Spring Election Preview

Mark Stevenson is challenging incumbent Paul DeWitt for the chairman’s position.

Mark Stevenson

3497 Weldon Ct., Sturgeon Bay

920.824.5054

Family: Wife, Mary; three children and two grandchildren

Age: 61

Education: High School and two years college

Occupation: Retired from Wisconsin Department of Commerce in 2002; started my own inspection company, contracting to cities, towns and villages.

Previous Elected Office (if any): Rice Lake School board and now in my third term as town of Gardner Supervisor

Mark Stevenson

Relevant Experience/ Civic involvement: Supervised all state building inspectors for the State of Wisconsin

Why are you the best choice for Town Chairman? I feel that I have a more hands on ability in handling issues and dealing with people.

What is the number one issue facing the town and what is your position on it?

The main one right now is the budget. Cuts have to be made, starting with the town board. We currently have five people on the board and are only required to have three. Many towns of our size and larger only have three members and with the state of the economy we should seriously think about reducing the size of our board. This would save us approximately $6,000 a year to start.

What perspective and skills do you bring to the board?

My background in working with government, supervising 22 state building inspectors, and managing the commercial building program and the ability to assess problems and the best way to solve the issues at hand.

What other issue or issues are a high priority for the town in the term ahead?

The Zoning issue.

Roads.

Size of the Town Board.

Paul DeWitt

Paul DeWitt

8911 Lime Kiln Road, Sturgeon Bay

920.824.5093

Family: Wife, Debby; one daughter and two grandchildren

Age: 55

Education: Southern Door High School (1972)

Occupation: Retired

Previous Elected Office (if any): Treasurer – Town of Gardner (1978 – 1979); Town of Gardner, Chairman (2003 – present); Door County Board of Supervisors (2006 – present)

Relevant Experience/ Civic involvement: Member Little Sturgeon Property Owners Association; Financial supporter “Coats for Kids” – Southern Door School District

Why are you the best choice for Town Supervisor?

As a Town of Gardner native and property owner for the past 34 years I have the best interest in mind for our town. Since being elected the town chairman six years ago I have a proven track record of addressing the tough issues facing our town. I value the input of my constituents and continually strive to maintain a positive working relationship with everyone and not be influenced by any special interest groups.

What is the number one issue facing the town and what is your position on it?

With the current state of the economy, my number one issue is to keep town property taxes as low as possible while maintaining the current level of services provided. As I have in the past, I will continue to explore and consider methods that will help us maintain this level. This may include pursuing State and Federal grants that may be available to us. At all times I will continue to keep the best interest of our Town in mind.

What perspective and skills do you bring to the town?

My six year experience as town chairman has given me a comprehensive understanding of the dedication required in this position. Because of this experience I have a clear understanding of the issues facing our Town. I have always handled myself in a fair and consistent manner and will continue to do so in the future.

What other issue or issues are a high priority for the town in the term ahead?

Water quality in the Bay of Green Bay and Little Sturgeon Bay.

Liquid manure disposal in our town from outside our town and county.