County Board candidates respond to election questions
There are a number of contested races for Taylor County Board for the April 2 election Each of the candidates who filed nomination papers for the contested races was asked to answer an election questionnaire. The responses received are as follows and appear in alphabetical order: In District 2 which includes Wards 3 and 4 of the city of Medford incumbent Tim Hansen faces Ryan Hillebrand.
Tim Hansen
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background?
While not a native, I have lived in Medford for 46 years. I was appointed to the County Board in 2011 to fill the remaining term of Jim Seidl when he passed. I then served for five successive terms, until the 2022 election when I decided not to seek reelection for family reasons.
In 2023, County Board chair Jim Metz asked me to serve the remaining term of Greg Knight, who moved out of the district. (Are we sensing a pattern here?) For those that don’t know, I have worked at Sports Page for the past 20 years. In addition I have been a bus driver for Krug Bus. Currently, I am semi-retired from the Page and continue to drive school bus.
Why do you want to serve on County Board? I think experience in any job is important and having served for more than decade on the board, my experience is an important asset going forward. In the past I have served as chairman of the Library board, Chairman of the Heath Department, Chairman of the IT Committee, and member of the Personnel, Finance and Law Enforcement committee. Currently, I serve on Extension, Land Conservation, Land Information, Health and IT.
This wide range of experience in county departments makes me uniquely qualified to serve the residents of District 2 and Taylor County as a whole.
What do you think the biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it?
As in the past, the biggest challenge we face is trying to balance our budget in the face of state imposed revenue caps. For over a decade we have asked our department heads to come to budget hearings with a zero percent increase for essential and discretionary spending not including wages and benefits. It is an almost impossible task (just ask any homeowner with a budget)Yet, to their credit our department heads have all worked within these constraints.
We need to continue to lobby our legislators to at least allow us to spend up to the consumer price index (CPI).
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
As I stated previously, my experience brings a lot to the board. With the wide range of committees served on as an added advantage.
Let me tell you something about our county board. Yes, we have people who are Republican and yes, we have people who are Democrats, but I am so proud of our ability come together for the good of Taylor County.
Good people typically make good decisions and while people may not agree with all the decisions of this and past boards, remember these supervisors are not professional politicians and are trying their very best to serve all citizens of Taylor County.
What is something the county is doing right? See previous answer!
Ryan Hillebrand
My name is Ryan Hillebrand, I’m running for a seat on the Taylor County Supervisory Board for District 2.
My family and I have made Medford our home for the past 12 years. My wife, Vanessa, grew up in Medford. I’m originally from Lake Mills, Wi. After graduating from high school, I served in the U.S. Army -Reserve for 8 years. When we moved to Medford in 2012, I enrolled in classes at Northcentral Technical College and graduated in 2014 with a degree in Supervisory Management. I currently work at Sierra Pacific Industries.
I’ve decided to run for this position because I want to learn what it takes to make a county great. Our government, good, bad or otherwise has always been fascinating to me. The supervisory board is a non-partisan position. I feel serving on the board would be a great opportunity to learn more about the inner workings of county government. One of the most common statements I heard while gathering signatures was, “We need change.”
If I’m elected, I hope this will be my starting place to work together for the betterment of our cities and the county.
One of the questions I was asked is “What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the county over the next 5 years and how would you address it?”
In honesty, I don’t know specific issues. This is exactly WHY I am running. I want to learn about the struggles and success the county faces. I want to serve our community and be part of its improvement. If elected, I will be a quick learner. We live in a wonderful piece of Wisconsin. I hope to bring fresh perspective and new ideas to the board and the citizens it represents. Please consider voting for me in the primary on Feb. 20 2024.
In District 6, which includes Ward 2 of the town of Medford and the town of Chelsea, incumbent Scott Mildbrand faces a challenge from Nathaniel Rinehart for the seat.
Scott Mildbrand
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background.
I have lived in Taylor County my entire life. I attended college at UWLaCrosse and have a degree in Biology. I have been a business owner and employer for the past 40 years. I have also been very active doing volunteer work in the community including Whittlesey Lions Club, Little Lamb Childcare board of directors, formerly coaching various youth sports in the area, American Legion baseball coach and Medford Area Youth Hockey Association board of directors. I am an avid outdoorsman and enjoy the recreational opportunities that the county has to offer.
Why do you want to serve on the County Board? Taylor County is a great place to live, work and raise a family and I will work to try to make it even better. Taylor County is unique in that we have excellent schools, health services and employment opportunities along with a lifestyle that can only be found in north central Wisconsin. I want to insure that projects such as broadband, the Aging and Disabilities Resource Center, road maintenance, veteran services and outdoor recreation are maintained. Taxpayer money should be spent on these types of worthwhile projects rather than hiring a County Administrator.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it?
Keeping the tax rate as low as possible while still providing essential services, treating the county employees fairly and still be able to provide the extra things that provide for a high quality of life in the county. I believe that can be accomplished by better prioritizing the spending of the county and also by paying better attention to detail as far as following the budget.
I am fiscally conservative and my votes on the county board have reflected that philosophy.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county to move forward?
I thoroughly research all subjects, am not afraid to ask questions and am able to share my opinions in a clear and concise manner. I have balanced budgets my entire business career. My experience on the county board has given me a good working knowledge of the various departments so I am able to make common sense decisions moving forward.
What is something the county is doing right? The county is keeping its debt manageable. I believe that government debt is a big problem in the United States. Taylor County doesn’t have that problem. I also believe that creating the position of administrative coordinator to handle personnel issues was a good decision. This allows the finances of the county to be handled by the county board, as I believe it should be.
Nathaniel Rinehart
My name is Nathaniel Rinehart and I have lived in Taylor County for 23 years. My parents, Mark and Candy Rinehart, are originally from Goodrich and Rib Lake respectively. They raised me with my siblings in the town of Medford and taught us to have strong morals and values. I currently work at our family business in Stetsonville where we build electrical panels and program both PLCs and robots. I also volunteer weekly with teenagers at the Cutting Edge Youth Center as a game leader.
The reasons I am seeking this office are twofold. First, I have always been interested in learning how local government works and in helping others understand what exactly running for office looks like. Secondly, I have a strong desire to see our county grow and thrive by considering new ideas and ways to improve the lives of our citizens.
I believe the biggest challenge facing Taylor County is that people my age are not choosing to stay here after high school or to come back after college. Many in my generation would rather reside in larger cities. While competing with these cities may be improbable, my intentions are to give them reasons to choose Taylor County. I would like to work with the village boards and the city council to begin filling the empty buildings that are in our area. By offering more shopping, employment and recreational options, it may encourage younger people to stay. We may also be able to use the increase in revenue to find ways to lower taxes in our county.
I am a person who is willing to do the research and push for changes where they are needed. I am also willing to listen to the advice of those who have more experience than I do, and to my constituents on ideas and changes they would like to see the county make. There will be many decisions that I will be a part of, and if I am elected, I intend to keep our county doing what works and to correct what does not.
I’ve noticed that our roads are getting repaired after several years of desperately needing it. While there is still more progress needed, I feel that things are gradually getting better. I also feel that the work that has been done to our internet accessibility has been a major improvement. As the internet becomes more and more of a needed public utility, it has become increasingly important that all members of our community have easy access to high-speed internet.
While I may be a younger candidate, this is not a decision that I made lightly. Many hours of discussion with friends, family members, and people in my district took place for me to even consider running for this position. I take the job and the responsibilities seriously and would work incredibly hard for you all if elected. I thank you for your consideration and humbly ask for your vote on April 2nd. Let’s work together to bring about positive change and keep Taylor County moving forward.
In District 10, which includes the town of Browning and the town of Goodrich, incumbent Catherine Lemke will face a challenge from Adam Keeling. Last summer Keeling led a recall attempt to oust Lemke from her position.
Adam Keeling
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background?
As a candidate with 15 years of experience in both state and county government positions, along with a background of military service, I bring a diverse skill set and a deep commitment to public service to the table. My professional journey has provided me with invaluable insights into the inner workings of government, allowing me to navigate complex challenges and deliver results
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that benefit our communities.
My tenure in state and county jobs has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of policy development, budget management, and program implementation. I have a proven track record of collaborating with diverse stakeholders, finding innovative solutions to pressing issues, and ensuring accountability and transparency in all endeavors.
Furthermore, my military service has instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, integrity, and leadership. I have honed my ability to remain calm under pressure, make sound decisions in high-stakes situations, and prioritize the well-being of others above all else.
Despite my extensive professional background, my most cherished role is that of a dedicated family member. Raising my family in Taylor County serves as my source of inspiration and motivation to work tirelessly towards building a better future for our community. I am deeply committed to creating a safe, prosperous, and inclusive environment where families like mine can thrive and prosper for generations to come. I am ready to leverage my skills, knowledge, and passion to address the needs and aspirations of our residents and lead Taylor County towards a brighter tomorrow.
Why do you want to serve on County Board? As a candidate for the Taylor County Board of Supervisors, I am deeply committed to the well-being and prosperity of our community. Having lived in Taylor County for the past 11 years, I have witnessed firsthand both the challenges and opportunities that our county faces. I am passionate about making a positive difference and believe that serving on the County Board is an impactful way to contribute to the betterment of our community. I am dedicated to fostering collaboration among stakeholders, implementing effective policies, and advocating for initiatives that promote economic growth, enhance public services, and preserve our natural resources. With a strong sense of integrity, a collaborative spirit, and a genuine desire to serve, I am eager to bring my skills, experience, and dedication to the Taylor County Board of Supervisors to help shape a brighter future for all residents.
What do you think biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it?
The most pressing challenge facing Taylor County over the next five years is likely to be navigating economic fluctuations and ensuring sustainable growth. As businesses strive to remain competitive and communities work to maintain stability, it will be essential for the County to prioritize strategies that foster economic resilience, support local enterprises, and address the needs of residents facing financial hardships.
To tackle this challenge effectively, I propose a multifaceted approach: Supporting Local Enterprises: Implement initiatives to provide financial assistance, technical support, and resources to local businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. This may include offering grants, low-interest loans, or tax incentives, as well as facilitating access to training programs and business development services.
Stimulating Economic Development: Work collaboratively with community stakeholders, economic development agencies, and industry partners to attract new businesses, industries, and investments to the county. Focus on diversifying the local economy by identifying key growth sectors and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Investing in Infrastructure: Prioritize investments in critical infrastructure projects, such as transportation networks, broadband expansion, and utilities, to enhance connectivity, facilitate commerce, and improve quality of life for residents. These infrastructure investments will create jobs and provide a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth.
Promoting Tourism and Recreation: Leverage Taylor County’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities to promote tourism and attract visitors to the area. Develop marketing campaigns, events, and attractions that highlight the county’s unique offerings, while also supporting local businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Equitable Growth: Ensure that economic growth is inclusive and equitable, addressing disparities and supporting marginalized communities. Prioritize initiatives that promote workforce development, affordable housing, healthcare access, and social services to support the well-being of all residents.
By adopting a comprehensive and proactive approach to economic development, Taylor County can overcome challenges and build a vibrant, resilient economy. As a member of the County Board, I am committed to working collaboratively with stakeholders to implement these strategies and promote the economic prosperity of our community.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
One skill or ability that I can bring to the County Board is effective communication and collaboration. As a strong communicator, I excel in articulating ideas, facilitating discussions, and building consensus among diverse stakeholders. I have a proven track record of fostering constructive dialogue and finding common ground on complex issues. By promoting transparency, inclusivity, and active engagement, I believe I can facilitate more productive and impactful decision-making processes within the County Board. Additionally, my ability to collaborate effectively with fellow board members, community leaders, and residents will contribute to building strong partnerships and advancing initiatives that promote the overall well-being and prosperity of Taylor County.
What is something the county is doing right? A commendable aspect of Taylor County’s efforts is its dedication to fostering community engagement and participation. The county has implemented various initiatives and programs that encourage residents to actively participate in decision-making processes, provide feedback, and contribute to the betterment of their communities. This commitment to community engagement is evident through town hall meetings, public forums, and advisory committees that allow residents to voice their opinions, share concerns, and collaborate with county officials on issues that affect their lives. By prioritizing community involvement, Taylor County is fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment among its residents, leading to more informed decision-making and a stronger sense of unity and cohesion within the community. We can further increase this by once again opening up meetings to Zoom to allow more residents the ability to participate regardless of there ability to make a meeting in person.
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background?
I was raised in Taylor County in a bustling family of 20 children. While serving in the military I married Erhardt Lemke in 1981 and together we raised three wonderful children and now I delight in my grandchild. Sadly, after 40 years together my husband passed away just 3 months ago. During my career, I dedicated 15 years to working at Kraft, Phillip Morris and then Nestle Pizza Co. I was a town Clerk for a time. I find great joy and purpose in being a part of the County Board, where I have time and can continue to serve and contribute to our community.
Why do you want to serve on the County Board? I want to continue to give back to the community; I want to use my experiences to make things better for the people who live here. I care about making sure money is spent wisely and that plans are made for the future. Serving on the County Board lets me be a part of these important decisions that affect everyone in Taylor County.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years and how would you address it?
The biggest challenge for our County is making sure we have enough money to do everything we need to do. We need to be open about how we’re spending money and involve everyone in deciding what’s most important. Planning ahead is key too. So we can use our resources wisely. By working together and planning carefully, we can make sure our County keeps running smoothly.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
I bring a set of skills to the county board that can help drive positive change and progress. With my experience of being on the board since December 2015 I can assess issues and make an informed decision. I encourage all voices to be heard and considered and work with others to find the best solution for all.
What is something the county is doing right? Community Services such as health programs, public safety and social services. Financial management by ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and responsibility and budgets are balanced.
In District 11, which includes the town of Greenwood and Ward 2 of the town of Rib Lake, incumbent James Gebauer faces Jessica Mudgett. While Mudgett appears on the ballot she has withdrawn from the race due to moving out of the county to take a new job.
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background?
Is a Taylor County resident all my life. I have lived in the town of Greenwood my whole life. I have been married over 50 years and am a graduate of Rib Lake High School. I worked construction for large and small local companies until retirement. I have served as supervisor and chairman roles of Greenwood township for over 25 years and have served on County Board for 8 years, serving on the following committees Finance and Personnel, Highway, Zoning and Solid Waste and Recycling, Buildings and Grounds, Forestry and Recreation and Mining.
Why do you want to serve on County Board? I would like to continue to serve Taylor County to the best of my ability. I enjoy meeting and serving people of this area and surrounding areas.
What do you think the biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it?
Balancing the budget, taxes, and keeping our roads and highways as safe as possible by upgrades.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
I have 25 years of experience wth county and township projects. Gaining much experience with serving on the committees I currently serve, on county levels.
What is something the county is doing right? I feel we are keeping our county with in the best service we can with what we are facing. There is always something we have to work on, but I feel we do a great job.
In District 12, which includes Ward 1 of the town of Rib Lake and the village of Rib Lake, incumbent Rollie Thums will face a challenge from Billy J. Leggett, Jr. Legget did not respond to the questionnaire.
When I graduated from Rib Lake High School in 1963 I did what most small town graduates did, I headed to the city to work. In my case, it was at Neuendorf Transportation in Chicago Illinois. I worked there for three years and they were the worst three years of my life. All I could think of was getting back to the area I had been raised in and loved. Thankfully job opportunities started opening up and I headed back in 1966 and have never regretted it for a second.
I have been married to my high school sweetheart, Susan Marschke Thums, for almost 60 years. We have been blessed with an amazing family. We have two sons, two daughters, 12 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. I am grateful that they could be raised here and most of them have chosen to live in this area also. They are one of the main reasons that I have served on the Rib Lake Fire Department for almost 50 years, the Rib Lake School board for more than 25 years and the Taylor County Board for 18 years. I want to help serve and preserve this wonderful place we live in.
I am an avid sportsman and I have been an active,
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founding member of the Nordic Ski Club. I was instrumental in bulldozing most of the trail, some of which is on my land. I understand the importance of recreation and the revenue that it brings to this area.
I am very familiar with logging and forestry management. I have been employed in middle management for most of my life. I believe all of these give me life skills that are important for what I do on the county board.
I hear from and speak with many Taylor County residents on a regular basis and I work hard to represent them. I am not afraid to stand alone on any matter that I feel strongly about and I am also willing to go along with the majority when the final vote is taken.
My greatest concern for the future of Taylor County is the massive increase in mental health issues that have occurred since the Covid 19 lock downs. I wish that I had an answer as to how to address that, but I do not and I am not sure that anyone else does. I would do whatever I could to not allow that to happen again.
As to one thing that Taylor County is doing right, I have to say that it is doing so much right. We have good, well maintained road systems. We have an excellent forestry management program. We have a high standard of excellence in our health services and our human services programs. I am very proud of our quality of police protection and our commitment to our veterans. We have high quality employees. All of this makes me very proud and determined to work for the citizens of this area. That is why I would ask for your vote in the upcoming April election.
In District 14, which includes the towns of Cleveland, Jump River, McKinley and Pershing, incumbent Myron Brooks faces a challenge from Karen Cummings.
My name is Myron Brooks and I am currently Taylor County Supervisor in District 14. I am also chairman of the Jump River Electric Cooperative Board, a position that I have held for 13 years. I was a member of the Mining Committee and helped write the Taylor County Mining Ordinance. Other committees I have served on are Law Enforcement, Emergency Services, the Taylor County Extension Office, Highway and Zoning and Forestry.
The Forestry Committee repaired the dam at Miller Dam and replaced the dams at Chelsea and Camp Eight. The County Forest was also expanded many times. This was all accomplished with 50% cost sharing from Knowles and Nelson stewardship funds. With a timber sale ready, the county was able to pay for these properties in two years. An increase in carbon credits could be a new source of revenue if the demand continues to grow.
Ambulance services in rural Taylor County is a problem that the Taylor County Board is looking at addressing while saving money.
I have spent the last 1.5 years working with Verizon to put up a cell tower that will serve most of District 14. As chairman of Jump River Electric Cooperative, we are working with Charter-Spectrum to bring fiber broadband, cell phone service and television to those members in District 14.
While serving as a supervisor for Taylor County, I have worked to get transmission funds for this community which included $9,000 for a new roof on the Jump River Community Center, $10,000 for Jump River Park improvements and $5,000 for the Jump River/McKinley ball park improvements.
With your support, I will continue to work for the residents in District 14.
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background?
I grew up and currently live in Jump River on the family farm. I am married and have one son and two grandchildren. I graduated from the Gilman High School. I received my accounting degree from NTC.
I worked in the private and public sector in the accounting field. I retired from Chippewa County Clerk of Courts as the Court Accountant.
I have been the treasurer for the Town of Jump River the past seven years.
Why do you want to serve on County Board? Living in a rural area, I would like broadband accomplished sooner than later. We have a dire need for faster ambulance services to our area. Our first responders provide a vital service to our areas.·We need to have more active recruitment in those areas.
What do you think biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it?
Keeping up with the never ending technical advances and changes in the work force. Recruiting and maintaining qualified employees to offer services to our county.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
I feel my years of public service and background have given me insight into the problems facing our rural county.
What is something the county is doing right?
The county takes advantage of the grants available to upgrade our roads and services.
In District 17, which includes Ward 2 of the town of Hammel and the town of Holway, incumbent Rod Adams faces a challenge from Joseph Kohn.
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background? I am “retired” Lived, worked & played in Taylor Co. all my life and raised my children here. Now most of my grandkids are in school or going to college.
Why do you want to serve on County Board?
I enjoy doing community service work. I have been a town chairperson in the town of Holway for many years and also president of the Holway Lutheran Church Cemetery Association and Taylor Co. District 17 board supervisor.
What do you think biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it? The biggest issue I can see is trying to keep our county work force. It’s a real issue for the county and the industries in our area. We need more housing, up grades in the school district and adding more retail stores to our communities.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
Having common sense and listening to the voters that I talk to. I try to not have any personal agendas. Just do things that help the county as a whole.
What is something the county is doing right?
The county board voted to start up a new strategic planning committee that are working on a new mission and vision statements for the county.
Please tell us about yourself. What is your background?
My name is Joseph Kohn. Taylor County has been my home all my life. Raised in Hammel and living in Holway for the last ten years, I feel I know where I live and what the community values. My wife and I are doing our best at raising our four children on our small hobby farm. Selfreliance is important to us and many of the citizens of Taylor County. Besides my family and our animals, I also enjoy gardening, hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with extended family and friends.
Why do you want to serve on the County Board? Politics have always interested me. As I have gotten older and watched events unfold around me, I have decided now is a good time to try my hand at local government. The act of governing others, allocating their money for the betterment of our community cannot be easy. As with all levels of our government, our county needs to be looking forward. Younger members of our community have to step up and take the lead. We need fresh voices, new opinions, involved individuals who want to tackle the everyday and unexpected issues affecting every citizen of Taylor County. We need people that want to listen to others and do their best to see our county into the future. I believe I am one of those individuals.
What do you think the biggest challenge facing the county over the course of the next 5 years will be and how would you address it?
As with most Americans, those of us in Taylor County are facing concerns over finances. Where will the money come from and where will it go? We need fresh eyes to look at the problems and address them accordingly. We do not want to pay any more than we have to, but things need to be financed. Whether it is public safety, roads, county services, or the like, we need to prioritize them and decide how to best help every community member without overspending. Getting the pulse of the county and being conscientious of the wants and needs of the people. All while being as open and transparent as we can with every individual.
What skill or ability can you bring to the county board that will help the county continue to move forward?
Speaking to and listening to others has always been important to me. The act of communication has the ability to eliminate many misunderstandings. Following local news and events has also been of the utmost importance to my daily life. Raising a family, managing a household, and helping others where I can, are all important skills when trying to provide for others. Having a degree in accounting gives me a working knowledge of finance, budgeting, and meeting financial goals.
What is something the county is doing right? The county does try to keep taxes in check. The broadband program should benefit the whole county. Putting off a decision on the carbon credit program was a good idea, until we have more information and time to evaluate it properly.
Additional profiles for candidates running for School Board and
Rib LakeVillage Board will appear in next week’s issue ofThe Star News.
Ryan Hillebrand
Scott Mildbrand
Nathaniel Rinehart
Adam Keeling
Catherine Lemke
James Gebauer
Rollie Thums
Myron Brooks
Rod Adams
Joseph Kohn
