Walking District 21: Conversations That Shape Community

Published on February 23, 2026 at 7:57 PM

Jeff Fimreite - 2/23/26

Over the past several weeks, my friends, family, and I have had the privilege of walking many parts of District 21 while campaigning for the La Crosse County Board of Supervisors. Those walks have been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. I’ve met neighbors on porches, had thoughtful conversations in driveways, and listened to concerns at kitchen tables. I’ve heard ideas, frustrations, hopes, and practical suggestions about how to represent District 21 in a way that truly reflects our community. I’ll be continuing these walks in the weeks ahead, and I hope to meet and hear from many more of you.

One question that comes up from time to time is, “What side of the aisle are you on?”

I’ve never looked at public service that way. I grew up in a small town just north of here, where neighbors helped neighbors and kindness, respect, and gratitude were simply how people treated one another. Those small‑town rural values shaped me, and they’ve guided my entire career. After 30 years in education, my job was never to choose sides, it was to bring people together for the common good. Whether working with families, teachers, staff, or community partners, the focus was always the same: What do we share? How do we move forward together? How do we solve problems in a way that serves people well?  I like to get things done that benefit the greater good.  

Anyone who has worked with me or sat in meetings with me knows what I’m about. I enjoy talking with and learning from people. I’m comfortable having hard conversations. I believe in listening first. And I believe most people want the same basic things: safe neighborhoods, responsible spending, strong infrastructure, fiscal accountability, and a healthy community. When we start from that common ground, we can avoid divisive politics and focus on what truly matters.

My work with the Lake Onalaska Rehabilitation Coalition has reinforced that belief. In that role, I’ve helped bring diverse partners to the same table, sometimes organizations that don’t always agree, to focus on shared outcomes. We have started ongoing conversations that include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Lake Onalaska Rehabilitation Coalition, the Lake Onalaska Lake District, and the Brice Prairie Conservation Association.

Our goal has never been politics. It has been stewardship.

Together, we have worked to support navigation channels, protect more than 300 species of birds (including the iconic canvasback), sustain over 100 species of fish, and preserve the wetland forests and removal of invasive species, and wildlife habitats that make Lake Onalaska such an extraordinary natural resource. Bringing these agencies and organizations into one room requires patience, listening, and a willingness to focus on what unites us rather than what divides us. That is the same leadership approach I would bring to the County Board.

Because of my background in education, or because I support practical, common‑sense solutions like affordable housing and fiscal responsibility, some people assume they know my political leanings. But assumptions don’t define me. What drew me to this County Board position is that it is non‑partisan. This role isn’t about national political debates or party labels. It’s about local governance. It’s about representing District 21.

If elected, my commitment will be straightforward:

  • Listen to constituent concerns about roads, zoning, taxes, public safety, land use, and human services.
  • Continue bringing attention to Lake Onalaska and protecting this incredible natural resource so future generations can enjoy it.
  • Respond to emails, phone calls, and in‑person conversations.
  • Communicate county decisions back to residents in a transparent and understandable way.
  • Advocate for the interests of District 21 in board discussions.

Public service, at its best, is about stewardship and representation, not ideology. It’s about making thoughtful decisions that reflect the voices of the people being served and using common sense. My focus will always be on what is best for District 21 and for La Crosse County as a whole.

That’s who I am: a listener, a collaborator, a problem‑solver, and someone who believes we accomplish more when we work together.

 

Early voting starts on March 24th. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

 

Jeff Fimreite
Candidate for La Crosse County Board Supervisor, District 21

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