charged with presenting facts upon which these decisions are based. Why are you the most qualified person for this office? Having lived in our community for 40 years, worked for the City and owned a small business, I understand the needs and concerns of our residents and shop owners. In my
13 years at the State Bar of Wisconsin I worked and problem solved with professionals of many backgrounds. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? Work with an economic development committee to assist City Council in moving forward with Kettle Park West residential and business developments, river front project, and expansion of our Industrial Park. I would also work toward adding staff to police, fire and EMS, and address other concerns brought to my attention. Is there anything the city has done in the past two years you would have done differently? The Department of Transportation and the city require only two access roads to Kettle Park West Phase II, which includes a residential development. City council voted to require three, delaying a plan that would financially benefit the entire city. I would have voted against restrictions. What can the city do to attract (and keep) young families? How important is this to you as a candidate? We need to provide young families with housing, quality schools, and recreation. To that end: Council should lift restrictions on residential
developments; If residential developments proceed there will be sufficient funding for schools, with programs such as arts and music; Results of ongoing research regarding construction of kayak, canoe and other activities should be followed. This is important to me because I want to see Stoughton thrive. To thrive Stoughton must grow, with each new generation building its own traditions and histories. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? As I see it the city, between council and various committees and mayor’s office has been transparent. There is always room for improvement however, and I am looking forward to being a part of that process. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and its challenges? Stoughton’s biggest strength lies in its residents. They represent the virtues of small town life such as friendliness, a welcoming spirit and rich history. Its biggest challenge is maintaining these qualities without stifling expansion, and the benefits that accompany it. Stoughton could become a shining example of how to blend its history with its promise of tomorrow’s financial
Age: 31 Family: Husband Adrian Stocks, children Elsa (9), Audrey (5), Graham (2) Originally from: Portage Live in Stoughton since: 2011 Education: Master’s degree in educational administration, Bachelor’s degree in education Occupation: Higher education Wiessinger Employer: UW-Madison, Student Academic Affairs Po l i t i c a l e x p e r i e n c e : Stoughton Area school board (past) Task Force on Poverty, Facilities committee and Finance committee Other notable affiliations: Executive Board for Sustainable Stoughton (present), Executive Board for NASA’s Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium (past) Why are you running for alder? My parents grew up in Stoughton, my grandparents still live here and my husband and I chose to raise our three children here. I care deeply about this community and am committed to ensuring Stoughton is a place to live, work and play, for everyone, now and in the future. Why are you the most qualified person for this office? We need a Council that is representative of our community. We need the voice and perspective of young families in our body of elected officials. I bring that and I offer
the experience of a career in public education and professional experience in strategic planning, policy analysis and leadership. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? I am committed to partnering with the School District to tackle pressing issues such as declining enrollment, increased poverty, homelessness and substance abuse. I will promote fiscally responsible budgets with transparent and communicative government. I will foster sustainable development and balanced growth throughout the city, while supporting a vibrant downtown. Amenities such as the proposed Whitewater Park, increasing access to public transportation, completing the bike trails and commuter solutions are all priorities. In District 4, the safety of the Hwy 51 and Roby Road intersection, exploring a park and ride and preserving natural landscape in residential areas are important issues. Is there anything the city has done in the last two years you would have done differently? While I support the development itself, I would reverse the funding strategy for Kettle Park West. Residents showed disapproval of such borrowing in the referendum. Elected officials should uphold community values and represent constituents to the extent possible. With such developments, transportation and access issues should be considered and addressed.
What can the city do to attract (and keep) young families? Attracting and retaining young families is vital for sustainable and strategic growth. This will support our schools in curbing declining enrollment. To attract and retain families we need strong schools, amenities, recreation and accessible resources. We must ensure affordable single family homes are available for young families. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? We need transparent and communicative government so people can provide input on decisions. We need to share information in multiple, consumable ways and upgrade our City website so it is a robust source of information. We need to include a broader spectrum of voices from our community when making decisions. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and its challenges? Stoughton has been slower to develop and grow, which is not the case for some of the surrounding areas. This is an opportunity, as we now have the ability to do so in a strategic and sustainable way. This is also a challenge. We need to be forward thinking and make decisions that benefit the present, but also the future. An example would be ensuring the completion of safe, family friendly bike trails that would offer a mode of transportation for locals and tourists to our beautiful downtown and to the State Park.
ConnectStoughton.com
March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
13
City of Stoughton District 3 spring election 2018
City of Stoughton District 3 spring election 2018
Regina Hirsch
Dorann Bradford
Age: 55 Family: (left blank) Originally from: Brookfield Lived in Stoughton since: 2005 Education: Ph.D from UW-Madison in the department of wildlife ecology, minor in entomology; MS from Ya l e U n i versity in environmen- Hirsch tal studies; BS from UW-Madison concentration in pychology O c c u p a t i o n : S t r a t eg i c planner and administrator; environmental educator and consultant; grant writer; yoga instructor Employer: Advanced Engines Development Corporation; president of R.M. Hirsch Environmental Consulting; instructor at Stoughton Yoga Political experience: Chair of Parks and Rec committee, Finance committee, Council Affairs and Public Policy Committee, Public Safety Committee, Redevelopment Authority, Rivers and Trails Task Force. Other notable affiliations:Founding member and treasurer of Sustainable Stoughton; UW-Center for Integrated Agricultural Systems representative on the State Technical Committee (STC) for Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA; Wildlife Subcommittee for the STC, NRCS; Former board of directors for Yahara River Grocery Coop; Vice President and board member for Island Birding Corp.; Volunteer cook for The Gathering in Milwaukee (soup kitchen) Why are you running for alder? I am running for re-election as I enjoy working with you and developing sound policies that benefit the whole community. I believe in strategic and sustainable growth that balances the need for more housing
options with high quality public safety services (police, fire, EMS, public works-roads) and fiscally responsible budgets. Sustainable growth also means increasing parks and trails, skilled labor jobs, and transportation options within our city and commuting to Madison. I look forward to continuing to work with city staff, community, and council to see projects through to fruition (e.g., Riverfront development, Whitewater Park, and Roby Road intersection). Why are you the most qualified person for this office? I have been actively involved in our community and understand the community needs and concerns. I take an inclusive approach to policy-making: listening to citizens, staff, and council members, researching topics thoroughly, and using that knowledge to develop sound policies that address the situation in a reasonable and effective manner. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? 1. Aggressively pursue DOT and city for a stoplight at Roby Road intersection. 2. Increase skilled labor opportunities by creating a Golden Shovel program that packages and markets development-ready land for new businesses. 3. Propose new committee consisting of schools, CARES, police, youth center, and parents to address youth drug and alcohol problems. 4. Continue to develop an environmentally sound and family friendly whitewater park. 5. Continue to pursue a riverfront master developer who is willing to incorporate community vision of greenspace and community gathering spaces with green energy housing and commercial options that create ample revenue for the city. Is there anything the city has done in the last two years you would have done
differently? Council dynamics changed in the last two years with four new actively engaged members and council president leadership. This change allowed council to make sound decisions with respects to KPW new TIF request and access roads; Highway Trailer buildings demo; new public works building; new RDA members, and school-council collaboration. What can the city to do attract (and keep) young families? How important is this to you as a candidate? Continue collaboration with school board to improve schools while promoting areas of excellence, and increasing skilled labor opportunities, parks and trails, and family friendly opportunities, while maintaining safe and well-maintained neighborhoods will attract young families and ensure our children attend our schools. This is the sustainable growth I work toward. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? We continue to improve in this area, especially in the budget process. To make knowledge-based budgetary decisions, council needs to be informed about each departments’ needs and expenditures prior to the mayor presenting his/her budget. Previously, the mayor could make cuts to department budgets without council knowledge or involvement. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and its challenges? Stoughton has many strengths: our beautiful historic downtown and opera house, parks and trails, small and large businesses, great schools, city staff, and an engaged community. One challenge is balancing the desires of our community to maintain our small town integrity with needed growth. Creating a strategic plan is paramount.
Age: 67 Family: Son John, daughter-inlaw Robin, granddaughter Jordyn Jeanette Originally from: Northern Virginia Lived in Stoughton since: 2016 Education: The American University Washington, D.C. Occupation: My past experience as a m i s s i o n d ev e l o p e r Bradford for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America together with my experience as a Realtor provides a skill set that will be very useful in meeting the demands of public office in Stoughton. Political experience: None Other notable affiliations: North Atlantic Girl Scouts, London Area coordinator, trainer and troop leader; Red Cross of America, Camp Lejeune, director of volunteers, chairman fundraising and special events; ELCA disaster relief, Biloxi, Miss., Katrina Response Team and support; women’s shelter, Arlington, Va., co-chair fundraising and corporate sponsorship; ecumenical support center Arlington, Va., peer counselor with victims of family violence; University Women, American University, public safety committee; Habitat for Humanity, Salvation Army, and C21 Cares Stoughton and The River in Madison Why are you running for alder? I am running because I love this city and feel blessed to be a part of Stoughton. I can contribute the experience and skills I have gained in life to find solutions for the challenges we face as a city. Why are you the most qualified person for this office? Stoughton needs a person who is open minded enough to listen and constructively work with all the people involved, including city staff, community members, elected officials and partners outside the city. I will listen and dialog to build consensus and take decisive action steps to get things done. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? I would work to restore the trust and respect between the council and city staff along with engaging citizens more effectively. I would put an emphasis on economic development
and collaborative future planning for the city, producing a vision that will guide decisions and accomplish our goals. Is there anything the city has done in the last two years you would have done differently? The defeat of the Highway Trailer demolition in 2017 delayed the riverfront project creating a major safety issue. Recently the council passed a similar demolition motion but it doesn’t address the issue completely and leaves us with problems and expense moving forward. I would work to end delays and indecision. What can the city to do attract (and keep) young families? How important is this to you as a candidate? As a Realtor I know there are families looking to move to our city, but the market has not had the homes to satisfy demand for three years and it is not getting any better. We also have businesses looking for space in the business park to house their growing companies which could bring more families, but what they need is not available. The issue is not attracting, but providing what people need so they can establish roots in this city. The solution is moving forward with the riverfront, Phase 2 of KPW and expansion in the business park. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? Transparency is such a buzz word and a way to shame and blame everyone but the person using it. The way we receive and distribute information has changed in society and the city needs to use the most effective tools available, in a timely manner, to inform the public. The public will then be able respond in a constructive way to inform city decision makers. We need to schedule interactive events with alders on a regular basis, use the city website to post summaries and easily accessible updates and incorporate the use of social media to invite public participation. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and challenges? Stoughton is an amazing place with a unique character and history that should be loudly and proudly celebrated. Our biggest strength lies in friendly people who want to share the great small town atmosphere in an up to date city with others. We need to promote that spirit!
City of Stoughton District 1 spring election 2018
Sid Boersma Age: 68 Fa m i l y : S h a r o n M a s o n - B o e r s m a , Daughter Sarah Wethal (Chad Wethal), Alexander and Avery, Grandchildren and Son, Andrew Boersma (Rachel Boersma) Granddaugher on the way Originally from: Fox Lake Lived in Stoughton since: 1981 Education: BS Social Welfare, UW Whitewater, 1976, MSSW Social Work 1979, Predoctorate Studies, to graduate Newburgh Sem- Boersma inary, Indiana with Ph.D in June, 2018 Occupation: Realtor, broker and social worker, LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), State of Wisconsin Political experience: Alder, Stoughton, District 1 for five years. Personnel committee, Library Board, Commission on Aging, Board of Review, Public Works, Tree Commission, Housing Commission, Opera Board- prior to serving on Council, past member of RDA Other notable affiliations: Kiwanis, Home Buyer’s Round Table of Wisconsin, past member of Rotary, Stoughton,
American Legion, current member of 15 Lutheran Church, HATS member (Housing Advocacy Committee of Stoughton), previous Stoughton Chamber Ambassador, previous six year member of Syttende Mai Committee, previous four-year member of Sustainable Stoughton, Mental Health Lead for Southwest Area American Red Cross-Madison Disaster Mental Health Why are you running for alder? I am committed to the City of Stoughton and want to assist in helping this community grow and prosper through smart, sustainable and steady growth. Why are you the most qualified person for this office? I have a long history with this city and am dedicated to it’s growth and success. I have a lengthy history as an Alder in District 1. What are the things you hope to accomplish during your term in office? Development in the previous MillFab site an new housing in the Kettle West area of the City. A reasonable comprehensive plan with flexibility for residents when plans are made by the city in sidewalks and curb and gutter projects. I would like to have a part-time or fulltime city planner in place with experience
to include an economic development focus for this city. Is there anything the city has done in the last two years you would have done differently? I would have liked to have had the development of MillFab site in place already to include the removal of the Highway Trailer Building. We need to begin building more single family and multifamily housing to attract younger families. I am concerned about all of our delays of late and will do all I can as an alder to get us moving again. I would like to have a more specific limit on the number of establishments having liquor licenses and limits on granting special permits for events when children are present. We need planning to address alcohol and chemical addiction in Stoughton. I am especially concerned about narcotics available in our city. Our work has to be a coordinated effort with our schools to deal with the issue of our declining student population. That fact has been hurting our city. What can the city to do attract (and keep) young families? We need more housing, both affordable
and move up and we need more housing options – good and safe places to live. More housing development projects and work by our chamber and city staff to advertise our city. We need an active community center and more child and family resources-possible children’s museum and pool. Has the city been transparent enough over the past two years? What could it do better? We have not been transparent enough, especially in how our money is spent on various studies and projects. More scrutiny on the projects we can afford and the ones that can wait. We need more transparency on our fiscal strengths and weaknesses and have a better pay as you go plan. What do you see as the city’s biggest strengths and its challenges? We have great city staff and a good work force. We have a great library, good schools/great teachers. Not enough housing starts. We need additional opportunities for children, economic growth, recognition of downtown businesses. We need to address the culture of drinking and drugs and to reverse the trends through education/ reasonable approaches to licensing facilities and festivals.
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March 22, 2018
Stoughton Courier Hub
Stoughton Hospital announces new CEO Dan DeGroot will start in May AMBER LEVENHAGEN Unified Newspaper Group
Stoughton Hospital announced its new CEO Monday afternoon. Dan Degroot will start May 7, just a few weeks before Terry Brenny retires after 28 years with the hospital. “Dan brings the necessary DeGroot expertise and capabilities to our community that will allow us to continue our mission of providing safe, quality healthcare with exceptional personalized service,” Brenny stated in a news release. “His expertise, combined with his leadership skills, community focus and collaborative team approach will be an asset to the community we serve.” DeGroot brings more
than 35 years of healthcare and related experience, such as strategic development, value-based programming and accountability for organizational performance, according to the news release. Most recently, DeGroot has worked as chief operating officer at St. Clare Memorial Hospital in Oconto Falls. He previously was with Marshfield Clinic, Allina Hospital and Clinics and Bellin Health System. He received a master of business administration degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and his undergraduate degree from University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. He is also a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Wisconsin Hospital Association and the Wisconsin Rural Health Cooperative. For more information about Stoughton Hospital, visit stoughtonhospital. com. Contact Amber Levenhagen at amber.levenhagen@wcinet.com.
ConnectStoughton.com
Next steps
School stance on walkout
Now that the walkout is over, SHS senior Colette Vitritti said students are trying to keep the momentum going. She said a student who helped organize the demonstration is planning to start a new club to educate people about gun violence and how to promote a safe school environment. Another walkout is being planned for April 20, the anniversary of the Columbine school shooting in 1999.
SHS principal Michael Kruse sent a letter to district families a few days before the March 14 walkout, explaining that students needed parental approval to be excused from class, because the district can’t sanction non-school related events that cause students to miss class. It said district staff had “advised our students about the importance of making good choices, both inside and outside of school.”
Walkout: Students demonstrate for ‘empowering’ 17 minutes Continued from page 1 “It was beautiful to look into the crowd and see people praying or keeping their head down, holding hands with others in unity and showing emotion to remember the lives lost.” Vitiritti said there were mixed reactions to the walkout by students. “I felt so empowered to be surrounded by people that are the future and people that are going to make a change,” she said. “It was a little disheartening to know people wore shirts to be against us, with pictures of Trump and guns, but it’s okay because you’re always going to face opposers in life.” Contact Amber Levenhagen at amber.levenhagen@ wcinet.com.
Photo by Amber Levenhagen
A group of students hold signs and take pictures while waiting for students to gather for the demonstration.
Legals NOTICE TOWN OF PLEASANT SPRINGS REQUEST FOR 2018 BIDS 2018 ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS The Town of Pleasant Springs Clerk will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 2, 2018 at the Town Hall, 2354 CTH N, Stoughton, WI, 53589-2873, during office hours – Monday and Tuesday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Questions concerning the roads to be included in the project, as well as a request to obtain a Bid Specification packet, may be directed to the Public Works staff by phone at (608) 205-9169 or by fax at (608) 877-9444. A performance bond in the amount of 100 percent of the total bid price, a Certificate of Insurance naming the Town as an additional insured, and a signed contract, will be required of the successful bidder. The Town Board reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to accept the bid or bids deemed to be most advantageous to the Town. The Town may pay prevailing wage. Bid opening will take place on Monday, April 2, 2018 at Noon, or as soon as thereafter as practicable, at the Town Hall. The Town Board will review the bids at their meeting on April 5, 2018 and reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to accept the bid or bids deemed to be most advantageous to the Town. Bid envelopes must be clearly marked “2018 ROAD CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS” and must be addressed to: Town of Pleasant Springs Attn: Town Board 2354 CTH N Stoughton, WI 53589-2873 /s/ Maria Hougan Clerk/Treasurer Published: March 15 and 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** NOTICE TOWN OF PLEASANT SPRINGS REQUEST FOR 2018 BIDS CHIPSEAL SURFACING TOWN ROADS The Town of Pleasant Springs Clerk will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 2, 2018 at the Town Hall, 2354 CTH N, Stoughton, WI, 53589-2873, during office hours – Monday and Tuesday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 10:00 a.m.to 6:00 p.m. The project work consists of chipseal surfacing on various Town roads. A separate bid must be submitted for each road. The bidder shall recommend and clearly specify the following information on each bid form: BITUMINOUS MATERIAL: - Asphalt Cement PG 58-28 with no cutback (Emulsified asphalts will not be acceptable) COVER AGGREGATE -3/8” washed, fractured peastone aggregate coated with no less than 1% AC Asphalt MATERIALS QUANITITIES TO BE USED -Asphalt .35 Gallons per square yard (4,200 per 20-foot-wide mile) - Aggregate 24 pounds per square yard (140 ton per 20-foot-wide mile) -Final total cost for the road, based on the road’s actual width CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS: - All chipsealing work must be completed by August 17, 2018. Questions concerning the roads to be included in the project, as well as a request to obtain a Bid Specification packet, may be directed to the Public Works staff by phone at (608) 205-9169 or by fax at (608) 877-9444. A performance bond in the amount of 100 percent of the total bid price, a Certificate of Insurance naming the Town as an additional insured, and a signed contract, will be required of the successful bidder. Bid opening will take place on Monday, April 2, 2018 at Noon, or as soon thereafter as practicable, at the Town Hall. The Town Board will review the bids
at their meeting on April 5, 2018 and reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to accept the bid or bids deemed to be most advantageous to the Town. Bid envelopes must be clearly marked “2018 CHIPSEAL BID” and must be addressed to: Town of Pleasant Springs Attn: Town Board 2354 CTH N Stoughton, WI 53589-2873 /s/ Maria Hougan Clerk/Treasurer Published: March 15 and 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** NOTICE TOWN OF PLEASANT SPRINGS REQUEST FOR 2018 BIDS SEALCOAT SURFACING TOWN ROADS The Town of Pleasant Springs Clerk will receive sealed bids until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 2, 2018 at the Town Hall, 2354 CTH N, Stoughton, WI, 53589-2873, during office hours – Monday and Tuesday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 10:00 a.m.to 6:00 p.m. The project work consists of sealcoat surfacing on various Town roads. A separate bid must be submitted for each road. Contractor shall furnish the labor and material to complete sealcoating. Apply GSB 88 emulsified asphalt pavement rejuvenator per specifications included in the bid packet. CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS: - All sealcoating work must be completed by August 17, 2018. Questions concerning the roads to be included in the project, as well as a request to obtain a Bid Specification packet, may be directed to the Public Works staff by phone at (608) 205-9169 or by fax at (608) 877-9444. A performance bond in the amount of 100 percent of the total bid price, a Certificate of Insurance naming the Town as an additional insured, and a signed contract, will be required of the successful bidder. Bid opening will take place on Monday, April 2, 2018 at Noon, or as soon thereafter as practicable, at the Town Hall. The Town Board will review the bids at their meeting on April 5, 2018 and reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to accept the bid or bids deemed to be most advantageous to the Town. Bid envelopes must be clearly marked “2018 SEALCOAT BID” and must be addressed to: Town of Pleasant Springs Attn: Town Board 2354 CTH N Stoughton, WI 53589-2873 /s/ Maria Hougan Clerk/Treasurer Published: March 15 and 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** NOTICE TOWN OF PLEASANT SPRINGS OPEN BOOK The Assessment Roll for the Town of Pleasant Springs will be available for inspection after March 19, 2018 at the Clerk’s Office, 2354 County Road N, Stoughton, WI 53589, during regular office hours. The office is open Monday and Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The town assessors, Accurate Appraisal, LLC, will hold OPEN BOOK, at which time property owners can examine the assessment roll and discuss assessments, at the Town Hall, 2354 County Road N, on MONDAY, MARCH 26, 2018, from Noon to 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm., and on TUESDAY, MARCH 27, 2018 from 9:00 am to noon, and from 1:00 to 3:00 pm. We encourage every property owner to take advantage of the opportunity to; * Learn how the assessment was calculated. * Compare your property to similar properties. * Verify open land acreages and val-
uations. * Learn how market activity affected the assessment. To schedule an appointment for Open Book, please contact Accurate Appraisal at 1.800.770.3927 or log on www. accurateassessor.com and click on the scheduling link. If you cannot be present at Open Book, please call Accurate Appraisal, or e-mail your questions to question@accurateassessor.com. Please note that, upon reasonable notice, efforts will be made to accommodate the needs of disabled individuals through appropriate aids and services. For additional information or to request this service, contact Pili Hougan at the Town Hall, 2354 County Road N, Stoughton, WI, 53589. T: (608) 873-3063 F: (608) 877-9444 E: clerktreasurer@pleasantsprings.org /s/Pili Hougan Clerk/Treasurer Published: March 15 and 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** LUTHERAN CEMETERY ASSOCIATION The Lutheran Cemetery Association will hold its annual meeting at 1:00 p.m., March 28, 2018, at Christ Lutheran Church, 700 Cty. Hwy B, Stoughton, WI. Roger Utermark, President Published: March 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** NOTICE CITY OF STOUGHTON NOTICE OF VOTING EQUIPMENT TEST WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2018 9:00 A.M. A public test of the automatic tabulating equipment to be used at the Spring Election (April 3, 2018), will be held on Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at 9:00 a.m. at the Stoughton Fire Station (Election room), 401 E Main Street, Stoughton, WI. This test is open to the public. Holly Licht City Clerk Published: March 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** CITY OF STOUGHTON 381 E. MAIN STREET STOUGHTON, WI 53589 ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL An ordinance amending the zoning classifications at 2439 County Highway A and 1101 Collins Road in the City of Stoughton (CSM Lot 1 and 2 attached as Exhibit A) Committee Action: Planning Commission approved 6 – 0 with the Mayor voting on Feb. 12, 2018 Fiscal Impact: File Number: O - 8 – 2018 Date Introduced: First Reading: Feb. 27, 2018 Second Reading: March 13, 2018 RECITALS 1. The City of Stoughton (the “Applicant”) has applied to change the zoning classification of the property at 2439 County Highway A (CSM Lot 1 in Exhibit A) from RH - Rural Holding to I - Institutional and 1101 Collins Road (CSM Lot 2 in Exhibit A) from RH - Rural Holding to HI – Heavy Industrial. 2. The applicant proposes changing the zoning classification of these lands to allow a public works facility to be constructed at 2439 County Highway A and a composting operation at 1101 Collins Road. 3. On February 12, 2018, the City of Stoughton Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding Applicant’s proposed zoning changes. The public hearing was preceded by the publication of a class 2 notice, and other notice required by law. 4. The Planning Commission found that the proposed zoning changes are consistent with the City of Stoughton Comprehensive Plan and recommend that the zoning change be approved as presented. 5. The Common Council has con-
sidered the proposed zoning change, the Plan Commission’s recommendation and finds that the proposed zoning change is consistent with the City of Stoughton Comprehensive Plan. ORDINANCE The Common Council of the City of Stoughton, Dane County, Wisconsin do ordain as follows: Section 1. The recitals set forth above are material to and are incorporated in this ordinance as if set forth in full. Section 2. The zoning classification of the property at 2439 County Highway A (CSM Lot 1 in Exhibit A) is changed from RH - Rural Holding to I - Institutional and 1101 Collins Road (CSM Lot 2 in Exhibit A) shall be changed from RH - Rural Holding to HI – Heavy Industrial. Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect upon publication pursuant to law as presented. Dates Council Adopted: March 13, 2018 Mayor Approved: March 13, 2018 ___________________________ Donna Olson, Mayor Attest: March 13, 2018 ___________________________ Holly Licht, City Clerk Published: March 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** MEETING OF: COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF STOUGHTON DATE/TIME: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2018 @ 7:00 P.M. LOCATION: COUNCIL CHAMBERS (2ND FLOOR OF PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING) 321 South Fourth Street, Stoughton, Wisconsin Members: Mayor Donna Olson, Tim Swadley, Matt Bartlett, Sid Boersma, Michael Engelberger, Regina Hirsch, Greg Jenson, Kathleen Johnson, Denise Duranczyk, Tom Majewski, Pat O’Connor, Lisa Reeves, and Scott Truehl CALL TO ORDER Mayor Olson called the meeting to order at 7:00p.m. Roll Call, Communications, and Presentations: Clerk Licht called the roll and noted that 11 alderpersons were present. Sid Boersma was absent and excused. Minutes and Reports: The following minutes and reports were entered into the record: A. Planning Commission (1/8/2018), Landmarks Commission (1/4/2018), Redevelopment Authority (1/10/2018), (1/31/18) B. January 2018 Treasurer’s Report Public Comment Period: * Bob McGeever, 309 W. Randolph St., spoke in support of R-40-2018. * Tricia, Suess, 832 W. Jefferson St., spoke in favor of R-40-2018. * Roger Springman, 812 Kriedeman Dr., spoke in opposition of R-40-2018. * Peggy Veregin, 225 N. Monroe St., spoke in opposition of R-40-2018. CONSENT AGENDA A. February 13, 2018 Council Minutes B. R- 33 -2018 – Resolution Authorizing and directing the proper city official(s) to issue Operator Licenses to various applicants. Motion by Majewski, second by Truehl, to approve the consent agenda. Motion carried 11-0. OLD BUSINESS O-7-2018—Ordinance amending section 70-1 and adopting §343.0301 pertaining to the installation of Ignition Interlock Device Motion by Truehl, second by Duranczyk, to approve O-7-2018 amending section 70-1 and adopting §343.0301 pertaining to the installation of Ignition Interlock Device. Motion carried 11-0. NEW BUSINESS R- 34-2018 - Resolution declaring intent to exercise special assessment powers for the 2018 Streets Projects Motion by O’Connor, second Truehl to approve R-34-2018 declaring intent to exercise special assessment powers for the 2018 Street Projects. On roll call, mo-
tion carried 11-0. R- 35-2018 - Resolution authorizing and directing the proper City official(s) to approve the responsive website upgrade proposal with GovOffice for the City website. Motion by Reeves, second by Swadley to approve R-35-2018 authorizing and directing the proper City official(s) to approve the responsive website upgrade proposal with GovOffice for the City website in the amount of $4365 annually for 2018-2020. Motion carried 11-0. O-8-2018- Ordinance amending the zoning classifications for City of Stoughton Public Works Facility at 2439 County Highway A and 1101 Collins Road in the City of Stoughton (CSM Lot 1 and 2 attached as Exhibit A) Truehl offered O-8-2018 as a first reading and it will be back before the Common Council on March 13, 2018. R-36-2018- Resolution Approving a Certified Survey Map (Exhibit A – CSM Lot 1 and 2) to combine the properties for the City of Stoughton Public Works Facility at 2439 County Highway A and 1101 Collins Road which are owned by the City of Stoughton, Dane County, Wisconsin. Motion by Truehl, second by Engelberger to approve R-36-2018 Approving a Certified Survey Map (Exhibit A – CSM Lot 1 and 2) to combine the properties for the City of Stoughton Public Works Facility at 2439 County Highway A and 1101 Collins Road which are owned by the City of Stoughton, Dane County, Wisconsin. Motion carried 11-0. R-37-2018- Resolution approving Conditional Use Permit to allow more than 120 percent of the minimum required parking stalls for a City of Stoughton Public Works Facility at 2439 County Highway A, Dane County, Wisconsin. Motion by Truehl, second Engelberger to approve R-37-2018 approving Conditional Use Permit to allow more than 120 percent of the minimum required parking stalls for a City of Stoughton Public Works Facility at 2439 County Highway A, Dane County, Wisconsin. Motion carried 11-0. R-38-2018- Resolution Approving an extra-territorial jurisdictional (ETJ) Land Division request by Dale Furseth for property located at 731 Bass Lake Road, Town of Rutland, Dane County, Wisconsin. Motion Truehl, second by Engelberger to approve R-38-2018 approving an extra-territorial jurisdictional (ETJ) Land Division request by Dale Furseth for property located at 731 Bass Lake Road, Town of Rutland, Dane County, Wisconsin. Motion carried 11-0. R-39-2018- Authorizing and directing the proper City official(s) to Amend the Planning Department Fee Schedule Effective March 1, 2018, and providing for future inflation-based adjustments to the Fee Schedule Motion by Duranczyk, second by Hirsch to amend the original motion and approve R-39-2018 authorizing and directing the proper City official(s) to amend the Planning Department Fee Schedule Effective March 1, 2018, and providing for future inflation-based adjustments to the Fee Schedule with the following language: fees under 5 hundredths of a cent will be rounded down to the nearest cent and fees over 5 hundredths of a cent will be rounded up to the nearest cent. On roll vote, motion carried 7-4 with Jenson, Truehl, O’Connor and Bartlett voting ‘no’. On roll call vote, motion carried as amended 11-0. R-40-2018- Resolution Authorizing and directing the proper City official(s) to rescind the demolition moratorium and direct the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) to start the demolition process for the Highway Trailer complex including the attached Blacksmith shop Motion by Swadley, second by Duranczyk to substitute the following motion in place of the resolution: Authorizing and directing the proper City official(s) to authorize the funds needed up to $750,000 for the Redevelopment Authority (RDA) to start the demolition process for the Highway Trailer building
complex excluding the Blacksmith shop. Swadley added that the Blacksmith shop doesn’t pose an immediate public safety threat. Swadley said that he wants to give a potential developer some options. Motion carried on roll call vote 8-3 with Johnson, Majewski and Engelberger voting ‘no’. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Jenson, second by Truehl to adjourn at 8:46 p.m. Motion carried 11-0. Published: March 22, 2018 WNAXLP *** TOWN OF RUTLAND ADVERTISEMENT FOR SEALCOATING (CHIP SEALING) BIDS PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Town of Rutland is seeking bids for 2018 sealcoating (chip sealing) of several Town roads as identified below. All bids shall be marked “Seal Coating Quote”, and submitted to the Town Clerk, whose offices are located at 4177 Old Stage Road, Brooklyn, WI 53521 up to and including 5:00 p.m. on April 2, 2018. Bids will be opened on April 5, 2018 at the town hall which is located at 785 Center Rd. Contracts may be awarded on the same night. The Town of Rutland Board reserves the right to reject any/or all bids and to select the lowest responsible bidder. 1. Project Description The attached map shows the roads proposed to be seal coated (chip sealed). The Town may choose to do only the highest priority roads, depending on cost and budget considerations. Bidders may wish to arrange a road inspection trip with the Town‘s patrolmen to better understand individual project needs and to prepare a more accurate quote. Lead Patrolman Nels Wethal may be reached at 608 577-5691. The possible candidates for 2018 seal coating are: 1. Sunrise Rd. (n. of Hwy 138) 4720’ x 22’ 2. Old Stone Rd. (east end) 2850’ x 22’ 3. Oak Lane Rd. 3750’ x 20’ 2. Specifications: * Based on use of 3/8“ aggregate * length and width of each road proposed * estimated gallons of oil proposed to be used and cost per gallon of oil to be applied (gal./sq. yd) * estimated number of tons of stone to be used and the cost per ton of stone * all quotes to include power brooming prior to application of the seal coat 3. The award will be based on * the proposed cost * the proposed materials to be used, * the references submitted and * the warranties provided. The Town Board will determine which proposal is deemed to be in the best interests of the Town. The Town reserves the right to reject any or all bids. The successful bidder, upon notification, must provide the Town with * a Certificate of Insurance naming the Town as an additional insured. * a statement holding the Town harmless from any litigation or claims resulting from the execution of this bid. 4. Scheduling The Town wishes to have this work completed during the 2018 road work season, meaning done prior to September 1. 2018. Attach a proposed time schedule showing how soon the work can be started after bid acceptance, and how many days or weeks it will take before completion. 5. Payment Payment to the contractor will be made within 30 days of the completion of the seal coating and an approved inspection by the Town. Dawn George, Clerk Published: March 22, 2018 WNAXLP ***
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ALL SEASONS SELF STORAGE 10X10 10X15 10X20 10X25 10X30 Security Lights-24/7 access OREGON/BROOKLYN CALL (608)444-2900 C.N.R. STORAGE Located behind Stoughton Garden Center Convenient Dry Secure Lighted with access 24/7 Bank Cards Accepted Off North Hwy 51 on Oak Opening Dr. behind Stoughton Garden Center Call: 608-509-8904
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DEER POINT STORAGE Convenient location behind Stoughton Lumber. Clean-Dry Units 24 HOUR LIGHTED ACCESS 5x10 thru 12x25 608-335-3337
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FRENCHTOWN SELF-STORAGE Only 6 miles South of Verona on Hwy PB. Variety of sizes available now. 10x10=$60/month 10x15=$70/month 10x20=$80/month 10x25=$90/month 12x30=$115/month Call 608-424-6530 or 1-888-878-4244
LAWN MOWING Residential & Commercial Fully Insured. 608-873-7038 or 608-669-0025 RIGHT HAND MAN SERVICES lawn mowing & trimming, clean up, etc. Over 17 years experience. 608-898-0751
602 Antiques & Collectibles COLUMBUS ANTIQUE MALL & CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS MUSEUM "Wisconsin's Largest Antique Mall"! Customer Appreciation Week 20% DISCOUNT April 2-8 Enter daily 8am-4pm 78,000 SF 200 Dealers in 400 Booths Third floor furniture, locked cases Location: 239 Whitney St Columbus, WI 53925 920-623-1992 www.columbusantiquemall.com
652 Garage Sales STOUGHTON. 615 Kensington Square. 3/23-24.9-4. Estate sale. Antiques, collectibles, furniture, hospital bed, dish&glassware.
NORTH PARK STORAGE 10x10 through 10x40, plus 14x40 with 14' door for RV & Boats. Come & go as you please. 608-873-5088
696 Wanted To Buy WE BUY Junk Cars and Trucks. We sell used parts. Monday thru Friday 8am-5:30pm. Newville Auto Salvage, 279 Hwy 59 Edgerton, 608-884-3114
705 Rentals 2 BEDROOM upper, 2 unit building. Parking for 1 car in back lot. No Pets. Stoughton. Rent $725 Available April 15th. 608-332-6013 GREENWOOD APARTMENTS Apartments for Seniors 55+, currently has 1 & 2 bedroom units available starting at $795 per month, includes heat, water, and sewer. 608-835-6717 Located at: 139 Wolf St., Oregon, WI 53575 OREGON 2-Bedroom in quiet, well-kept building. Convenient location. Includes all appliances, A/C, blinds, private parking, laundry, storage. $200 security deposit. Cats OK $715/month. 608-219-6677
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990 Farm: Service & Merchandise RENT SKIDLOADERS MINI-EXCAVATORS TELE-HANDLER and these attachments. Concrete breaker, posthole auger, landscape rake, concrete bucket, pallet forks, trencher, rock hound, broom, teleboom, stump grinder. By the day, week, or month. Carter & Gruenewald Co. 4417 Hwy 92 Brooklyn, WI, 608-455-2411 CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE IS Noon Friday for The Great Dane and Noon Monday for the Courier Hub unless changed because of holiday work schedules. Call now to place your ad, 873-6671 or 835-6677.
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664 Lawn & Garden 36" SCAG Commercial Mower Hydro 15 HP Twin Cylinder, Kawasaki engine, Metal bagger. Many extra blades included. Brand new 2 Velke wheels included. $2595. OBO 48" Scag Tiger Cub riding zero turn mower, commercial with 19hp Kawasaki engine. New battery, Electric start, Vacuum system, Dethatcher. Pull behind aerator $5795 OBO Phone 608-8457088 or 608-575-6788
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Forum: Candidates at odds on development Continued from page 1 holding up progress on the Wal-Mart Supercenter-anchored Kettle Park West development and the riverfront redevelopment project. Swadley, a local business owner who’s been council president since 2016, touted his management experience at large companies, his seven years of service on school board and six years on council, and he repeatedly connected McGeever to the current administration. He slammed Mayor Donna Olson’s administration for losing the community’s trust, a lack of transparency, poor communication and not following its own rules, adding, “nothing would be different under Bob.” He defended the council’s decisions to slow a “bad deal” on KPW and blamed the Redevelopment Authority for problems with the riverfront project. The candidates also disPhoto by Amber Levenhagen Mayoral candidates Tim Swadley and Bob McGeever shake hands after the mayoral forum on cussed their personal management styles, the future of March 15. the Stoughton mayor position, the city’s connection with the financially struggling school district and whether the city should contribute to the planned residential phase of KPW. Each got a few zingers in, such as Swadley’s response to a comment comparing KPW and Epic, which is now about half of Verona’s tax base. “I’ve been to Epic, and MORTGAGE that’s no Epic,” he said. McGeever disagreed that an economic development director would be worth the money Swadley said he 1 would spend on creating and filling the position. Instead, he said developers and others who work with the city need to know that it’s easy to work with, and he blamed the withdrawal of the riverfront WITH A SUMMIT MORTGAGE, YOU’LL GET: master developer last year on the council for not knowing • A FREE preapproval, so you know how much house you what it wanted for the area.
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‘We need to bring in an expert who can reach out to a developer and share our vision and recruit them.’ Tim Swadley a big problem, but Swadley attributed it to “the way things have been handled in City Hall,” while McGeever identified the council’s decisions on KPW and the riverfront project. He said those two efforts could “add about a 14 percent boost to our tax base and move the burden off of the homeowner.” “Stoughton has a reputation as a do-nothing city,” McGeever added. “We need to turn that around, because right now we’re aging out and turning into a retirement community.” Swadley said he would work to regain people’s trust and feels it’s time city leaders started listening to residents. “I will use data from a community-wide survey in my first budget to get feedback on how much and what type of growth we want,” he said.
‘Stoughton has a reputation as a donothing city. We need to turn that around.’ Bob McGeever and objectives for its project and then recruited a developer who was receptive to the city’s plan. He repeated his position that the city hire a professional planner or economic development director. “We need to bring in an expert who can reach out to a developer and share our vision and recruit them,” he said. M c G e ev e r d i s a g r e e d about establishing a redevelopment plan and also that the city needs to hire a planner or economic developer. He said the RDA has an expert consultant, and the city already has a professional planner in Rodney Scheel. “Rodney’s really good at his job,” McGeever said. “The city shouldn’t do a detailed plan,” he added. “The city should recruit talented developers who understand the market and what we can do with this site.”
Planned accomplishRather than talk about the ments
Highway Trailer
best way forward with the riverfront redevelopment, as Hub editor Jim Ferolie asked them, both candidates rehashed decisions from the past year. McGeever blamed the council for the lack of progress on the riverfront project, while Swadley pointed to the Redevelopment Authority. McGeever said the council was responsible for blocking the demolition of the Highway Trailer complex after the RDA voted to do so in March 2017. Two w e e k s a f t e r t h e RDA’s decision, the council put a moratorium on demolishing the complex. A month later, Swadley pointed out, the council lifted the moratorium on the complex with the exception of what’s known as the blacksmith shop. In September, the council met as a committee and recommended the RDA seek bids for the demolition work. But a demolition estimate didn’t come back to the council until January. S wa d l ey a c c u s e d t h e RDA of foot-dragging, and McGeever charged the council with lacking a sense of urgency. “When we found out in July that it was a safety hazard, nobody did anything to move it forward,” McGeever said. “We need to tear down that building as soon as possible, then a get a developer in here … and turn these professionals loose to drive that project to conclusion.”
Redevelopment plan?
The pair also disagreed on whether the city should have a redevelopment plan in place to present to and guide a future developer. Swadley suggested Stoughton follow the approach the City of MonoBiggest challenges na has taken with a simiThe candidates agreed lar project. He noted that the city’s lack of growth is Monona established goals
Asked what they planned to accomplish over the next four years, Swadley said he’d restore trust in local government. He also said he wants to improve planning by hiring an economic development director, conduct a community wide survey and launch a city social media site to improve communication. McGeever would focus on getting the riverfront redevelopment project going and completed, move ahead with the second phase of development at KPW, and develop a staffing plan to hire more public safety personnel.
Nice guys The candidates had some areas of agreement, including no hesitation when asked their opponent’s strongest qualities. Both said the other is “a nice guy.” Other things they agreed on are that the city must do a better job of communicating with residents and that it has talented people in key leadership positions. They both called for better use of the city’s webpage and social media. “The citizens are really engaged,” McGeever said. “They just don’t know where to find the information.” They also both said they have strong management experience, along with a passion for local government. As mayor, both said they would work collaboratively with the school district and the city’s various constituencies. Both also agreed in the importance of maintaining the city’s history and hometown feel while spurring new growth, especially in attracting young families to the community. “We need to find that balance,” Swadley said. “We need a vision for what we want as a community.”