Hanus, Barnett square off in Rhinelander mayoral race

Rhinelander’s mayoral election April 7 is a head-to-head match between incumbent Kris Hanus, seeking a second term, and challenger Thomas Barnett, the District 1 alderperson since 2020.

The Northwoods River News contacted each of the candidates with the same questions, and their responses follow.

Thomas Barnett

I am a professional artist of 35 years and the owner of Tom’s Drawing Board, a working art studio in downtown Rhinelander where I create art and mentor two protégés in the business of art. I also work with the CLTS program supporting the health and wellness of at risk children and teens, collaborate with the Central Wisconsin Autism Society on community events, lead a father’s discussion group through New Horizons, LLC, volunteer with Lights of the Northwoods, and help coordinate Rhinelander’s Chalkfest.

Why are you running for election as mayor of the city of Rhinelander? 

I decided to run because I see tremendous potential in Rhinelander and believe we are missing opportunities to strengthen our community. We need a stronger focus on helping families plant roots, supporting youth voices in shaping the future, and remembering that, as I have said before, Rhinelander is not limited by its challenges… it is defined by its potential.

What specific problems or issues are facing the city of Rhinelander and how would you address them? What opportunities do you see for growth?

Rhinelander is beginning to address housing needs, but we must take a broader and more proactive view that supports working families, childcare access, workforce stability, and opportunities that encourage young people to build their future here. We also need to do more to support our small businesses and strengthen our downtown, while continuing to address PFAS concerns, infrastructure needs, and improving the strength of our general fund. Just as important is improving communication and transparency so residents feel informed, respected, and connected to the decisions shaping our community’s future.

Kris Hanus

I am Kris Hanus and I’m seeking a second term for Mayor for the City of Rhinelander. I have been in our community of over 15 years. I have worked in retail, property care and I own a small business.

Why are you running for re-election as mayor of the city of Rhinelander?

I am seeking a second term to keeping moving Rhinelander forward. We currently have a ton of projects in the works: from numerous housing projects to much need streets and utility projects for the west side. We are moving forward several projects for redevelopment of our green spaces and parks. I do not want to see us have missed opportunities or go backwards with the progress we have made.

What specific problems or issues are facing the city of Rhinelander and how would you address them? What opportunities do you see for growth?

The largest problem we are facing as a city is the influx of capital and resources. This has a huge impact in every aspect of our local government. The amount of housing to public safety to infrastructure to our parks to clean safety drinking water. We can work on these issues in a couple ways; by building stronger partnerships with State and Federal leaders. By partnering with local groups to aid in growing our city and helping grow small business. We have made progress in these areas and we need to continue to move this forward.