HomeMy WebLinkAboutKiraly Richard - 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: Richard Kiraly (Rick)
1. How do you view the role of a City Council Member– what is your job as a council member?
I view the role of a City Council Member as a responsibility to serve the community with integrity,
transparency, and accountability while ensuring that decisions reflect the long-term interests of
Oshkosh residents. Having lived in Oshkosh my entire life, I have a deep appreciation for the values,
strengths, and needs of this community. Now that my children are grown and out of the house, I am at
a point in my life where I can dedicate more of my time to public service. I want to be more actively
involved in helping our city grow, strengthen its neighborhoods, and continue building a vibrant and
sustainable future.
A council member must uphold the Guiding Principles outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan—being
transparent, equitable, innovative, and accountable. This includes engaging residents, promoting
inclusive decision-making, and ensuring the city remains responsive to community needs. The job also
involves collaborating with city staff, community partners, and fellow council members to advance
strategic goals such as improving infrastructure, supporting economic development, enhancing quality-
of-life services, and fostering safe and healthy neighborhoods.
The Council Manual emphasizes that council members are stewards of public resources and
representatives of the entire city, not any single group. I take that responsibility seriously. My
background in public service, patient advocacy, and collaborative leadership has prepared me to
evaluate issues objectively, communicate clearly, and make decisions rooted in fairness and
community well-being.
My goal as a council member is to contribute to a thriving, forward-looking Oshkosh—one that
provides opportunity, safety, and prosperity for all residents.
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?
At this time, I am strongly considering running for a seat on the Oshkosh Common Council in
the next election, regardless of the outcome of this appointment process. My interest in serving the
City of Oshkosh is not limited to this vacancy alone. Rather, it reflects a long-standing commitment to
this community and a desire to contribute to its long-term success. As someone who has lived in
Oshkosh my entire life, I care deeply about our neighborhoods, our growth, and the future direction of
our city government.
While I believe it is important for any public servant to remain open to where they can be most
effective, I anticipate that my involvement with the Council—whether appointed now or through a
future election—will be part of a long-term commitment to public service. The City’s Guiding
Principles, particularly accountability, transparency, and responsiveness, resonate strongly with my
own values. If selected for this appointment, I would use the experience to build relationships,
understand ongoing initiatives, and deepen my understanding of the City’s Strategic Plan, all of which
would position me to continue serving beyond this term.
My goal is to contribute meaningfully to the strategic priorities of the City—improving infrastructure,
strengthening neighborhoods, supporting economic development, and enhancing quality-of-life
services. Whether appointed now or elected in the future, I fully expect to remain engaged and active
in supporting the work of the Council and the residents of Oshkosh.
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 time commitment required of a City Council Member, and I have
both the flexibility and availability to meet those expectations. The Oshkosh Common Council typically
meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m., and these evening meetings do
not conflict with my professional schedule. In addition, I recognize that council members must also be
available for workshops, special meetings, committee assignments, constituent communication, and
ongoing community engagement. With my children now grown and out of the house, I have
significantly more time to dedicate to public service and to being fully present for the responsibilities of
this position.
My career in healthcare has required strong time-management skills, responsiveness, and the ability to
be consistently available for those who rely on me. These skills translate directly into the expectations
outlined in the Council Manual, which emphasizes preparedness, active participation, communication
with residents, and accountability. I understand that serving on the Council involves more than
attending meetings—it requires ongoing engagement with the community, staying informed on policy
issues, and collaborating with city leadership to advance the City’s Strategic Plan.
I am fully prepared to commit the time necessary to fulfill these responsibilities. I take seriously the
Guiding Principles of being responsive, transparent, and accountable, and I am confident in my ability
to balance my professional duties with the obligations of serving on the Common Council. I welcome
the opportunity to contribute consistently, reliably, and with full commitment.
4. Where do you see this community in five years?
In the next five years, I see Oshkosh continuing to grow into a thriving and dynamic hub within
the Fox Valley—one where residents, families, and businesses have the opportunity to prosper. Our
community has a strong foundation, and the City’s Strategic Plan outlines a clear path for continued
progress. I envision Oshkosh strengthening its identity as a place that values innovation, inclusivity, and
accountability while investing in the key areas that matter most to residents.
I see Oshkosh building on its momentum in economic development, attracting and retaining
businesses, supporting entrepreneurship, and encouraging redevelopment in areas such as the
Sawdust District, downtown, and along the waterfront. These targeted efforts will create jobs, expand
opportunity, and position the city as a central economic engine within the region.
I also see continued investment in infrastructure—improved streets, enhanced transit, expanded
bicycle and pedestrian routes, and modernized municipal facilities—as outlined in the Strategic Plan’s
goals. These improvements will make Oshkosh safer, more accessible, and better connected.
Equally important is the vision for stronger neighborhoods: diverse, welcoming, and supported by
collaborative partnerships. I imagine an Oshkosh where residents feel more connected, where
neighborhood associations are empowered, and where housing options continue to expand to meet
evolving community needs.
Finally, I see a city government that is even more transparent, responsive, and accountable, using data-
driven decision-making and community engagement to guide policy.
In five years, I see Oshkosh as a vibrant, growing city—one that honors its heritage while embracing a
bold future.
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?
If a group of residents demands action on an issue that the City legally cannot do or does not have
authority over, I believe the most important response—both publicly and privately—is one rooted in
transparency, respect, and education. The City’s Guiding Principles, particularly transparency,
accountability, responsiveness, and an inclusive can-do spirit, provide a framework for how I would
approach the situation.
Publicly, I would acknowledge the residents’ concerns and clearly communicate that their voices have
been heard. It is important that people feel respected and valued, even when the City’s authority is
limited. I would then explain, in a straightforward and accessible way, the legal constraints or
jurisdictional boundaries that prevent the Council from taking the requested action. Where
appropriate, I would direct residents to the proper agency, governing body, or process that does have
the legal authority to address their concerns. This approach maintains trust and demonstrates a
commitment to honest, open communication.
Privately, I would continue listening to residents’ concerns, helping them understand the underlying
legal or procedural limitations. I would do so in a polite, congenial manner, ensuring they feel
supported rather than dismissed. If there are alternative solutions within the City’s authority—such as
advocacy, collaboration with partners, or exploring long-term policy considerations—I would outline
those options.
Ultimately, my role is to educate, guide, and advocate within the boundaries of the law, while treating
every resident with professionalism, empathy, and respect. This balanced approach reinforces public
trust and upholds the integrity of city governance.
6. What is your definition of sustainability and how do you relate it to city operations?
To me, sustainability is the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their own. It encompasses environmental responsibility, economic
stability, operational efficiency, and the long-term stewardship of community resources. Sustainability
requires intentional planning—ensuring that our infrastructure, finances, natural resources, and
services are managed in a way that promotes resilience and long-term prosperity.
I personally integrate sustainability into my life. I have solar panels on my home, I drive an electric
vehicle, and I strongly believe the future will rely on renewable energy and efficient resource use.
These personal choices reinforce my understanding that sustainable practices are both achievable and
beneficial—not just environmentally, but economically through reduced energy costs and long-term
savings.
In relation to city operations, sustainability means making strategic investments that support the City’s
long-term health. The City of Oshkosh’s 2025–2026 Strategic Plan emphasizes improving infrastructure,
enhancing the efficiency of city facilities, exploring energy-efficiency opportunities, developing
stormwater and wastewater resiliency, and modernizing public assets. These goals directly align with
sustainable operations—ensuring our streets, facilities, utilities, and public spaces are built and
maintained for durability, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Additionally, sustainability includes supporting economic development that strengthens the tax base,
encourages entrepreneurship, revitalizes neighborhoods, and provides diverse housing options. A
sustainable city ensures that residents and businesses can thrive today while laying the groundwork for
future growth.
Sustainability, in my view, is both a mindset and a commitment. It is about making thoughtful decisions
today that will ensure Oshkosh remains a resilient, vibrant, and forward-looking community for
decades to come.
7. What is your opinion of the City budget and taxes; do you have any ideas to share?
At this point, it would be premature for me to make definitive judgments about the City of
Oshkosh’s budget without fully understanding the inner workings of our municipal operations,
infrastructure needs, long-term project commitments, and the financial obligations that guide budget
decisions. The City’s budget is a complex framework that supports essential services, public safety,
infrastructure maintenance, economic development, and quality-of-life initiatives. Before offering
specific recommendations, I believe it is important to thoroughly review the budget documents,
understand departmental needs, and ensure decisions are based on accurate information and long-
term strategic goals.
Regarding taxes, I fully understand that residents are often concerned about the impact of taxes on
their household finances. At the same time, it is important to recognize that tax revenue provides the
City with the resources necessary to maintain and improve the services and amenities that residents
rely on every day. These investments—whether in streets, utilities, parks, public safety, recreation
facilities, or economic development—directly support the well-being of our community. They also
enhance the vibrancy of Oshkosh by creating public spaces and community assets that bring people
together, strengthen neighborhoods, and contribute to a higher quality of life.
My goal would be to balance fiscal responsibility with strategic investment, ensuring taxpayer dollars
are used efficiently and transparently. I believe in thoughtful budgeting that prioritizes essential
services while supporting the long-term vision outlined in the City’s Strategic Plan. Ultimately, taxes are
not just a cost—they are an investment in the health, vitality, and future of our community.
8. As a Common Council Member how would you support the Strategic Plan Goals, Mission and
Vision of the community?
As a member of the Oshkosh Common Council, I would support the City’s Strategic Plan, Mission, and
Vision by committing myself to thoughtful decision-making, transparent communication, and long-
term community investment. The City’s Mission—to provide goods and services in pursuit of a safe and
vibrant community—and its Vision of a thriving, sustainable city with abundant opportunities align
strongly with my personal values and professional experience in public service.
I would support the Strategic Plan’s goals by advancing policies that strengthen our neighborhoods,
enhance quality-of-life services, and promote economic development. I believe strongly in responsible
stewardship of public resources, and I would approach budget discussions and infrastructure projects
with an emphasis on sustainability, efficiency, and long-term benefit. My background in healthcare and
union leadership has taught me the importance of collaboration and stakeholder engagement—skills
that directly support the Strategic Plan’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and community
involvement.
I would also champion initiatives that make Oshkosh a more connected and resilient community,
including improvements to streets, transit, pedestrian networks, and city facilities, as outlined in the
plan. Additionally, I support efforts that expand housing options, encourage business growth, and
revitalize key areas such as downtown, the Sawdust District, and waterfront corridors.
Ultimately, I would approach my role with a strong commitment to the City’s Guiding Principles: being
transparent, equitable, responsive, and innovative. My goal is to help Oshkosh continue to grow into a
vibrant hub within the Fox Valley—a community where residents and businesses can prosper, and
where every decision reflects our mission, vision, and future direction.
Rick Kiraly
rakiraly@gmail.com
920-279-7479