Unlike previous elections, the Tribune is not publishing individual stories about each of the contested races. Instead, the paper is providing two pages of biographical information about the candidates in today’s edition, with much more available online at www.lacrossetribune.com.

The Tribune sent questionnaires to all 49 candidates, asking about their backgrounds and thoughts on 10 issues facing the county board.

Thirty of the 49 returned the questionnaires, which are available in their entirety online.

Questions gauged candidates’ positions on:

The Tribune also offered all candidates the opportunity to make a two-minute video, which can be viewed online at www.lacrossetribune.com.

Reid Magney can be reached at (608) 791-8211 or rmagney@lacrossetribune.com.

CONTESTED RACES

DISTRICT 3

Represented by retiring Supervisor Keith Belzer since 2004, District 3 has meandering boundaries, generally including La Crosse’s lower North Side, from Monitor Street on the southwest to Hwy. B on the northeast, including parts of Nakomis Island.

Jim Moe

Age: 74

Address: 1330 Nakomis Ave., La Crosse

Occupation: Retired, electronics field and Continental Can Co.

Political experience: County Board, 2002-04

Why do you want to be on the county board? To serve the people of District 3. Their voice is important. To keep our government body to be of the people, by the people and for the people — not dictated by a few and taxed out of our homes.

Full candidate survey: click here

Joe Veenstra

Age: 38

Address: 1107 Caledonia St.

Occupation: Attorney, Johns, Flaherty & Collins, S.C.

Political experience: City of La Crosse Board of Review

Why do you want to be on the county board? In my job, I enjoy listening to and talking to people and trying to help them solve problems, which is what local government does on a larger scale. I also have always enjoyed politics and the legislative process. I believe my experience is such that I can help the people and businesses in District 3 obtain help from the county when they need it or have problems.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 7

This district includes downtown La Crosse and has been represented by incumbent Roger Plesha since 1986. Now La Crosse City Council member Jim Bloedorn seeks to unseat Plesha and represent District 7 on both the county board and city council.

Roger J. Plesha (i)

Age: 55

Address: 929 King St., La Crosse

Occupation: professional photographer/advertising consultant

Political experience: La Crosse County Board, 1986-present; La Crosse City Council, 1986-98; City Council president, 1992-97.

Why do you want to be on the county board? I became active in the community at 13 as an ambassador of La Crosse with the First Federal Blue Star Drum and Bugle Corp. I was and still am proud to represent our city. I enjoy playing an active part in shaping the region we live in. My record shows one of preservation as well as forward thinking. I believe we can make a difference, making educated decisions, in maintaining county services with increasingly limited resources.

Full candidate survey: click here

Jim Bloedorn

Age: 65

Address: 314 Ninth St. S., La Crosse

Occupation: Retired, network and computer system support, Saint Mary’s University, Winona, Minn. Political experience: District 7 City Council, elected in April 2005.

Why do you want to be on the county board? As District 7 La Crosse City Council member, I have fought vigorously for improvements previously ignored, including crosswalks and improvement of our sadly inadequate storm sewers. As a county board member, I will be an even stronger voice in making our district and all of La Crosse County a better place to live. My goals are to see La Crosse County grow and prosper, listening to and representing all residents in a fiscally responsible manner.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 11

Incumbent Jason Gillett withdrew too late to have his name removed from the ballot in what would have been a replay of the 2006 race, when Gillett defeated incumbent Audrey Kader. The district straddles Jackson Street near Viterbo University in La Crosse.

Audrey Kader

Age: 68

Address: 715 Seventh St. S., La Crosse

Occupation: Part-time parish visitor, First Congregational Church; retired publisher/project manager

Political experience: La Crosse School Board, 12 years; La Crosse City Council, 1999-present; La Crosse County Board, 1998-2006

Why do you want to be on the county board? Because the county is responsible for so many services that affect my constituents, it is important that I can participate in decisions to ensure access to those services in a cost-effective manner. In addition to having a large number of students, District 11 is impoverished and transitional. It needs a board member who is a long-term resident who understands the needs of both.

Full candidate survey: click here

Jason Gillett (i)

Age: not available

Address: 827 Winnebago St., La Crosse

Occupation: student, Viterbo University

Political experience: La Crosse County Board, 2006-2008

Why do you want to be on the county board? Gillett withdrew from the race and did not complete the survey.

DISTRICT 12

Neatly bordered by La Crosse’s 10th and 16th streets on the west and east, and Madison and Redfield streets on the north and south, District 12 has been represented by James Ehrsam since 1986. He’s being challenged by Bridget Flood, a county worker who said she will retire if elected.

James A. Ehrsam (i)

Age: Not given

Address: 1102 S. 14th St., La Crosse

Occupation: Retired as captain, city of La Crosse Fire Department (36 years); retired insurance broker

Political experience: La Crosse County Board, 1986-present; board chairman, 1990-2002; Wisconsin Counties Association, board of directors, 1994-present, president, 2003-04.

Why do you want to be on the county board? I love La Crosse and feel privileged being able to contribute to our community’s success. I am optimistic about meeting the continuing challenges that face the county and feel I offer insight through past experiences as well as support new and innovative ideas. I always consider the impact county board action will have on the taxpayer and strive to make La Crosse County an attractive and affordable place to live.

Full candidate survey: click here

Bridget Flood

Age: 59

Address: 1424 13th St. S., La Crosse

Occupation: Works in La Crosse County’s Juvenile Detention facility

Political experience: Former vice chair of the AFSCME Congressional District 3 political action committee; union steward and trustee for AFSCME local

Why do you want to be on the county board? I have worked for La Crosse County for more than 18 years. During that time, I’ve often wished I had more input into the county’s decisions. A long time ago, I decided I would run for this position when I was ready to retire. I’ve always been drawn to public service.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 13

Longtime Supervisor Bernie Maney isn’t seeking another term in District 13, which stretches in La Crosse from the corner of Second and Jackson streets near the brewery to South 15th Street and South Avenue.

Bill Brockmiller

Age: 43

Address: 1418 10th Ave. S., La Crosse

Occupation: Labor market analyst/ economist, state of Wisconsin

Political experience: None listed

Why do you want to be on the county board? La Crosse County needs board members well-versed in economic development and economic processes, and I will be the board member who brings such experience and training to the board. Jobs and economic development are going to become even more critical concerns as we move into an uncertain economy.

Full candidate survey: click here

Carl Viner

Age: 43

Address: 2418 S. 13th St., La Crosse

Occupation: Owner-operator, Harry Viner Construction

Political experience: None listed

Why do you want to be on the county board? To represent the people of District 13 in a fiscally responsible manner while promoting responsible growth and positive change.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 15

Supervisor Lyell Montgomery isn’t seeking another term in District 15, which includes areas of La Crosse east of the Burlington Northern Railroad tracks, generally south of State Road to Broadview Place.

Beverly Mach

Age: 72

Address: 2538 30th St. S., La Crosse

Occupation: Retired; formerly, career adviser at Career Services, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse

Political experience: La Crosse County W-2 (Welfare to Work) Steering Committee, La Crosse County Human Services Board

Why do you want to be on the county board? I have always been active in and concerned about my community regarding responsible use of taxes, the environment, transportation, decent-paying jobs and thriving neighborhoods. I want to address the concerns of my neighbors as well. On the Human Services Board, I learned to do more with less, and in these tighter fiscal times, the County Board has to continue doing this, also. As your representative on the county board, I will listen carefully to all sides and research issues before voting on them, and welcome your opinions.

Full candidate survey: click here

Bruce E. Parr

Age: 46

Address: 3417 Robinsdale Ave., La Crosse

Occupation: Owner of Parr’s Cars LLC auto sales

Political experience: None listed

Why do you want to be on the county board? To become more informed regarding county government as to making decisions regarding spending of taxpayer money.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 17

In far southern La Crosse, Donald Meyer has been a county supervisor for 18 years. He’s being challenged by musician Tari Tovsen.

Donald F. Meyer (i)

Age: Not provided

Address: 3619 Deerfield Place, La Crosse

Occupation: Retired after 34 years as a buyer for Trane Co.

Political experience: Board supervisor for 18 years

Why do you want to be on the county board? I have been on the county board for 18 years and enjoy being involved in policy-setting decisions to enhance the health, safety and welfare of all county citizens. As a member of the Planning Resources and Development Committee, I am involved early on pending changes and improvements requested. As a member of the City/County Harbor Commission, it allows me to better understand the requirements and rules of the harbors on the Mississippi River. Also, I have enjoyed meeting many of my constituents from District 17 to discuss their concerns.

Full candidate survey: click here

Tari Tovsen

Age: 65

Address: 3326 Leonard St., La Crosse

Occupation: Kwik Trip Inc., shift leader

Political experience: None

Why do you want to be on the county board? I love La Crosse. I’ve lived here all my life. But I am concerned about the economic growth in our area. Also, I would like to see a safer and healthier lifestyle in our area, for our children, grandchildren and generations to come.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 18

District 18 includes all but the northeast corner of the town of Shelby. This race is a rematch of two previous elections.

Tara Johnson (i)

Age: 45

Address: N980 Bloomer Mill Road, La Crosse

Occupation: Former executive director of the United Way (1993-2000)

Political experience: La Crosse County Board of Supervisors, 2000-present

Why do you want to serve on the county board? I want to continue cutting our county tax rates while ensuring residents receive the services they need. The County Board has accomplished a great deal in recent years, but there is more to be done. In the next two years, I specifically want to help lead the county through the roll-out of the new Lakeview partnership, which will save La Crosse County taxpayers $780,000 in 2008 alone. Also, I want to ensure the successful launch of the Women’s Community Based Program, which will save tax dollars by keeping women out of jail and improve life outcomes for women offenders, their children and families.

Full candidate survey: click here

Dave Drewes

Age: 72

Address: W5886 Cedar Road, La Crosse

Occupation: Retired sales manager for Torrance Casting La Crosse

Political experience: Chairman of Citizens for Responsible Government-La Crosse County

Why do you want to serve on the county board? I want to serve the people of Shelby and La Crosse county in a manner that will provide the services needed while looking at innovative ways to make the county more efficient and effective.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 19

District 19 includes parts of towns of Barre, Medary and Shelby east of La Crosse. Incumbent Robert Keil’s late wife, Janice, represented the district for many years.

Robert F. Keil (i)

Age: 70

Address: N3475 Smith Valley Road, La Crosse

Occupation: Retired dairy farmer

Political experience: Medary Town Board, three years; La Crosse County Board, two years

Why do you want to serve on the county board? There are current county issues that need to be resolved, and I would like to be involved in the future final decisions — making progress for the La Crosse County taxpayers.

Full candidate survey: click here

Dave Gebhart

Address: W5374 Boma Road, La Crosse

Occupation: National accounts manager, DeLaval Cleaning Solutions

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 21

District 21 includes the eastern part of West Salem and the southern part of the town of Hamilton. Incumbent Terry Hanson, a former village president, has been on the county board for 8 years, and is being challenged by Dennis Manthei, the current village president.

J. Terry Hanson (i)

Age: 68

Address: 345 North Van Ness St., West Salem

Occupation: Retired, former photo finisher

Political experience: County Board supervisor, 8 years; West Salem Village president, 8 years; West Salem Village Trustees, 14 years

Why do you want to serve on the county board? To represent the people of the 21st District and to ensure their concerns are addressed. With the development of the Lakeview Business Park and the restructuring of the Lakeview Health Center, West Salem is in the center of many county issues. My eight years experience on the county board and 20 years in village government give me the experience and institutional knowledge to best represent the 21st District.

Full candidate survey: click here

Dennis Manthei

Age: 65

Address: 527 West Garland St., West Salem

Occupation: Retired from Trane Co.; engineering consultant, Multistack

Political experience: West Salem School Board, nine years; West Salem Village Board trustee 1996-2005, village president 2005-present

Why do you want to serve on the county board? I want to serve on the La Crosse County Board to make a positive difference in the future of La Crosse County. The La Crosse County region has great assets of natural beauty, educational and medical institutions, retail and wholesale distribution, and widely varied business enterprises that require workers and capital to grow. The La Crosse County Board needs to be the collaboration glue to make the entire area economically strong.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 23

This district covers the far northeast corner of La Crosse County, including the village of Bangor. Incumbent Brian Kapanke is being challenged by Tammy Gamroth, whose daughter, Jacie, represents District 5 in La Crosse.

Brian Kapanke (i)

Age: 46

Address: 1427 Labus Drive, Bangor

Occupation: Employed by VT Griffin, contractor for the U.S. government at Fort McCoy in the engineering department as contract specialist.

Political experience: Village of Bangor trustee, 1995-2006; supervisor, La Crosse County, 23rd District, 2003-present

Why do you want to serve on the county board? A chance to get involved and meet other people who have the similar likes as I do about participating in local government.

Full candidate survey: click here

Tammy Gamroth

Age: 49

Address: 1910 Henry Johns Boulevard, Bangor

Occupation: Customer service and sales associate

Political experience: none

Why do you want to serve on the county board? I would like to serve on the county board to represent the small town and rural perspective on issues that affect the entire county. Situations need to be examined in a variety of ways. It is also very necessary to be able to convey concerns of the citizens a public official represents. Issues have to be examined and considered based on the effect they will have on each district and also the county as a whole.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 25

District 25 includes much of French Island south of Interstate 90 and generally east of Lakeshore Drive. Incumbent Jeffrey Schroeder and Terry Erickson survived a three-person primary Feb. 20.

Jeffrey C. Schroeder (i)

Age: 64

Address: 1734 La Fond Ave.

Occupation: Retired BNSF engineer

Political experience: County board supervisor, 10 years

Why do you want to serve on the county board? I want to represent the people of the 25th District in a fiscally responsible manner. Serve them by voicing their concerns and guide them in the proper direction to the many programs La Crosse County offers.

Full candidate survey: click here

Terry Erickson

Age: 58

Address: 1924 Nakomis Ave.

Occupation: Retired executive director, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse

Political experience: Western Technical College District board member

Why do you want to serve on the county board? As executive director of the Boys and Girls Clubs, I always thought of my role as being a “community servant.” As a member of the La Crosse County Board, that servanthood would continue. My experiences on both state and community boards brings a unique perspective to the position. As CEO of a large agency, my experiences in balancing a budget, prioritizing funds, collaborations, strategic planning and donor accountability should be an asset to the county.

Full candidate survey: click here

DISTRICT 26

District 26 includes Brice Prairie in the town of Onalaska and the northwest part of French Island in the town of Campbell. Both the incumbent and challenger have run as Democrats against state Rep. Mike Huebsch, R-West Salem, in the 94th Assembly District.

Vicki Burke (i)

Age: not given

Address: W8349 North Shore Drive, Onalaska

Occupation: Retired educator: 32 years at Logan High School

Political experience: La Crosse County Board Supervisor District 26, 2000-present

Why do you want to serve on the county board? As chair of Judiciary and Law and the Law Enforcement Construction Committee, I want to make sure the Law Enforcement Center is built to meet our criminal justice needs for at least the next 30 to 50 years. As a teacher, I helped young people realize their goals and dreams. Now I want to serve the people of La Crosse County by making this a safe, secure place to raise a family and an economically thriving community.

Full candidate survey: click here

James Kinsman

Age: Not available

Address: W8327 North Shore Drive, Onalaska

Occupation: Railroad engineer

Political experience: Democratic candidate for state representative, 2006.

Why do you want to serve on the county board? No answer, did not return survey.

DISTRICT 27

Longtime incumbent Supervisor George Hammes isn’t seeking another term in District 27, which includes western Holmen and southern part of the town of Holland.

Marilyn J. Pedretti

Age: 44

Address: N7097 County Road XX, Holmen

Occupation: Town of Holland clerk; landscaper, Prairie Lawn & Garden

Political experience: Holland town clerk, an appointed position.

Why do you want to serve on the county board? I have always had an interest in politics and look at this as an opportunity to make a difference on a local level. Born and raised in Holmen, I have had great experiences living in various parts of the country but feel blessed to be back home. Because I care deeply about this community and believe in civic duty, I would work hard to provide the best possible services while holding down costs.

Full candidate survey: click here

Mark A. Huesmann

Age: 39

Address: N7012 Sunrise Lane, Holmen

Occupation: Attorney, licensed in Wisconsin and Minnesota

Political experience: Holmen Area School District Board of Education, 2002-present

Why do you want to serve on the county board? As a two-term member of the Holmen Area School board, I have come to appreciate the need for effective, local government. As a small-business owner for the past 12 years, I have gained valuable and practical experience that will assist in terms of my role with the La Crosse County Board. I have been pragmatic and collaborative in my business, elective and civic endeavors, and I want to bring that approach to helping out the taxpayers of La Crosse County, as a whole.

Full candidate survey: click here

UNOPPOSED

District 1: Andrea Richmond

District 4: Jai Johnson

District 5: Jacie Gamroth

District 8: Maureen Freedland

District 14: John Medinger

District 16: Gerald Sebranek

District 29: Brad Pfaff

District 35: Joe Bilskemper

All stories copyright 2000 - 2006 La Crosse Tribune and other attributed sources.