Negative sentiments between university students and other Third Ward residents have unfortunately existed for years, and the campaign for District 3 City Councilman exemplifies the tension that currently exists.
The Spectator is disappointed in tactics used by both Adrian Klenz and Toby Biegel in their bids for the seat. The candidates have been so busy mudslinging that the issues are now muddled, and it is nearly impossible for the average student to know who is telling the truth.
However, the honesty shown by Klenz when he apologized for using incorrect meeting attendance records for Biegel shows at least a shred of integrity in the dirty campaign.
Tactics aside, Klenz’s history as UW-Eau Claire student body president will provide him with the experience necessary to represent a portion of District 3 that has been ignored during Biegel’s two years on Council.
In addition, the position of city councilman requires that one not only represent his or her constituents, but also vote for what is best for the city as a whole. As a recent graduate and small business owner, Klenz is able to identify with a wide range of Eau Claire residents; a characteristic essential to representing the diverse population of District 3.
The Spectator also endorses Bob Von Haden over his challenger, Eau Claire senior Chad Nelson, in District 4 for similar reasons.
Von Haden has done a fine job listening to student concerns during his tenure and makes himself available to all constituents – students and non-students alike.
Von Haden also has proven himself an asset to City Council during his two terms. His extensive background in finance will prove essential, as the city is expected to see a deficit again next year.
While it would be ideal to have a current student sit on City Council, Nelson is not the right student at this time. He lacks experience in a comparable position, and while he does a good job of voicing student concerns about student issues, he may not yet have the knowledge to do what is best for the entire city of Eau Claire.
