Monticello Village Board
Incumbents Doreen Sies and Rene Nicholson (running as a write-in candidate) are seeking re-election to the Monticello village board. Larry Strauss and Robert Harvey are also running for the three seats open.
Name: Larry Strause
Position sought: Monticello village trustee
Age: 65
City/town of residence: village of Monticello
Family: Carol, wife; three daughters: Sheri Wichser, Shawn Majerus, Shelly Strause; five grandchildren; one great-granddaughter
Education: Darlington and Monticello high schools
Occupation: Partially retired, Wittwer Apartments Manager/Maintenance
Previous elected positions held: Former Monticello school board member
What are the top issues facing this board and how would you work to resolve them?
Resolving the dilemma of the American Legion/Community Building is a top issue for me. I helped the veterans build this structure a long time ago and it has served the community well for many years. However, water run-off damage over the years, regular maintenance, and change in accessibility codes have all taken a toll. I believe there still remains a need for this type of structure which also currently doubles as a weather shelter for mobile home court residents. I would like to get input from residents and community organizations on the need (or no need) for a community-type structure so the board can base their decision on the needs/wants of the community.
I am a former member of most of the local organizations who work hard and contribute an abundance of funds to this village to build and maintain many lake and park projects that tax dollars cannot afford. It is important to work closely with all local organizations to keep our community attractive. The return of a carnival for Homecoming is important for the many organizations that depend on the funds raised to pay for local projects. I would like to see representatives of all local organizations either in person or by written reports, give the board an update quarterly so that we can all work together.
What are other key issues facing the board, and how would you work to resolve them?
Subdivision water runoff has been a problem for many years and continues to need attention. Streets this winter are taking a destructive hit because of the severe winter and will certainly need more work in the spring. Brayton Creek is in need of cleanup which would also enhance Montesian Gardens. Balancing the needs and wants with available funding is key to every decision I would like to be a part of.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
I am partially retired with time to research and work on projects. I have lived and worked in the village since 1976. I am a retired fireman and first responder, served on the school board, helped the Vietnam veterans build their monument, worked on several park projects including lake clean up while being dredged, and have worked with most of the local organizations on many projects throughout the years. I would like to serve the village as trustee.
Position sought: Monticello village trustee
Age: 65
City/town of residence: village of Monticello
Family: Carol, wife; three daughters: Sheri Wichser, Shawn Majerus, Shelly Strause; five grandchildren; one great-granddaughter
Education: Darlington and Monticello high schools
Occupation: Partially retired, Wittwer Apartments Manager/Maintenance
Previous elected positions held: Former Monticello school board member
What are the top issues facing this board and how would you work to resolve them?
Resolving the dilemma of the American Legion/Community Building is a top issue for me. I helped the veterans build this structure a long time ago and it has served the community well for many years. However, water run-off damage over the years, regular maintenance, and change in accessibility codes have all taken a toll. I believe there still remains a need for this type of structure which also currently doubles as a weather shelter for mobile home court residents. I would like to get input from residents and community organizations on the need (or no need) for a community-type structure so the board can base their decision on the needs/wants of the community.
I am a former member of most of the local organizations who work hard and contribute an abundance of funds to this village to build and maintain many lake and park projects that tax dollars cannot afford. It is important to work closely with all local organizations to keep our community attractive. The return of a carnival for Homecoming is important for the many organizations that depend on the funds raised to pay for local projects. I would like to see representatives of all local organizations either in person or by written reports, give the board an update quarterly so that we can all work together.
What are other key issues facing the board, and how would you work to resolve them?
Subdivision water runoff has been a problem for many years and continues to need attention. Streets this winter are taking a destructive hit because of the severe winter and will certainly need more work in the spring. Brayton Creek is in need of cleanup which would also enhance Montesian Gardens. Balancing the needs and wants with available funding is key to every decision I would like to be a part of.
Why are you the best candidate for this office?
I am partially retired with time to research and work on projects. I have lived and worked in the village since 1976. I am a retired fireman and first responder, served on the school board, helped the Vietnam veterans build their monument, worked on several park projects including lake clean up while being dredged, and have worked with most of the local organizations on many projects throughout the years. I would like to serve the village as trustee.