Politics & Government

Election Preview: Waukesha Common Council (11th District)

Incumbent Alderman Roger Patton is being challenged by Leonard Miller in the 11th District Waukesha aldermanic race in the April 2 election.

Incumbent Alderman Roger Patton is facing challenger Leonard Miller in his re-election bid for the 11th District seat on the Waukesha Common Council in the April 2 election. (Click on link for biographical information on each candidate).

See map of 11th Aldermanic District

To provide residents with the most information about the election, Waukesha Patch asked candidates for their positions on key issues facing the city. Here, in their own words, are the candidates' answers to those questions.

Find out what's happening in Waukeshawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Why are you running for alderman? Leonard Miller Recent events in the Aldermanic District 11 in Waukesha have left some wondering who our representative is. Funds being transferred away from needed maintenance items and improvements, a crosswalk being removed, employees being intimidated and feeling their only recourse is to resign, just to name a few in recent months. It seems these items have come as a surprise to the current leadership in district 11. 
As a life time resident of Waukesha I have watched our city, especially our downtown, grow and take many shapes. Sometimes these changes were beautiful and nostalgic but some were discouraging and left our residents feeling like we have taken a step backwards. 
Most recently I, along with the rest of the city have watched BID (The downtown business improvement district) implode because of allegations of abuse of power. We need a representative who would take on the challenge of representing the whole City of Waukesha’s residents. We need a representative who would push for needed changes in the status quo. We need a representative who has a vision for our neighborhood. We need a representative who knows how to get things done. We need a representative who would gain the respect and support of fellow council member. I am that representative. 
Over the years I have met with many of the department heads of the city. I know what is going on in our district. I am supported by current and former elected officials. I am supported by local business and educational professionals. I will listen to you. I can and will represent you. With your help, I want to make this neighborhood a place where people will want to live, work and invest in its future.
Roger Patton To complete what I have started in my three years as alderman. I want to see the BID functioning again for the benefit of the downtown. I want to see more developments like Kendal Lofts downtown. I want to see the Clarke Hotel successful. I want the sidewalks repaired to make them safer for all. I want to continue listening to the residents of the district and work through their problems as they relate to city government.
What is the biggest issue facing Waukesha, and how would you address it, if elected? Leonard Miller Accountability, over the last few years there has been a trend to curtail anyone who tries to hold our city leaders accountable. Funds for needed repairs being transferred to other areas of the city that is not in as immediate need, and no one asking why. It is “Time to Make a Change” and hold our city leaders accountable.
Roger Patton Implementing the Graef plans for our downtown. I have not missed a planning commission meeting in the past three years and I will continue to attend the commission, seeking to influence our city's program. Do you support the Waukesha West bypass route moving forward and why? Leonard Miller Yes, we need a safe and efficient way to get the the south end of Waukesha. This bypass has been slated for construction for over 50 years. In that time Waukesha has grown an extreme amount. We need this bypass.
Roger Patton Yes. Every city of size in America needs a bypass.
In light of the recent problems with the BID Board, what role does the Common Council have in restoring peace in downtown Waukesha?
Leonard Miller Selecting the right persons for the BID Board would be the the number one issue.
Roger Patton The Council needs to support our new administrator's work and expertise on how the BID board should be organized. The new BID board is writing new by-laws and a 2013 plan which the Council needs to approve.
What is your position on the city's quest for Great Lakes water and to what level have you researched the issue?
Leonard Miller I have researched and kept up with the progress over the years. Mr. Duchniak is a well respected professional in his field and has many years experience. Added to this we are under court order from the EPA to solve the issue of radium in our water supply. Great Lakes water is the best solution without leaving the surrounding communities served by individual wells without a viable source of water.
Roger Patton I have attended many water commission meetings and encourage the Oak Creek plan. I conducted an information evening in my 11th district last year regarding the water from Lake Michigan program. I have read the materials on the water quest and have attended carefully to the research presented to the Council.
With city budgets being extremely tight each year, what are your top budget priorities?
Leonard Miller Find alternative sources of funding with grants and scholarships. Also working to partnership with local corporations to help offset needed infrastructure improvement to help keep property taxes down.
Roger Patton New infrastructure -- streets, water mains, sewers, bike paths, crosswalks.


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