Timothy Novitski is challenging incumbent Matt Pleshek for the Shawano County District 14 seat on the county board.
Both candidates were sent questionnaires about their candidacies. Pleshek did not respond.
What made you decide to run for this position?
Novitski: I decided to run for county supervisor, because while attending the wheel tax public hearing, I became aware of the inconvenient times of committee and county board meetings. All county supervisor meetings are happening between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is unacceptable. Unable to change this as a constituent, I intend to change this as a supervisor.
What experience do you have to serve in this position?
Novitski: This is a great question with the key word being “serve.” Public servants ought to be professional communicators, and professional communicators are excellent listeners. My most relatable experience as an excellent listener is highlighted in my career as a sheet metal journeyman. Starting as a helper, that was my purpose, to help my journeyman. As county supervisor, I intend to serve, to listen and to help my fellow Americans.
What is one of the biggest challenges facing the county, and how do you plan to address it?
Novitski: County employee retention continues to be a challenge for the county. My top budget priorities would be road maintenance and increased wages for county employees. When employee retention is low and turnover is high, wages and benefits are always a key factor. In addition, the people deserve answers as to why multiple high-level county employees resigned conveniently after questions of ethical and financial conduct were posed. These answers likely will help county employee retention.
Revenues and expenses continue to be an ongoing debate to balance any budget. Do you favor searching for new revenue streams or reducing programs, staff or other expenses? Please provide examples, if possible.
Novitski: First and foremost, I fully intend on serving as county supervisor for free. If I must get paid, I will find a way to return the money to the county. I favor any and all options that better Shawano County. Some ideas need state intervention, like increasing fines or increasing the portion of sales tax the county receives. Others do not, like reducing the size of the county board. I ponder this daily, and 75 words is insufficient to answer.
April 7 is Election Day. The winner will serve a two-year term.
