Incumbent candidate Chris Campbell and former village board member John Schuepbach are both competing to become Marshall’s Village President.
With the April 2 spring election approaching, both candidates took time to answer some prompts from the Courier for their community.
Tell us about yourself and your education/professional experience.
Campbell: Since 2002, my wife Deanna and I have proudly called Marshall our home, raising our three children who all attended the local public schools. Our youngest just recently graduated, and is attending Madison college. For the past two decades, I’ve dedicated myself to a career in technology and software sales, progressing through various roles of account management. My educational journey includes institutions like Madison College and other technical schools. I have been on the Marshall Village board for a total of 6 years and Village President for 3. Marshall is a great community and I’m grateful for the experiences and connections forged here over the years.
Schuepbach: I grew up in Monona Grove graduating in 1967. Freshman year through college I worked at my grandmother’s (Josie’s Restaurant) learning bartending, cooking, and managing. I was a member and past vice president of the Italian Workmen’s Club. In 1990 we purchased the Silver Fox bar, moving to Marshall. We owned the bar for about 12 years. Currently we own the Alaskan Ice Co. in Waterloo. I am a member the Marshall Lions Club, the Marshall Area Business Association, and have served over 20 years on the village board, my last 3 as village president. During my Madison and Marshall years I sponsored, managed, coached, and played on numerous football and softball teams.
What are your goals for Marshall?
Campbell: Community Development: Foster sustainable growth by promoting responsible development initiatives, enhancing infrastructure, and maintaining the village’s unique character. Economic Vitality: Stimulate local economic growth by attracting and supporting both new and existing businesses while maintaining a business-friendly environment that provides job opportunities and strengthens the local economy. Public Safety: Enhance public safety measures by collaborating with our local law enforcement, Fire and EMS services, and community organizations to create a secure and supportive environment for residents. Housing: Work towards ensuring a range of housing options to accommodate diverse demographics and maintain a balanced, inclusive community. Smart Growth Planning: Develop and implement comprehensive, sustainable growth plans that consider the long-term impact on the community.
Schuepbach: My first goal is to ensure all goals are for Marshall not individuals. Long range goals such as Highway 19 corridor, Tax incremental Districts, capital improvements, and others have been voted on and approved. Short-range, current and future goals such as the Campground and Firemen’s Park Pavilion are high priority to me.
What do you think makes you a good candidate?
Campbell: As your Village President, I am committed to upholding the new level of transparency, collaboration, and forward progress in Marshall. Having a true love for our community, I aim to foster its growth by building on our successes, overcoming challenges, and ensuring a bright future for both Marshall and its residents. My unique strength lies in my ability to work seamlessly with the village board and the village staff while facilitating effective communication. I believe that the key to a thriving community is a leader who understands the values and needs of all of its residents, not just a few, and I am dedicated to moving Marshall towards a prosperous and harmonious future.
Schuepbach: My life experiences along with my 30 years in Marshall serving with the Lions, Village Board, MABA and business background give me a good insight of what the people of Marshall think and what they would like their village image to be.
If you could make one change in Marshall right now, what would it be?
Campbell: I would prioritize implementing strategic initiatives for sustainable economic growth in Marshall. Focusing on attracting new businesses and supporting existing businesses. By creating an environment conducive to economic development, we can stimulate job opportunities, increase property values, and elevate the overall quality of life for our residents. This change would not only strengthen the village’s financial foundation but also ensure a thriving and resilient community for current and future generations. Together, these changes can shape Marshall into a more dynamic, forward-thinking Village that meets the evolving needs of its diverse population. Strengthening educational resources and promoting environmental sustainability would also be integral components of my vision for Marshall.
Schuepbach: The best change I can make right now is to be involved. I have not been involved for the last three years. There have been personal changes I need to catch up on. To make changes involves input and cooperation from all those concerned.
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