VOTE411 Voter Guide

I'm running for La Crosse County Board Supervisor in District 26 because I believe in serving our community and ensuring West Salem has a strong, responsive voice on county issues that affect our daily lives. My husband Rich and I have lived in West Salem since 2007, raising our three kids here. I value our schools, healthcare, infrastructure, and community spaces, and I’ll advocate for our residents. As a Registered Nurse, I served as West Salem School District Nurse from 2016–2021, guiding our schools and families through COVID-19. Since 2021, I've served as a citizen member on the La Crosse County Health & Human Services Committee, where I've gained real insight into county challenges and the importance of thoughtful collaboration. I believe in transparent governance, fiscal responsibility, and prioritizing services for stronger, healthier communities. I’m committed to representing West Salem and partnering to make La Crosse County better for all.

In La Crosse County's District 26 (Village of West Salem), I would like to strengthen county support for families & commuters: better mental health/substance use access, safe roads/trails, community spaces & sustained help for seniors, veterans, people with disabilities, childcare & energy aid—all while truly listening to keep our small-town warmth alive.

In my opinion, the top two issues facing La Crosse County are access to affordable healthcare and mental health services, and keeping housing and living costs manageable for families and our workforce. Mental health and substance use challenges affect many neighbors—stigma, anxiety, recovery needs. From my role on the Health & Human Services Committee since 2021 and my nursing background, I've seen the real impact, especially in rural areas like West Salem. Rising housing and everyday costs strain families, young people, and our workforce, making it harder to stay and thrive here while preserving our small-town character. As a mom raising three kids in West Salem since 2007, I understand how much stability matters. These issues tie into schools, roads, and economic vitality. By truly listening to residents and collaborating thoughtfully, we can build practical solutions that help everyone here succeed and feel at home.

The most effective way to address access to affordable healthcare/mental health services and keeping housing/living costs manageable is by listening to residents, building on existing county efforts, and fostering partnerships with local groups, providers, and communities. For mental health and substance use challenges—like anxiety, recovery needs, and stigma—we can strengthen support through collaborative work with health providers, schools, and nonprofits. From my nursing background and Health & Human Services Committee role since 2021, I've seen how partnerships help people get care without judgment, especially in rural areas like West Salem. For housing affordability and rising costs that strain families and our workforce, the county can support practical steps to ease burdens—working with partners on coordination and family resources. Overall, success comes from transparency, fiscal responsibility, and real resident input—focusing on sustainable progress to help neighbors thrive.