STEVENS POINT, WI (WSAU) — There are just a few hours left for candidates in the 2024 Spring Elections to get nominating petitions returned to their local clerk.
Potential candidates have until the end of today, but Stevens Point Mayor Mike Wiza notes that those who are interested in running can still do so without completing their paperwork by launching a write-in campaign. It’s not ideal, but he says it’s better than nothing. “You can run late in the game, but the odds will be stacked against you.”
Write-in candidates need to register with their local clerk before starting their campaign, making them a legitimate candidate even though their name will not be printed on the ballot. Voters will need to spell the name correctly for the vote to count.
Once they register, it’s their job to get their message out to voters. Wiza says it’s just as important for those who plan to cast a ballot to ask all the right questions as well. “Find out where the candidates stand on the issues that are important to you. That might be a stop sign at the corner of your street or the number of lanes down Business 51.”
All of Stevens Point’s even-numbered Alder districts are up for election this year. Odd-numbered districts will be up for election in 2025. Residents thinking about running in those areas should get a head-start on their preparations as soon as possible. “The proverbial door is always open. You are welcome to come and speak at any of our meetings and there are a ton of committee assignments. If anyone is interested in being on those committees you can submit an application to be appointed. You don’t even have to run in an election. If you are interested in something and you have some qualifications, we can get you on a committee.”
Wiza also suggests talking to current and past Alders to get their advice on how to prepare for the role.
“Generally speaking most people don’t seem to care about local politics until it happens,” added Wiza. “And then, everybody throws up their arms and starts screaming. If you don’t get involved in local government, someone is going to make those decisions for you.”
Other topics Wiza discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner include:
Start of video- Why will 2024 be the best year ever in Stevens Point?
6:50- Preview of public input session regarding Shopko property
10:30- Election preview
