Candidate Profile: Jamie Groark For District 2 Alderperson

FRANKLIN, WI — Voters will be showing up to the polls on April 5 in Franklin for the Spring Election. Several people are seeking to fill seats on the Common Council.

Ahead of election day, we asked each candidate to share more about their campaign. To learn more about voting in the election, check out our guide here.

Jamie Groark

Age (as of Election Day)

34

Position sought (including ward or district number if applicable)

Franklin District 2 Alderperson

Party Affiliation

non-partisan

Family

Husband: Adam
Children: Amelia (11) and Maxen (6)
Dog: Tobias

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

Yes; I am an educator for a local school district and my husband works in law enforcement.

Education

Carroll University B.S. Environmental Science minors: Biochemistry and Secondary Education
Cardinal Stritch University M.S. Ed. Leadership

Occupation

Educator 9 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Vice-Chair Environmental Commission

Campaign website

www.jamiegroark.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

After hearing that the current alderman was not seeking reelection, I saw the opportunity to use my educational background and expand on my current position as Vice-Chair of the Environmental Commission to serve the residents of Franklin. I enjoy working with community members and City employees to keep Franklin a destination for individuals and families, just as I have selected Franklin as my forever home to raise my family.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The most pressing issue is the lack of commercial retail spaces (small shops, boutiques, restaurants, etc.) throughout the community. I intend to continue working with developers and community members through the re-write of the Unified Development Ordinances to provide developers a path that saves the plethora of natural areas in Franklin and is profitable and successful. In addition, to work with community stakeholders on ways of promoting these businesses through various community-led activities like a “Franklin Dine-Out Week’ as we see in many communities around us.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I see the main difference is that I have experience working within the City government with an appointed position on a Franklin Commission. While on this commission, my peers noticed my leadership attributes and passion and nominated me as Vice-Chair. My educational background has provided me with a solid foundation for leading groups and making informed decisions about policies and procedures, and working collaboratively with stakeholders for a common goal.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Transparent and Connect with the Community: As Alderwoman, I will be transparent and assessable, listening to all constituent concerns and engaging and collaborating with the community.

Fiscal Responsibility: Fiscal Responsibility is a significant component of the Common Council. Through collaboration and a system of efficiency and sustainability, I will work towards reducing property taxes so we can keep residents in their homes.

Parks and Recreation: I look forward to supporting the Parks Commission in their development of new and existing parks and trails that many of the Franklin residents use and love.

Housing and Schools: There is a clear relationship between our school systems and affordable housing. I look forward to working with Franklin Public Schools to establish a strong partnership and make sure that we are developing housing that meets the needs of the community without putting a burden on the school district.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As the current Vice-Chair of the Environmental Commission, where I have worked with my peers to increase community engagement and outreach. While on this commission, I headed the development of a community survey to learn more about the community's wants and needs for the natural spaces in Franklin. I also worked with the Franklin PD for the Franklin Night Out event, in which the Commission had a booth and organized a garden giveaway. I am currently collaborating with City employees, elected and appointed officials on the re-write of the Unified Development Ordinance to provide a user-friendly approach for the City staff and community members to understand. I have also had the opportunity while on this commission to work with developers to maintain green space while also having viable developments.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

While working through my master’s degree, my mentor said, “Not everyone will be as enthusiastic as you.” This provided the perspective not to be discouraged when it seems like the momentum has halted; keep going, and before you know it, more will follow your lead.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

As a homeowner and mother of two children, I have a deeply rooted interest in the future of Franklin, as my husband and I have chosen Franklin as our home and a place to raise our children. I look forward to representing District 2 through fostering relationships with all stakeholders to maintain Franklin’s motto: “Celebrating Quality of Life.”