Candidate Profile: Ron Seidl For New Berlin School Board

NEW BERLIN, WI—The 2021 election is heating up in Wisconsin and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office. Voters will also decide the outcome of state representative, senate seats and local government and school boards.

Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Two people will be elected to the New Berlin School Board in April.

Ron Seidl of New Berlin hopes to be elected for the New Berlin School Board.

Age (as of Election Day)

46

Position Sought

New Berlin School District School Board Member

Party Affiliation

Non Partisan

Family

Married to Angie
Tony- 15 who attends New Berlin West
Destiny - 15 who attends New Berlin West

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Some College and United States Army

Occupation

Food Service Manager

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Former 3rd District Alderman from 2007- 2019

Campaign website

None

Why are you seeking elective office?

2 years ago I voted against a referendum that was on the ballot. I didn't support the referendum because I believed the district could find cost savings within their operating budget through fiscal responsible decision making. I wanted to be part of the solution and volunteered on the School Budget Task Force. As I predicted the district successfully balanced the budget and is moving forward with a strategic plan for long range facility needs and paying down debt without closing schools or cutting programs. I also have my background and experience as an Alderman. I want to continue to give back to my community and the students by bringing my experience, my fiscal responsibility, and proven record to the School Board.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

I believe that the School Board made the right decision in having 5 day a week in person instruction with an option for virtual. In fact I was the only candidate not currently on the Board to advocate for it.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

My experience as a former Alderman, and serving on various committees and Boards. I was the Chair of the New Berlin Finance Committee for 6 years. With strong fiscal policies and conservative budget projections along with a realistic facility plan, I believe the School District can pay off existing debt and continue to have a surplus.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

I don't have any specific concerns, however we should always push for communication and transparency.

How do you think local officials performed in responding to the coronavirus? What if anything would you have done differently?

Amazing. Our schools have remained open with a virtual option.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

12 years on the City of New Berlin Common Council.
3-A bond rating while serving on the Common Council.
6 year chair of the City of New Berlin Finance Committee.
Current member of the City of New Berlin Board of Public Works. Prioritizing projects on a 5 year plan.