City Of Wauwatosa: Alderperson Candidates - District 3 And 8

Press release from the City of Wauwatosa:

02/11/2022 12:15 PM

Candidates share why they are running and the top issues they want to focus on

We want to provide information for residents to be informed about the upcoming election and the candidates. We asked the alderperson candidates to respond to a set of questions. Their responses are below.

These candidates will be on the February 15, 2022 ballot. Learn more about upcoming elections, voter registration, and early voting.

District 3

Contact information: (414) 292-9810 and PAStone15@gmail.com

Occupation, Work History, Volunteer Positions

• Attorney. As an attorney, I fight for people who have been harmed by the actions of others. Generally, my clients are up against people/entities with far more resources and are resistant to providing fair compensation.
• Former Lobbyist on Affordable Housing Concerns. Work with Wisconsin state governments and local governments in analyzing and advocating on certain code change proposals that would affect the affordability of housing
• Milwaukee Poll Worker
• Former Milwaukee County Foster Parent
• Parent of two boys, both proud Eisenhower Elementary Eagles

Why are you running for Alderperson?

Having grown up in a neighboring suburb, I, along with my family, moved to Wauwatosa to join a diverse and thriving community. I have watched, however, as the same people, year after year, run for alderperson and serve on the Common Council. I believe the best government is run by the people of the community through an ever-changing composition of leadership. The role of existing leadership (in addition to governance) should be to identify future leaders and promote such evolution. The incumbent in District 3 is looking to serve for two consecutive decades on the Common Council. New and changing representation helps to ensure all voices are heard. I believe I have the knowledge, background, and commitment to represent the interests of my neighbors in District 3.

What issues would you like to pursue if elected?

The city of Wauwatosa needs to continue to look for ways to minimize its footprint on the environment, starting with mandates for new retail/commercial development (pervious surfaces to minimize storm water run-off, use of green materials, etc.). I also believe the city needs to continue to assess ways in which the community can be more ethnically, racially, and socioeconomically diverse. In addition, I believe significantly more needs to be done to ensure the Wauwatosa Police Department treats all residents and visitors fairly and, perhaps most importantly, proportionately to any presumed danger that arises. The city also needs to identify ways in which the Police Department can effectively reduce crime, rather than being seen as solely a reactionary force. Lastly, the zoning in the city needs to be reviewed and updated to ensure no “loopholes” exist through which developers may propose a project that is within the confines of the zoning limitations but is nonetheless entirely inconsistent for the neighborhood surrounding the parcel at issue.

District 8

Contact information: (414) 704-5610 and melissaldolan2022@gmail.com 

Occupation, Work History, Volunteer Positions

• Private Piano Instructor and Pianist for the past 22 years

Why are you running for Alderperson?

I am running for alderperson because I care deeply about Wauwatosa, my neighbors and I love helping people. Ultimately this opportunity creates a platform where I can help people on a larger scale. I am running for alderperson in my district because I feel like the timing is perfect. I am at the point in my life where I have the time to give back to my community and its people. I look for ways to create bridges by collaborating to solve community problems.

What issues would you like to pursue if elected?

I believe the most pressing issue facing the city of Wauwatosa is crime. Crime has increased seemingly everywhere, on our streets, with car thefts and especially with criminals stealing delivered mail and packages off of citizens front porches whether it be an apartment or house dwelling.

I am especially concerned about the crimes that are occurring within our school system. These crimes are being committed by minors in both middle and high school.

Children bringing weapons, vape pens containing nicotine and or marijuana to school, and physical altercations between students at school or on school grounds.

I would like to work towards a renewal of The Neighborhood Watch Program which collaborates with the Community Support Division of the Wauwatosa Police Department, striving to mitigate criminal behavior.

Contact information: (847) 401-5924 and johnlarryforalder@gmail.com

Occupation, Work History, & Volunteer Positions: 

•  Dean of Instruction & Culture @ King’s Academy Christian School - Present
• 7th Grade Teacher @ Greater Holy Temple Christian Academy - 2017-2021
• Curriculum Director @ New Testament Christian Academy - 2015-2017
• Dean of Students & Teacher @ HOPE Christian School - Fortis
• Founder of the Justice Rollin’ Down Alliance
• Founder of The Proverbial Table Podcast
• Former Chair & Member of Wauwatosa Governor Affairs Ad-Hoc Committee

Why are you running for Alderperson?

I am running for Alderperson because I believe that I am equipped and empowered with what it takes to help Wauwatosa become a “First Class City for ALL!” I strongly believe that Wauwatosa is on the cusp of experiencing dynamic changes, and such changes demand new and fresh perspectives, as well as innovative and creative practical ideas! I believe that I have what it takes to help reshape and rewrite the current narrative of Wauwatosa in lue of all that has occurred over the past two to three years. The run for Alderperson is what I strongly believe that I have been summoned to do in an effort to move Wauwatosa toward continually doing better, and being better. As Alderperson, I will be committed to District 8 Constituents, Tosa Community, making a lasting change, and helping Tosa become a “First Class City For ALL!”

What issues would you like to pursue if elected?

One issue that I would like to pursue, if elected, is engaging in practical conversations about Wauwatosa receiving $24 million in federal pandemic relief funds. The impact that COVID-19 has had on Wauwatosa has been severe! Families, entities, and businesses, whether small or large, have been severely impacted! The ‘Tosa Community needs assistance and relief, now! I would make it a priority to engage in practical conversation as it relates to providing relief to the ‘Tosa Community!

Another issue that I would pursue is the rise in vehicle break-ins and theft. This is an issue that cities and states are facing across the country. I believe that courageous conversations need to be engaged in around this issue with local leaders, with the resolve being a comprehensive and strategic plan being drafted and executed. 

Increasing diversity within Wauwatosa is also an issue that I would pursue. This entails diversifying the Wauwatosa Community, city leadership, small and large business-owners, developers, etc. Increasing diversity is not only inclusive of ethnicity, but individuals from all walks of life.

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This press release was produced by the City of Wauwatosa. The views expressed here are the author’s own.