These candidates will face off in the Republican primary for Marathon County clerk of courts
Three Republican candidates will appear on the ballot in a primary race Aug. 9 for Marathon County clerk of courts. Benjamin Seidler and Pam VanOoyen will face off against acting Clerk of Courts Kelly Schremp. Schremp was appointed to the role in 2021.
The winner of the primary race will likely become the new clerk of courts in November, as there are no opponents from other parties.
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The Wausau Daily Herald asked each of the candidates to address important issues in the court system and why they believe they are the best candidate for the position.
Here are the candidates and their responses:
Kelly Schremp
Age: 58
Residence: Rothschild
Occupation: Marathon County acting clerk of courts
Campaign website: https://www.kellyforclerkofcourt.com/
Benjamin Seidler
Age: 40
Residence: Merrill
Occupation: Marathon County legal assistant, and youth and family ministry coordinator
Campaign website: https://ben4clerkofcourts.com/
Pam VanOoyen
Age: 47
Residence: Schofield
Occupation: Judicial assistant
Campaign website: https://www.facebook.com/people/Pam-VanOoyen-for-Marathon-County-Clerk-of-Circuit-Court/100075815001787/
Why are you running for this office?
Schremp: In this position, I have the opportunity to make a difference. I believe that no matter the reason an individual has contact with the clerk of courts' office, they can expect to be treated with dignity and respect by our knowledgeable staff. I intend to continue building upon that.
Seidler: I am running for clerk of courts as I want to be more engaged in my community at large but also my work community as I currently work within the court system.
VanOoyen: I believe that I can make a difference bringing many positive changes to that office. Working with the courts for many years, and with encouragement from people within the court system, it is time to bring my knowledge and skills to that office and make a difference for Marathon County citizens.
Why are you the best candidate for this race?
Schremp: I am currently the acting clerk of courts. In my 12 years working in the clerk’s office, I have been fortunate to work in all aspects of the department, including the last seven years in management positions. I pride myself on my integrity, leadership experience, professionalism and strong work ethic.
Seidler: I feel that I am the best candidate in this race as I would be a new face in the clerk of courts office, going in with an open mind.
VanOoyen: With over 30 years of legal experience, 18 of those years working as a judicial assistant, I have extensive knowledge of the court system and the requirements and duties of the clerk of courts. I have worked closely with six Marathon County judges, two court commissioners and courthouse staff.
What are residents telling you are their greatest concerns, and how would you address them?
Schremp: Residents I’ve spoken with have expressed concern about the length of time it takes to navigate the court system. I believe that continuing to use technology to allow litigants to appear via electronic means for certain hearings will help alleviate this issue. We are currently working on technology updates in all six branches.
Seidler: People are concerned with cases moving through the court system. So I would work with all system partners to make sure we are moving cases through the system at a good speed.
VanOoyen: To improve customer service and efficiency, so we can bring a more positive experience to the citizens of Marathon County. Improving the overall morale in the office will make for better experiences for citizens. Getting court cases heard in a timely manner is another concern, and I am committed to working with the courts to help get cases heard without delay.
This article originally appeared on Wausau Daily Herald: Marathon County Clerk of Courts: Candidates for Aug. 9 election
