HomeMy WebLinkAboutRickert Shawn - 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: Shawn Rickert
1. How do you view the role of a City Council Member– what is your job as a council member?
I believe that the City Council consists of a group of individuals that discuss material matters
that pertain to the City , and the Citizens as a whole. This Group needs to debate pros/cons of any
matter brought before them and come to a decision that best serves the community as a whole.
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 will more than Likely throw my hat in the ring for the upcoming election.
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?
I was aware of the meeting schedule. I am not fully versed on the other community
involvement aspects at this time. I am Retired at this point and have minimal obligations that would
conflict with scheduling these items.
4. Where do you see this community in five years?
I would like to see this as a welcoming city for all to enjoy. Possibly more attractions/Events if
poosible. We do seem to have an issue with “affordable” housing though, so that would need to be
addressed. I think this city could grow nicely if the correct foundation is laid out.
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 would take the request and pass it on up the chain as far as I could go to get a definitve answer
to their questions as well as reason(s) why we could not do said action. Respond to the Residents with
said information and try to answer follow ups, as well as point them in the right direction of whom to
talk to. Typically a State rep if it is something we cannot do locally. There is a chance that no matter
what you tell them they are going to be irate, or unsatisfied. That is human nature.
6. What is your definition of sustainability and how do you relate it to city operations?
Sustainability should be the process in which projects,budgets,ect are accomplished using
resources available without overextended borrowing to complete said task. Example: Robbing Peter to
pay Paul. Raising Taxes may satisfy budgetary means in the short term, but if it done with disregard
every year, that will eventually be a financial disaster in the future.
7. What is your opinion of the City budget and taxes; do you have any ideas to share?
I have not fully looked at the city budget, but the little bit I did look at seemed a tad bit inflated.
I believe either the number s are artificially inflated and there need to be some line by line looks at
where and how money is be spent. I think there should be some brainstorming of a different system for
the city to earn income other than property taxes. Service based of some sort.
8. As a Common Council Member how would you support the Strategic Plan Goals, Mission and
Vision of the community?
As a Council Member, I would be 1 of many whom represent the residents and the city. That
would entail bringing community feedback into the discussion process. I would strive for
transparency throughout the decision making process on whatever subject we are addressing at
any given time. The Mission and Vision should always be to betterment of the community and
its people even if its little acts at a tiem instead of huge projects. Example: The Mural at the
Cummins plant is a moral booster for the community.