Election 2022 — Oconto Falls Mayor

For the first time in years, there is a race for mayor of Oconto Falls. Brad Rice, who has been unopposed for reelection at least twice, faces a challenge April 5 from former Alderman Kevin Rusch.
NEW Media emailed questionnaires to the candidates to get their views on some of the issues facing the city. Rice did not respond by press time; here are Rusch’s responses.
 

What do you see as the mayor’s role as leader of the Oconto Falls city government?
Rusch: The main duties of the mayor are to oversee and assist the police and fire departments, as well as chair certain city meetings. I can assure the citizens of Oconto Falls that I will not be a complacent mayor. I will work close with the city administrator and council on the challenges and issues that come before the city. I will not sit back quietly during meetings, but will participate in general discussions offering my opinion to assist the administrator and council in coming up with the right decision that best serves our city.
 

What challenges does the city face over this next term?
Rusch: The city is on a fast track of running out of room to grow. We must explore our options to allow our city to expand. If our school system is successful in funding a new replacement for the Washington School building, I will assist the administration and council in discussions with the appropriate parties for the ultimate disposition of the old Washington School property. I also have some outside of the box thoughts and ideas I will be sharing with the administrator and council to help bring business to our city.
 

How can the city work with the Main Street Committee to revitalize downtown?
Rusch: There has been a lot of work done by various groups and committees to come up with ideas to revitalize main street. Let it be noted that some businesses have made major improvements to their buildings. The city administrator has been successful in securing funds to assist in the planning for improvements to main street. I feel it will take some bold decisions to make the major impact that we need to slowly turn the demise of Main Street around. It is not all about decorative sidewalks, streetlights, etc.