After running un-opposed in both 2015 and 2019, Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson is facing not one, but two challengers in the primary on February 21st. He was first elected back in 2011, and he joined me on “Outside the Box” to discuss what accomplishments he is most proud of, and where he hopes to take the county over the next 4 years, were he able to get re-elected.
He started out by telling me that picking his best accomplishment would be like picking his favorite child. “The record speaks for itself. We’re one of the best run counties in the state. You mentioned the triple A bond rating. There’s also the declining tax rate for 8 years in a row while also being able to fully fund services.” He went on to talk about the revenue and job opportunities that developed as a result of the airport, while highlighting that it was a great example of both the private and public sectors working together to achieve a goal.
We then went on to discuss the claims of Nelson’s challengers. Justin Krueger talked to the Post Crescent about the 200 jobs that are open in Outagamie County, and the need for new leadership. Kevin Sturn focused more on Nelson’s desire to run for other political offices. “As a U. S. Senator, I could do more for Outagamie County in one day then I can in four years as a County Executive… It comes down to how you can best serve the people.”
The conversation wrapped up talking about the projects that County Executive Nelson is excited to work on if he were to win in April. The major terminal expansion was the big one in the pipeline. It’s a 100 million dollar project that could result in upwards of 1 billion dollars of economic activity a few years after completion. “The Community, the workforce, the airport – we need a steady hand. We have to do this right. This could make or break, not just the airport, but our community.”
The primary will take place on February 21st and the top 2 candidates will have an election on April 4th.
Listen to full interview below.
[Post Crescent][Spreaker: Outside the Box]
