Novak takes action  

From: LaVerne Gordee

Monroe and

David E. Johnson

Monroe

To the editor:

Representative Todd Novak should be re-elected to represent the 51st Assembly District because he has proven to be responsive to his constituency and will jump into action when there is a problem to be addressed. We know this to be true because we experienced it firsthand. When we discovered that our church, Jordan Lutheran Church in rural Browntown, could not adequately meet the needs of physically handicapped members and guests, Todd Novak helped us change state law to allow a stairway chairlift to be built in our over 160 year old church. Like many other churches, we often hold events in our church basement, which was only accessible by a stairwell. However, those who are unable to use stairs, were not able to attend these events due to the legal roadblock in the building code to provide an alternative for these individuals.  

We reached out to Rep. Novak who helped us draft legislation and navigate the legislative process to ultimately allow Jordan Lutheran, and other historic churches, to have an exception to the building code to install a chairlift. This small change helped us create a more accessible and inclusive environment in our church that has greatly benefited our congregation and community.  

The addition of a stairlift in our church allows older and physically handicapped members and guests of our congregation to reach the basement level and, in turn, fully participate in church events and fellowship activities.  

Rep. Todd Novak listened to our problem and helped us find a safe and feasible solution. We have no doubt he will continue to listen to and fight for his constituents and the issues facing southwestern Wisconsin if re-elected to represent the 51st Assembly District.