MANITOWOC, Wis. (WFRV) – A four-term incumbent matches up against a local business development and marketing entrepreneur in the Manitowoc mayoral race.
The League of Women’s Voters teamed up with the Chamber of Manitowoc County to host a forum with the two candidates on Thursday night at city hall in the council chambers.
Incumbent Justin Nickels became the city’s youngest mayor ever (22 years old) when voters first elected him in 2009. Since then, voters have re-elected him three more times.
“I’m not a career politician, I’ve just given my career to this point to the citizens of Manitowoc, it’s been the greatest honor of my life,” Nickels said.
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Nickels’ challenger Jason Prigge is a marketing and business development professional, radio host, and artist. He started his own company to market the city of Manitowoc and encourage people to visit called ‘Coolest Coast’. He’s also served on the boards of multiple local non-profits.
“I’ve been like the mayor said one of the biggest cheerleaders for this community for a very long time,” Prigge said during the forum.
Mayor Nickels had an opportunity to tout his accomplishments during the forum, making the argument that his long tenure is an asset for his candidacy because of his experience. He said that revitalizing downtown Manitowoc and removing blighted areas from around the city were some of his most significant accomplishments as mayor.
“Under my leadership, the city has lowered its debt and balanced its budget allowing us to invest in the critical services that you the citizens expect from your local government every single day,” he said.
Prigge said the city needs a fresh perspective in the mayor’s office. He stressed his ability to collaborate with all different types of people and said making sure he’s fiscally responsible with the city’s budget is also a priority.
“There is a sacred bond that a taxpayer has with their government and you should have a say in how that is used (taxpayer money),” he said. “Right now we’re being taxed out of our homes.”
Prigge said building that responsible budget would be his top priority if he earns the right to become mayor. He also emphasized growth pointing out that there are still empty downtown storefronts and talked about the importance of adding a variety of affordable housing options. He floated tiny homes as a way to bring housing to the Manitowoc community.
Nickels said if re-elected his biggest priorities would be maintaining and fixing the roads and continuing to beautify blighted areas in the city.
“We’ve made decisions that made it (Manitowoc) a better place, a place that a lot of people are proud to call home,” Nickels said also pointing out that developers want to build in their city.
“When you realize that you have a limited amount of time on this planet you want to do what’s best for the rest of your days,” Prigge said referring to a serious motorcycle accident over the summer that seriously injured him and his wife. “I want to dedicate myself to the service of this city. If I’m the smartest guy in the room then I’m in the wrong room.”
The candidates also discussed how to bring more childcare options into the city, how to address homelessness, and how tax incremental financing districts can benefit the city.
Audience members had the opportunity to ask the candidates questions during the forum as well.
The election is on April 1.
