Politics & Government

Election Preview: Menomonee Falls Village Board (Seat No. 4)

Incumbent Michael McDonald and Jeremy Walz are running for the No. 4 trustee seat on the Village Board in the April 2 election.

Menomonee Falls voters will head to the polls April 2 to vote on several races, including the Trustee No. 4 seat on the Village Board.

The candidates are Trustee Michael McDonald  and Jeremy Walz. (Click on link for biographical information on each candidate).

To provide residents with the most information about the election,Patch asked candidates for their positions on key issues facing the village. Here, in their own words, are the candidates' answers to those questions.

Find out what's happening in Menomonee Fallswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Michael McDonald (inc.)

Why are you seeking re-election? 

With the uncertain national economic future for the next four years, state and local governments will be subject to more uncertainty.  With the major planned short and long range village development, it is imperative Board is comprised with experienced and proven leadership to maximize the positive impact this will have for our residents.  

Find out what's happening in Menomonee Fallswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

For the last 23 years, our voters have given me the privilege of representing them, and the experience, knowledge and track record this has afforded clearly makes me the most qualified candidate to continue to be their outspoken advocate. As the champion for high quality, low density development, my pledge is to make certain each decision we make will further strengthen our Village, allowing families, businesses and schools to flourish in the future.

How do you feel about the way the Radisson Hotel situation was handled? Anything you would have done differently? 

The situation presented to the Board occurred after the M&I Bank backed away from their commitment for financing the second phase of construction.  With the assistance of the Community Development Authority, we conducted numerous meetings to determine the financial and management strengths of the partnership, as well as individuals of the partnership.  After this thorough process, it was determined the second phase funding be provided through bonding, with the partnership providing escrow.

It is extremely unfortunate the national real estate collapse that has decimated numerous real estate partnerships as well as the M&I Bank has also had a negative affect on the initial opening of the hotel.  Not having the benefit of a crystal ball when decisions are made, it is easy to second guess, but now all attention should be focused on the positive aspects occurring and promoting them with the hotel to assure its short and long term success.

What are strengths you possess that make you a valuable trustee in Menomonee Falls? 

Over the last 23 years, my track record demonstrates that I have been an outspoken advocate for the Village and all residents.  In 1990, i championed the concept of high quality, low density in all sectors of village development.  This has allowed our village to experience valuation growth to $4.8 Billion from $1.2 Billion, while maintaining our Village atmosphere; allowing every aspect of our community to thrive and keep tax increases at bare minimums.

My reelection will assure this outspoken support of our residents and the village will be maintained with the same passion I have demonstrated with each issue we have dealt with over the last 23 years.

Where should the focus of the Village Board be over the next five years? 

We should focus on implementing our short and intermediate plans, while assuring the foundation we have initiated for long range planning is enhanced to assure its implementation as well.  This is where the voters must make certain the most experienced and proven candidates are elected during this race.  My reelection will assist in making sure this will occur.  

How would you describe your political beliefs? How have you put your personal beliefs into action? 

My track record reflects conservative fiscal beliefs, while consistently making sure the village functions effectively for all of our citizens.  My passion for the Falls has resulted from my 50+ years as a resident, and desire to be a pragmatic voice to assure all families are able to thrive not only today, but for generations to come.  Menomonee Falls is a special place and with your vote, I pledge I will do everything in my ability to enhance it for the future.

Jeremy Walz

Why are you seeking election?

 I always knew that I wanted to move to Menomonee Falls because of the perfect central location to my family and work. I bought my house four years ago and wanted to get involved in the community.

I have heard residents expressing their frustration with the Village Board and the direction they saw the village going and that they did not seem to feel their concerns were being addressed. I want to be the canidate that represents the common taxpayer and gives them a voice that the board has to hear.

I'm just a regular guy with a regular machine shop job but I want to show the board that no matter what you do for a living your opinion and concerns matter. I read the Menomonee Falls Patch every day and I hear the frustration in the commentary and I want to say that I hear you and I will continue to hear your voices. 

Why did you choose the specific trustee you chose to challenge?

 The Menomonee Falls Patch readers are well informed. They know the good and the bad things that they get with my opponent. He has been on the Planning Commission and Board for a long time and has had plenty of time to see his vision through. It's time for a new vision.  

How do you feel about the way the Radisson Hotel situation was handled? Anything you would have done differently?

I don't believe it is the Village Board's job to play banker. This was unacceptable, unforgivable and it can never be allowed to happen again.  

What are strengths you possess that make you a valuable trustee in Menomonee Falls?

Common sense. I know how to live within my means and stick to a budget. The award that I have received that I am most proud of is the LDRSHIP award. This is voted by peers for the soldier that best represents the Army values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal courage. These are the Army values, these are MY values and I will bring them along with the "Golden Rule" to the Village Board. 

Where should the focus of the Village Board be over the next five years? 

Serving the needs of the residents of Menomonee Falls. No more shell games or Board playing banker. The Board will be honest, transparent and efficient. How would you describe your political beliefs? How have you put your personal beliefs into action? Government should only be involved with things that the people cannot do for themselves. They should not play banker and I am not a big fan of T.I.F. Government should be small and efficient. I believe in hard work and treating people with respect. These personal beliefs had led me to success in school, in the military and at work. I hope they will bring us all prosperity when I am on your Vilage Board.


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