Manitowoc County Board District 21 candidate says he'll 'bring positive change' if elected April 2
MANITOWOC — Incumbent Rick Gerroll is running against challenger Matthew Phipps for the District 21 seat on the Manitowoc County Board in the April 2 spring election.
The seat holds a two-year term and represents a portion of the county on the city of Manitowoc's border, including the town of Manitowoc Rapids. Visit manitowoccountywi.gov for a full map of the county's supervisory districts.
The Herald Times Reporter asked both candidates to fill out a questionnaire before the election explaining why they are running and their positions on issues.
Here are the answers from Phipps. No responses were received from Gerroll. Some answers are edited for clarity and brevity.
For more about registering to vote and polling locations, visit myvote.wi.gov.
Preview the full ballot: Here's who's moving on to the general election after Tuesday's primary in Manitowoc County
Rick Gerroll
No responses received.
Matthew Phipps
Age: 36
Occupation: Member-owner of local construction company
Highest education level: Bachelor of science in technology education
Relevant experience: Did not answer
Why are you running for office?
Phipps: I’m running for office because I want to serve our community. I believe I can bring positive change and a fresh perspective to the county board. I understand the stress of these economic times that we are living in. My resilience and motivation to solve problems will help me continue to ask questions and seek out new solutions in this ever-changing environment in which we live.
What makes you the better candidate in this race?
Phipps: I have the integrity to speak what I believe. I have the strength to confront hard truths even if it’s not popular. I will respectfully listen to all options and provide input for the good of all my constituents. I will stand up for the hard-working families in our county.
What are the two biggest challenges for the county board right now, and how would you overcome them?
Phipps: I believe the two biggest challenges for our county board are inflation and rising operational costs. I believe in offering solutions to problems and good financial stewardship. I will bring fresh ideas to the board from my experiences as a local entrepreneur and business owner. I will always research to make sure we as taxpayers are getting the best return on our investment in this community.
What is your vision for Manitowoc County?
Phipps: My vision for Manitowoc County is to uphold our great traditions of agriculture, industry and service. We need to protect our farmers while promoting industry to make our county a destination for great-paying jobs. Through continued hard work we can overcome any obstacles and be proud to call Manitowoc County our home.
What are your thoughts on the current budget for the county?
Phipps: Our budget needs to be our top priority. I am concerned about using our emergency funds to make ends meet. We must be conscious of our rising costs and find new ways to save money for everyone. We need to keep taxes down to promote growth and prosperity for everyone.
Alisa M. Schafer is a reporter for the Herald Times Reporter in Manitowoc. She can be reached by email at aschafer@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter: Matthew Phipps running against Rick Gerroll for Manitowoc County Board
