Zirbel challenged for Ashwaubenon Wards 5 and 6

By Press Times Staff

ASHWAUBENON – There will be one contested race for the Ashwaubenon village board this April.

Incumbent Chris Zirbel is being challenged by newcomer Debbie Nelson for the seat representing Wards 5 and 6, which contains the area southwest of Lambeau Field, including Titletown.

The Press Times emailed each candidate the same questions and gave them 100 words to respond to each.

Chris Zirbel

Why should people vote for you?

I’ve been involved in organizations and committees such as boys’ youth baseball, girls’ youth softball, Ashwaubenon Business Association, park and rec board, finance and personnel committee as well as my first term on the village board.

I’m proud to say that I’ve been part of the discussion and decision-making process which has helped the village maintain our services and quality of life while keeping taxes level during my term.

I’ve listened and reacted to concerns of my constituents in Wards 5 and 6 and have acted on issues involving street lighting, park playgrounds, short-term rental issues and others.

Chris Zirbel

What’s the biggest issue in Ashwaubenon?

Obviously, in light of recent headlines, it would seem to be our relations with public safety.

I believe this issue will be resolved through better communications over time.

Senior housing and affordable multi-family housing is still a need.

We’ve had some beautiful condos and apartments develop and are being developed to attract the younger generation of citizens/workers, but we cannot overlook the residents who may want to relocate out of their homes to more affordable and convenient locations in the village.

Holding the tax rate down while providing our services and keeping our excellent credit rating is a must.

How can the village board improve relations with the public safety department and its union?

A slow disintegration of communication over many years has led to the frustrations and misinformation that has been run out in the media the last few weeks.

I feel the village board and appropriate committees must meet on a regular basis with the public safety union and members to regain trust with each other and work to the common goal of serving and protecting our great community.

I do know that this is what both sides want.

Debbie Nelson

Why should people vote for you?

I feel it is time for a change to be made.

It would be an honor to serve the residents of Ashwaubenon as their trustee.

I pledge to listen to your concerns, and to bring your issues before the village board to be heard and resolved in a timely manner.

I will be a hands-on advocate, who will be there when needed.

I grew up in Ward 5 and am proud to be from Ashwaubenon.

My background includes a bachelor’s degree from UWGB, and a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

I have time to focus on residents’ concerns.

What’s the biggest issue in Ashwaubenon?

Debbie Nelson

The biggest issue at present is a communication problem.

The village board needs to work closely with its residents and employees to maintain the great community of Ashwaubenon to live and work in.

The board needs to assure our residents of low taxes, while maintaining clean water, good roads and a great community to be proud of.

As I go door-to-door, I am learning more about the unique concerns of Wards 5 and 6 due to the Titletown District impacting our neighborhoods.

I encourage residents to email me at DebbieNelsonForTrustee@gmail.com with their concerns and comments.

How can the village board improve relations with the public safety department and its union?

To improve relations, the village board and public safety need to sit down together and listen to both sides of any issues that need to be resolved.

Public safety plays an integral part in the village.

Each officer is certified in police, fire, and rescue (EMT).

When they respond to an emergency call, they are highly praised for their work and knowledge.

Perhaps the village board should consider making the village president a full-time position like it was many years ago.

That would give the board more insight into issues on a daily basis.