Education and Experience:
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I am senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison majoring in
Political Science. I want to make a difference and improve the quality of life for the people of the
1st District. I have been politically active through different
campus organizations and serving as a legislative staff aide in the state capitol.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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The Dane County Board must work for a government that operates efficiently, effectively and is adherent to the needs of the people. Difficult fiscal times surely lie ahead. During the budget making process, we must prioritize when making decisions on funding. A singular aspect tied into improving the quality of life in Dane County is assuring adequate funding for programs like those dealing with developmental disabilities. Maintaining and restoring funding for these agencies is a priority of mine. I believe that Dane County should assure funding for special needs programs, before allocating funding for items such as a costly light rail transit system.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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We are in fiscal crisis, locally, statewide, and nationwide. Sacrifices must be made to ease the budget burden that we all face. However, there is no reason why someone who provides care for those with disabilities should be paid a wage waiving around the poverty level. It is unlikely that we as a county can afford a 110% increase in wage increases. However, if the budget allows and fiscal tight times diminish, then I fully support raising the Dane County living wage.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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We are in fiscal crisis, locally, statewide, and nationwide. Sacrifices must be made to ease the budget burden that we all face. However, there is no reason why someone who provides care for those with disabilities should be paid a wage waiving around the poverty level. It is unlikely that we as a county can afford a 110% increase in wage increases. However, if the budget allows and fiscal tight times diminish, then I fully support raising the Dane County living wage.
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Education and Experience:
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I have a Master's degree in Educational Policy from UW-Madison, and I work organizing non-partisan seminars for the state legislature on child and family policy issues, including rising health care costs, early childhood education, and long-term care. I have 15 years' experience in activism for the environment, the mentally ill, and women's and workers' rights. I am a union member and have been a renter and homeowner in Madison for five years.
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- Dane County resident, 36 years, Second District since 1989
- Served on the Dane County Board 1992-presentHealth and Human Needs (Chair),
- Long Term Support (Vice Chair), Information Resource Management, and W2 Steering Committees.
- Dane County Housing Authority (Vice Chair), Area Agency on Aging member
- Task Force on Aging
- Developed housing for elderly and disabled persons (1972-1993)
- Section Chief, Rental and Special Needs Housing, Bureau of Housing
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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One of the chief reasons I became interested in running for county board was to be a stronger advocate for the protection of human services. I am strongly opposed to further cuts, and if elected intend to work with service providers, service recipients, members of the community, and other Supervisors to explore policy solutions to prevent further erosion of funding. Most importantly, I intend to be open to citizen input into the budget process, and to view my decision-making as a collaboration between community stakeholders, district residents, and myself.
If elected, I will work to maximize state and federal funding for Dane County and to find new, progressive funding streams. For example, the transportation fee was initially appealing as it shifted costs onto transportation users and would have freed up money for human services and property tax relief. On closer examination, however, it appears that the transportation fee would be as regressive as property taxes, so that idea may not be one to pursue again. Nevertheless, it is that kind of creative thinking within limited options for local funding that needs to be explored so that we can continue to provide quality services to those who need them.
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I believe that it is important to take advantage of all possible MA funded waiver programs. Currently there is a potential $400 million shortfall in MA state match funds. I believe we all need to work with the legislature to impress upon them the importance of retaining these valuable MA funded services. The potential loss in funding to Dane County is even greater for 2005 than it was in 2004. It is not possible for the county taxpayers to pick up the total loss of those MA funds. I will work to protect those services that help persons with disabilities remain in their homes in the community. I think we need to examine the opportunity for additional funding sources and I am open to evaluating potential alternatives to the property tax.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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I agree that wages for homecare workers and other human service providers need to be increased to reduce the deleterious effects of staff turnover. The living wage is currently indexed to the poverty line for a family of four (and therefore to inflation), but this is too low. I believe the base wage should be increased to a point where indexing would be more meaningful. Therefore, I would support an immediate increase in wages, including 5% this year. However, I am hesitant to support an automatic increase every year since workers helped by the living wage ordinance should not be the only ones to get increased pay and, given tight budgets, it would be impossible to provide increases of 5% for everybody, every year.
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I was one of the original sponsors of the "Living Wage" ordinance and have supported all of the increases to the living wage over the past several years. I cannot respond positively to the question of increasing the "Living Wage" to 110% of the poverty level because I don't know what the full impact of the increase would be. In addition to the wages of the lowest paid persons, we would have to take into consideration the wage compression that occurs when the lowest paid workers have their salaries increased. I believe it is important for us to be examining the possibility of providing health care benefits to home care workers at a reasonable cost to the agency and the individual. I will be working with members of the Purchase Of Service community and the Human Services Department to determine the possibility of developing a health insurance pool that would provide those benefits at a more reasonable cost.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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My top funding priority would be to restore funds to county human services. In the past, Dane County has provided quality services through an infrastructure that pays family supporting wages, but it is now under pressure because of tight budgets at the county and state levels. The county has always, and rightly so, paid for human services with both county and state funding. The use of county money over and above state money shows our commitment to service providers and to those in need. I agree with the County Executive's efforts to avoid property tax increases to fund larger county budgets. Because property tax is regressive, it hurts those with limited incomes the most. I believe that the solution is for the state to provide more funding for state-mandated services. State funding is more appropriate than county funding, since it comes from income and corporate taxes. So, while we continue to provide the best possible care while still paying good wages, we also need to work at the state level for more and more equitable funding.
My other funding priorities include: expanding and promoting affordable housing options throughout Dane County, protecting green space, and keeping our lakes and watersheds clean.
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The County Board through its action on the 2004 budget has already committed any increase in funding of over a million dollars to the county to renegotiating with the unions the zero percent salary adjustment county employees agreed to for 2004. In addition we also directed any additional funds go to Human Services. After the union negotiating takes place my priorities for the balance of funds would be an adjustment to Purchase Of Service contracts to increase funds to help pay for health insurance costs and to provide matching funds for MA waiver programs.
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Education and Experience:
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I've been employed as a researcher and educator; project and team leader; and manager in State and Federal Government and the private sector with increasing fiscal and budget responsibility in each job. I am a person of service and responsibility that people could count on for 35 years. I have numerous community accomplishments as a neighborhood association leader and as a leader of one the largest metropolitan business associations.
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I have been a lifelong resident of Dane County and a property tax payer in the district for 18 years. Being active in both civic affairs and politics since an early age, I have been involved as a member of Wisconsin Women in Government, block captain for the Rolling Meadows Neighborhood Association and served as a volunteer for Family Connections and Madison Urban Ministry programs. Providing Home Health Care to the elderly has heightened my concerns on Human Services issues while also recognizing the importance of early intervention programs for both the young and the elderly.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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When looking at county services to fund, one important criterion is a Federal match. Other important criteria include services that are fundamental to the constitution (e.g. providing for general welfare, justice, and public protection) and services that are not already provided by for-profit businesses. Federal Match allows taxpayers to get more bang for their dollar on necessary services that the county should be providing to residents in need.
One category of service that the County has the responsibility to continue to provide is for those people who cannot help themselves, for example, children, the developmentally/mentally disabled, and senior citizens.
We need elected officials with fresh ideas, viewpoints, and strong leadership so we can begin the difficult task of responsible fiscal control. Across the board cuts, for example, is not responsible fiscal control, which is part of the reason the that DD services has been receiving unfair cuts. All programs are not equal - as across the board cutting
implies.
Two areas of focus are improving the operational efficiency of all services so that we can free up funding for other needed services. The second is increasing our tax base by economic growth within the County.
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I will support programs that help keep our families and seniors safe and productive. I will support additional revenue to programs that have strong federal matching funds to make sure that we get our fair share of these monies. I will support the proposal that will allow our purchase of service contract agencies to join the Dane County health care pool to reduce their health care costs.
Providing Home Health Care to the elderly has heightened my concerns on Human Services issues while also recognizing the importance of early intervention programs for both the young and the elderly. Protecting Human Services and Public Safety should be the County's top priorities. Investment in compassionate and adequate human services programs protects children and others in need and these many early intervention programs save money in the long run.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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The following is a partial excerpt from a letter that I submitted to the WSJ.
A portion of a similar letter was printed in the Capital Times. "Jen Squire's guest Column, "Disabled hurt by budget cuts,"
hits the nail on the head. Let's have a conscience and not cut funding for people who cannot help themselves - the
developmentally disabled, seniors, and children. Caretakers who work with the disabled, seniors, and children
are under paid - service providers under contract to the County have not received a decent cost of living wage
increase for 13 years as Squire says . . . "
We must change this unfair trend and inequity by increasing the wages for our
POS workers in the county. Our limited public dollars should not be subsidizing
poverty-wage work. Taxpayers are paying for hidden costs of the high (40%)
turnover that results from the poverty wage. Taxpayers are subsidizing food
stamps, medical, housing, and other social services that these low wage workers
may require to support themselves and their families.
I would join together with unions, religious and community coalitions to increase
the Dane County Living Wage as one possible way to change this trend.
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YES.
I will support a proposal to increase the living wage to 110% of the poverty level. I want to work with your to find the necessary monies for this increase. People who care enough to work with those in need should not be forced to live in poverty. I also support incentive programs that help attract good health care workers and social service providers.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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Based on my responses to the first two questions, no one should be surprised by my priorities.
Compensation and Benefits
Programs for those who cannot help themselves
Public Safety and Protection.
We'll get the best performance and cooperation from people who are fairly compensated. Increased productivity and morale are important in my desire to reduce spending by increasing operational efficiency. Our employees can be very helpful in finding ways to reduce spending. Those programs for children, the disabled, and seniors and programs for public safety and protection are my priorities.
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I support increased revenues to help with jail overcrowding, to make sure we get our full share of matching fund for DD, and to fund our living wage ordinance.
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Education and Experience:
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My nephew has autism, so I know these programs are important. For the past six years, I worked on the County Board to protect vital family programs.
On the Personnel and Finance Committee, I restored funding for vital family services and supported more funding for DD services. I also am working with the agencies to create a health care pool to increase the quality of service and control healthcare costs. I would appreciate your support.
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-City Plan Commission
-Chair- West Washington Ave Parking Committee
-Long Range Transportation Planning Commission
-Joint West Campus Committee
-Past Chair- Broadband Telecommunications Regulatory Board
-Past Chair- Our Lady Queen of Peace Pastoral Council
-Air Force-5 years
-Scout leader
-Little League and football coach
-Lifelong Wisconsin resident- 26 years in Madison
-Electrical Engineering Degree UW-Madison
-Married, two children
-Member-1,000 Friends of Wisconsin
-Member- River Alliance of Wisconsin
-Visit thimmesch4u.org for more information
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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We need to protect programs that help families, and return money to the county. On the Personnel and Finance Committee, I voted to restore money for this vital program in the final budget.
We also have to increase efficiency in other areas of government to protect money for DD and other vital services. We also made progress getting funding for mandates like state Probation and Parole Hold Prisoners saving more than $300,000 a year.
I look forward to working with you to come up with additional sources of revenue to fund this vital program.
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I sat through both nights of the Health and Human Needs budget hearings this last fall. It was painful to hear one client after another state in human terms that which you present statistically in your question. Interestingly enough one of the very first speakers stated that she was most angry because "…we were not given the opportunity to have the discussion we need to have." This is exactly one of my core beliefs. As we do in our households, it is time for the citizens of Dane County, through their elected representatives, to prioritize all of the County's services and responsibilities. My first priority is
humanity. The 'passing through' of the State cuts to the corresponding budgets at the County level is not leadership, it is the lack there of! When elected, I commit to seeking a seat on the Health and Human Needs Committee. I will work with all of the client agencies in order to gain the knowledge to competently and passionately defend the DD services budget.
It is time for a change. Instead of the 'politics as usual' approach of passing responsibility to others,
I will work for you!
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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I was an original sponsor to the Dane County Living Wage Ordinance that raised wages to their current level and reduced turnover from 60%. We are making some progress, thought no one should work fulltime and still live in poverty.
I will work with you to fund funding to increase this level of support.
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In June of 2000 I took the Red Cross' Adult, Infant and Child CPR and Community First Aid and Safety
training courses in preparation for taking some scouts on a 'high adventure'. One of my 'partners' was a first line supervisor for one of the County's contracted service providers. As one does, I asked him about his job. He shared with me his biggest challenge; namely, retaining his staff once they were trained. Equivalent jobs in the private sector had significantly higher compensation packages. I was amazed. One of the basic principles of effective management is retaining good employees. The expense of training and the lack of productivity with new employees are well documented. As I started to question his management, he explained that the County was renewing contracts without a cost of living adjustment. I offered the old English expression about being:
"penny wise and pound foolish." Further, he shared with me that contract increases were being proposed and blocked. Finally, he wondered if anyone in County government has reflected on the negative impact this turnover has on the clients. To conclude, I understand this issue at a personal level; and, will support the Dane County Living wage at 110% of the poverty level.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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Fund vital family programs, such as the DD CIP 1B match, treat county workers fairly, and fully fund our Conservation Fund commitments supported by 76% of Dane County voters.
Thank you for supporting me over the last six years. I have worked hard on the county board to serve you and would appreciate your vote on April 6th.
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Sadly, the second year of the State biennium incorporates additional cuts for next year's County budget. Now, with the recent announcement from the Legislative Fiscal Bureau (revenue not matching forecasts), we might be looking at potentially absorbing even greater cuts. Yet, being ever hopeful, here are the three priorities for additional funding. As stated previously, I witnessed two nights of agency representatives pleading their case (sometimes with a musical presentation). I fully believe that Health and Human Needs client agencies have proven their needs. As such, my first priority. The District Attorney's Office and the County Court system lost some positions which previously had allowed for diversion programs and victim support. I would want to regain some of this capability. Finally, I would want to fund the County Law Library to once again have it available to the public. It was an invaluable service to the citizens who could not afford attorneys.
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Education and Experience:
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(I) John Hendrick - unopposed
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B.A. UW Political Science 1975
J.D. UW Law School 1978
Dane County Supervisor 1994 to present
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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(I) John Hendrick - unopposed
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The next county board needs to explore all revenue alternatives to maintain vital services, such as those to persons with developmental disabilities, while controlling property tax increases.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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(I) John Hendrick - unopposed
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I am already on record support a Dane County Living Wage at 112% of the Federal Poverty Level to account for the higher cost of living in Dane County.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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(I) John Hendrick - unopposed
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My top priority would be restoring Human Service spending cuts. If the amount is more than $1 million, I would also support an COLA increase on July 1st (instead of December 26th) for county employees. At the same time, there should be an increase for employees of contract agencies, at least the lowest paid.
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Education and Experience:
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Served on Dane County Board 10 years; vice chairman of its Public Works Committee; board member, Convention and Visitors Bureau. Former member, Health and Human Needs Committee. Member, National Assn. Of Counties Finance Committee. Orchard Ridge Community club. Former chairman Madison News Credit Union. St. Maria Goretti parish member. Employed by Wisconsin Department of Revenue, previously at Workforce Development with experience in welfare reform. Former town constable. Born and raised (and worked!) on Dane County farm. Married with one adult child.
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I have a BA in Parks and Recreation, a BA in Biology and a MA in Education. My experience as a teacher (environmental science), a small business owner, and a realtor, has given me a solid understanding of what makes for well-planned growth, balancing the social and economic needs of our residents without compromising our environment. I have lived in both rural and urban Dane County, broadening my understanding of the needs of the County as a whole. My experiences on committees, boards, and as director of various programs have honed my skills in negotiation and in working cooperatively for the good of ALL Dane County residents.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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I proposed selling off 4 acres of surplus Dane County real estate, which would have realized $500,000, most of it earmarked for the developmentally disabled community. Unfortunately, the county executive and the county board chairman signaled that they could support a $20 annual wheel tax on every vehicle in Dane County and many in the DD community were gulled into supporting that proposal rather than mine. When push came to shove, neither the chairman nor the executive backed the wheel tax and neither that proposal nor mine came to pass.
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Unfortunately this trend is not unique to Dane County, nor to programs providing services to people with developmental disabilities. However, it is our responsibility to maintain critical services and programs that support our families, seniors and at-risk populations. Cuts that result in the loss of federal "match" monies are short sighted, and result in even greater budget constraints due to loss of federal revenues. I would definitely support measures to reinstate programs with federal matching funds, as well as closely examining existing programs to see where we can become more efficient WITHOUT affecting the level or quality of direct services.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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Dane County's living wage is currently $7.87 an hour, which is 107 percent of the 2003 living wage for a family of three. I oppose the living wage concept as being too inflexible but I do support helping caregivers. That requires additional funds. I do not support raising taxes to acquire those funds but do support non-tax sources of revenue. See answer to Question #2 above.
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I am
in strong support of increasing the Dane County Living Wage.
Having been a small business owner, I know that higher wages do result
in lower turnover rates. And high turnover is very expensive: advertising, hiring, and
training staff to a competent performance level. Those monies would certainly be better spent in higher wages,
reducing turnover and resulting in a more experienced, better trained staff.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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If that hypothetical increased revenue becomes available, developmentally disabled would be a priority for those funds.
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I am most interested in maintaining those budget items that support, strengthen, and protect our communities: public safety; programs for our at-risk populations (youth, families and seniors); programs that encourage small scale economic development within the county; and last but not least, programs that protect our unique environments and natural resources, from ground water to farmland.
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Education and Experience:
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Born in Madison and both sides of my family go back 4-5 generations in Dane County. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and have worked in a variety of policy-making positions in County and State government; including a period of time when I served as Dane County Budget Director in the Dane County Executive's office. Twice elected to terms on the Madison Board of Education. Served as Special Assistant to the Governor.
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For four years, my District 8 neighbors have honored me with the privilege of representing them on the County Board. Together, we have worked to control out-of-control sprawl, protect families, support positive youth initiatives and spend responsibly. I have served on the Youth Commission, Veterans Service Commission, the City of Madison Personnel Board and the Health and Human Needs Committee. I have the experience to continue to serve District 8 residents for another two years.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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The County Board must ensure that funding to provide services to the neediest and most at-risk Dane County residents is preserved. I am not in favor of creating new ways to tax Dane County residents, such as a $20 wheel tax on all vehicles registered in Dane County. However, I would fight to preserve, or increase, existing state and federal revenue streams. The state of Wisconsin has a historic and important role to play in being a funding partner with local government and that role must be preserved. Our best shot at preserving funding for necessary programs for people with developmental disabilities is to continue fighting for the state and federal government to pick up their fair share of the costs associated with services and programs aimed at people with developmental disabilities. The property taxpayer simply can't do it all.
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As the parent of a child with special needs, this is a huge issue for me. Meeting the financial and emotional burden is something our families should never have to fight for. However, state and federal cuts to local services have created many holes in local budgets. As a Dane County Supervisor I have and will continue to work with our state and federal representatives to fill those holes without overburdening the taxpayer. I will work with the Department of Human Services and POS agencies to identify alternative revenue sources and opportunities to increase efficiencies. Dane County must remain a quality, safe place for all our citizens to live and share family in.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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There are likely many reasons that account for the high turnover of staff assigned to provide services to people with developmental disabilities. The rate of pay may be only one component and perhaps not even the most important. It is, of course, important for the county to be competitive with other Dane County employers in terms of pay offered for various kinds of work. If a study shows that Dane County is in a very distinct non-competitive posture in terms of pay and benefits for this kind of work, I'd be willing to look at ways to make the county more competitive. However, before doing that, I'd like to know more about all the reasons for the turnover and what the fiscal impact might be of making the county more competitive, should a study point in that direction.
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I have actually supported raising the Living Wage to 112% of the poverty level as defined by the federal government. However, let's face it…112% is still too little to actually raise a family of four. Many wonderful and talented workers are giving more than 100% of their talent and effort to serve those in need in our community. Dane County should work hard to compensate them appropriately for that service. In addition, we should work with the federal government to demonstrate why it is necessary for the federal government to accurately reflect the poverty level in America. Only then can we get a true living wage for our
workers.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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My first priority would be property tax relief. Second priority would be public safety. Third priority would be human service programs for the neediest and most at-risk Dane County residents. Fourth priority would be road construction and maintenance. Since Dane County already asks a lot of property taxpayers in this county, the first priority for new sources of funding must be holding down the property tax levy to a reasonable level. Beyond that, any new spending should be targeted at public safety, human services and roads . . . and in that order.
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Human Services. Public Safety. Salary Increases. We need to meet the needs of our most vulnerable citizens. State and Federal cuts to local governments forced hard choices and difficult budgets to be passes all across Wisconsin. We must work to restore those cuts. This is why I supported the Ray of Hope Amendment placed in the 2004 budget and it is why I have met with DD families and leaders to try to identify options. Public Safety must be secured in Dane County. We must protect our citizens without taxing them out of their homes. In addition, Dane County staff are among the brightest and the most committed to public service. They should be well compensated. Unfortunately, due to budgets cuts over the past few years, with the cost of inflation, our workers have actually received salary cuts. If we can identify new revenues, I would support salary increases for Dane County employees.
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Education and Experience:
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I am professionally employed as a land use and transportation planner. I work with communities and elected officials throughout Wisconsin addressing many of the same traffic and land use issues we are experiencing in Dane County. As an appointed member of the Dane County Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee I regularly work with Supervisors on both ends of the political spectrum. My other volunteer activities include Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Friends of Alicia Ashman Library, and the Oakbridge Condominium Board of Directors.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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As budget reductions are considered countywide, we must provide funding that results in match-funding. Failure to do so is like not taking advantage of a company-sponsored 401k match. I believe one of the most critical roles of government is providing specialized services that address unique needs including people with developmental disabilities. I will work to ensure Dane County receives the largest federal match possible.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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Retaining well-trained and qualified staff is the key to any successful organization. I would support wage adjustments that will help reduce staff turnover and maintain high-quality service.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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Programs such as human services, public safety, and the conservation fund must be protected because they ensure the safety and livability of Dane County for all county residents and future generations. Thank you for your consideration.
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Education and Experience:
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I am a civil rights and employment discrimination attorney. I am a member of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin's Dane County Volunteer Action Board, a commissioner with Madison's Equal Opportunity Commission, and a volunteer with the Rape Crisis Center and Madison's Fair Housing Center. My legal and volunteer work both center on being an activist for people: advocating for workers, people with disabilities and seniors; working on issues of justice and fairness; and improving people's lives.
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I have twelve years of federal and state government service. Under the Clinton Administration, I worked for the Office of Management and Budget, the National Performance Review (Gore's Reinventing Government) and the Department of Transportation. In Wisconsin, I worked for the non-partisan Legislative Fiscal Bureau, the Department of Administration, and interned for Representative Rebecca Young. I have a Masters Degree in Public Affairs and an undergraduate degree from UW Madison in Political Science and History.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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Over many years, the Dane County Human Services system has been built and strengthened by the hard work and dedication of many people: county staff, people with disabilities, their families and guardians and providers. It is a system of which we can and should be proud. We need to preserve its scope and quality while doing all we can to make it stronger. This question identifies a very key challenge in the budget and one that I don't think gets enough discussion: cuts in County tax dollars to our DD services. These cuts result in significant, additional losses of federal matching funds which, in turn, worsens an already difficult budget situation. As a County Supervisor, I will do all I can to protect the match by being a very strong advocate for human services funding during the budget process. We need to preserve the amount of County, State and Federal funding we already get and we need to advocate for County dollars that enable us to leverage more federal monies. If there are other, specific steps that would also be effective, I would be very interested in learning about them.
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I believe providing adequate funding to serve people with developmental disabilities is a commitment that this community shares. It is a component of Madison's civic responsibility and contributes to our quality of life here in Dane County. Therefore if elected to the Board I will work to maintain funding for developmental disabilities and other human service programs. This will be difficult, but will be a priority.
I think ARC is correct in pointing out the importance of the federal matching funds to programs that serve people with developmental disabilities. Wisconsin ranks 49th on a per capita basis in getting federal funds. I previously worked for the State of Wisconsin Department of Administration trying to bring additional federal funds to the State. I hope to use this experience to argue for more investment in these programs, not only for the moral reasons, but also because it brings outside resources into the community. The dollars that are spent on these programs are primarily service related and the money will stay in the community.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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I support raising the living wage in Dane County, and as a County Supervisor, I would work with The ARC and others to ensure we have, and find, the funding to do so. There are very few things that have as much impact on the lives of people with developmental disabilities than the quality, commitment and dedication of direct support workers. Recruiting and retaining qualified, experienced direct support workers is critically important, and low wages and eroding benefits are barriers. The vast majority of POS agencies is efficient and well run. Providers would pay their employees more, and offer accessible and affordable health care, if they had more resources. The County must invest in their budgets as well.
Currently, I serve on the Madison Equal Opportunity Commission, the lead committee for Madison's proposed living wage ordinance. I have listened to public comment regarding the ordinance and am part of a team researching the ordinance. I understand that there are nuances we need to be alert to in reconciling the Madison and Dane County Living Wage ordinances as they pertain to the human services arena. I look forward to working on Madison's ordinance and taking that experience to the County Board.
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I support the Dane County Living Wage Ordinance and would likely support an increase of that wage to 110%. First I think it is appropriate to pay employees, either employed directly by the County or as contractors to the County, a decent wage. Second, rapid turnover in a profession is indicative of either poor wages or working conditions. As mentioned, this leads to poor quality. Those with developmental disabilities are less able to compensate for those services and therefore a solution needs to be pursued. As an experienced fiscal and policy analyst, my only reservation to endorsing this proposal is a concern over what this increase would cost and what tradeoffs would be required. I look forward to working on this issue if elected to the County Board.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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- We must fund and protect the scope and quality of our strong human services. We must protect the federal match (see above). We must invest in programs that enable seniors to stay in their homes and people with disabilities to live independently. We must continue to support programs that allow the recipients to play a key role in determining what services they need and from whom they need it. We must also protect our programs for kids and families.
- Depending on how much increased revenue is available, my other priorities would be to invest in initiatives that make our community stronger and turn lives around, and also result in long-term taxpayer savings. This includes jail diversion programs and developing alternatives to incarceration.
- We must preserve our green spaces, invest in conservation, and support smart-growth land use policies that stop sprawl. The question is not if Dane County will grow, but how. We must have land-use policies that encourage mix-use developments, increase affordable housing, support vibrant downtowns, foster local businesses, and protect farmland. We must also plan for, encourage, and support a mix of transportation options, including light rail, buses, bike ridership, and walking, along with driving.
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My three priorities if elected Supervisor are to protect human service programs, expand transportation options, and improve environmental programs. However, given recent budgets, I would direct any funding increases in 2004 to human service programs because of reductions in these areas. I would emphasis programs dealing with Children, Youth and Families, the developmentally disabled, and job and housing assistance.
The Children, Youth and Families programs provide a safe and nurturing environment for children and deserve our support. In general, they are preventative programs or address families in crisis. In both cases they have the potential to help people before their situation deteriorates.
As mentioned previously, providing additional resources for programs that assist those with developmental disabilities is also a priority. Dealing with low wages and high turnover is essential if the programs we do fund are to be successful. Case management should also be adequately supported to achieve program goals.
Lastly, I would put a priority on job and housing assistance programs. Having a job and stable housing are building blocks to participating in society. We should assist those who seek help. Specific programs include transition to employment and the homeless and housing assistance programs.
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Education and Experience:
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Professional communicator: Journalist: all levels government - federal, state, county, towns & villages (numerous awards); marketing communications executive - advise public officials on political strategy; advise others on government relations
Five terms chair, Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage Commission, its $2.5 billion Water Pollution Abatement Program; appointed by Democrat Mayor Henry Maier
Director, Democrat Martin Schreiber campaign for governor
Issues manager, campaign for Milwaukee County Executive
First chair, State Rehabilitation Planning & Advisory Council; appointed: Republican Gov. Tommy Thompson
Teach public affairs journalism, UW-Milwaukee
Active in numerous civic organizations
Ameteur ecologist
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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It doesn't take 200 words to answer this. I was the first chair of the State Rehabilitation and Advisory Council.
As a former DVR consumer with a disability, I was dismayed when the state began to reduce its DVR budget and lost matching funds. I do not appreciate the county's decreased funding for DD, even though times are tough. I do believe we all need to share the fiscal pain in very difficult financial times, but that human needs must be the last to suffer and then only at a minimum - such as to get no increase instead of a cut - not a decrease.
It is during the most difficult times, especially, when persons with disabilities and their abilities need help the most.
You will find me to be a staunch advocate of DD and other human services needs.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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I have had friends who are high level home care consumers and also providers.
I very much favor wage increases for these providers. Yes, I would support the proposed living wage increase, assuming this is pegged specifically to this staff. However, I believe we need to be extremely cautious about requiring a county minimum wage for all employees in Dane County, public and private workers. A statewide hike that provides a living wage is fine. If we had one that is only countywide, we'd shoot ourselves in the foot with lost businesses and a loss of jobs.
But I very much favor a wage hike for experience staff working with persons who have disabilities and abilities that need to be nurtured.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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First we need honesty in budgeting. Huge line items go deliberately underfunded to make the budget appear more fiscally responsible than it really is. You see this in Human Services, in the Sheriff's Department and elsewhere. That means use of the contingency fund to pay up the millions a department is shorted. The weakened contingency fund can put our bond rating at risk. In addition, it must be replenished later by taxpayers anyway.
I think it's better to budget honestly, tell taxpayers "we need these services and here's what they cost," and be candid about it. I proposed a complete overhaul of the budget and the budget process, over a two- to four-year period, with a complementary review of how we tax to get revenue.
A cleaner, more honest process would keep some of our leaders from going after that ridiculous funny money, such as that unreliable source called gambling.
The question should be how much money; where from?
Home care and other human services definitely need more in the budget. I also believe we should budget for more deputies and keep our prisoners in Dane County.
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Education and Experience:
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I'm a longtime Northside resident who has been very active in efforts to improve our neighborhoods. As the Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association I supervise a professional staff and manage a sizeable budget. My master's degree is in social services administration from the UW's LaFollette Institute. My community involvement includes the Northside Planning Council, Lakeview Library Expansion Committee, Warner Park Center Advisory Committee and the Brentwood Village Association.
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I have lived 20 years in District 12, and owned rental property here 32 years. Having worked through the neighborhood association, and the landlord's association, I have helped keep this a safe an attractive neighborhood.
I was a teacher for 15 years, but have also run a small business. This business perspective will help me make the tough choices needed in order to support my priorities: law enforcement, children, seniors, and the profoundly disabled.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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Although I am not on the finance committee, I do support our extensive human services system in Dane County. This adds substantially to our quality of life. As the director of the Alzheimer's Association I fully understand what we need to do to assist persons in need, including seniors, children and those with various disabilities. I'm hoping we can pool heath insurance costs for all our non-profits to provide additional direct care dollars.
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My approach to tightening the budget for Dane County differs significantly from the method currently used. The board has been using "across the board cuts." The reasoning behind this approach is that it avoids pitting one agency or department against another, and therefore is fair to all.
This is the easiest path. But I disagree with it on many levels. I believe today's economic climate calls for tough choices. This across the board approach is not fair to groups in our county who have the greatest need. Because of the amounts of "matching" funds these groups receive; it puts many basic, vital programs in extreme jeopardy: programs for children, seniors and the profoundly disabled. It magnifies the total impact thus putting the programs at risk. It also stresses an already financially stretched law enforcement program. These programs have not been treated fairly with the "across the board cuts." They are the programs I will support when serving on the county board.
Savings can occur in other areas by evaluating the efficiency of the programs and their outcomes, and by consolidating city and county services where there is duplication.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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We still have significant staff turnover for those very special caring people who dedicate their lives to caring for others with special needs. I'm not sure where we can find the additional dollars to increase wages, but I agree that wages need to increase. Caregiving is very difficult work and we need to make it possible for people to stay in this line of work, especially as our population ages and we need more workers.
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The "Living Wage" campaign, as I understand it, would require any agency receiving county funds to pay employees no less than 110% of the poverty level for a family of four.
Over the last 7 years Dane County has spent over 3 million annually, over and above the cost of living increases to help bring these important workers' wages in line with the value of the work they do. Although it is still not enough, we can be proud of the leadership that Dane County has taken on this issue.
At the present, however, with shared revenues shrinking drastically, I do not believe Dane County can afford the 110% living wage. I would, however, consider looking at a lesser formula for wage increases that would make these jobs more attractive and make retention better. It still would have direct dollar benefits to the employee in a year many employees are getting no increase, still others have taken cuts.
Along with giving the employees some help, it will also provide some indirect benefits to the employer, less employee turn over, reduced recruiting and training costs, and better care for the client.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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I supported the "ray of hope" resolution that calls for additional new dollars to go back into the human services programs. I would direct the dollars to areas that were reduced the most, including services for those with developmental disabilities. Other priorities include direct support for seniors and children and families in special needs situations.
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With the defeat of the Dejope referendum, I do not anticipate increased revenues for 2004. However if that does occur, I have stated above that my priorities are law enforcement, and programs for children, seniors, and the profoundly disabled. stated These are all protective programs and services for those that cannot satisfactorily protect or take care of themselves. I believe this to be a major priority for any governmental body.
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Education and Experience:
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I am a life-long resident of Madison's far-east side with a life-long interest in local politics and community issues. I am currently a member of the Elvejhem Neighborhood Association Board of Directors and represent Elvejhem on the Stoughton Road Policy Advisory Committee. I am also a citizen member of the Dane County Comprehensive Planning Commission. I am employed by the Transportation Security Administration at the Dane County Regional Airport. I have bachelors and masters degrees from the University of Wisconsin.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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I believe we must begin restoring the Human Services budgets. It is of course difficult to ask for property tax increases but there are other places to look first. We have subsidies like the $200,000 for the Monona Terrace Convention Center which do nothing for the average Dane County resident. If we used this for DD services we could restore $486,000 of the budget when federal matching funds are taken into account.
We should also put through the Health Dept. merger as a way to cut administrative costs. The savings should be used to restore services and all of the personnel who provide the actual services should be retained.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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My top three priorities would be Human Services (as stated above), land acquisition for the Green Space Initiative and Transport 2020. The Green Space will control sprawl and let us refocus on infill development. Sprawl development costs more to service than can be recovered through the additional property taxes leaving a net loss for local governments. Infill development uses existing utilities and roads and therefore costs much less to service than the new property tax revenue, giving local governments more money to spend on human services and public
safety.
Commuter bus and rail does the same in the long term by cutting expensive road building and maintenance projects. Both will provide more livable communities.
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Education and Experience:
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I have a B.S. degree in Political Science/Public Administration and a Master's in Urban & Regional Planning/Urban Studies. I have worked for the State of Wisconsin in community development, housing and land use. I currently work for Madison Gas & Electric as a Business Development Manager, Economic Development.
Elected to the Dane County Board in 1994. Current committee responsibilities include: Comprehensive Planning, Living Wage Review, and Personnel & Finance, (Vice Chair) and Parks Commission.
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My name is Dorothy Wheeler and I am a candidate for the county board from the 18th District. I am a retired school teacher (1999) who has an interest in politics - studying issues and trying to find solutions to problems in this society. Making policy that works to solve problems which makes people's lives better is what government should be about. As a teacher, I had experiences with a great diversity of people which helped me to understand society's needs more directly.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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For 2004, the County Board passed a budget that required tough decisions. Sacrifices from workers delivering services to individuals, as well as, organizations receiving services were made. Forty vacant positions were not filled and another moratorium on hiring for this year has been imposed. Cuts were regrettable, however layoffs to County employees were avoided. Funding for County employees (jobs) must be preserved.
Losing matching funds for developmental disability programs was unfortunate. Loss of shared revenue from the State, as well as the shortfall in sales tax revenue back to the County were major reasons that precipitated a cut in the County's levy. This will require significant cooperation and individuals with budget experience as we continue to see reductions in state and federal revenue.
As Vice Chair of the Finance Committee, I will promise to listen to and work together with the DD community to try to find ways to improve the situation.
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The county budget is a huge issue in this campaign because of the cuts in shared revenue from the state. Although I believe in fiscal responsibility and have supported the county exec's formula for tax increase, I think it's time to set a new formula for how the county taxes its citizens. We need to look at the human services division which I know to be half the county budget and add some other variables to the mix. How many more cases of citizens in need will we have - for instance - and how many jobs have we lost, how many homeless should we expect, etc.? Without making this too complicated a formula, we can find a way that really reflects the needs of this county. We should certainly not lose federal dollars!! Since I believe more revenue will be needed in the future budget, it would be wise to begin studying that issue now. Lobbying the state for more shared revenue has to be part of the mix especially if we see a change in leadership in the legislature.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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I truly recognize that staff turnover is an important issue. The County did increase the 'living wage' from $8.70 to $8.85 for 2004. That increase required $250,000 from the general fund/tax levy. If we were to go to 110%, an additional $0.885 an hour, that would require an additional $1.5 million from general fund taxes. Should POS workers earn $9.75 an hour, ABSOLUTELY. Can we get this to 110% next year? I don't believe we can. As the County faces numerous challenges and demands on its limited resources, I am sensitive to this issue, and will do what I can to support some movement above 100%. A lot depends on what sales tax and shared revenue projections look like for this year.
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It pains me to begin this way but caretakers in this society are not valued because this is "women's work". As most of the women caretakers have gone out to work in careers, we must depend now on hired caretakers to do the "real work of the world". Whether we speak of child care or home health aides, we are looking at a class of people whom we have determined need little training and education so, therefore, we can pay them poverty wages. I have recently visited two homes where sullen aides opened the door without a "hello". Maybe they are working up to their wages!! I know we can't give these people a college education, but we should be giving them training courses, upgrading them because of their caring attitude and cheerful disposition, and showing them they are performing needed and valued service in this society. I definitely support higher wages for these workers, but I would like to know how they are trained.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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As Vice Chair of the Finance Committee I will do what I can to support developmental disability programs for adults and children, alternate care programs, (especially in-home care programs for our seniors), public protection programs and programs and services that help our children and young adults. I have consistently stated these in previous interview questions regarding spending priorities, whether they are existing tax dollars or new additional/unanticipated sources of revenue.
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I know that increased revenue must first be placed at the bargaining table for AFSCME workers. That is a given. As an environmentalist, I would support buying up environmentally sensitive land for the purpose of protecting our water systems and critical habitats. I would also support more studies for land use like the North Mendota Parkway study. (The study that is now being considered ,"Attain Dane" , has my support.) Not the last and least of my priorities would be a close look at human services which is a huge consideration. I do support fair wages for POS employees. People working daily with frail citizens must be encouraged and shown respect with support from their agencies which are paid by the county. There is no question but that they deserve better and some of them might perform better when they are given more support, both financial and emotional. They provide a vital service.
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Education and Experience:
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I am a graduate of Madison Business College with a Bachelor of Business Administration, with a Major in Accounting degree.
I am currently on the County Board.
I retired from Dane County following a 34 career, the final 30 years serving as Controller. During my years working for the County, I gained a level of knowledge about County Government that you will not find in any other candidate.
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I have thirteen years of experience working on budget issues as a policy analyst in the State Legislature. My job affords me the opportunity to work on a broad range of topics important to local government. I received the Wisconsin Counties Association's Outstanding Legislative Staff award for my work for a member of the budget-writing Joint Finance Committee. I have a degree from UW-La Crosse and have completed graduate work at the UW's LaFollette School.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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The preparation of the County Budget is a very difficult task, given the multitude of services that the county is required to perform under the state statutes. A balance must be achieved in the level of funding being provided for mandatory services like public safety and optional services like parks. For 2004, both the economy and severe cuts in state funding forced across the board cuts in county services. Unfortunately, this had an impact on the funds available for serving the needs of persons having developmental disabilities. The option of simply raising property taxes to cover the effects of the economy and lost state aids is not an option that is acceptable to the majority of taxpayers. We now need to look at all of the programs funded in the budget and prioritize these programs. In order to provide additional county funds to serve the needs of the developmentally disabled, possibly the county can terminate its funding for the July 4 fireworks, close some county parks that see limited usage, or cut back on the hours that road are plowed during a snowstorm? I believe that making these hard decisions this is the only way to reprioritize the use of county property tax dollars to provide the additional funding needed for people with developmental disabilities.
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A society is judged by how well it cares for those who cannot care for themselves. With that in mind, I believe it is imperative that funding for people with developmental and physical disabilities be the first consideration during budget deliberations. I have seen first hand, during my years of work in the State Legislature, the plight of those with disabilities and the devastating impact the lack of adequate services can have on the quality of life for those served and their families.
Unfortunately, the state has projected its budget woes on to local units of government by cutting the valuable shared revenue program. This trend is expected to continue - further exacerbating Dane County's budget problems. Funding for services to our most vulnerable must remain a priority. Those with disabilities should not be asked to bear the brunt of budget cuts. At a minimum, I will fight to protect current funding for services for the developmentally disabled.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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Your question states "Would you support raising the Dane County Living Wage to 110% of the poverty level?". The short answer is no, but let me explain. If the living wage were to be increased to 110% of the poverty level, this could have an adverse effect on the benefits that you say are already "eroding". Any living wage also should take into account the benefits being provided to employees because if you pay them a higher hourly rate but decrease their health insurance benefits, many of them probably would be worse off than they now are. For many, increasing their benefits could provide them with more flexibility than they would realize from increasing their hourly rate of pay. Remember, benefits provided to an employee, like a better health plan, does not increase their deductions for Social Security, Federal Income Tax or State Income Tax from their paycheck like a pay increase would. In addition the employer also does not have to pay the employers contribution to Social Security on benefits like health insurance as they would on increase wages.
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I do not have a position on the specific proposal of raising the Dane County Living Wage to 110% of the poverty level. It is my hope however, that Governor Doyle will exercise his emergency rule making authority in the Department of Workforce Development to raise the state minimum wage to a level that represents a meaningful living wage. Our neighbors to the south (Illinois) have taken the initiative to establish their minimum wage at a rate significantly higher than the federal minimum. It is my understanding that the Doyle Administration hopes to advance a proposal to increase the state's minimum wage by the end of the year.
It does concern me that dedicated members of our workforce are not properly compensated for valuable work. I also realize that many of those who work for near poverty level wages are often engaged in work with the elderly and disabled. These services are worth more than the compensation would indicate. I will fight to improve the wages and working conditions for those who work with our most vulnerable.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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Now that the "no" vote has prevailed on the casino issue, I do not foresee a revenue windfall coming to the county in
2004.
If the casino issue had won voter approval, then the following would have my priorities:
- The County would have had to honor the provision that was included in settlements with most of the unions to re-open the contracts on the matter of wages if the county achieved a new major revenue source during 2004. This provision was agreed to because the unions had agreed to no wage increase for 2004.
- Conduct a study to determine what problems have arisen due to the across the board cuts that were made as a part of the 2004 budget process with priority given to the human services programs.
- Used to reduce property taxes.
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With the defeat of the casino referendum it appears highly unlikely that the county will see a significant increase in revenue. Given the fact that no additional funds will be available, my top three priorities for county spending are: (1) services for the physically and developmentally disabled, (2) improvements to our roadways to decrease congestion and increase safety and (3) improvements to our public safety system. As I mentioned earlier, services for our most vulnerable citizens must be the county's top priority. Transportation is of particular interest to the people of the 19th District. Improvements are needed to the Reiner Road/County C/HWY 151 intersection and to the increasingly congested stretch of HWY 19 on Sun Prairie's West Side. Conditions at these two locations will continue to worsen as increased development puts more pressure on the roadways. Finally, it is important that the county support public safety measures, including adequate patrols and improvements to the county Huber facility and jail.
The county must not focus exclusively on where to spend money, but also on savings. Unfortunately, the tax and revenue options available to the county are regressive. Higher property taxes associated with a failure to hold the line on overall spending will end up hurting the elderly and the poor.
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Education and Experience:
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As a psychologist and family therapist I am aware of many of the challenges facing individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. As co-chair of the Dane County Youth Commission and chair of the Youth Resource Center Coalition I work to promote opportunities for our youth. I have worked for four years with all levels of government-city, town, county and state to preserve additional land around Patrick Marsh.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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We
need to continually look for ways to improve efficiencies in county
government so we can maintain and restore money for the federal
match for crucial developmental disability services.
We need to protect programs that help seniors, youth,
families and those most in need.
We need to do all we can to get our fair share back from the
federal government. I am open to hearing your suggestions on how to protect
funding for developmental disabilities.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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It is important to reduce staff turnover to maintain a high quality of service. Obviously an important aspect to retaining staff is to provide a good wage and benefits. I am willing to work with you to find funding to increase compensation.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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If increased revenue becomes available in 2004 I support putting money into the Department of Human Services, including money to meet the needs of seniors, youth, families and those most in need. I support using increased revenue to treat people with alcohol and drug issues to deduce recidivism and jail crowding
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Education and Experience:
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(I) David E. Wiganowsky - unopposed
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Age 54
Married 35 years
3 children
5 Grandchildren
Self-Employed 22 years
Oscar Meyer Employee - 14 years
Union Steward Local 538 - 3 years
Tavern League of Wisconsin State Board Director - 2 years
Town of Burke Chairman - 10 years
Health and Human Needs Committee - 8 years
Chair of Transportation Committee - 2 years
Long Term Support - 2 years
Board of Health - 2 years
Veterans Service Commission - 6 years
Airport Commission - 4 tyears
Vice Chairman RPC - 3 years
Commissioner on old RPC representing towns
Task Force on Drinking and Driving - 2 years
Joint Legislative Council Special Committee on Economics and Health of the Tavern Industry - 7 months
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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(I) David E. Wiganowsky - unopposed
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I will continue to support proper funding or introduce Budget Amendments as I did in the 2004 Budget.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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(I) David E. Wiganowsky - unopposed
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I don't believe raising the living wage to 110% of the poverty level will accomplish what they hope to. I believe caregivers should be paid the same as other employees that work for the county.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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(I) David E. Wiganowsky - unopposed
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I support the Ray of Hope that is proposed in the 2004 Budget. This may not leave any other revenue for a second or third choice.
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Education and Experience:
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(I) Dennis J. O’Loughlin - unopposed
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This will be my fourth term on the County Board serving as Chairman of PP&J, Chairman of Specialized Transportation, Vice Chairman of the Airport Commission, Justice Oversight Committee and member of City-County Liaison, Build Committee and Strategic Growth Committee. I am committed to being involved in County Government and enjoy serving the residents of Dane County. Being a business owner that faces budget issues, personnel issues and strategic decisions daily, I have used this experience in my County Board duties and responsibilities.
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Question 1: Protecting funding
of agencies
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(I) Dennis J. O’Loughlin - unopposed
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The Chairwoman of Health and Human Needs committee is very committed to supporting the DD community's needs. Pressure on the entire County budget is cause for concern in all departments. The obvious answer is to raise taxes however we don't have the political will to do it.
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Question 2: Dane County Living
Wage.
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(I) Dennis J. O’Loughlin - unopposed
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Before one can approve or disapprove the living wage issue, a survey of businesses in DC should be taken to compare wages paid for similar skills and experience. Various duties require a salary format that should match the required work skill. We have faced that issue at the Airport and would have jeopardized the flying public from DCRA if the County implemented a required wage base. The agencies should provide data to support any requirement that government implement a wage increase. Taxes are too high for the majority of our citizens.
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Question 3: Top three
priorities for spending additional dollars.
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(I) Dennis J. O’Loughlin - unopposed
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Maintain public safety. Our mission statement requires we fund the public safety programs. Human services being over 50% of our budget the pressure to continue funding at these levels will grow. Hopefully some economies of scale can spread the available funding to support the needed services. Specialized Transportation-One of my top priorities. These citizens deserve to have the same mobility, as any of us and my goal is to make it happen.
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