Pierce County voters will once again head to the polls April 1, 2025 to cast their ballots for important local village board, city council, town board and school board elections.

Local races have a crucial role in shaping the lives of citizens. They determine the leadership and policies that govern schools and communities. Those elected make decisions on education, public safety, infrastructure, services, and what to do with taxpayers’ money. Serving in a public office role is often a thankless task that involves hours of discussions, research, presentations and meetings.

The Pierce County Journal sent questionnaires to candidates in local races. The hope is their answers will allow voters to get to know them a bit, what they stand for and how they would approach these roles if elected. Incumbents are marked with an asterisk*.

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Incumbents Sean Downing, Nick Carow and Diane Odeen are running for their seats unopposed, while Michael Page and Mark Klecker are on the ballot for Alderperson District 3, previously held by Alyssa Mueller, who chose not to seek re-election.

Sean Downing*

Position: Alderperson District 1

Previous elected offices: I have served on the River Falls City Council since I was first elected in 2017.

Occupation: Qualified Care Staff

Community/civic activities: League of Wisconsin Municipalities, Metropolitan Council, Hope For Earth

What specific skills and/or experience have prepared you to serve as an alderperson? I take classes offered every year by the Municipal League of WI. I will highlight a few. Financial Planning, Tax Incremental Financing, Economic Development, Affordable Housing, Zoning strategies to reduce housing costs, Public Transparency, Community Collaboration. Downtown Restoration, Park Planning. Metropolitan Council training in Sustainability, Transportation, Regional Planning, Resiliency. I take classes on bee conservation through the University of MN extension program. It allows me to plan and give direction for the River Falls Bee City Committee as its chair. The University of Minnesota Bee Lab and Extension program collaborates with the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, particularly through the Tashjian Bee and Pollinator Discovery Center, to offer educational programs and resources about bees and pollinators.

What are key issues the city is facing? How would you help find a solution? High housing costs and a lack of affordable living options in the city is our biggest problem in River Falls. Our top priority should be to create diverse housing options that are safe, stable, and affordable for all. We need to allow for more diverse missing middle housing. That is duplexes, triplexes, town homes, cottage clusters, and multiplexes. One housing tool I've studied that we should adopt that can help target affordability is Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), also known as a secondary suite or granny flat. An ADU is a smaller, self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as a primary single-family home, providing independent living facilities. It can be attached to a house, basement or a garage, or built as a stand-alone unit. Attached ADUs can be built as an addition or carve-out of a primary residence, or by converting an existing structure like a garage. A person could build an ADU for the purpose of housing an adult child or an aging parent. This is important for keeping families together. You could also build an ADU and rent it out to earn extra income. You could even build an ADU to act as a combination office space and guest suite. There is a lot of room for improving our city if we incorporate these responsibly and consider setbacks, parking and other factors in city planning. Working these into the comprehensive plan using our varied housing approach is necessary to meeting our current target goals as a city. Cities have to adapt to meet their residents’ needs and create responsible planning that meets a wide diverse need in this sense. Responsibly creating a permit process for Accessory Dwelling Units would allow us to work with community partners on projects that target the hardest to create needed housing.

Another important thing we need to incorporate into our plans is manufactured housing made by factories and transported here while considering factors like proximity to amenities, infrastructure, and existing zoning. Manufactured housing is a significant form of unsubsidized affordable housing in the U.S. We can incentivize it if we are responsible with our future planning by including it in our varied housing approach and creating unique zoning for it.

Once again, we need to improve our sustainability in a financially responsible way. In 2020, the City of River Falls became the first municipality in the state to power city buildings using 100% renewable energy which was one of many things I requested in my meetings with city staff to develop working with Powerful Choices. It ended up being called Renewable River Falls when it was all said and done. I support the expansion of Renewable River Falls in what I call phase 2. In my vision the city would get a grant first and match it with funding for each project. Doing it this way responsibly brings down costs in the long term and uses weatherization of the buildings to save the city money. First, we start with City Hall, the first year which I have requested, and include improving the building's efficiency for additional costs savings. Using this approach with our major city buildings is a logical planning step but takes time to responsibly implement. Doing this in a staggered way matching with a grant each time to maximize the return and cost savings to everyone in the city.

What motivated you to run for this position? I enjoy helping people. As a care staff I know that the disabled communities need access to the same opportunities and services as everyone and how important representation is to people. Everybody ages. Planning for success for all of our communities’ dynamic needs that is inclusive is vital for a communities success.

What makes your city special? Why do you live here? I love the charm of River Falls, our nostalgic downtown, our parks, and the people who go out of their way to make our community a better place.

Why is transparency and accountability important in local government? How do you feel your city does in this area? Citizens have a right to know how their government conducts public business and allocates taxpayers’ money. Governments have a responsibility and duty to share this information with the people they serve in an open and transparent process. This process is where accountability begins and if done properly includes them. A good, just government keeps the best interests of its citizens at the forefront of its efforts and is open and transparent in the process of serving them. This requires disclosure of all relevant information so that others can make informed decisions and be part of it. All cities could do better improving their transparency and accountability, and we certainly could do better. Our city needs to look at using specific meetings and inviting our community to them so they are welcome to be part of the problem solving and informed of the process. Where open and transparent government makes a more direct impact that way the community can be informed at the meeting on the topic and welcomed into the conversation and let their representatives know the uniqueness of the problems they are dealing with and how we can help.

What is your vision for the city long-term? Using common sense budgeting to meet our communities’ needs and adjusting it in a very budget sensitive way is important for long-term financial planning and success.

Name one thing you feel the city could do better. We need to emphasize open government. We live in an age of technology where inviting the public to come and be part of discovering the problems, sharing their experiences, and sharing what they believe should be relatively easy. Open government emphasizes transparency, participation, and accountability to ensure citizen trust and promote good governance. For example, having residents be informed when we are having a meeting dealing with water quality and our report to the DNR should be part of how we operate. Putting this in our newsletters, bill-letters, and online makes it easy to invite people to be part of their government and its process. It's your government; you should have a say. If someone has a concern, we should put it in the report to be reviewed and walk our community through the process.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city in any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? I would give it to the River Falls Public Library to help meet its master plan goal to enhance and renovate spaces for dynamic learning and the innovative technology that supports it. The River Falls Public Library is in the middle of raising money for its master plan and implementation. The library received a $4.08 million grant. However, that is not sufficient to cover all the costs of modernizing it. They still need to raise $3.5 million. This million dollars would be put to good use for our city and future generations. One way you can support the River Falls Public Library right now and help it meet its goals is by joining the Library Foundation for $10 a year. https://riverfallspubliclibrary.org/foundation/#membership

Why should you be elected? I have a lot of education that is specific to running a city that is inclusive for everyone. I understand that people from all walks of life have different needs, how people's needs can be responsibly met with planning and cost sensitive budgeting that includes them. I appreciate your vote on April 1.

Diane Odeen*

Position: Alderperson at Large

Previous elected offices: Incumbent, first elected to River Falls City Council in 2013.

Occupation: Senior Attorney Editor

Community/civic activities: Member of the board, St. Croix Restorative Services; past president, River Falls Rotary Club; past board chair, Emerge Wisconsin; founding member of River Falls Community Theatre.

What specific skills and/or experience have prepared you to serve as an alderperson? I was in private practice for many years and represented many different kinds of people. I am a good advocate and strive to be a good listener.

What are key issues the city is facing? How would you help find a solution? Affordable housing is an issue nation-wide. The city has and will continue to work with private builders and public entities to promote affordable units wherever possible. Keeping the tax burden low on residents is also a goal and requires balancing the services we want and the cost to residents.

What motivated you to run for this position? I care deeply about this community and want to contribute to making it better.

What makes your city special? Why do you live here? River Falls has been called a “Goldilocks” town - not too small, not too big, but just right. I moved here in 1992 and have found the people friendly and willing to pitch in to help their neighbors. The environment, especially the river, is a community priority. We also have an excellent school district, and the University constantly brings in new people and new ideas. And proximity to the Twin Cities means it’s easy to enjoy big-city amenities.

Why is transparency and accountability important in local government? How do you feel your city does in this area? Transparency and accountability are obligations when you’re spending public dollars. Except for personnel issues and a few other exceptions where confidentiality is required, River Falls puts pretty much everything online: videos of meetings, agendas, budgets, etc. And the city staff is happy to answer questions and share information with residents who want to know more.

What is your vision for the city long-term? I think the city is on the right track. I look forward to removal of the dams, which has been a long-term project and will have a big impact on downtown.

Name one thing you feel the city could do better. I think the city could be better at making sure rental properties are in good shape and that landlords treat renters fairly. However, the State of Wisconsin has limited what the city is allowed to do.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city in any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? An ice rink and warming house in Glen Park would be great.

Why should you be elected? I try to make policy decisions with the best interests of future generations in mind, and I would be honored to continue serving our community.

Nick Carow*

Position: Alderperson District 2, City of River Falls

Previous elected offices: Alderperson District 2, City of River Falls

Occupation: National Senior Sales Leader at Circle K Fuel

Community/civic activities: I'm involved in church youth ministry, driving kids to all events, and watching my children in basketball, baseball, kickboxing, gymnastics, music, dance, and theater. Often you can catch me with too many books, and many overdue.

What specific skills and/or experience have prepared you to serve as an alderperson? My career experiences, from being a United States Marine to leading teams, have led me to a natural curiosity. I enjoy learning how governance works and finding ways to impact the organization. I believe "longer tables" are better and lead to better outcomes and solutions. I'm always striving to be independent, challenge my assumptions, and ask the city on behalf of diverse stakeholders to do the same.

What are key issues the city is facing? How would you help find a solution? The largest challenges we face are often beyond direct city control. We need more civic engagement—people involved in PTAs, boards, coaching, and serving in elected and non-elected positions. New people to these groups are crucial to long term success. Our collective civic ignorance presents significant threats. The current cultural incentive towards passive income and TikTok and influencer social media undermines long-term community health. Citizens frequently lack understanding of local government's structure and function. Mental health in the United States is not well, and this also relates to another crucial challenge but historically outside of city purview. As a society, we're increasingly "walking alone," expecting mediating organizations to educate, inform, and connect when they're inherently limited. River Falls' "third place" organizations remain resilient but require preservation. Funding for the UWRF and School District presents risks. The upcoming wave of AI technology offers tremendous potential for disruption and progress, demanding careful implementation. Housing demand, and in general cost of living challenges remain areas of focus, along with retention of high-quality city staff and law enforcement A vibrant Main Street continues to be an "asset" but area of concern. Our continued focus should remain on making River Falls a unique place to live, work, worship, play, serve, and grow. Our commitment to the common good makes us a remarkable community.

What motivated you to run for this position? A deep and abiding commitment to service. I'm blessed beyond measure and hope my service, tiny and insignificant, can be a blessing to others.

What makes your city special? Why do you live here? I live in River Falls due to her natural beauty, charm and vitality of her citizens, and closeness to the greater Twin Cities MSA but being "set apart."

Why is transparency and accountability important in local government? How do you feel your city does in this area? I feel River Falls maintains a high commitment to transparency and accountability even if the shrillest of voices seek to communicate otherwise.

What is your vision for the city long-term? I'm sure there is not "one" vison for River Falls, but I believe in the River Falls idea. Our goal should be to make this the best place to live, work, wordship, play, grow and serve. A place where our "better angles" are readily on display. A commitment to longer tables and more conversation and less "them" and more "us."

Name one thing you feel the city could do better. All organizations can continue to, "sharpen the saw" to quote from Stephen Covey.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city in any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? I'd leverage that funding to execute faster on our EAB tree plan, and on our parks vision including a rink to make Glen Park a four-season park.

Why should you be elected? Service is "at will" and at the pleasure of the citizens. I will do my best to bring innovative ideas and independence to our council. I'm honored by the district support.

Mark Klecker

Position: River Falls City Council District 3

Previous elected offices: None

Occupation: Foreman for Fischer Co.

Community/civic activities: I have been on the River Falls Utility Advisory Board for the last two years.

What specific skills and/or experience have prepared you to serve as an alderperson? Being involved with the utility’s advisory board has given me much experience that will carry over to the city council seat.

What issues are most pressing in the city and what would you do about them? Housing, senior housing. And apartments need to be looked at closely. I would work with the city and the council to look at different ways we can achieve this goal.

What motivated you to run for this position? I enjoy working with people and being involved to bring common sense solutions to the forefront.

Where are your favorite places to spend time in the city and why? I enjoy spending time on the Kinni kayaking and fishing. We have a great natural resource that brings people together to enjoy it.

The area is rapidly developing and changing. How do you think the small-town feel of the city and its historical characteristics should be preserved while accommodating growth? We can keep enjoying our historical downtown while keeping River Falls moving forward with our great business parks that we have invested in.

What is your vision for the city long-term? To keep River Falls balanced between our great store fronts downtown and our businesses that move here.

Name one thing you feel the city could do better. I feel the city could do a better job on maintaining our alleys that so many residents use to access their garages. They are falling apart fast and need attention sooner than later.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city in any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? I would invest that money into our downtown. Upgrading different areas to make it even more appealing to visit. This would have to be discussed with store owners and the residents to achieve that goal.

Why should you be elected? I bring common sense and the ability to work with people to get things done and moving forward.

Michael Page

Position: City of River Falls Alderperson, District 3

Previous elected offices: City of River Falls Alderperson at Large

Occupation: Dentist

Community/civic activities: River Falls Lions Club, Friends of the Kinni, Kinnickinnic River Land Trust

What specific skills and/or experience have prepared you to serve as an alderperson? I previously served on the River Falls City Council from 2018 - 2020 as an Alderperson at Large, in that role I also served on the Historic Preservation Commission. My experience as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army National Guard has provided me with extensive leadership and decision-making experience. Further, as a small business owner on Main Street River Falls my engagement and investment in my local community has made me prepared to further serve in this capacity.

What are key issues the city is facing? How would you help find a solution? Housing and homelessness are key issues facing the City of River Falls right now. With housing costs continuing to rise there are an alarming number of our local residents who are living on the brink of homelessness facing challenges with the affordability of local housing options. I will work to direct more focus and resources for the development of additional housing units, and specifically affordable housing units, with the goal of meeting the demand identified in the recent City of River Falls housing studies.

What motivated you to run for this position? My kids motivated me to run for City Council again. They encouraged me to jump back in now that they are a bit older and more independent. I am looking forward to serving as City Council Representative for our district!

What makes your city special? Why do you live here? River Falls is such an amazing place to live, raise a family, work, and run a small business all in one. From the "small town" vibes to the Main Street community of small businesses, to the University's awesome presence, and the ready access to nature along the Kinnickinnic River Corridor, River Falls has it all. I was born and raised here, have lived here all my adult life, and am now raising my kids in our home about three blocks from where I grew up.

Why is transparency and accountability important in local government? How do you feel your city does in this area? Transparency and accountability are important to ensure that local government is truly representing the local residents' interests. In my experience, I feel that there is room for improvement in this area in the City of River Falls.

What is your vision for the city long-term? My long-term vision for the City of River Falls is responsible growth, focusing on maintaining and improving open green spaces and services for residents. With the implementation of the Kinni Corridor Plan I envision a community that turns around and embraces the restored Kinnickinnic River as a vibrant addition at the heart of our Main Street community.

Name one thing you feel the city could do better. Address the current and future housing needs of our community.

If you received a $1 million grant to use for the city in any way you wanted, what would you do with it and why? I would direct a $1 million grant towards residential energy conservation improvements within the city because there was just such a grant recently that the city was awarded but did not accept or implement.

Why should you be elected? I should be elected to City Council to represent District 3 because I am hard working, honest, and passionate about making our community a better place to live.