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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAmos Jacob - Supplemental Questionnaire Thank you for your interest in the open Common Council seat. Below is a list of questions the Common Council would like you to answer and send back to KZuercher@oshkoshwi.gov by 4:30pm Thursday, November 20th, 2025. Council Candidate Name: 1. How do you view the role of a City Council Member– what is your job as a council member? • My perspective of a City Council Member’s role is to be a steward of the community and a representative of the people. A City Council Member is not just a representative of the people’s opinions, but their needs, their values shaped by their lived experiences, and their futures here in Oshkosh. My job is to listen first, understand before acting, and make decisions grounded in transparency, responsibility, and long-term effective impact. Council members should model transparency, accountability, and collaboration while ensuring that resources are used wisely and ethically. The role also consist of engaging in committee work and with residents, business owners the faith community, and constituents. Ultimately, the role is to help build a community that residents are proud to call home. 2. Will you be running for a seat on the Oshkosh Common Council in the next election – whether you are selected for this appointment or not? • Yes. My commitment to this work isn’t conditional. I care deeply about this city, and that commitment doesn’t end if I’m not appointed. Whether I’m selected for the vacancy or not, I plan to continue to find ways to serve, learn, and be apart of leadership where I can make a meaningful difference, and be a part of growth our city and preservation of what makes Oshkosh such a special place to me and the 69,000 people who call this city home. 3. Do you understand the time commitment required for a Council Member (meetings, constituent interactions, general community involvement, etc.) and do you have the time and flexibility to accommodate this schedule? • Yes, I fully understand the commitment required, and I’m prepared for it. I already work closely with community members, organizations, and local leaders, so stepping into this role feels like a natural extension of the work I’m already committed to. I have the flexibility to meet the expectations of this position, and I look forward to showing up for the people of Oshkosh and being present while doing so. The work that city council members do is extremely essential, and Oshkosh deserves leaders who are committed to the work. 4. Where do you see this community in five years? • In five years, I see Oshkosh growing, not only in infrastructure, but in connection, opportunity, and trust. I know that in five years Oshkosh will be a city where residents feel heard and valued, where young professionals see their future, and where local businesses thrive alongside neighborhoods that feel safe and supported. My vision is a community grounded in transparency, innovation, and accountability. Where decisions are made with residents, not just for them. 5. A group of residents demands action on something we legally cannot do or have no control over. How do you respond, publicly and privately? • I believe people deserve honesty and respect. Publicly and privately, I would acknowledge their concerns, clearly explain the legal limitations, and provide whatever context is needed. I will ensure I’m not dismissive, but constructively guiding them in a direction to get their concerns addressed. From there, my responsibility is to explore any legal alternatives, connect residents with the right resources, or help them pursue solutions through appropriate channels. I abide by the fact that even when the answer isn’t what someone wants to hear, how we communicate and follow up truly matter. 6. What is your definition of sustainability and how do you relate it to city operations? • To me, sustainability means making decisions today that don’t compromise tomorrow. In city operations, that applies to infrastructure, budgeting, environmental stewardship, public safety and social well-being. Sustainable leadership is forward-thinking and proactive. It protects resources, reduces waste, and plans for growth with intention rather than reaction. When cities embed sustainability into decision-making, they save money, strengthen resilience, and improve quality of life for everyone. 7. What is your opinion of the City budget and taxes; do you have any ideas to share? I believe Oshkosh is moving in a fiscally responsible and forward-thinking direction. I fully support the decision to hold the property tax levy flat at $47 million while still lowering the tax rate to $7.77 per $1,000 of assessed value, a meaningful reduction from $8.14 that respects taxpayers without sacrificing needed city services. I also appreciate the continued investment in essential capital projects, including water infrastructure and utility upgrades, which are critical to the long-term health and growth of the community. I appreciate the work the staff and the city manager has done to build a budget that prioritizes development, sustainability, smooth roads, safe neighborhoods, and communities throughout this amazing city. 8. As a Common Council Member how would you support the Strategic Plan Goals, Mission and Vision of the community? • As a City Council Member, I would ensure that every vote I cast and every decision I support aligns directly with the community’s strategic plan, mission, and vision. I will be a steadfast champion of Oshkosh’s vision of “A thriving and sustainable community offering abundant opportunities for work and life,” and uphold our mission to “Provide goods and services in pursuit of a safe and vibrant community.” I will make sure to reinforces our six strategic goals and keep them at the forefront of all my decisions.