Editorial comment on current issues
from DoorCountyDailyNews.com
President and General Manager
Roger Utnehmer.

Gas Prices Could Fuel Interest In A Greener Community
by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
July 17, 2008 

The rising price of gas could be just what Door County needs to fuel a renewed interest in saving energy.  Anyone who fills a gas tank can save fuel by driving less aggressively.  Local government can also contribute to cleaner air and less gas consumption and, at the same time, make Door County much more pedestrian, cyclist and senior-citizen-friendly.

Sturgeon Bay has an opportunity to make the reconstructed Egg Harbor Road safer for senior citizens, pedestrians and cyclists.   Bike lanes and sidewalks are essential as city officials plan for a big box store in an area currently only accessible by car.  Any community hoping to attract retired residents needs to have safe sidewalks to where people shop.

Municipalities can design roundabouts to replace gas-wasting, air-polluting traffic lights.  Roundabouts keep traffic moving, are significantly safer, cut down on idling and reduce air pollution.  Local officials can also review where stop signs are no longer needed and consider reducing speed limits to save gas while protecting public safety.

Zoning regulations that require large residential lots need to be reviewed.  By permitting shorter set-backs and smaller lots housing could become more affordable and development less energy-intensive. 

Conserving energy is primarily a personal responsibility.  Innovative thinking by local officials can also contribute to a greener Door County.  Roundabouts, sidewalks, bike paths, fewer stop signs, lower speed limits and a new approach to zoning can all contribute to less energy consumption and cleaner air.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version 

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The Stanford Kramer Memorial Youth Sports Complex and Track
Proves Positive Parenting by Ron and Mary Greisen
by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
July 16, 2008

If any couple is qualified to teach successful parenting, it’s Ron and Mary Greisen of Sturgeon Bay.

The proof is their sons. Ron and Mary raised two successful professional football players who demonstrate character and decency beyond expectation. Nick Greisen and his brother, Chris, are professional athletes. Both are rooted in values learned in a family that exudes kindness, compassion, generosity and community commitment.

On Friday, the Door County YMCA will dedicate an athletic field and track made possible by a significant donation by Nick Greisen. Rather than name the field after himself, as many professional athletes would do, Nick asked that his grandfather receive the honor.

The Stanford Kramer Youth Sports Complex will become an important part of the Door County YMCA.
Nick and Chris have committed to returning to Sturgeon Bay to conduct football camps for Door County kids at the facility. Their generosity with time and money will make Door County better for many families in the future.

Please join me in expressing appreciation for a family that is making Door County a better place to live.
The Greisens deserve a word of thanks and a lot more people to follow their example. Good kids come from good parents and the Greisens prove it.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

Big Oil Sitting on 68 Million Acres of Leased Land
by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
June 25, 2008

As if they don’t have enough PR problems, recent reports that oil companies are sitting on more than 68 million acres of leased land should frustrate anyone fed up with the rising price of gas.

Big oil companies lease land from the federal government for oil exploration. The fact that half of those leased acres are not being used by oil companies refutes the argument of those who suggest more off-shore drilling will reduce oil and gas prices in America.

The Alaska Wildlife Refuge, which President Bush would like to open to exploration, contains l.5 million acres with drilling potential. When oil companies sit on 68 million acres of leased land on which they are not drilling, encouraging big oil to explore and drill where they already lease should be public policy.

Republican presidential candidate John McCain supports more U.S. off-shore drilling.
Democrat Barack Obama wants to levy a fee on the leased acres the oil companies are not using as an incentive to encourage exploration.

A debate about oil policy will be good for the gas-paying public. Reforming unregulated futures speculation needs to be part of the debate. Some suggest that as much as 60% of the price of oil can be attributed to futures speculation by hedge funds, banks and financial groups.

Futures speculators only pay for 6% of the value of the contract, a leverage ratio of 16 to 1. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission should raise the margin requirement well above 6%. Speculation in oil futures is driving prices to unrealistic levels and might be a big part of the reason prices at the pump are so high.

The politics of oil determines the prices we pay at the pump which is why a civil discussion about exploration and futures trading is in order.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version 

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Democrats Will Soon Dominate Wisconsin Government
by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
June 18, 2008

Democrats will soon dominate Wisconsin government and that’s good news if you want dramatic school finance reform. The only way Wisconsin will drastically change a school funding formula far too dependent on the property tax is if one party controls the Governor’s office, the senate and the assembly.

Democrats only need to pick up three Assembly seats to re-claim the majority. The likelihood Democrats will pick up several more than that is good. One-party control of state government is the only hope for significant school finance reform.

Wisconsin is disproportionally dependent on the property tax for schools and and far too many government services. Property taxes often do not reflect an equitable ability-to-pay. The implication is that good people feel forced to oppose school bond referenda and spending limit over-rides simply to save a tax they no longer can afford.

The bi-partisan bickering between majority Senate Democrats and Assembly Republicans has created gridlock on issues ranging from campaign finance reform to school funding. When Democrats take total control of state government they will have a short-term window of opportunity to prove they can return Wisconsin to its Progressive tradition.

With majority status Democrats also assume responsibility. A reform agenda is what will be required to earn the right to keep the power they will likely find theirs. President Obama will appoint Jim Doyle his Attorney General. Barbara Lawton will become Wisconsin’s school finance reform governor and Assembly Democrats will select a Speaker.

The priority for the first l00 days of the 2009 Legislative Session needs to be finding an alternative to the property tax and if Democrats do that, and adopt meaningful campaign finance reform as well, they deserve to stay in office.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

Razing Fees Needed in Sturgeon Bay Big Box Ordinance

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
May 19, 2008

More than 200 Wal Mart stores throughout America are empty.  Home Depot is closing 15 stores, three of them in Wisconsin.  Sturgeon Bay’s north entrance is blighted by an abandoned K-Mart store that was shuttered years ago.
 
The Sturgeon Bay City Council appears ready to welcome a Wal Mart Super Center soon.  The very least the council can do is prevent another scourge on the image of the city from occurring again.   The Sturgeon Bay City Council needs to adopt regulations that would require Wal Mart to demolish its big box if it ever closes.  That kind of requirement years ago would have prevented the hulking, ugly, empty K-Mart complex from diminishing the charm and character of Door County.
 
Wauwatosa is assessing developers a fee to be used if big box retailers pull out and abandon a building.
Sturgeon Bay should do the same.  One big Sturgeon Bay “ghost box,” as the abandoned stores are called, is enough. 
 
Wise minds in Wauwatosa required developers building boxes bigger than 50,000 square feet to set aside money to raze the store if it sits empty for more than a year.  Like Wauwatosa, Sturgeon Bay’s Wal-Mart-welcoming council members should at least include architectural standards that make buildings more attractive and easier to re-use. 
 
That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer

                        Printable Version 

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Income Inequality Is Moral Issue In Wisconsin

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
April 14, 2008

Wisconsin’s rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer.  Growing income inequality is a moral as well as social issue.  The Wisconsin Catholic Conference reported recently that twenty years ago our state ranked fifth in the nation in terms of income distribution.  Today, Wisconsin ranks in eleventh place.  Income for the poorest fifth of Wisconsin’s population has increased only 7% since the mid ‘80’s.  The income of the middle fifth of income earners increased by 14% and the most wealthy fifth by 36%.

In dollars, the poorest families had an income increase of $1,369 from the mid ‘80’s to 2005 while the wealthiest fifth of Wisconsin’s population earned $31,600 more. 

More people are becoming financially strapped.  Income disparity undermines the common good.

Suggestions proposed by faith based organizations include raising and indexing for inflation the minimum wage, enhancing job training, increasing funding for child care and making health care coverage available for the working poor.

These are issues of social justice.  A fair minimum wage, health and  child care and job training will bring a higher degree of fairness to income disparity in Wisconsin. 

Unfortunately, however, the working poor do not have the lobbyists and political action committees who work for the rich.  The term “special interests” needs a new definition to include the working poor, the uninsured, children in need of day care and underemployed workers waiting for job training.

Let us remember that our economic well being is not measured only by the quantity of goods we produce but also by the fairness of our wages and the quality of life work makes possible for everyone.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version 

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com 

The Cost of War Can No Longer Be Measured by Casualties and Tax Dollars Alone

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
March 24, 2008

Regardless of your position on the war in Iraq, people of good will should now certainly be able to agree that something has to change.  The Bush administration’s own General Accountability Office reports that up to $l5 million worth of oil is stolen daily in Iraq.  Almost as much oil is lost in Iraq every day to sabotage, theft and corruption as is generated by America’s largest oil field at Prudhoe Bay, Alaska.

All  this while  U.S. taxpayers are pumping $4ll million dollars a day, $l2.5 BILLION a month, into a war with no end in sight and no exit strategy.  America will be paying for our involvement in Iraq for years.  Disability payments to veterans alone will amount to hundreds of millions of dollars for decades.

It is certainly a fair question to ask why the most powerful military in the world cannot stop the theft of millions of dollars worth of oil a day while engaged in the second most expensive war in U.S. history.

The second question that needs to be addressed is the impact funding war has on the fragile U.S. economy.  A Congressional study by the Joint Economic Committee reports that 58,000 children could be enrolled in the Head Start program for what we spend in Iraq in one day.  153,000 students could be provided Pell grants to attend college.  11,000 border patrol agents or 9,000 police officers could be hired with one day’s expenditure for the war.

Economists from both parties agree the war is at least partially responsible for rising oil prices.  Money spent in Iraq is not stimulating the economy as effectively as if the money were used to improve housing, provide health care, expand education and rebuild infrastructure.

The cost of war can no longer measured in casualties and tax dollars alone.  Spending $5,000 every single second for war is crippling a fragile economy.  The casualties of our economy are those who work in banking, real estate, home construction and businesses impacted by oil prices like tourism, farming auto sales and trucking.

It is not fair that so many suffer the economic consequences of war while the Iraqi government watches  $l5 million a day in oil lost through theft, corruption and sabotage. 

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

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A Prophet Is Seldom Recognized In His Hometown: Dr. John Stevenson A Door County Prophet Recognized Throughout Wisconsin

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
March 3, 2008

Congratulations to Sturgeon Bay physician Dr. John Stevenson for being honored by the American Lung Association of Wisconsin.  Dr. Stevenson’s contributions to better health will be acknowledged at an event in Milwaukee March l5th.

Stevenson is one of those valuable resources whose quite contributions are often recognized on a state or national level more than they may be in his own community.  That’s why I ask you to join me in recognizing a Sturgeon Bay physician who has earned the respect and esteem of advocates for good health from throughout Wisconsin.

Stevenson served as Chair of the Wisconsin Lung Association.  He has a 39-year record of voluntary service since joining the American Lung Association in l969. His leadership as an advocate for clean air and better health is effective and respected.  John Stevenson is in good company.  He is being honored along with Ed Zore, the CEO of Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance.

Dr. John Stevenson is an articulate advocate for good public policy.  His concern and volunteer efforts mean the quality of life for many Wisconsin residents is better for his service.

Let’s not make a mistake made by many.  We have leaders in Door County who make significant contributions to the common good.  They deserve the same recognition locally as many have received on a state and national level.  Dr. John Stevenson is recognized throughout Wisconsin.  Let’s make sure we recognize what a resource we have right here in Door County as well.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

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Sturgeon Bay Needs A City Administrator
Like John Hauser

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
February 26, 2008

The most important decision Sturgeon Bay elected officials may make in 2008 is the selection of a City Administrator.  They could do no better than recruiting John Hauser for the position.

John combines character,  financial background and proven leadership abilities.  John Hauser is one reason why the Sturgeon Bay School Board is one of the most respected and effective in Wisconsin.

His past leadership of the Door County YMCA board of directors has made the Y is one of the few organizations that cohesively and cooperatively brings all of Door County together.

After two controversial city administrators Sturgeon Bay needs someone who can demonstrate the collaborative style John Hauser brings to his profession and community service.

 When someone of his caliber is available city officials would be wise to recruit him.  John’s roots in the community, his love of what makes Sturgeon Bay a place he has raised his family, his professional demeanor and personality combine to qualify him for an important position to move our city forward.

There must be a wise voice in city hall willing to recruit a local professional for a problem-plagued position.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

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First Assembly District Race Could Determine Control of State Assembly

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
February 11, 2008

The race for the State Assembly seat now held by Representative Garey Bies of Sister Bay could be one of the most important in Wisconsin. Democrats comfortably control the State Senate and Governor’s office. Republicans have a slim three-seat majority in the Assembly. That makes the First District seat critical to both parties hoping for control.

Two Democrats have already announced; Dick Skare of Fish Creek and Christopher Baeb of Luxemburg.
Republican names mentioned if Bies retires include Door County Board Supervisor Marc Savard and Kewaunee County Republican Party Chair Todd Lohenry.

Two important questions to ask anyone running for the state legislature are, “Will they support campaign finance reform and how independent will they be in their party’s caucus?”

The climate in our state legislature has been poisoned by the sanitized corruption of special interest campaign contributions and the inordinate power of party bosses in Democrat and Republican caucuses.

Good government requires campaign reform that will include public financing of elections.
It also includes electing independent people to public office who will not vote the straight party line.

Former State Representatives Lary Swoboda and Dave Hutchinson, a Democrat and a Republican, were both known for independent thinking and their willingness to work across party lines. In an age when civility is missing from much of our civic discourse it’s good to remember how legislators like Swoboda and Hutchison put the common good above political party.

Any candidate considering a run for public office would be wise to learn from former legislators like Lary Swoboda and Dave Hutchison. Both left the legislature with the respect of friends in both parties because they were consistently civil in their civic discourse.

Wisconsin will be watching the race developing in the First District. Caucus scandals and convictions of both Democrats and Republicans have tarnished Wisconsin government. May the candidates in the First Assembly District make us proud by returning to a higher level of civility and commitment to clean campaigning.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.
 

                        Printable Version 

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com 

Door County Habitat for Humanity: Making a Beautiful Place Better One House at a Time

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
February 4, 2008

Door County Habitat For Humanity volunteers say they’re making a beautiful place better one HOUSE at a time. What is even more important to say is that Habitat for Humanity is making life better for friends and neighbors in Sturgeon Bay and throughout Door County, one FAMILY at a time.

Affordable housing ranks with clean water as the most important issue in the area. A recent survey cited lack of affordable housing as a major problem by almost 70% of respondents. Almost 2,000 people, approximately 350 families, live below the poverty line in Door County. Last year, the median price of an inland home was $l3l,000, well out of reach of the very people we need to be a diverse, caring community.

Habitat for Humanity is the singular most impressive organization doing something about this serious problem.

Habitat has built 24 homes in Door County and hopes to build several more in 2008. Nobody gets a home for free. Each partner works a minimum of 250 hours on their home, 400 hours if it’s a two-adult household. Habitat homeowners then make mortgage payments until their home is paid in full.

Door County Habitat for Humanity needs $90,000 to cover the cost of each home. It needs home sponsorship by civic, service and religious organizations. Habitat needs lots on which to build and the cooperation of municipal government making affordable housing available throughout Door County.

Door County has a very serious affordable housing problem. Fortunately, Habitat for Humanity, its dedicated staff, generous benefactors, active volunteers and cooperative elected officials are solving a serious problem one family at a time.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version 

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Many Door and Kewaunee County Dairy Farmers Show Concern for Environment

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
December 27, 2007

Today I speak in support of farmers. You recently may have heard a news story on this station in which a local environmentalist criticized the practice of winter manure spreading. As much as I respect Jerry Viste from the Door County Environmental Council and as much as I agree with his opposition to spreading liquid manure on sensitive soil when the ground is frozen, I do not agree with his statement to this station that farmers don’t care.

Door and Kewaunee Counties are fortunate to have some very environmentally-sensitive dairy farmers who work well with their neighbors and invest thousands of dollars in proper disposal of manure.
Many responsible farmers show they care about the environment by investing in expensive storage facilities. They invest in water monitoring and they work with neighbors to mitigate the impact of manure disposal.

As well-intentioned as Jerry Viste may be it is not fair to paint all farmers as not caring about the environment. Some have been irresponsible in the past. Some have polluted their neighbors’ wells and contaminated ground water. Those farmers need to be regulated and punished for endangering public health.

Responsible farmers who invest in containment, monitoring and environmentally-safe disposal practices should be commended rather than incorrectly categorized as not caring.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version 

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Charlie Most: Public Service At Its Best

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
December 18, 2007

When Door County Board Chair Charlie Most steps down in April Door County will lose one of its best examples of public service. 

Charlie Most has been the kind of county board supervisor, town chair and county board chair that is a model for good government.  His passionate concern, his progressive approach to government, dedicated commitment and collaborative style combine to have made him
one of the county’s most effective leaders.

Charlie, more than many in local government, recognized the importance of an informed citizenry.  He worked well with the news media to keep people informed about issues.  He returned phone calls, was always honest and forthcoming and earned the respect of those who report the news about county government.  He is sincerely
appreciated by the staff of DoorCountyDailyNews.com.

Please join me in expressing appreciation for the many years of service, long hours, occasional invasions of privacy and excellent leadership provided by Charlie Most.

He is a model for future leaders and we can only hope to find more people of his stature.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version 

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com 

Economic Development: Shop Local & Preserve Jobs

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
November 21, 2007

Economic development has as much to do about preserving jobs as it does creating them.

One way to preserve jobs right here in Door and Kewaunee Counties is to spend your dollars where you make them 

Small-town retailers are under siege.  Big box stores that were not even in business fifteen years ago now capture one-third of retail dollars spent in America.  When a Door or Kewaunee County business fails because of retail sales leakage, big box competition or internet purchases every church, civic organization, non-profit service club, school and youth group also suffers. 

Each dollar spent with a locally-owned business circulates seven times through the local economy, paying wages of employees who might lose their job without local support.  Big box chains wire that money to an out-of-town corporate office by 4PM every day.

Door and Kewaunee County youth groups, churches, Rotarians, Lions, 4-H members, volunteer fire departments, arts organizations and chambers of commerce all depend on the support of local business.  When people buy their cars, furniture, building materials, appliances and other major purchases out of town, each and every other local business loses.

We’re all in this together.  The profit generated by the sale of a new pick up or sofa keeps neighbors employed at good-paying jobs.  It is the source of the donations to 4-H clubs, church dues and chamber membership.  Profits earned by local business pay the taxes that support our schools, build our roads and protect people with police and fire protection.

Every time a local business closes our communities suffer.  Every retail sales dollar that leaves Door and Kewaunee Counties contributes to the decline of our economy.  A cohesive, mutually-supportive community is comprised of people who do business with each other.

Where we make our purchases will have an ever-increasing impact on economic development and our Door and Kewaunee County economies.  Our purchasing practices will either contribute to or detract from job preservation and community cohesiveness.

A small savings is not worth what we do to each other by sending dollars to big box stores and out-of-town competitors.  

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.
 

                        Printable Version 

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com 

The Doyle Legacy Could Be Determined In December

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
November 12, 2007

The legacy of Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle could very well be determined in December.  By calling the legislature back for a special session on campaign finance reform Governor Doyle could establish his legacy as one of reform and clean government.

Wisconsin needs campaign finance reform and Doyle can deliver it by calling a special session of the legislature.

Five legislators have been convicted of breaking the law.  The sordid smell of special interest money pervades politics the capital.  Negative ads secretly funded by special interest groups disillusion voters.  Fundraising during state budget deliberations amounts to nothing more than a sanitized shakedown.

Members of both parties recognize the bipartisan corruption that is destroying public trust.  Republicans and Democrats have come together supporting a reform package that would crowd out the special interest money with public financing, ban fundraising during budget deliberations and require issue ad groups to disclose their donors.

If action is not taken on campaign finance reform legislation before the end of the year, it will die a death of election-year politics.  Wisconsin has a short-term window of opportunity to restore a once-proud image for clean, progressive government. 

It is up to Doyle to do it.  A special session on campaign finance reform is the solution.

By calling legislators back to Madison and leading the fight for clean government Governor Jim Doyle can leave a legacy that would make his Progressive predecessors proud.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.
 

                        Printable Version 

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

We're All In This Together

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
November 5, 2007

 The downtown Sturgeon Bay construction project is an opportunity to show we really are a caring community.  Street construction in front of your home is an inconvenience.  Construction in front of your business can be a disaster. 

Right now all of us a chance to show we’re in it together, that a short-term inconvenience can be a call to community cohesion.  This construction project will be less devastating if more of us have a meal in downtown Sturgeon Bay or buy something from a downtown business. 

Reduced sales mean hours are cut back, some employees might be temporarily laid off, that less money circulates in our local economy and some may even suffer the difference between profit and loss.  Anytime one local business suffers others to as well.  We’re in it together so let’s dine and buy more from businesses in downtown Sturgeon Bay.

Incurring a minor inconvenience caused by construction is well worth the impact we can have by helping those in business who struggle with sagging sales.  Any calories gained helping a local business get through a tough time can be carried with pride.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.
 

                        Printable Version 

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Public Financing of Campaigns Will Clean Up the Capitol

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
October 31, 2007

The Wisconsin State Legislature is a bipartisan dysfunctional disaster. The solution is public financing of campaigns. Special interest groups have a disproportionate influence and clearly buy access to legislators of both parties.

The Wisconsin Democracy Campaign recent report that 70% of contributions in the 2006 election came from special interest donors who could not even vote for the candidates they were financing proves it’s time for reform.

Special interest money has corrupted the system. Even races for the state supreme court are now poisoned by the insidious role of big money coming from groups like the Wisconsin Association of Manufacturers and the teachers union. The recent budget impasse would never have happened if not for the power of special interests.

Minnesota is a model of reform Wisconsin would be wise to emulate. Campaigns are financed by the people, not special interest groups. Spending is limited. The majority of candidates accept public financing. That means legislators serve the people, not special interests. Minnesota has avoided the embarrassing scandals Wisconsin has endured since money became the motivator of legislative leaders.

The public pays for campaigns one way or the other. When done through an income tax checkoff and supplemented with general purpose revenues, it’s transparent. When done through special interest campaign contributions, the public pays for pork barrel projects, tax breaks and budget favors and never knows the true cost.

Reform requires more transparent and timely reporting, an end to the revolving door between government and the special interests, a ban on fund raising during budget deliberations and much more. The most important essential reform, however, is public financing of campaigns. The people pay one way or the other. Wisconsin will once again have clean, progressive government if the public pays for campaigns directly rather than through the sanitized corruption of special interest contributions.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.
 

                        Printable Version

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Local Officials and Their Families Deserve Privacy & Respect
A CODE OF COURTESY

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
October 16, 2007

Getting good people to run for office is difficult if the cost of their public service is personal privacy and respect.  Candidates for locally elected positions will be circulating nomination papers soon.  Good government depends on getting qualified, competent people to run.  That challenge is more difficult when people invade the privacy of public officials or communicate in crude, even vulgar, language.

You often hear of a “Code of Conduct” for those who serve in government.  I suggest a “Code of Courtesy” for the public.  Citizens need to follow some basic rules of etiquette when it comes to communicating with their elected officials.  A “Code of Courtesy” would protect the privacy of public officials and their families.  There are times to express opinion and there are times to leave people alone.

Let’s allow our local politicians to have a private meal with their families in a public restaurant without being interrupted.  Give them the courtesy of communicating during reasonable hours in a respectful manner with gratitude expressed as often as complaints.

Recognize that spouses are independent citizens who should never be confronted for positions that may not even be their own. Chastising public servants in front of their children after church or at a fish fry is better saved for a thoughtful e-mail, phone call or letter.

The men and women who serve on town, village, county and school boards, city councils and other elected positions already pay a price for their public service.  The privacy of their families and the courtesy of respectful communications appropriately delivered should not be part of the cost of serving in local office. 

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                        Printable Version

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Make A Difference; Run For Public Office

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
October 15, 2007

Last year Sturgeon Bay came within hours of only having one candidate run for mayor. At the last minute, Tom Voegele was talked into running and ended up winning a decisive victory.

In just a few weeks nomination papers can be circulated for elected positions in town village, city and county government.   Candidates interested in being elected to school boards simply sign a declaration of candidacy.

Running for local office is one of the most patriotic actions a citizen can take.  Those who care enough about communities to become candidates serve democracy in a profound manner.

Unfortunately, the filing deadline for local office coincides with holidays.  That makes now an important time to consider running for office.  The distractions of holiday planning move public service off the radar screen at exactly the time nominations papers circulate and declarations of candidacies are signed.

The stakes are high and the need for involvement is great.  School boards will face declining enrollments, revenue caps and consolidation.  County government will wrestle with water quality and environmental protection.  The City of Sturgeon Bay needs to determine the role of a controversial city administrator, complete the big box planning process and continue delivering services without raising taxes.

The people of Door and Kewaunee Counties comprise a vast reservoir of talent waiting to be tapped.  Government needs more people like Tom Voegele who gave voters a choice by becoming a candidate.  Many senior citizens have the talent and time our government needs.  And local government will be better if women run for positions where only men are serving now.  The Sturgeon Bay City Council is, unfortunately, female-free.

Competition for local positions is essential for good government.  Your time and talent in public service are needed now.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.  

                        Printable Version

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Carla & Ellsworth Peterson
Contribute To Economic Health Of Door County

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
October 10, 2007

The generosity of a Sturgeon Bay couple, Carla and Ellsworth Peterson, is being appropriately recognized locally by the Door County YMCA and also by Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle and his wife, Jessica.

YMCA Executive Director Dan Powell  affectionately calls the Peterson the “Father and Mother of the Y.”  Powell hopes their most recent donations serve as an example to others.

On November lst, the Petersons will be honored by Governor Doyle and his wife as recipients of the 2007 Governor’s Award in Support of the Arts.

While many may be aware of the Peterson’s ongoing generosity, some may not appreciate the economic significance of their support for the arts.  A recent study revealed that non-profit arts organizations add more than $400 million to the state economy, employ more than l5,000 people and generate $27 million in local government revenue and $34 million in state government revenue.

Here in Door County, economic vitality is tied directly to the arts.  This thriving sector of the economy creates jobs and fosters tourism.  The diversity of Door County is enhanced by the arts and the arts are enhanced by the generosity of people like the Petersons.

Their Governor’s Award in Support of the Arts is well-deserved.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

  

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Budget Impasse

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
October 4, 2007

The single most important piece of legislation Wisconsin lawmakers need to pass every biennium is the state budget.  Without passage, financial chaos is a reality for programs affecting school children, senior citizens, property tax payers, the sick, college students and locally-elected officials.

The state budget was due to be passed by July lst.  It’s now more than two months late.

If you did your job two months late chances are you would end up trying to draw unemployment benefits from state workers who no longer know how long they will be paid.  If we took two extra months to report the news, run commercials or play current music, we’d be out of business.

Legislators of both parties charged with reaching a budget deal are failing to do their job.

Their failure to reach a compromise means they should be replaced.  And the entire legislature should have their paychecks suspended on July lst if the budget due on that date is not past.

The legislature is guilty of dereliction of duty.  And while they’re getting paid for stalling and not doing their job, legislators are shaking down special interest group political action committees in the most bi-partisan sanitized corruption condoned in the capital.

Governor Doyle and members of the legislature have collected more than $2 million in campaign contributions while the budget debate has dragged. 

The corrupted system of shaking down special interest groups during budget deliberations needs to be stopped. Campaign fundraising should be never be permitted until the budget is passed.  And legislative pay should be suspended after July lst if members have not done their job and passed a budget.  No pass no pay. 

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

  

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Personal Responsibility is Alcohol Abuse Missing Ingredient

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
October 2, 2007

Wisconsin leads the nation in underage drinking.  42% of Wisconsin traffic fatalities involve alcohol and more than 700 people were killed on state highways in alcohol-related accidents in 2006.  Wisconsin has a drinking problem, as does Door County.  If you have any doubt, sit in the courtroom of Judge Todd Ehlers or Judge Peter Diltz. 

Some advocate more legislation.  The missing ingredient, however, in solving our Door County alcohol abuse problem is personal responsibility.  Taking personal responsibility for alcohol will be much more  effective than it is legislation, regulation and revocation of liquor licenses. 

When I enjoy a few beers I need to do so with responsibility.  When people host a party they need to do so with responsibility. Parents need to monitor their kid’s behavior with more responsibility.  And bartenders throughout Door County need to exercise more personal responsibility. 

A small number of bar tenders can fuel the neo-prohibitionist rhetoric because of their irresponsible practices.  If bartenders would demonstrate more personal responsibility checking ID’s and cutting off consumers, fatalities would decrease.  A few irresponsible bartenders engage in money-grubbing practices of drinking games that encourage shots in a short time.  That is an abdication of responsibility. 

One contribution to more responsible use of alcohol is our policy of never advertising a “Happy Hour” on the radio stations of DoorCountyDailyNews.com.  Encouraging rapid consumption of alcohol in a short period of time is not responsible.   No bar owner with whom I’ve ever shared our rationale for not advertising “Happy Hours” has ever disagreed  or cancelled their advertising. 

Personal responsibility is the missing ingredient in dealing with our alcohol abuse problem.  If all of us as individuals, hosts, parents and consumers advocate for moderation and an end to the foolish shot games and happy hours Door County will see fewer fatalities, broken families, accidents and incarceration.  If not, one can only expect more punishment, license revocation and regulation. 

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.   I’m Roger Utnehmer.

  

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Elected City Managers a Better Bet Than
Appointed City Administrators

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager
Septemeber 26, 2007

The City of Menasha might know something Strurgeon Bay can learn about better government.

Menasha is looking at dumping an appointed city administrator and opting for an elected city manager instead.   Proponents maintain that electing city officials guarantees more accountability than having political insiders pick the person.  An elected manager could be kicked out of office by the voters at the end of a term.  City administrators hang on through council and mayoral elections.  It takes a lot longer to get rid of a bad city administrator.

An appointed bureaucrat can become isolated from the will of the people.  The “good old boy” network that pervades too much of small town government can be perpetuated by bureaucrats.  An elected manager, on the other hand, will reflect the will of the people in the next election.

A competent city administrator should have no fear of facing the voters.  Members of the council and the mayor do it every few years and so should high-paid bureaucrats who make more money that most of the people they serve.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                      Printable Version

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Abandoned Buildings Are Scarring Sturgeon Bay

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager

Septemeber 4, 2007

The majority of Sturgeon Bay property owners take pride in projecting a positive visual image. Millions of dollars have been invested in waterfront development. Progressive business owners have improved their storefronts, cleaned up their landscaping and invested in attractive signage.

Madison Avenue, Third Avenue, Egg Harbor Road and Jefferson Street have many examples of positive improvements that enhance the image of the city.

The positive contributions of so many make it extremely disappointing when just a few property owners let buildings deteriorate into a state of disrepair.

Sturgeon Bay is blighted by an abandoned gas station that is one of the first visual images visitors see when crossing the downtown bridge.

The city’s visual image is also stained by empty buildings between the bridges that need paint, weed removal and basic maintenance. When benefactors have invested a significant amount of money for impressive facilities like the Maritime Museum it’s a crime that an adjacent property is allowed to fall into disrepair. Abandoned properties scar the visual image of Sturgeon Bay.

People worry the charm and character of Sturgeon Bay will be lost if Wal Mart builds a super center. Yet, irresponsible property owners of abandoned eyesores are damaging Sturgeon Bay without a whimper from the city council or citizen groups.

Yes, we need to plan carefully for development. We also need to clean up the eyesores that are beginning to blight the city. Shaming property owners who lack the ability to police themselves should be just as important a priority as planning properly for a big box store.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Raise the Cigarette Tax and Save Lives

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager

August 31, 2007

Governor Jim Doyle’s proposal to increase the cigarette tax another $l.25 a pack will keep kids from smoking, help smokers quit and provide health care to the thousands of people sick today because of smoking.

In Wisconsin, taxpayers pay about a half billion dollars a year treating smokers who get sick and don’t have health insurance. That makes an incentive to stop smoking a public
policy issue. The total cost of treating smoke-related illness in Wisconsin is $2 billion.
Reducing that bill will reduce health care premiums.

Another $l.25 increase in the cigarette tax will also keep 84,000 children from ever starting an addictive, expensive, deadly habit. Very few smokers I know want their kids and grandchildren to follow their example. Rising cigarette prices prevent new smokers from starting.

And the legislature should also adopt a state-wide smoking ban rather than allow municipalities to create islands of smoke or clean air. Locally-imposed smoking bans are not fair to businesses who compete with bars and restaurants across a municipal border.
A statewide ban creates a level playing field and provides fairness to all who operate bars and restaurants.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Firefighters Should Never Be Under-appreciated

by Roger Utnehmer
DoorCountyDailyNews.com President and General Manager

August 30, 2007

Approximately 320 Door County volunteer firefighters responded to more than 750 emergency calls in the last year. A typical firefighter attends at least two meetings a month, undergoes a minimum of 30 hours of basic training and is committed to continuing education.

Door County is fortunate to have nine separate volunteer departments and a combination full time/volunteer department in the City of Sturgeon Bay. These departments are staffed by men and women who earn our gratitude and respect daily. The caliber of the chiefs in each of these departments is impressive.

A wise legislator many years ago told me that you find the Who’s Who of small town America in the local Lions Club and the fire department. Senator Tiny Krueger always attributed a significant part of his political success to support from Lions and firefighters.

Lions are known for service to the blind. Firefighters are known for service service to all. You’re hearing an ongoing educational campaign about firefighters on the radio stations of DoorCountyDailyNews.com. Join me in recognizing the important contributions firefighters make to our community.

That’s my opinion. I’d like to hear yours. I’m Roger Utnehmer.

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

                   
If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

Thoughtful people often cite clean water, school finance reform and affordable housing as three pressing problems facing Door County.  Thanks to significant effort by “Habitat for Humanity” affordable housing may be the most likely problem solved.

Twenty-two homes have been constructed by Habitat for Humanity in Door County since l993.  That means twenty-two families share the pride of home ownership and are productive taxpayers in our community.

Habitat homeowners are good neighbors.  They’re stable, hard-working people who contribute up to 400 hours of sweat equity into the homes they purchase. 

Sturgeon Bay elected officials have a positive record of cooperation with Habitat.  Five city lots have been sold at below-market-value, money that will be returned to the city many times over as home values increase and more taxes are paid.

Responsible elected officials who recognize the urgency of affordable housing could do even more than Sturgeon Bay.  Many municipalities throughout the county have excess land.   By donating building lots to Habitat for Humanity housing will be more affordable and tax rolls will rise.

 The housing problem is acute in northern Door County where property values make home ownership more difficult. Using excess public property to make housing affordable would be an appropriate investment of taxpayer resources.

Habitat for Humanity is a resource worthy of support because it’s solving a major county-wide problem one family at a time.  Making more property available for Habitat homes will be a big step in solving the problem of affordable housing in Door County.

That’s my opinion.  I’d like to hear yours.  I’m Roger Utnehmer.

                      Printable Version

If you would like a copy of a DoorCountyDailyNews.com editorial or would like to offer comments, write to us at 3030 Park Drive, Suite 3, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235 or e-mail Roger Utnehmer at utnehmer@doorcountydailynews.com

July 24, 2007 

In April of this year a man who served 24 years in prison for a rape he did not commit became the 200^th American cleared by DNA evidence.

Our criminal justice system is failing when 200 innocent Americans spend an average of l2 years incarcerated.  An even greater travesty of justice is that we will never know how many people have already been executed before DNA evidence could prove them innocent.

A recent University of Virginia law school study cites erroneous identification by eyewitnesses as the leading cause of wrongful convictions, occurring 79% of the time.

Faulty forensic evidence was presented in 55% of the cases studied 

DNA testing is only available in less than l0% of violent crimes.  T