Mikalauski/Raith race headlines City Council slate

There are two contested Rhinelander Common Council races this spring.

In District 3, incumbent Carrie Mikalauski is facing newcomer Joshua Raith. In District 7, Luke Kramer and Dustin Chronister are battling for the seat being vacated by current City Council president Eileen Daniel. Incumbents Gerald Anderson and Tom Barnett are running unopposed. Below are unedited profiles of the candidates. Chronister did not respond to our questions.

District 3

Carrie Mikalauski (incumbent)

Please provide a brief biographical sketch.

My name is Carrie Mikalauski and I have been the District 3 Alderperson since 2020.  I work for the Oneida County Dept of Social Services in the Protective Services Unit. I am a lifelong, proud Hodag! Being born and raised here, I’ve graduated from both Rhinelander High School and Nicolet College. I’ve been married to my husband Brian for over 25 years, and we have one adult daughter, Kaydee. In my spare time I enjoy camping, sports, and spending time with family and friends.

What prompted you to seek re-election to the Common Council?

 I am seeking another term in office because there are projects that I have been working on that I would like to see through. Also, I feel that over the past four years I have been part of rejuvenating the city by helping to bring in new businesses, improving the parks by building the amphitheater as well as some housing developments.

What do you feel are the most pressing issues facing the city in the next four years?

 I feel the most pressing issue within the city is the lack of affordable/work force housing. I would like to see more owner-occupied homes within the city. I feel we need more housing developments to attract more workers to live in the city to work at the new business we’ve created.

What sets you apart from your opponent?

I’m not familiar with my opponent, but I would say that I have gained a lot of knowledge of local government since I’ve been elected this last term. 

During my time as Alderperson for District 3, I have attended multiple conferences put on by the Wisconsin League of Municipalities, where I have had the opportunity to learn about all facets of city business. Over the last two years, I’ve also worked closely with the National League of Municipalities by working on the One Nation One Project Grant that is combating social isolation. I feel as though my constituents are comfortable talking to me about their concerns and I enjoy doing what I can to make their voices heard.

Joshua Raith (Challenger)

Please provide a brief biographical/background sketch. 

Born in Rhinelander, where my wife Hannah and I currently raise our five children. I’ve been an active member in the local volunteer fire service for a combined 13 years between two different departments. 

What prompted you to run for the Common Council?

I just feel I can do something more. I believe in transparency. With that being said, I’ve noticed there is a large demographic of Rhinelander who feel that the city does not listen to what they need, let alone find the ways to communicate those needs. I was always taught from a young child, that if you have something to complain about, to be a part of the solution. That’s what prompted my candidacy.

What do you feel are the most pressing issues facing the city in the next four years?

I know some of the most pressing issues are roads and such. I first and foremost believe that we need to establish a more transparent way of doing things. Just getting out and walking the neighborhood, it became extremely evident that a vast majority of residents feel that they are not important. It is also a common opinion, that the current city administration, likes to push their own agendas. I also hear from a vast number of residents, concerns in regard to emergency services provided by the city. I believe tackling issues such as these, would be huge strides for our city as it sits now.

What sets you apart from your opponent?

I personally do not know my opponent, but I also believe that is part of the issue here. I mentioned earlier that I believe transparency is one of the most important things to me. I plan to continue my walks through my district neighborhoods. I want the residents to be able to put a face to my name. I want to hear their concerns, through more than just an “open public comment” section of a council meeting. Give me a call, shoot me a text/email, lets talk about what you want to see, or what concerns you. I have no background in politics, just want to see us keep this great city moving forward. That’s what sets me apart.

District 7

Luke Kramer

Please provide a brief biographical/background sketch. 

I grew up in Rhinelander as the youngest of 7. My parents and grandparents were life-long residents of the Rhinelander/Starks area. I graduated from Rhinelander High School in 1986. I have been married for 25 years, and I recently retired from UPS after 32+ years. 

What prompted you to run for the Common Council?

 I have always been interested in participating in local government, but I was never able to find the time. So, when several community members approached me about this opening right after I retired, the timing couldn’t have been better and I jumped at the chance. 

What do you feel are the most pressing issues facing the city in the next four years?

I believe the two most pressing issues facing our community right now are the availability of affordable housing and the safety of our drinking water.

What sets you apart from your opponent?

I have worked with Rhinelander’s business owners and residents for over three decades and have been fortunate to build lasting relationships. My hope is that because of this, people will feel comfortable coming to me with their issues and concerns.