Mayor leans toward running for re-election in 2026

The next election cycle for City of Rhinelander elected offices — mayor and city council — does not begin until the fall of 2025 but one current incumbent is starting  to look ahead to April 2026.

In a recent interview, incumbent Kris Hanus told the River News he’s leaning toward asking the voters to give him another term.

 “I don’t think now is the time to let off the gas,” he said before outlining a number of achievements accomplished over the last three years including infrastructure improvements, road repairs and an approach that has led to new businesses and economic development projects in the city.

“I think the city’s in a lot better spot than three years ago, you know, and it’s moving the right direction,” he said. “We’re coming together as a group, and I just don’t want to see us backpedal over piddly little things. We got to keep our eyes on the big picture, keep chugging away...”

“Granted, (the election is) still a year and a half away. So, you know, things can change, but as of now, I do plan on running again.”

In addition to Hanus, the seats currently held by alderpersons Leann Felton, David Holt, Bob Lueder and Steven Jopek will be up for election in April 2026. Candidates for mayor and alderperson will not be able to take out papers until Dec. 1, 2025.

School Board race

Four of the nine seats on the School District of Rhinelander Board of Education are up for election in April 2025.

Three seats — those currently held by Judy Conlin, Ron Lueneburg and Mary Peterson — will be for three-year terms. The fourth seat — currently held by Doug Artus — will be for a two-year term. 

District administration has confirmed that Artus, Conlin, Lueneburg and Peterson have all filed paperwork to run for re-election. Former city alderman Bill Freudenberg has also filed papers to run for school board as has Sgt. Kurt Helke of the Rhinelander Police Department.

Artus was appointed in the spring to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of former board member David Holperin. For this reason, the term for that seat is two rather than three years.

All nine seats on the school board are at-large, meaning the members do not represent a particular geographic area.

A description of the school district boundaries can be obtained from the school district office, according to information posted under school board elections on the district’s website.

Those interested in running for a seat on the school board must file a Campaign Registration Statement and a Declaration of Candidacy no later than 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 7, in the office of the school district clerk/deputy clerk, which is located in the Administration Center, 665 Coolidge Ave - Suite B (second level).

If a primary is necessary, that election will take place on Feb. 18.

The spring general election is scheduled for April 1 and the new school board members will begin their term on April 28.

Heather Schaefer may be reached at [email protected].