Waushara County Board of Supervisors Candidates for Spring Election on April 7, 2026

1. Why did you choose to run for the Waushara County Board of Supervisors?
2. What qualifications do you bring to the board?
3. What do you consider your greatest strength if you are elected?
4. How can the county continue to work within a strict budget and still provide the services for county residents?
5. What do you consider as one of the areas that concern you most about the county?

Jeff Haase, District 2
Town of Poy Sippi, Ward I, Town of Leon, Ward II and Ward III

1. 
   
   I am running for the Waushara County Board of Supervisors because, like many taxpayers in our county, I believe it is essential that public funds are managed responsibly and spent wisely. Effective county governance requires collaboration among board supervisors, the county administrator, department heads, and the public. As supervisors, we must remain focused on the issues before us, thoughtfully evaluate information, and develop resolutions that best serve the interests of Waushara County residents. At this stage in my life, I can dedicate the time, attention, and commitment necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of this role with diligence and care.
2. 
   I would bring 30 years of legal experience to the board, including prior service as a county corporation counsel. In that role, I provided legal guidance to the county board, county administrator, and various county departments, giving me a thorough understanding of how county government operates and the responsibilities of each office. I currently serve as a Family Court Judge, where strong analytical skills, sound reasoning, and careful decision making are essential. I am committed to listening thoughtfully to all perspectives on an issue and conducting the necessary research to ensure I am fully informed before making decisions. I believe thoughtful preparation and balanced judgment are critical to effective public service.
3. 
   If elected, my greatest strength would be my thoughtful and measured approach to decision making. I do not make decisions hastily or based on emotion. Instead, I take the time to gather information, carefully evaluate the facts, and make well-informed judgments. I value collaboration and working effectively with others to achieve practical solutions. When challenges arise, my focus is not on assigning blame, but on addressing the issue constructively and identifying steps to prevent similar problems in the future. I believe this steady, solutions oriented approach is essential for effective county leadership.
4. 
    One of the primary responsibilities of the county board is to ensure that taxpayer dollars are managed responsibly while maintaining the essential services residents rely on. This requires a strong commitment to preventing fraud and waste and promoting an efficient, accountable county government. Careful evaluation of expenditures is essential. We must distinguish between necessary services and discretionary spending, ensuring that limited resources are directed toward true needs. While I support a smaller, more efficient government, I also recognize that counties must provide certain services, and those obligations must be met effectively and responsibly. To achieve this balance, we should continuously look for opportunities to improve efficiency. This includes collaborating with other counties to learn from their experiences and consulting subject matter experts when appropriate. By sharing best practices and seeking informed guidance, we can identify cost-effective solutions that maintain high-quality services for Waushara County residents.
5. 
   Currently, I do not have a single specific area of concern that rises above the others. However, I believe it is important to approach this role with a willingness to listen and learn. If elected, I look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of current county operations, ongoing initiatives, and the concerns of residents. Once fully informed, I will carefully evaluate the issues facing Waushara County, prioritize them appropriately, and work collaboratively to develop practical and responsible solutions. I believe effective leadership begins with gathering accurate information and engaging with the community before setting priorities.
6. 
   
   One of Waushara County’s greatest strengths is its citizens. Our community is made up of hardworking, engaged residents who care deeply about the future of the county. It is essential for county board supervisors to listen to and understand what matters most to the people they serve. When local government remains attentive and responsive to its citizens, it strengthens trust, accountability, and the overall well-being of the community.
7. 
   At this time, I believe it would be premature to identify specific services that are lacking or in need of improvement without a thorough review. If elected, I look forward to carefully evaluating the services currently provided by the county and assessing their effectiveness, efficiency, and responsiveness to residents’ needs. After conducting that review and engaging with department leaders and community members, I will be in a better position to determine whether adjustments, improvements, or additional services are warranted. Any changes should be guided by careful analysis, fiscal responsibility, and the best interests of Waushara County residents.

Mark Piechowski, District 2 (Incumbent)
Town of Poy Sippi and most of the Town of Leon

1. 
   I have lived my entire life in Waushara County and raised my 5 boys here. I want the county to continue to be a great place to raise a family. The quality of life in our rural area is second to none. But for that we need to make sure we have a policy that promotes the creation of good paying jobs and keeps home ownership affordable. When I first ran for County Board in 2018 I thought that the county board needed members who would ask more questions and not just go along with the status quo.
2. 
   
   I grew up on a family farm near Redgranite and was raised with a strong commitment to civic duty. I spent 37 years in public safety first as a patrol officer and ending as the County’s Director of Emergency Management and Courthouse Security. I have also volunteered as a firefighter for the Redgranite Area Fire Department for the last 52 years and currently serve as the Fire Chief. I am very active in my church, serving on boards. I spent my entire career interacting with our local community and feel that puts me in a position to be an advocate for the people of Waushara County. I have faithfully served four terms with the Waushara County Board.
3. 
   I think my greatest strength is that I know county government well enough to ask the tough questions and work out solutions. I don’t grandstand. I work collaboratively with other board members and agency heads to find efficiencies and end misguided programs and policies. We want to be frugal and yet provide services like snowplowing that people depend on. I think we have made some improvements to county operations during my time on the board. Through collaborative efforts our Board was able to serve the community by building a new EMS station in Poy Sippi, which provides safe housing for the paramedics and a quicker response for local medical emergencies. In addition, a new meal site was included in the building, thus providing nutrition and a community gathering space for residents. By working together we can keep Waushara County as a great place to live.
4. 
   This is the key question. People can’t afford to constantly having their property taxes increased. Young people need to be able to have the American Dream of owning a home and stay in our communities. I have suggested many ways to save money – some have been adopted by the Board and some have not. I will keep fighting to end “irresponsible spending”. We will be facing a budget deficit this year. I believe we can’t afford to increase taxes in 2026, so we need to find ways to do things smarter and perhaps do a few less things. Our EMS has been implementing new programs to train in house, saving the cost of training for their staff and all of the county fire department first responders and helps with recruitment for both.
5. 
   The number one concern is that our children and grandchildren don’t have good employment options here and they end up moving away. As county policymakers, we need to have the correct tax and regulatory climate. We can’t afford big city expenses and regulations in our rural communities. We often can’t keep county staffing as our employees can earn more in other jobs. We can’t afford to give every employee a raise and keep doing things the way they are – the budget won’t cover it. So we have to put the effort and be creative in ways to find savings.
6. 
   Historically, Waushara County was run very frugally and with a minimum of regulations and a relatively low tax rate. I hope we can continue that approach going forward. To do that we need to govern smarter. Perhaps this means utilizing AI to assist our staff. Perhaps we need to look at streamlining zoning and building codes. We do have a great area for people to retire, and for young people to stay, but again, not if it gets too expensive.
7. 
   
   I think we need to ask how to do things better, but also how to not do things that we can’t afford or that aren’t necessary. For several years we had a lot of complaints about county snowplowing. We now have a new policy and a new highway commissioner, and this winter we have had a lot less complaints. And it hasn’t cost us significantly more – we just are doing things smarter and streamlining the department. If my neighbors choose to reelect me, I will continue to ask the tough questions and look for smart solutions.

Gene Wedde, District 6
Town of Marion Ward I, Town of Mt Morris Wards I and II, Town of Wautoma Ward III

1. 
   I have chosen to run for Waushara County Board as WE need a change in leadership. I also received a tremendous amount of support when I ran in 2024 and that has served as motivation to run again in 2026. Over the past year OUR county has received a large amount of negative publicity under the current leadership, so for positive change to occur we need a change in leadership. I invite you to view my Gene Wedde District 6 Facebook page for continual updates through election day, April 7, 2026.
2. 
   Owning a successful online business is one of my main qualifications. With shrinking budgets, we need to capitalize on all opportunities to reduce spending wherever possible, we need to operate the county like a business. Also, as a previous Waushara County employee I have seen the inner workings of the county and know where changes need to be made. Lastly, I have invested my time over the past four and a half years to attend numerous County Board and Committee meetings and now have taken the next step to seek an elected position.
3. 
   My commonsense approach will be my greatest strength in moving Waushara County forward. I have witnessed numerous decisions made by our Board Supervisors that do not align with the majority of taxpayers. Would you enter into a $200.00 per year annual lease for a 40 acre quarry property?? Would you provide a department director residing outside of the county with a daily driver take home vehicle?? If your answer is NO, then you need to hire me at the ballot box!
4. 
   Waushara County will continue to provide mandatory services for our residents but will need to continually review voluntary services to ensure we are spending the taxpayer’s dollars wisely.
5. 
   Seeing as this question is vaguely written, I will answer it two ways. First, at the Waushara County Government level, my greatest concern is lack of leadership with oversight. An example, a request for a Jail Sergeant was presented to the Executive Committee July 8, 2024. The addition “could open up the ability to take on inmates from surrounding counties on an ongoing basis”, per the meeting minutes. County Board Resolution 22-07-24 passed July 16, 2024, “with an approximate budget impact of $100,000.00”, per the meeting minutes. Public Safety Committee October 8, 2025, “Working on a contract with the State to house five inmates to start”, per the meeting minutes. We spent 10 months of 2025 to get to a point of “Working on a contract” without generated revenue to offset the cost of the position. My second concern, at the county level, is lack of new business and industry. Waushara County must explore, secure, and retain new businesses to locate within the county so we can keep our residents employed where they live, verses being a bedroom community.
6. 
   Another vague question that I can answer in two ways. Without a doubt, the employees of Waushara County Government are its greatest strength. We have many long term, hardworking and dedicated people who work together to provide the best service possible to our residents. As far as the county in general, you cannot narrow it down to a single strength. From the business owners to the retirees, and everyone in between, it’s our people again. Honorable mentions would go to safety, beauty, location, recreation, and tranquility that Waushara County has to offer.
7. 
   With continued reductions in federal and state funding it has already become a challenge to provide the services we offer, let alone adding additional services. As example, I attended the August 18, 2025, Strategic Planning Committee meeting where a lengthy discussion ensued about the lack of budget funds to even keep up with a maintenance goal on our 333 miles of County Highways. I, as a good steward of the taxpayer’s dollars, cannot look for more ways to spend tax dollars that we do not have. In closing, if elected I intend to provide honest, open, and transparent communication to our residents. I will also explore cost-saving opportunities to reduce OUR budget, stop the waste, and research uniform policy changes to ensure consistency throughout our county departments.

John Jarvis, District 6 (Incumbent)
Portions of Marion and Wautoma Townships, All of Mt. Morris Township

1. 
   The County Board is a true “grass roots” committee. As a member of the board I have always been hyper-sensitive to the concerns of my district, as well as the concerns of all of the citizens of Waushara County. Maintaining the necessary services while keeping the budget on track becomes more challenging every year, however; by diligently preparing and being fiscally responsible, Waushara County has retained its functions while consistently lowering the mil rate. Running for re-election to District 6 is my way of assuring that this process continues.
2. 
   Qualifications that I bring to the County Board is my ability to listen and communicate effectively with citizens and county employees. Another quality that I possess is the ability to view issues in a more positive light, promoting collaboration over conflict. I have lived and worked my entire life in Waushara County. As a business owner, I have been faced with many of the same obstacles that I am faced with on the County Board. I have had many leadership roles on numerous state and local committees since returning from college and taking over my family’s business. These life experiences have given me the skills to be a productive County Board Supervisor. Every decision made by county committees has consequences that affect different segments of our community. For this reason alone, I feel it is of utmost importance to be extremely thoughtful when determining the best course of action. As a member of the Waushara County Board, I understand it is necessary to be mindful of the needs of Waushara County citizens, as this will only strengthen our community into the future.
3. 
   My greatest strength is my ability to listen and communicate openly with our administration and other employees, which certainly has a positive effect on the functioning of our board. I have had the distinct honor of serving as the chair of the Waushara County Board over the last four years. This has provided me with a unique opportunity to, not only serve on various county committees, but to view all of the different committees and departments as functioning units within the county operation. Using my listening and communicating strengths, I am able to better analyze the situation and more positively make the appropriate choices for Waushara County.
4. 
   There are many ways our county can continue to provide important services, for our citizens, without increasing the county budget. One is seeking out granting opportunities when they are made available and when we qualify for them. Another way is to enhance our efficiency through technology. From utilizing various “on-line” platforms, when appropriate, our employees are able to stay focused on daily county tasks, while still attending important meetings virtually. We also screen our various software to ensure that there is no duplication when purchasing, allowing us to utilize it fully, wherever it has applications throughout multiple departments. Finally, we are analyzing departments, looking for any possible chances to consolidate both labor and services. We are examining this both within our departments along with looking to neighboring counties to determine if there could be chances to collaborate. A shining example of this is our Agriculture Educators within the Extension System. We are currently sharing these.positions between Green Lake, Adams and Portage Counties. With these positions being more specialized, we are able to get a very high degree of knowledge which is available in person, on-line or by phone, as a reduced cost to our county.
5. 
   Most concerning to me is the possibility of losing programs that our citizens rely upon, which are often mandated and happen to be funded largely through federal and state dollars. Often these programs and/or mandate requirements change, prompting action by our county departments. It is imperative that we work to show the effectiveness of these programs to continue this flow of funding and not be forced to cut important services.
6. 
   The strength of Waushara County lies in its hard working employees and its supportive residents. Many of these people fall within the same group. As our employees are asked to streamline department’s capital expenses, financial requests or to collaborate with other departments for efficiency, they meet these challenges with an extraordinary level of understanding and professionalism. This highlights the quality of Waushara County employees and is only possible by having understanding, supportive citizens.
7. 
   We can and always will strive to enhance the services to our county residents. Listening to public comments and presentations from our county departments at our monthly committee and board meeting, allows the board to monitor how well the services are functioning. Our new facilities have been a monumental improvement for our citizens and workers. These have vastly improved our accessibility, safety and efficiencies, allowing Waushara County to be a welcoming place to work and live for long into the future.

George Peterman, District 9
Town of Deerfield, the western portion of the Town of Wautoma, and the northern and eastern portions of the Town of Richford

1. 
   After I left the Waushara County Sheriff’s Department in 2014, I knew that I still wanted to work for and give back to our community. In 2018, I made the decision run for the position of supervisor on the Waushara County Board. I was fortunate enough to be elected to the Board, serving from 2018-2020. However, at that time I completely underestimated the time commitment that serving on the Board required. Due to owning a growing business and being a father to two children in school at that time, I made the decision not to re-run after my term expired in 2020. Now, 6 years have passed, and with both my daughters out of school and well on their way into adulthood, I feel this is a better time to serve on the board. I believe I am in a much better position to provide the dedication the position deserves without compromising other important aspects of my life.
2. 
   The primary qualification I will bring to the Board is my diversified background. I have 18 years of Law Enforcement experience at both the State and County level. I have organizational leadership experience, serving in an administrative role at the Waushara County Sheriff's Department from 2004-2014. I also served as a lead organizer of the Waushara County JailBreak Marathon from 2008-2017. As noted before, I have previously served on the Waushara County Board from 2018-2020. I held positions on a variety of committees representing Zoning, local Libraries and Land Conservation to name a few. Since November of 2015 I have been self-employed as the owner and lead instructor at Badgerland Driver’s Education. I have an average enrollment of approximately 175 students annually and I employ two part-time instructors..I have also worked as a substitute teacher for the Wautoma Area School District from 2020-2024.I have served as a local election official from 2020 - present.I have also served as a Town of Wautoma Supervisor from 2024 - present.
3. 
   My greatest strength is in my ability to foster a productive, compatible working environment with others. Over the course of my professional career, I have had to work with many individuals, boards, and committees, all with unique and diverse backgrounds. I am quite proud of my ability to work with diverse individuals with a unified goal to bring success to every project I have had the privilege to work on.
4. 
   I believe that not only do we have to be good stewards of tax payer money, and adhere to our budget constraints, but we also need to provide a high quality level of services to our residents. How that happens is an ongoing line item by line item evaluation of the County budget, as well as every department budget. We also need to exhaust every opportunity that we may have for grants and other unique funding opportunities available to our County. Creativity and diligence are the two keys to maximizing our tax dollars without sacrificing quality level services.
5. 
   What do you consider as one of the areas that concern you most about the county? One of my primary focuses will be how we can attract businesses to our county. Recently, Waushara County was awarded HUBZone status, which could serve as a major benefit for small businesses that work with government contracts. If we can find ways to attract business to come to Waushara County, the ripple effect will be felt throughout the entire community. More businesses equal more employment. More employment equals more spending throughout the whole county.
6. 
   Waushara County’s two greatest strengths are in our natural beauty and our citizens. From our many rivers and lakes, to the Ice Age Trail, to the frequent sightings of the Northern Lights, to our brilliant fall colors, there is really no place more beautiful than Waushara County. Additionally, my current employment takes me all over this county as I teach teenagers how to drive. In my travels, and during my frequent stops, I always seem to encounter the nicest people. People that say “Hello” even though they may not know you. People that hold doors for each other as they enter buildings. And most importantly people who are always willing to help others that may have experienced a tragedy. Waushara County is a community whose foundation is built on the shoulders of a genuinely kind and caring population.
7. 
   I certainly believe that stagnation is never good, and we should always look for areas to be better. Growth and improvement is imperative in Government operations at all levels. One area I think we should definitely look to improve in is marketing ourselves. As we try to hire the best people for our county jobs, and bring in new businesses, it is important that everyone knows all the benefits Waushara County has to offer. My wife Belinda and I discovered this in 1997 when we made the decision to move to Waushara County. Currently, most people get their information from social media and online outlets. This allows for many affordable ways to get the word out that Waushara County is a desired location for businesses, families and individuals.

Robert Wedell, District 9 (Incumbent)
Wards 1 & 2 Town of Wautoma, Ward 1 Town of Deerfield and the whole town, and Ward 2 in the Town of Richford

1. 
   I am the current representative serving on the county board and I would like to continue to serve the constituents in these areas.
2. 
   I have served several terms on the County Board and would love to serve another term. I have been on various committees and have enjoyed being on those committees.
3. 
   I believe I have an open mind and am willing to listen and then express my opinion on the issue.
4. 
   The county should and has sought out any grants that could offset any expenses. This would help fund some necessary items otherwise coming from taxes.
5. 
   To be able to provide the necessary services and yet keeping our taxes as low as possible.
6. 
   They need to keep up with the strategic plan that has been proposed. Most, if not all departments are working hard to implement the plan.
7. 
   The services that are being provided are, I feel, pretty good. There is always room for improvement. Overall, I feel for the size of Waushara County, the services we provide are beneficial to our residents.

Luke Joseph, District 11
Hancock and Coloma area.

1. I chose to run for County Board of Supervisors because I feel like we need more accountability on fiscal decisions and individual rights protections. I also chose to run so the county doesn’t make the same mistake they did a few years ago when they unlawfully enforced mask mandates and threatened the public with arrests and eventually arrested me because I didn’t wear one.
2. 
   I am a passionate patriot who believes in God, Family, and Country. I take great pride in all those areas. I want to represent each of those areas as best as I can. I faithfully served our country. As I swore in the military service and will continue to swear for the rest of my life, I will protect and defend this country as best as I know how.
3. 
   I understand why government institutions were created. First, above all, They were created to secure our rights as stated in Article one Section one of the Wisconsin Constitution. This was also echoed in our U.S. Constitution as well. Also it is stated in our Declaration of Independence: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.” Whether it be national or local government, The first priority of a government is to secure and protect our rights. We also have a right to alter or abolish it if it becomes destructive. Waushara County has become very destructive after arresting and throwing me in jail because they didn’t agree with my religious beliefs. They also threatened others to do the same. As a fox watching over the hen house, this county board has tossed out my complaints against it and is currently fighting against me in a lawsuit. With that being said, we need to bring back the People’s Grand Jury. It has been over 100 years since the People’s Grand Jury has been commonly used. According to the Fifth Amendment, no person can be held to answer for a crime unless indicted by a Grand Jury first. This Grand Jury is the ‘how-to’ alter or abolish bad government. Voting is not, as some may think. We need to bring fear back into the lives of our servants, the elected officials. I will propose that a committee of the People and by the People, be formed and become permanent and will oversee and make sure that a fair and true People’s Grand Jury can and will be conducted if necessary. As I see it, even now a People’s Grand Jury would be extremely beneficial in the current sheriff’s department’s muddy situation.
4. 
   Although this question is kind of vague and broad, I would say that the County website should offer as much direction and guidelines as possible for each category of service. This will mitigate other hands on services and questions. With more fiscally conservative minded individuals such as myself, Waushara County will stand a better chance of surviving debt problems because we will always advocate for less expensive investments. There will not be a repeat of another 100 plus million dollar investment with board members like me!
5. 
   The TSA style service (if it's called a service) needs to go. Many, if not, most counties in Wisconsin do not have that style of security at the entrances. The wand and x-ray machines are unlawful acts that need to go. Many individuals do not want to consent but feel forced to consent to it. “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” …4th Amendment. Those officers need search warrants (with all steps) for each person they search. I believe that the county can save money by taking away that system and machine.
6. 
   The ruralness of Waushara County is a great strength. I believe the more we move towards a common law, free market and law abiding county, the more the county can be a beacon of light to the rest of the state and also eventually a sanctuary county for less tyrannical government fingers to get into our lives. With many part time residents and vacationers, they will see our fresh life style and will want to spread that ideology to the rest of the state.
   7. We can provide a better Justice Service. That would include a People’s Grand Jury that I mentioned already. This service would actually come from the People and not from Board or the courts. Any indictments would then follow lawful protocols to be brought to a trial by Jury or to the Supreme Court.

Mike Semrow, District 11
Town and Villages of Hancock and Coloma, Town of Richford South of HWY 21, and West of CTY Road B

1. 
   I am looking for a means to serve my community (Hancock/Coloma/Richford) and the larger community (Waushara County) in a way that can offer benefit to the tax paying citizens of Waushara County. Recognizing that all citizens possess the first amendment right of free speech. Filtering through the narrative and making sure that decisions governing Waushara County and their tax paying citizenry are made and based on editorialized facts.
2. 
   I have 25+ years of property insurance loss adjustment and settlement experience offers what I would consider listening skills that few others may have. Recognizing the "Digital Echo" as stated in the Martin Demsey book "Radical Inclusion" recognizes the awesome power of narrative and the 'Digital Echo" and recognizing the need to base decisions on fact.
3. 
   Critical thinking skills. Decision making based on the best interests of the taxpaying public based on constituent input.
4. 
   All departments must be recognized equally. Prioritization must be viewed from a taxpayer need of the core services. Improved long term planning can offer benefit to all departments excess of the community core service needs.
5. 
   Reviewing constituent concerns and holding public employees to a standard the private sector would expect.
6. 
   Maintaining our rural and agricultural roots. Coming together when someone in the community is in need. I see a strength of the Waushara County taxpayers as being able to recognize the need to elect or appoint fiscally responsible officials to oversee their tax dollars.
7. 
   Consistent zoning across all municipalities. More consistent County Level Law Enforcement Services.