HomeMy WebLinkAboutLenz Dan - 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: Dan Lenz
1. How do you view the role of a City Council Member– what is your job as a council member?
To serve as a conduit between the citizens of Oshkosh and the Council, ensuring their voices are heard
and making informed decisions based on their input.
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?
I have not decided yet, but I am considering it.
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 am retired.
4. Where do you see this community in five years?
I see the city moving toward fewer, less restrictive ordinances and a more responsive government. The
council should focus on supporting residents, reducing unnecessary regulation, improving
communication, and ensuring citizens receive timely and respectful responses.
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?
My response would be the same publicly as it would be privately. I would direct the
individuals to the appropriate jurisdiction and assist them as far as I reasonably can as a citizen.
Since the matter falls outside the authority of the Common Council, it would be inappropriate for
me to intervene in an official capacity.
If I am understanding the question correctly, it is somewhat vague, but this is the most accurate
and ethical approach I can provide.
6. What is your definition of sustainability and how do you relate it to city operations?
I believe you are referring to the City’s Sustainability Plan currently posted on the City website. My
understanding is that the purpose of the plan is to help reduce our environmental footprint and guide
responsible long-term decision-making.
However, it should be noted that the plan is now more than ten years old. Over the past decade, significant
advancements in technology and sustainability practices have emerged—many of which could replace or
improve upon the initiatives outlined in the existing plan.
With that in mind, I respectfully request that the Sustainability Plan be rewritten and modernized, and that it be
reviewed and updated on a regular cycle, such as every two years, to ensure it remains relevant, forward-
looking, and aligned with current best practices.
7. What is your opinion of the city budget and taxes; do you have any ideas to share?
Based on the current property valuations following the recent re-evaluation, the results appear
generally fair. However, many homeowners feel the re-evaluation was inaccurate and does not
reflect the true market value of homes in Oshkosh.
In addition, I believe our city government has grown too large and redundant. Several
departments and divisions have overlapping responsibilities, and a careful review should be
conducted to identify areas that can be streamlined, combined, or eliminated. Doing so would
improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary costs for taxpayers.
8. As a Common Council Member how would you support the Strategic Plan Goals, Mission
and Vision of the community?
This document is ten years old, and I believe it should be revisited. While I can support it as it is,
technology and best practices change over time. I respectfully request that it be reviewed and
updated on a regular cycle to ensure it remains current and effective.