Marathon County Board District 23 candidate discusses regional morgue, internet access ahead of spring election

Incumbent Chris Voll will face challenger David Baker in a race for the Marathon County Board District 23 seat in the spring election on April 5. For information on voter registration and polling locations, you can visit MyVote Wisconsin's website.

The Wausau Daily Herald asked each candidate to address important issues in the county and why they believe they are the best candidate for the position. Baker did not submit responses to the Daily Herald.

Chris Voll

Chris Voll
Chris Voll

Age: 58

Occupation: Product manager

Education: Associate degree

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What made you decide to run for county board?

Voll: I began working for my community as a Jaycee in my hometown and when I moved here to Marathon County. Then and now, I believe in what the Jaycee Creed says, “Service to humanity is the best work of life,” and I am privileged to provide service to my community. I believe that giving my time and talent to others is what we are meant to do in our lives. We are meant to give our lives lasting value by our deeds.

What makes you the better candidate in this race?

Voll: Having served three previous terms and being the Kronenwetter village president, I’m in the unique position to be able to pass information up and down the chain effectively. Both the village and county receive benefits by my ability to share information.

What are the most pressing issues facing the county and what steps would you take to address them?

Voll: The countywide broadband initiative and the development of the regional morgue. It’s important for all to have accessible internet. The economics of the population in this area make the broadband initiative a big concern and important priority. School children need internet connectivity to continue their education, and we need an educated population.

The county morgue will provide great assistance to the area and will also be an income source from outlying Wisconsin counties and as far away as Upper Michigan. This needs to be completed.

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What is your opinion on the 'Community for All' resolution that failed to pass last year, and do you think another such resolution should be brought before the board?

Voll: I’m not against the idea, but I do think it was rushed and the wording wasn’t as accurate as it should have been. I thought it reflected negatively on our county. My opinion is that as a community we build up those who need to be built up, supported. That’s what I think we should have our focus on. Welcoming people to our community is important and having a variety of opinions and viewpoints can indeed make our community stronger.

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This article originally appeared on Wausau Daily Herald: Marathon County Board District 23 candidates address broadband issues