UPDATE: Wow! That was fast! Rep. Cory Mason tells us that late this afternoon the rules were changed, and the vets will get their dogs back. Mason's office was called by the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, and told that the Department of Administration has agreed to allow registered therapy dogs back in the veterans homes.
Original post:
Let dogs back into vets' home, say area legislators
Three Racine legislators called on the state today to quickly change a new policy banning dogs at two state veterans' homes.
The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs recently stopped allowing animals in the two state-run veterans homes because it is against state regulations. The WDVA has asked the state Department of Administration to grant an exemption to allow therapeutic animals inside these veterans homes.
The use of therapy dogs is common in many nursing homes. Research has shown that these visits can decrease loneliness and improve some residents’ quality of life.
Sen. John Lehman and Reps. Cory Mason and Bob Turner, who represent residents at the Veterans Home at Union Grove, sent a letter today to DOA urging quick approval of this exemption request, so dog visits can resume.
“Visits from these dogs are not only therapeutic, but also provide a comfort of home to residents who owned dogs before moving to the Veterans Home,” Lehman said.
“Our veterans have given everything to serve our country. The least we can do is afford them the comfort found by man’s best friend,” said Mason.
“As a veteran myself, I felt it important to ask the DOA to expedite the request from WDVA and allow these visits to residents to continue,” said Turner.
Showing posts with label Bob Turner. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bob Turner. Show all posts
May 20, 2010
October 5, 2009
Turner splits with Dickert over State Street development
Update: State Rep. Bob Turner is taking issue with our initial story about the proposed State Street development. Turner said Tuesday morning he strongly supports honoring Corinne Owens but he also strong supports Brent Oglesby's project on State Street.
"I'm in full support of the Owens project," Turner said.
Oglesby wants to build a $6.6 million mixed-use development with market-rate (ie. not subsidized) condos and commercial space at State and Silver streets.
Turner took issue with the suggestion that he supported honoring Owens, but didn't necessarily support Oglesby's project. He said he hasn't met with the mayor and disagreed with Dickert's stance to hold off on development around the potential site of the KRM train station.
Alfonso Gardner, a long-time community activist who fights for jobs, said Oglesby's project is a critical development for Racine's inner city. He was dismayed to hear Mayor Dickert's stance on the project.
"Why is the city and the mayor stopping development in an area that needs work?" Gardner said.
He added: "The mayor is going to wait six years for us to have development in the inner city."
Oglesby is appearing before the Redevelopment Authority on Wednesday in hopes of securing an option to buy land for the mixed-use project. It's unlikely the RDA will grant Oglesbly the option.
Original post ...
There is no State Street project yet, despite wrangling by two potential developers over a two-acre parcel adjacent to the Racine Transit Center, but Mayor John Dickert and State Rep. Bob Turner announced today that -- when there is, whatever it is -- it will memorialize Corinne Owens.
But the when, according to Dickert, now hinges on commuter rail.
“Corinne Owens is a part of Racine’s history and she will be honored for her efforts,” Mayor Dickert said. “While there are no current plans for developing the site by the city, any future project will include a tribute to Ms. Owens.”
“Corinne Owens has been a leader and a mentor for African Americans throughout the greater Racine community for decades,” said Turner. “She is a champion for civil rights and a symbol of strength and perseverance.”
In recent months, two developers -- first, Damon Dorsey of Milwaukee and then Brent Oglesby of Racine -- requested access to the site to build Corinne Owens Square. Dorsey offered a mixed-use project with 25 apartments, 14 townhouses and 3,000 sq. ft. of commercial space. Oglesby tried unsuccessfully to take over Dorsey's option in September -- he lost a 5-2 vote by the Redevelopment Authority. A final decision on whether to grant him an option on the site was expected this month.
But the mayor's office said today the city has decided to hold on to all city-owned land around the train station until a decision has been made on commuter rail.
“I have known Corinne Owens for many years and have always been impressed by her unwavering commitment to justice. Her fight for civil rights and equality has left an indelible mark on Racine’s history,” said Dickert. “She is most deserving of a lasting memorial in our city for all of her outstanding contributions on behalf of civil rights since she became a citizen of Racine in the early 1950’s.”
Owens, honored by Racine County Democrats in March with the Phyllis Dresen Spirit of Democracy Award, rose from a janitor's position, when she was refused a teaching job because of her race, to become chair of the Gateway Technical College Board, president of the NAACP, and a leader in the effort to pass the Fair Housing Act
"I'm in full support of the Owens project," Turner said.
Oglesby wants to build a $6.6 million mixed-use development with market-rate (ie. not subsidized) condos and commercial space at State and Silver streets.
Turner took issue with the suggestion that he supported honoring Owens, but didn't necessarily support Oglesby's project. He said he hasn't met with the mayor and disagreed with Dickert's stance to hold off on development around the potential site of the KRM train station.
Alfonso Gardner, a long-time community activist who fights for jobs, said Oglesby's project is a critical development for Racine's inner city. He was dismayed to hear Mayor Dickert's stance on the project.
"Why is the city and the mayor stopping development in an area that needs work?" Gardner said.
He added: "The mayor is going to wait six years for us to have development in the inner city."
Oglesby is appearing before the Redevelopment Authority on Wednesday in hopes of securing an option to buy land for the mixed-use project. It's unlikely the RDA will grant Oglesbly the option.
Original post ...
There is no State Street project yet, despite wrangling by two potential developers over a two-acre parcel adjacent to the Racine Transit Center, but Mayor John Dickert and State Rep. Bob Turner announced today that -- when there is, whatever it is -- it will memorialize Corinne Owens.
But the when, according to Dickert, now hinges on commuter rail.
“Corinne Owens is a part of Racine’s history and she will be honored for her efforts,” Mayor Dickert said. “While there are no current plans for developing the site by the city, any future project will include a tribute to Ms. Owens.”“Corinne Owens has been a leader and a mentor for African Americans throughout the greater Racine community for decades,” said Turner. “She is a champion for civil rights and a symbol of strength and perseverance.”
In recent months, two developers -- first, Damon Dorsey of Milwaukee and then Brent Oglesby of Racine -- requested access to the site to build Corinne Owens Square. Dorsey offered a mixed-use project with 25 apartments, 14 townhouses and 3,000 sq. ft. of commercial space. Oglesby tried unsuccessfully to take over Dorsey's option in September -- he lost a 5-2 vote by the Redevelopment Authority. A final decision on whether to grant him an option on the site was expected this month.
But the mayor's office said today the city has decided to hold on to all city-owned land around the train station until a decision has been made on commuter rail.
“I have known Corinne Owens for many years and have always been impressed by her unwavering commitment to justice. Her fight for civil rights and equality has left an indelible mark on Racine’s history,” said Dickert. “She is most deserving of a lasting memorial in our city for all of her outstanding contributions on behalf of civil rights since she became a citizen of Racine in the early 1950’s.”
Owens, honored by Racine County Democrats in March with the Phyllis Dresen Spirit of Democracy Award, rose from a janitor's position, when she was refused a teaching job because of her race, to become chair of the Gateway Technical College Board, president of the NAACP, and a leader in the effort to pass the Fair Housing Act
July 31, 2009
Dickert outraised Turner by $30,000 in mayoral election
John Dickert outraised state Rep. Bob Turner by $30,000 in the May 5 special mayoral election, according to campaign finance reports.
Dickert raised $66,759 for the mayoral campaign, including $32,244.88 after winning Racine's 11-candidate mayoral primary on April 7.
Turner raised $36,678.26 for the election, including $26,349.26 after the primary.
Both candidates were required by law to file a campaign finance report with the city by July 20. The reports covered candidates' contributions and spending between March 24 and June 30. Dickert won the May 5 election 55-45 percent.
The records reveal Dickert had strong support among local business leaders, including the Johnson family, while state politicians and unions backed Turner.
Turner received $6,685 from state politicians and unions in the weeks leading up to the special election.
Turner received donations from state Reps. Mike Sheridan, Mark Pocan, Pedro Colon, Barbara Toles and Jon Richards. He was also backed by the Teamsters, IBEW and the Racine Education Association.
Dickert received maximum contributions (about $800) from W.H. Pugh, Alan Ruud, Craig Leopold, Helen Johnson-Leipold, Ken Buser (head of Wheaton-Franciscan All Saints) and Charles Johnson (head of the Racine Police and Fire Commission). Fisk Johnson contributed $750 to Dickert's campaign, and Curt Johnson gave $500.
Despite being outraised, Turner was able to draw on previous donations to outspend Dickert by about $2,000 between the primary and special elections. Turner spent $34,856.55 from March 25 to May 1, compared to $32,434.34 for Dickert.
But throughout the entire campaign (including the primary), Dickert outspent Turner by about $17,000. Dickert spent about $57,000 getting elected, compared to about $40,000 for Turner.
The candidates major expenses include:
* Turner paid Craig Oliver about $11,000 in consulting fees. After Oliver was dismissed from the campaign, Joshua Stephany was paid $1,200 in consulting fees.
* Dickert paid Greg Bach $1,000 in consulting fees and WZW Consulting $1,500.
* Dickert paid Mission Control, of Mansfield Center, Conn., about $17,000 to handle lit pieces and postage.
* Turner printed his brochures through Walgreens ($580), Office Depot ($96) and Accurate Printing, in Kenosha, ($5,084). He paid Diamond Laser, of Racine, $4,784 for mailing service.
Odds & Ends
* Only a few aldermen donated to the mayoral campaigns. Alderman Ray DeHahn donated $160 to Dickert and $60 to Turner. Alderman Jeff Coe donated $150 from his campaign fund to Dickert. Alderman Ron Hart gave Turner and Dickert each $100. Alderman Mike Shields gave Turner $25.
* Turner loaned his campaign $5,000 and Dickert loaned his $6,000. Dickert's loans are paid back. Turner's loan is outstanding, but he still has $7,166 in cash on hand to pay himself back.
* Dickert, who's up for re-election in 15 months, has $4,617 cash on hand. He raised $4,933 after the May 5 election.
John Dickert's campaign contribution report | Bob Turner's campaign contribution report
Dickert raised $66,759 for the mayoral campaign, including $32,244.88 after winning Racine's 11-candidate mayoral primary on April 7.
Turner raised $36,678.26 for the election, including $26,349.26 after the primary.
Both candidates were required by law to file a campaign finance report with the city by July 20. The reports covered candidates' contributions and spending between March 24 and June 30. Dickert won the May 5 election 55-45 percent.
The records reveal Dickert had strong support among local business leaders, including the Johnson family, while state politicians and unions backed Turner.
Turner received $6,685 from state politicians and unions in the weeks leading up to the special election.
Turner received donations from state Reps. Mike Sheridan, Mark Pocan, Pedro Colon, Barbara Toles and Jon Richards. He was also backed by the Teamsters, IBEW and the Racine Education Association.
Dickert received maximum contributions (about $800) from W.H. Pugh, Alan Ruud, Craig Leopold, Helen Johnson-Leipold, Ken Buser (head of Wheaton-Franciscan All Saints) and Charles Johnson (head of the Racine Police and Fire Commission). Fisk Johnson contributed $750 to Dickert's campaign, and Curt Johnson gave $500.
Despite being outraised, Turner was able to draw on previous donations to outspend Dickert by about $2,000 between the primary and special elections. Turner spent $34,856.55 from March 25 to May 1, compared to $32,434.34 for Dickert.
But throughout the entire campaign (including the primary), Dickert outspent Turner by about $17,000. Dickert spent about $57,000 getting elected, compared to about $40,000 for Turner.
The candidates major expenses include:
* Turner paid Craig Oliver about $11,000 in consulting fees. After Oliver was dismissed from the campaign, Joshua Stephany was paid $1,200 in consulting fees.
* Dickert paid Greg Bach $1,000 in consulting fees and WZW Consulting $1,500.
* Dickert paid Mission Control, of Mansfield Center, Conn., about $17,000 to handle lit pieces and postage.
* Turner printed his brochures through Walgreens ($580), Office Depot ($96) and Accurate Printing, in Kenosha, ($5,084). He paid Diamond Laser, of Racine, $4,784 for mailing service.
Odds & Ends
* Only a few aldermen donated to the mayoral campaigns. Alderman Ray DeHahn donated $160 to Dickert and $60 to Turner. Alderman Jeff Coe donated $150 from his campaign fund to Dickert. Alderman Ron Hart gave Turner and Dickert each $100. Alderman Mike Shields gave Turner $25.
* Turner loaned his campaign $5,000 and Dickert loaned his $6,000. Dickert's loans are paid back. Turner's loan is outstanding, but he still has $7,166 in cash on hand to pay himself back.
* Dickert, who's up for re-election in 15 months, has $4,617 cash on hand. He raised $4,933 after the May 5 election.
John Dickert's campaign contribution report | Bob Turner's campaign contribution report
July 30, 2009
Turner works on bill to protect felony victims
Rep. Bob Turner hopes to minimize the number of times victims of crimes have to testify in court.
Turner, D-Racine, is working with Rep. Peter Barca, D-Kenosha, and other Democrats and Republicans to allow testimony in certain criminal proceedings to be readmitted at later hearings. Now, victims are often required to re-testify several times during criminal proceedings.
Here's an excerpt from a release on the proposal:
Turner, D-Racine, is working with Rep. Peter Barca, D-Kenosha, and other Democrats and Republicans to allow testimony in certain criminal proceedings to be readmitted at later hearings. Now, victims are often required to re-testify several times during criminal proceedings.
Here's an excerpt from a release on the proposal:
In many instances, rather than simply readmitting the previously delivered testimony, the victim must also testify at a revocation hearing because the accused person was already on probation, parole, or extended supervision.
"This bill comes at the urging and request of the Kenosha County Victim Witness coordinators at the Kenosha District Attorney’s Office. Based on their hands-on experience assisting crime victims through this often difficult process, they believe that this change would extend an important additional protection during a very challenging time," Representative Barca explained. “This will be especially helpful in protecting children.”
The proposal would allow for testimony taken from a felony victim at a preliminary hearing to be used in a subsequent revocation hearing in cases where the defendant was already serving a previous sentence. Under the bill, if a party can show good cause for requiring the victim to appear they could still be forced to testify.
Representative Turner, Chairman of the Assembly Criminal Justice Committee explained, "If a state court has already established ‘probable cause’ based on the victim’s sworn testimony, it should be sufficient evidence in a later hearing before the Department of Corrections."
Identical legislation passed the Assembly as Assembly Bill 431 in the previous session with the support of the Wisconsin Sheriffs and Deputy Sheriffs Association, the Wisconsin Troopers Association, and the Milwaukee Police Association.
May 4, 2009
The long and winding road ... to City Hall
Our two candidates.One-hundred-twelve days ago, Gary Becker logged on to Yahoo Instant Messenger as WISC_GARY and struck up a not-so innocent conversation with Hope_Ulikeme14.
As we all know, Hope turned out to be Department of Criminal Investigations Agent Eric Szatkowski and Becker's chat led to his arrest at Brookfield Square Mall. Six days later, Becker resigned and a political free-for-all ensued. John Dickert and Rep. Bob Turner emerged from an 11-candidate primary field to compete in Tuesday's special election. Jody Harding (lower right) also stuck around as a write-in candidate.
The reason this story exists.It's been a long four months for the city; incredulous, sad, stirring, confusing and even exciting four months, but mostly just long. I saw it Saturday with Dickert and Turner during a radio interview for WGTD (listen here). Both candidates are so well rehearsed at this point the answers roll of their tongues without thought. They've participated in about 10 forums in three months, banged on countless doors and together spent more than $50,000 trying to convince city residents they should be the next mayor.
Turner and Dickert have given city residents a choice (click here to see where you vote). Turner ran as the seasoned veteran. He repeatedly touted his state and local government experience, and painted the more aggressive, but less experienced, Dickert as naive. Turner has the strong backing of local unions and would be Racine's first African-American mayor (and the second elected African-American mayor in the state).
Dickert ran as the change candidate. He touted an ambitious "10-year plan" to make Racine a "Top 10" city, and ran a high-energy campaign that outraised Turner by at least $8,000. While Turner talked about rolling city government back to the pre-Becker era, Dickert pushed for a post-Becker era. Dickert has support from much of the business and real estate community.
But neither candidate pulled away in the last month. Both come from a Democratic background and both were smart enough to tailor their campaigns around the city's key issues: jobs and crime. That left the race a battle of personalities: the youthful Dickert vs. the reliable Turner.
The good news for voters is there's not a bad choice tomorrow. Both candidates are capable of being an effective mayor. Dickert brings his real estate and lobbying skills to the job, and Turner brings a wealth of experience. We can't go wrong, but we have to choose. If you're undecided, here are three questions to consider for each candidate:
Dickert
1. Do you trust him as the city's chief executive?
2. Do his business and real estate ties help or hurt him as mayor?
3. Does the city need "change"?
Turner
1. How valuable is his experience?
2. Do his union ties help or hurt him as mayor?
3. Will he be aggressive enough as mayor?
Have your answers? OK, now get out vote!
April 30, 2009
Helding endorses Dickert for mayor
Alderman Greg Helding endorsed John Dickert for mayor on Thursday. A mayoral candidate himself, Helding said he owed it to his supporters to choose between Dickert and Bob Turner before the May 5 special election.
Here's the letter Helding wrote explaining his position:
Here's the letter Helding wrote explaining his position:
Racine has an important decision to make on May 5. As an Alderman and former mayoral candidate, I just can’t “sit this one out”. I owe it to my supporters and the citizens of Racine to get off the fence. I am endorsing John Dickert for Mayor of Racine.
I believe that we the people of Racine should choose our next Mayor and not have the choice dictated to us by the power brokers in Madison. I don’t have the backing of well-financed labor unions and I don’t have influence with people in the backrooms of the Capitol. I’m just a voice for Racine encouraging everyone who voted for me in the primary to cast their general election ballot for John Dickert.
Racine is facing some real challenges and we have a lot of work to do. Racine needs someone at the helm who is dedicated to being Mayor. We need someone who is ready to start working for us now, not in September when the state budget is completed. On May 5, please vote John Dickert for Mayor.
Greg Helding
11th District Alderman
April 28, 2009
Dickert outraises Turner by $8,000 on latest campaign finance reports
John Dickert outraised Bob Turner by about $8,000 this month in their race to become the city's next mayor, according to campaign finance reports.
Dickert raised $19,860 from March 24 to April 20 compared to $11,065 for Turner over the same period. Both candidates have about $8,000 left to spend before the May 5 special election. (Click here for the candidates' primary finance reports).
In addition to raising more money than Turner, Dickert also had more individual donors. Dickert received contributions from 164 people in the last month compared to 63 individual donors for Turner.
Turner, though, received nearly $2,000 from political committees. He cashed in on his connections in the Assembly with donations from State Reps. Mike Sheridan ($600), Mark Pocan ($250), Pedro Colon ($100), Barbara Toles ($300) and Mark Richards ($250).
Turner also received donations from the Sheet Metal Workers PAC ($200) and IBEW Local Union 430 ($250).
Among Turner's donors include: Timothy O'Brien ($500), Alderman Ray DeHahn ($50), Dick Hinsman ($100), Catherine Lehman ($50), Alderman Ron Hart ($100), Kate Remington ($100), Dr. K B Turner ($500), Mark Freeman ($100), William Garvey ($100), Pat McManaway ($100), Karen Nelson ($150), Gary Vidian ($100), Fred Richmond ($100), Keith Evans ($100).
Gloria Turner also loaned the campaign $5,000.
Turner's campaign spent $18,771 from March 24 to April 24. Half of that total went to Craig Oliver for consulting fees, including one $5,000 payment. Oliver, who is no longer with the campaign, also received payments of $2,504, $625 and $875.
The campaign also paid the Insider News $450, the Racine Mirror $500, Walgreens $578 to print brochures, Accurate Printing in Kenosha $3,518 to print brochures and yard signs, Diamond Laser in Racine $2,985 for mail services.
Dickert's key contributors included:
Dennis Wiser ($100), Jeff Thielen ($100), Ted Hart ($100), Tamara Maddente ($100), Nancy Drott ($100), JoAnna Richard - Deputy Secretary of the Department of Workforce Development ($450), R. John Schacht ($100), Thomas Knabel ($100), Dixie Dickert ($500), Anne Knoll ($100), Jonathon Altenberg ($100), Joe Heim ($250), Rachel Kane ($250), Heidi Domanik ($200), Thomas Scoville ($750), Scott Paul ($100), Kimberli
Netzinger ($100), James Bolm ($300), Barry Altenberg ($325), Richard Hansen ($100), Holly Moore ($100), Paul Navratil ($100), Chip Brewer ($100), Alison Wittke ($100), Susan Liedel ($100), Glenn Lampark ($100), Matt DeHahn ($200), Brent Nance ($100), Dave Titus ($100), Peter Dickert ($100), Boyd Frederick ($100), Gary Wolfe ($100), Michael Wynhoff ($200), George Christenson ($100), Jerry Landmark ($100), Ray Leffler ($250), Erin Neal ($100), Robert Riegelman ($100), Doug Nicholson ($100), Sara Nicholson ($100), Anthony Totero ($150), Jerry Ranow ($100), Lynn Monroe ($500), Michael Michie ($100), S. John May ($100), James DeMatthew ($100), Anup Khullar ($200), Dan Cunninghman ($300), Lee Dickert ($100), Branko Brpa ($100), Carol Hansen ($100), Arthur Smith ($250), Richard Christensen ($100), Joey LeGath ($100), John Apple ($100), Mark Levine ($100), Kristin Cunningham ($200), Gurwant Kaleka ($800), Alderman Robert Mozol ($300), John Becker ($250), Anthony Rossi ($100), Joseph Karls ($200), Andra Nollendorfs ($100), Joel Borgardt ($100), Steven Johnson ($100), Tim Dickert ($100), Christopher Klose ($200), William Williams ($100), Sheila Constantine ($100), John Rogers ($200).
Dickert loaned his own campaign $4,000.
Dickert spent just less than $21,000 on his campaign in the last month and $26,249 this year.
So far he's repaid himselftwo a $4,000 loan, paid Misson Control in Mansfield Center, Conn. $9,965 for lit pieces, $1,000 to campaign manager Greg Bach, $633 to Staeck's Management for rent, $513 for a radio ad, $294 in postage and $250 to Buona Vita for a fundraiser.
Note: The Dickert campaign reported a clerical error on its campaign finance reports. Dickert took out one $4,000 loan and repaid it. The report, which has been corrected, said he repaid two loans.
Dickert raised $19,860 from March 24 to April 20 compared to $11,065 for Turner over the same period. Both candidates have about $8,000 left to spend before the May 5 special election. (Click here for the candidates' primary finance reports).
In addition to raising more money than Turner, Dickert also had more individual donors. Dickert received contributions from 164 people in the last month compared to 63 individual donors for Turner.
Turner, though, received nearly $2,000 from political committees. He cashed in on his connections in the Assembly with donations from State Reps. Mike Sheridan ($600), Mark Pocan ($250), Pedro Colon ($100), Barbara Toles ($300) and Mark Richards ($250).
Turner also received donations from the Sheet Metal Workers PAC ($200) and IBEW Local Union 430 ($250).
Among Turner's donors include: Timothy O'Brien ($500), Alderman Ray DeHahn ($50), Dick Hinsman ($100), Catherine Lehman ($50), Alderman Ron Hart ($100), Kate Remington ($100), Dr. K B Turner ($500), Mark Freeman ($100), William Garvey ($100), Pat McManaway ($100), Karen Nelson ($150), Gary Vidian ($100), Fred Richmond ($100), Keith Evans ($100).
Gloria Turner also loaned the campaign $5,000.
Turner's campaign spent $18,771 from March 24 to April 24. Half of that total went to Craig Oliver for consulting fees, including one $5,000 payment. Oliver, who is no longer with the campaign, also received payments of $2,504, $625 and $875.
The campaign also paid the Insider News $450, the Racine Mirror $500, Walgreens $578 to print brochures, Accurate Printing in Kenosha $3,518 to print brochures and yard signs, Diamond Laser in Racine $2,985 for mail services.
Dickert's key contributors included:
Dennis Wiser ($100), Jeff Thielen ($100), Ted Hart ($100), Tamara Maddente ($100), Nancy Drott ($100), JoAnna Richard - Deputy Secretary of the Department of Workforce Development ($450), R. John Schacht ($100), Thomas Knabel ($100), Dixie Dickert ($500), Anne Knoll ($100), Jonathon Altenberg ($100), Joe Heim ($250), Rachel Kane ($250), Heidi Domanik ($200), Thomas Scoville ($750), Scott Paul ($100), Kimberli
Netzinger ($100), James Bolm ($300), Barry Altenberg ($325), Richard Hansen ($100), Holly Moore ($100), Paul Navratil ($100), Chip Brewer ($100), Alison Wittke ($100), Susan Liedel ($100), Glenn Lampark ($100), Matt DeHahn ($200), Brent Nance ($100), Dave Titus ($100), Peter Dickert ($100), Boyd Frederick ($100), Gary Wolfe ($100), Michael Wynhoff ($200), George Christenson ($100), Jerry Landmark ($100), Ray Leffler ($250), Erin Neal ($100), Robert Riegelman ($100), Doug Nicholson ($100), Sara Nicholson ($100), Anthony Totero ($150), Jerry Ranow ($100), Lynn Monroe ($500), Michael Michie ($100), S. John May ($100), James DeMatthew ($100), Anup Khullar ($200), Dan Cunninghman ($300), Lee Dickert ($100), Branko Brpa ($100), Carol Hansen ($100), Arthur Smith ($250), Richard Christensen ($100), Joey LeGath ($100), John Apple ($100), Mark Levine ($100), Kristin Cunningham ($200), Gurwant Kaleka ($800), Alderman Robert Mozol ($300), John Becker ($250), Anthony Rossi ($100), Joseph Karls ($200), Andra Nollendorfs ($100), Joel Borgardt ($100), Steven Johnson ($100), Tim Dickert ($100), Christopher Klose ($200), William Williams ($100), Sheila Constantine ($100), John Rogers ($200).
Dickert loaned his own campaign $4,000.
Dickert spent just less than $21,000 on his campaign in the last month and $26,249 this year.
So far he's repaid himself
Note: The Dickert campaign reported a clerical error on its campaign finance reports. Dickert took out one $4,000 loan and repaid it. The report, which has been corrected, said he repaid two loans.
April 24, 2009
Unraveling the charge of push polls
Last night's mayoral forum started with a bang.
John Dickert accused Bob Turner's campaign of spreading lies with robo-calls about the campaign. Dickert asked Turner to stop the "push polls." Turner said he didn't know about the calls and asked the campaign to stop them, if they're happening.
But let's unravel this a bit.
1. Turner's campaign didn't make the calls. The Greater Wisconsin Committee is running the robo-calls.
2. We haven't heard the calls, but there are suggestions that both candidates are hit during the call. We'll withold judgment until someone comes forward with a transcript or recording.
3. Here's the key, though. Even if the ads favor Turner, he can't stop them. A political campaign is not allowed to coordinate activities with a private group. That includes ordering a group to stop running ads.
4. This is why push polls are effective. Candidates can distance themselves from the tactic but still benefit from the message. That's politics today. Third-party groups can do whatever they want, and neither candidate can stop them.
5. So what's to make about the "push poll" accusations? Dickert attacking Turner at the forum Thursday night bordered on unfair. Dickert knows the rules, and he knows Turner can't work with the Greater Wisconsin Committee to start or stop the ads (that's against election rules). So calling on him to stop the ads is like asking Turner to stop commenters on RacinePost from attacking him. Turner can't control the ads.
6. I say "bordered on unfair," though, because it's hard to believe Turner or Dickert have no control over negative ads. If either was adament, they could stop a third-party group with public statements alone.
7. Regardless, it's just the latest chapter in the Turner-Dickert feud. Many will recall in 2002 it was Turner's campaign accusing Dickert of push polls.
8. So what does any of this have to do with the mayor's race? Hopefully nothing. But it could be the start of things getting a whole lot uglier ...
Note: We have a call to the Greater Wisconsin Committee to ask about the phone calls. If anyone has received a call, post what was said in the comments. If anyone happens to record the call, send it over!
John Dickert accused Bob Turner's campaign of spreading lies with robo-calls about the campaign. Dickert asked Turner to stop the "push polls." Turner said he didn't know about the calls and asked the campaign to stop them, if they're happening.
But let's unravel this a bit.
1. Turner's campaign didn't make the calls. The Greater Wisconsin Committee is running the robo-calls.
2. We haven't heard the calls, but there are suggestions that both candidates are hit during the call. We'll withold judgment until someone comes forward with a transcript or recording.
3. Here's the key, though. Even if the ads favor Turner, he can't stop them. A political campaign is not allowed to coordinate activities with a private group. That includes ordering a group to stop running ads.
4. This is why push polls are effective. Candidates can distance themselves from the tactic but still benefit from the message. That's politics today. Third-party groups can do whatever they want, and neither candidate can stop them.
5. So what's to make about the "push poll" accusations? Dickert attacking Turner at the forum Thursday night bordered on unfair. Dickert knows the rules, and he knows Turner can't work with the Greater Wisconsin Committee to start or stop the ads (that's against election rules). So calling on him to stop the ads is like asking Turner to stop commenters on RacinePost from attacking him. Turner can't control the ads.
6. I say "bordered on unfair," though, because it's hard to believe Turner or Dickert have no control over negative ads. If either was adament, they could stop a third-party group with public statements alone.
7. Regardless, it's just the latest chapter in the Turner-Dickert feud. Many will recall in 2002 it was Turner's campaign accusing Dickert of push polls.
8. So what does any of this have to do with the mayor's race? Hopefully nothing. But it could be the start of things getting a whole lot uglier ...
Note: We have a call to the Greater Wisconsin Committee to ask about the phone calls. If anyone has received a call, post what was said in the comments. If anyone happens to record the call, send it over!
April 20, 2009
Live Blogging: Mayoral forum at CATI
We're live this morning at the mayoral forum sponsored by RAMAC and RCEDC. Thanks and kudos to both organizations for opening this forum up to the media and the public. Not only did we attend, but the JT and WGTD were there too.
Here's my summary of the forum. John Dickert threw out some specific proposals - no impact fees for 18 months for new businesses - and looked comfortable with the business crowd. Basically, these were his people.
Bob Turner did a nice job of staying on his campaign message. He said at least three times, probably more, that he has 32 years of elected political experience, he's made the tough decisions and that he's ready to step in and lead. That's probably Turner's best line, and could be effective on May 5. After all, the candidates who offered specifics in the primary election - Helding, Karas, Harding, Shakoor - finished behind the candidates who spoke more in generalities - Dickert, Turner, Plache and Spangenberg.
Here's our recap from the event:
Bob Turner and John Dickert are upfront and ready to go.
And we're off ...
8:08 a.m.
Dickert goes first. He says he respects Turner, but there are differences between the candidates. Dickert brings up his "10-year plan" and says it's focused on jobs, crime and housing. He also emphasizes his ties to the business community.
"The next mayor has to blend public and private," he said.
Dickert talks about changing the direction of Racine. "We cannot afford to stay on this path," he said.
Then he talks about his philosophy of working hard and getting up after you fail. "Are you going to worry about falling down, or are you going to get back up?"
He ends with a story about a woman who lost her job and realized she was going to lose her house. Dickert says that's why he's running for mayor, to help people like her.
8:14 a.m.
Turner is up ...
He launches into a high-energy talk emphasizing his experience. He notes he's served in elected office for 32 years, and worked on every city committee.
He talks about delegation and setting policy. "The mayor doesn't go out and find jobs, they work with folks who know how to do it," Turner said.
Turner, as a state representative, also played up his access to Madison and state government. "I have the ability to go to Madison and have access to the floor," he said. "If you don't have access to the floor, you can't get anything done. You're just another person who went to Madison."
8:18 a.m.
First question is about how the candidates would reorganize city government, if elected. They're asked to specifically address the city administrator.
Turner and Dickert have a good clash on the administrator issue.
Turner says he wouldn't need a city administrator and would return to a "mayor-cabinet" style of government with the department heads advising the mayor.
Dickert says he would bring in a city administrator to handle day-to-day issues and handle the business side of City Hall. "The city is an $83 million company that serves people," he said.
Dickert also says he would propose eliminating impact fees on new business for the first 18 months.
Turner is given a chance for rebuttal. He gets in a dig at Dickert saying if he was new to city government he would need a city administrator. But since he has experience, he doesn't need an administrator.
8:24 a.m.
This question is on education. The candidates trade answers on plans and supporting schools. Dickert gets the last word and says the city can help by improving safety around schools.
8:29 a.m.
How does the city attract new businesses since it can't annex surrounding land? The candidates are asked to address redeveloping brownfields and improve existing business districts.
Turner goes first and says he supports the sewer agreement that landlocked Racine, but gave the city a portion of the tax base created by development in Mount Pleasant, Caledonia and Sturtevant. But he also says he would try to revisit the agreement to see if improvements can be made.
Dickert says everything is regional these days and everyone needs to work together. He also says he worked on a brownfield redevelopment that failed. But in failing he learned what didn't work and is ready to give it another go.
He talks specifically about Pointe Blue failing, but says he's already talking with a Texas company about a new project for the site.
He also said he wanted to work on a microlending program with local banks.
8:35 a.m.
The next question notes Racine has lost about 4,000 residents over the last 18 years and asks how would the candidates attract families back to the city.
Dickert says it's a marketing issue. The city needs to sell itself to young professionals and families. He also will talk with businesses now to keep them from leaving.
Turner also says it's a marketing issue. He blames the city's troubles on the economy and says Racine needs to be ready for the economic turnaround. "As mayor, I'll sit down with the business community and get their ideas," Turner said.
Dickert attacks Turner on the rebuttal, saying it's not the economy. "You don't get into this situation over night," he says, explaining it was a series of long-term decisions that led to current problems.
8:41 a.m.
Good question on public transportation. Would the candidate support a sales tax for a Regional Transit Authority to pay for public transit and KRM?
Turner says public transit has been a problem for a long time. He supports a sale tax to pay for transit, but only if it includes the whole county.
Dickert says he's been working on Metra since 1983, and that people need to "step up to the plate" to get this taken care of now. Dickert says he and his uncle, Jim Dickert, had $40 million in development lined up for the area around Racine's proposed KRM station. That would total $880,000 in property taxes for the city. He also wants to make sure people have access to jobs along I-94.
Turner says in his rebuttal he doesn't have a problem making "tough decisions." He supports regional public transit.
8:47 a.m.
The sixth question asks what the candidates will do to improve student performance in Racine Unified.
Dickert says people need high school diplomas. He also wants to sit down with Gateway and make sure their classes line up with local jobs. He then talks about zero tolerance for crime in schools and says his wife hopes to teach in Unified next year. He closes by asking for the business community's help in mentoring students and teaching them skills.
Turner gets personal, saying he grew up surrounded by people who didn't go to school. But he was taught that going to school was critical, and that you need education to succeed. He says he knows how to talk with young people and emphasize the importance of going to school.
Dickert gets the rebuttal and takes on the state's "unfunded mandates" on education. He says the system needs to improve to help teachers.
8:53 a.m.
Questions from the audience ...
First is about teacher accountability and the candidates say, basically, we need high-quality teachers.
Second is also about education and they agree we need good schools.
9:00 a.m.
Third question is about business and what can the city do to bring business to Racine. Dickert re-emphasizes his 18-month, zero-impact fee proposal. He says one new business wanted to come to Racine, but faced a $100,000 fee to hook up water. Turner says the city needs to work with business.
9:03 a.m.
Fourth question is about the Workforce Development Center. Turner says the existing Workforce Development Center is a good example. Dickert agrees and then points to former Kenosha Mayor John Antaramian who spent a lot of time in Madison improving his city. Racine needs to do the same.
9:06 a.m.
Fifth question is about consolidation. Dickert says it's a good idea if it serves the city's interests. Turner agrees.
9:08 a.m.
Closing statements ...
Turner goes first. He reemphasizes his 32 years experience. He says he's been involved in every decision affecting Racine over the last 29 years. He says he's running for mayor to give something back to a city that's given him so much. He'd bring more experience than any other mayor in history. "There's nothing wrong with the city of Racine," Turner said. "We need to talk positive about the city of Racine." But he also said the city is a car running on three wheels and needs the fourth wheel of people involved.
Dickert says the time for talk is over. He says there's been too many closed door sessions and too much partisanship. He then talks about the need to get "wins" for the city (instead of losing). Once that happens, he said, it gets easier to keep on winning because you've learned how to win.
He gets in a jab at Turner noting in the first month on the job the mayor needs to go to the Great Lakes Conference and the National Conference of Mayors. Turner has said he'll keep his Assembly seat through the state budget process, which will probably end around mid-summer.
Here's my summary of the forum. John Dickert threw out some specific proposals - no impact fees for 18 months for new businesses - and looked comfortable with the business crowd. Basically, these were his people.
Bob Turner did a nice job of staying on his campaign message. He said at least three times, probably more, that he has 32 years of elected political experience, he's made the tough decisions and that he's ready to step in and lead. That's probably Turner's best line, and could be effective on May 5. After all, the candidates who offered specifics in the primary election - Helding, Karas, Harding, Shakoor - finished behind the candidates who spoke more in generalities - Dickert, Turner, Plache and Spangenberg.
Here's our recap from the event:
Bob Turner and John Dickert are upfront and ready to go.
And we're off ...
8:08 a.m.
Dickert goes first. He says he respects Turner, but there are differences between the candidates. Dickert brings up his "10-year plan" and says it's focused on jobs, crime and housing. He also emphasizes his ties to the business community.
"The next mayor has to blend public and private," he said.
Dickert talks about changing the direction of Racine. "We cannot afford to stay on this path," he said.
Then he talks about his philosophy of working hard and getting up after you fail. "Are you going to worry about falling down, or are you going to get back up?"
He ends with a story about a woman who lost her job and realized she was going to lose her house. Dickert says that's why he's running for mayor, to help people like her.
8:14 a.m.
Turner is up ...
He launches into a high-energy talk emphasizing his experience. He notes he's served in elected office for 32 years, and worked on every city committee.
He talks about delegation and setting policy. "The mayor doesn't go out and find jobs, they work with folks who know how to do it," Turner said.
Turner, as a state representative, also played up his access to Madison and state government. "I have the ability to go to Madison and have access to the floor," he said. "If you don't have access to the floor, you can't get anything done. You're just another person who went to Madison."
8:18 a.m.
First question is about how the candidates would reorganize city government, if elected. They're asked to specifically address the city administrator.
Turner and Dickert have a good clash on the administrator issue.
Turner says he wouldn't need a city administrator and would return to a "mayor-cabinet" style of government with the department heads advising the mayor.
Dickert says he would bring in a city administrator to handle day-to-day issues and handle the business side of City Hall. "The city is an $83 million company that serves people," he said.
Dickert also says he would propose eliminating impact fees on new business for the first 18 months.
Turner is given a chance for rebuttal. He gets in a dig at Dickert saying if he was new to city government he would need a city administrator. But since he has experience, he doesn't need an administrator.
8:24 a.m.
This question is on education. The candidates trade answers on plans and supporting schools. Dickert gets the last word and says the city can help by improving safety around schools.
8:29 a.m.
How does the city attract new businesses since it can't annex surrounding land? The candidates are asked to address redeveloping brownfields and improve existing business districts.
Turner goes first and says he supports the sewer agreement that landlocked Racine, but gave the city a portion of the tax base created by development in Mount Pleasant, Caledonia and Sturtevant. But he also says he would try to revisit the agreement to see if improvements can be made.
Dickert says everything is regional these days and everyone needs to work together. He also says he worked on a brownfield redevelopment that failed. But in failing he learned what didn't work and is ready to give it another go.
He talks specifically about Pointe Blue failing, but says he's already talking with a Texas company about a new project for the site.
He also said he wanted to work on a microlending program with local banks.
8:35 a.m.
The next question notes Racine has lost about 4,000 residents over the last 18 years and asks how would the candidates attract families back to the city.
Dickert says it's a marketing issue. The city needs to sell itself to young professionals and families. He also will talk with businesses now to keep them from leaving.
Turner also says it's a marketing issue. He blames the city's troubles on the economy and says Racine needs to be ready for the economic turnaround. "As mayor, I'll sit down with the business community and get their ideas," Turner said.
Dickert attacks Turner on the rebuttal, saying it's not the economy. "You don't get into this situation over night," he says, explaining it was a series of long-term decisions that led to current problems.
8:41 a.m.
Good question on public transportation. Would the candidate support a sales tax for a Regional Transit Authority to pay for public transit and KRM?
Turner says public transit has been a problem for a long time. He supports a sale tax to pay for transit, but only if it includes the whole county.
Dickert says he's been working on Metra since 1983, and that people need to "step up to the plate" to get this taken care of now. Dickert says he and his uncle, Jim Dickert, had $40 million in development lined up for the area around Racine's proposed KRM station. That would total $880,000 in property taxes for the city. He also wants to make sure people have access to jobs along I-94.
Turner says in his rebuttal he doesn't have a problem making "tough decisions." He supports regional public transit.
8:47 a.m.
The sixth question asks what the candidates will do to improve student performance in Racine Unified.
Dickert says people need high school diplomas. He also wants to sit down with Gateway and make sure their classes line up with local jobs. He then talks about zero tolerance for crime in schools and says his wife hopes to teach in Unified next year. He closes by asking for the business community's help in mentoring students and teaching them skills.
Turner gets personal, saying he grew up surrounded by people who didn't go to school. But he was taught that going to school was critical, and that you need education to succeed. He says he knows how to talk with young people and emphasize the importance of going to school.
Dickert gets the rebuttal and takes on the state's "unfunded mandates" on education. He says the system needs to improve to help teachers.
8:53 a.m.
Questions from the audience ...
First is about teacher accountability and the candidates say, basically, we need high-quality teachers.
Second is also about education and they agree we need good schools.
9:00 a.m.
Third question is about business and what can the city do to bring business to Racine. Dickert re-emphasizes his 18-month, zero-impact fee proposal. He says one new business wanted to come to Racine, but faced a $100,000 fee to hook up water. Turner says the city needs to work with business.
9:03 a.m.
Fourth question is about the Workforce Development Center. Turner says the existing Workforce Development Center is a good example. Dickert agrees and then points to former Kenosha Mayor John Antaramian who spent a lot of time in Madison improving his city. Racine needs to do the same.
9:06 a.m.
Fifth question is about consolidation. Dickert says it's a good idea if it serves the city's interests. Turner agrees.
9:08 a.m.
Closing statements ...
Turner goes first. He reemphasizes his 32 years experience. He says he's been involved in every decision affecting Racine over the last 29 years. He says he's running for mayor to give something back to a city that's given him so much. He'd bring more experience than any other mayor in history. "There's nothing wrong with the city of Racine," Turner said. "We need to talk positive about the city of Racine." But he also said the city is a car running on three wheels and needs the fourth wheel of people involved.
Dickert says the time for talk is over. He says there's been too many closed door sessions and too much partisanship. He then talks about the need to get "wins" for the city (instead of losing). Once that happens, he said, it gets easier to keep on winning because you've learned how to win.
He gets in a jab at Turner noting in the first month on the job the mayor needs to go to the Great Lakes Conference and the National Conference of Mayors. Turner has said he'll keep his Assembly seat through the state budget process, which will probably end around mid-summer.
April 18, 2009
Oliver leaves Turner campaign
Here's some "insider baseball" from the mayoral campaign trail. Craig Oliver is no longer working for Robert Turner's campaign. Oliver, a local political activist, worked on Turner's campaign in the primary. But now, depending on who you ask, he's left the campaign or was asked to leave the campaign.
Who really knows what this means in the larger picture of the May 5 special election, but it may be a sign Turner is getting serious about the race. Opponent John Dickert has two hired political guns working on his campaign, and Turner has hired a new campaign organizer for the special election.
Let's hope both teams realize the mistake they're making by attending a secret meeting with business leaders on April 20. (Incidentally, Pete questioned my characterization of the meeting as "secret." After all, we reported the meeting is happening, so it can't be that big of a secret. But I stand by the description because organizers are purposely excluding the public. It's almost worse. If they held it in secret, no one would know. But this meeting everyone knows, they just can't attend. They're keeping the content of the forum secret. In other words: "What happens in Sturtevant, stays in Sturtevant.")
It's about time the JT weigh in on this story. Hello, editorial board! We know you don't like to get involved in messy endorsements, but you can certainly stand for campaigning in public. Then again, the JT is a member of RAMAC so they can just attend. Let's hope they plan to send someone - maybe Publisher Rick Parrish or Editor Steve Lovejoy? - and report on what happens. Or perhaps our daily paper should resign from the organization in protest of their secret forum. At the least, Parrish should resign his seat on RAMAC's board.
Who really knows what this means in the larger picture of the May 5 special election, but it may be a sign Turner is getting serious about the race. Opponent John Dickert has two hired political guns working on his campaign, and Turner has hired a new campaign organizer for the special election.
Let's hope both teams realize the mistake they're making by attending a secret meeting with business leaders on April 20. (Incidentally, Pete questioned my characterization of the meeting as "secret." After all, we reported the meeting is happening, so it can't be that big of a secret. But I stand by the description because organizers are purposely excluding the public. It's almost worse. If they held it in secret, no one would know. But this meeting everyone knows, they just can't attend. They're keeping the content of the forum secret. In other words: "What happens in Sturtevant, stays in Sturtevant.")
It's about time the JT weigh in on this story. Hello, editorial board! We know you don't like to get involved in messy endorsements, but you can certainly stand for campaigning in public. Then again, the JT is a member of RAMAC so they can just attend. Let's hope they plan to send someone - maybe Publisher Rick Parrish or Editor Steve Lovejoy? - and report on what happens. Or perhaps our daily paper should resign from the organization in protest of their secret forum. At the least, Parrish should resign his seat on RAMAC's board.
April 15, 2009
Turner confirms he'll resign Assembly seat if elected mayor
We asked Bob Turner's campaign to clarify if or when Turner will leave the Assembly if elected mayor. Here's their response:
This year's state budget should finish early because the Democrats control the budget process. So it's likely Turner, if elected, will fill both the mayor's job and his Assembly job for about two months.
Turner's statement is consistent with the statement he made when announcing his run for mayor. On Feb. 22, Turner said:
If elected, Bob would stay until the budget is finished and then would resign from his Assembly seat. He is committed to being Mayor and understands the time it will take if elected. His knowledge and experiences allow him to lead on day one.So when will Turner be a full-time mayor? Gov. Jim Doyle signed the state's 2007-09 budget on Oct. 19, 2007. He signed the 2005-07 budget on July 25, 2005.
This year's state budget should finish early because the Democrats control the budget process. So it's likely Turner, if elected, will fill both the mayor's job and his Assembly job for about two months.
Turner's statement is consistent with the statement he made when announcing his run for mayor. On Feb. 22, Turner said:
I am committed to the job of mayor. If the people of Racine choose me to serve as their mayor, I will resign my position in the state assembly as soon as the state budget is passed.
April 14, 2009
Karas endorses Turner for mayor
Let the endorsement race begin.
Former mayoral candidate Pete Karas endorsed Bob Turner for mayor on Tuesday. It's the first of a series of endorsements likely coming from the nine candidates who didn't make the May 5 general election.
Here's the formal statement from the Turner camp:
Bob Turner, candidate for Mayor of Racine, received the formal endorsement today of Pete Karas, former alderman and mayoral candidate.
“Bob is the right candidate for the job,” said Karas. “We need a mayor who is ready on day one, and Bob is the guy. His long-time relationships with the citizens of Racine, as well as with government officials at all levels, will allow him to turn this city around."
Karas, former 9th District Alderman and an outspoken progressive voice in the community, received 9% of the vote in the Mayoral Primary on April 7th.
“It is going to take everyone, regardless of party affiliation, to face the challenges ahead,” Turner stated. “I am honored to have Pete's support as we work together to get Racine back on track.”
In addition to his endorsement, Karas will host the grand opening of the Turner for Mayor campaign's new office space on Thursday, April 16th at 7:00P.M. Karas will be joined by Speaker Mike Sheridan and Sen. John Lehman. For more information, contact 262.939.9255 or visit www.turner4mayor.com.
Bob Turner represents the 61st Assembly District in the Wisconsin State Legislature, where he has served for more than 18 years. Turner also served for nearly three decades on the Racine City Council, as well as numerous local boards and committees. The special election for mayor will be held on May 5th.
Former mayoral candidate Pete Karas endorsed Bob Turner for mayor on Tuesday. It's the first of a series of endorsements likely coming from the nine candidates who didn't make the May 5 general election.
Here's the formal statement from the Turner camp:
Bob Turner, candidate for Mayor of Racine, received the formal endorsement today of Pete Karas, former alderman and mayoral candidate.
“Bob is the right candidate for the job,” said Karas. “We need a mayor who is ready on day one, and Bob is the guy. His long-time relationships with the citizens of Racine, as well as with government officials at all levels, will allow him to turn this city around."
Karas, former 9th District Alderman and an outspoken progressive voice in the community, received 9% of the vote in the Mayoral Primary on April 7th.
“It is going to take everyone, regardless of party affiliation, to face the challenges ahead,” Turner stated. “I am honored to have Pete's support as we work together to get Racine back on track.”
In addition to his endorsement, Karas will host the grand opening of the Turner for Mayor campaign's new office space on Thursday, April 16th at 7:00P.M. Karas will be joined by Speaker Mike Sheridan and Sen. John Lehman. For more information, contact 262.939.9255 or visit www.turner4mayor.com.
Bob Turner represents the 61st Assembly District in the Wisconsin State Legislature, where he has served for more than 18 years. Turner also served for nearly three decades on the Racine City Council, as well as numerous local boards and committees. The special election for mayor will be held on May 5th.
April 7, 2009
Dickert, Turner ready for rematch
Robert Turner and John Dickert will revive their fierce political rivalry this month after they both advanced to the May 5 general election to become Racine's next mayor.The two candidates easily out-paced the 11-candidate field. Dickert led the way with 2,308 votes, or 23 percent, followed by Turner with 1,673, or 17 percent.
Vote totals from the County ClerkBut it was Dickert's and Turner's night, setting the stage for a rematch of the 2002 primary election for Turner's Assembly seat. Dickert ran aggressive campaign seven years ago to try and break into the Legislature, but couldn't overcome Turner's strong base of support.
The election ripped the local Democratic Party in half, a rift that's arguably never healed.
Both candidates played down the past election at their victory parties Tuesday night.
Turner celebrates with his wife and supporters"I have the experience, skills and know-how to put Racine back in place," he said.
Dickert and his wife arrive at their campaign victory partyDickert, surrounded by upbeat supporters at Olde Madrid on Sixth Street, described Turner as a "strong candidate" with solid support in the community. But he was also quick to contrast himself with Turner's experience.
"Bob's the history, we're the future," Dickert said.
But the candidates' shared past is likely to revive old wounds, like allegations Dickert used a push poll in 2002 against Turner and that Turner's supporter intimidated businesses to take down Dickert signs. Then there's this incident involving Democratic Party furniture.
Turner won the campaign by 275 votes and has cruised to re-election ever since.
March 16, 2009
Letter to the Editor: Ron Thomas endorses Bob Turner for mayor
Ron Thomas and Bob Turner in 1986.To The Editor:
My first introduction to Mayoral Candidate Bob Turner was at a community rally at the Racine Labor Center December 4, 1980. It was a rally called for the purpose of keeping Massey Ferguson in Racine and to save hundreds of jobs.
Alderman Turner and I met again in the early 1980’s as he stood by the working men and women again and again as plant after plant closed. So it was not a coincidence that I supported Alderman Turner for Mayor in 1987 as he had time and time again stood up for keeping family supporting jobs in Racine.
As a member of the City Council from 1989 to 2003 I watched my friend Bob, as chairman of the Finance and Personnel Committee, oversee dozens of critical economic decisions that greatly impacted the development of our community.
I support Representative Bob Turner for Mayor because when candidates talk about jobs and the economy, they are an echo of Bob Turner.
Ron Thomas
1429 Grange Ave.
Racine, WI 53405
March 3, 2009
Bob Turner holds 'Meet the Candidate' on March 5
State representative and mayoral hopeful Bob Turner is holding a "Meet the Candidate" event on March 5. Here's the details:
All citizens of Racine are invited to meet State Representative Robert Turner (D) of the 61st Assembly District now a candidate for Mayor. This meet the candidate session will be held at Infusino’s 3201 Rapids Drive on Thursday March 5, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Candidate Turner will be available to answer any at all questions concerning his Mayoral bid.
For more information please call (262) 635-1377 or (262) 456-1241. Equally, citizens are encouraged to contact us at our website www.turner4mayor.com. You may also submit questions to info4turner.com. Any questions contact Pastor Elliott Cohen, Campaign Spokesperson at the above numbers.
September 10, 2008
Vos gets 95% WMC rating for pro-business votes
Wisconsin's business lobby -- the WMC, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce -- honored 32 lawmakers Wednesday for voting "time and again, 100 percent of the time" for job growth and economic development.
The one issue that tripped up Vos was Senate Bill 431, Unemployment Insurance Benefits, the last of the 20 issues WMC tallied. "This bill adjusts the taxable wage base for all Wisconsin employers and shifts revenues to the systems’ solvency fund. The bill increases the amount of time that Unemployment Insurance claimants must have worked in order to qualify for unemployment insurance benefits, and also freezes UI benefit levels at current levels until 2009."
The WMC wanted a "yes" vote but Vos voted "no," ruining his perfect record. Gunderson also lost his perfect record on this issue.
“Legislators who stand up for jobs time and again – especially with a slowing economy – are the true friends of working families,” said James A. Buchen, WMC vice president of government relations. “These legislators are stalwart defenders of jobs for our families.”
In total, 65 lawmakers will receive WMC’s “Working for Wisconsin Award” for earning a 65 percent or higher WMC voting record.
Since 2000, Wisconsin has lost nearly 100,000 manufacturing jobs, which pay high wages and provide the best benefits, Buchen said.
Last month, the Sierra Club rated lawmakers on their environmental records. The winners and losers on their scorecard tended to be the opposite from those on the WMC's.
No, none of ours made that august winners' circle -- although Rep. Robin Vos, R-Racine, came within a hair's breadth of inclusion, but for a single "wrong" vote cast, according to the WMC's scorecard. Vos' 95% rating far exceeded anything else achieved by other Racine lawmakers. Rep. Scott Gunderson, R- Waterford, also scored 95%.
Three local lawmakers received dismal ratings from the WMC: Rep. Cory Mason, D-Racine, got a 40% rating, having voted "wrong" according to the WMC on 12 out of 20 votes tallied; Rep. Bob Turner, D-Racine, best not even show his face near the WMC: he got only four votes "right" out of the 20 tallied. In the Senate, things weren't going any better for Sen. John Lehman. Only 14 votes were tallied, and he voted "right" on just three of them, for a 21% ranking.
The one issue that tripped up Vos was Senate Bill 431, Unemployment Insurance Benefits, the last of the 20 issues WMC tallied. "This bill adjusts the taxable wage base for all Wisconsin employers and shifts revenues to the systems’ solvency fund. The bill increases the amount of time that Unemployment Insurance claimants must have worked in order to qualify for unemployment insurance benefits, and also freezes UI benefit levels at current levels until 2009."
The WMC wanted a "yes" vote but Vos voted "no," ruining his perfect record. Gunderson also lost his perfect record on this issue.
“Legislators who stand up for jobs time and again – especially with a slowing economy – are the true friends of working families,” said James A. Buchen, WMC vice president of government relations. “These legislators are stalwart defenders of jobs for our families.”
In total, 65 lawmakers will receive WMC’s “Working for Wisconsin Award” for earning a 65 percent or higher WMC voting record.
Since 2000, Wisconsin has lost nearly 100,000 manufacturing jobs, which pay high wages and provide the best benefits, Buchen said.
Last month, the Sierra Club rated lawmakers on their environmental records. The winners and losers on their scorecard tended to be the opposite from those on the WMC's.
August 28, 2008
Sierra Club flunks Vos, Gunderson and Kerkman
The John Muir Chapter of the Sierra Club today released its Environmental Scorecard for the 2007-08 Wisconsin Legislature.
Racine and Kenosha legislators were among the best, and worst, according to the Sierra Club's tracking of legislative votes on ten environmental issues.
Among the best are Reps. Cory Mason and Bob Turner, both D-Racine, and Sen. John Lehman, D-Racine, all with scores of 100%, and Rep. Jim Kreuser, D-Kenosha, with 90%.
Among the worst are Reps. Scott Gunderson, R-Waterford, Samantha Kerkman, R-Burlington, and Rep. Robin Vos, R-Racine, all of whom had 10% ratings.
And, yes, we did notice that the Sierra Club's tree-hugging favorites here are all Democrats, and the environmental dunces it would send to the corner are all Republicans. Those three 10-per-centers, by the way, were spared the ignominy of 0% environmental ratings only by their vote in favor of the Great Lakes Compact.
“The Sierra Club Scorecard illustrates which lawmakers are committed to protecting Wisconsin’s environment,” said Shahla M. Werner, PhD., John Muir Chapter Director. “The Scorecard also shows us which lawmakers consistently protect the interests of polluters.”
Thirty-nine state lawmakers scored 100% on the Scorecard. On the opposite end of the scale were Representatives Mark Gundrum, Mark Gottlieb, and Sheryl Albers, all of whom earned the score of zero. An additional forty-five members of the Assembly garnered a 10% score, meaning they voted against the environment nine times out of ten.
“Our Assembly has a core of legislators who consistently vote for more pollution,” said Dave Blouin, John Muir Chapter Political Committee Chair. “There is a very stark and partisan difference between legislators who consistently strive to protect and conserve Wisconsin’s air, drinking water, lakes and streams and legislators who do not.”
Forty-six Representatives received a passing grade for their votes in the last session by voting at least 80% pro-environment including twenty-one who scored a perfect 100%. Eighteen State Senators compiled 100% positive scores. Failing grades were given to fifty Representatives and two Senators who consistently vote pro-polluter and anti-environment (scores of 20% or less in
the Assembly, 29% or less in the Senate where few environmental votes were taken).
“The agenda of this Legislature was to roll back basic services and environmental protection while shifting costs to taxpayers,” said Legislative Coordinator Caryl Terrell. By voting to pass AB 163, Wetlands, Assembly proponents gave a developer a special favor to allow a road through a specific wetland, ignoring the science-based permit process and degrading Nature’s flood mitigation systems. Votes to repeal the Nuclear Moratorium, AB 346, erased the commonsense requirement that the Public Service Commission ensure that secure nuclear waste facilities are identified and all financial costs of life cycle operation are considered against all other alternatives before new nuclear power plants are constructed in Wisconsin Votes to pass three bills, AB 543 Ordinary High Water Mark, AB 718 Delay Implementation Date of Smart Growth Law and AB 805 Takings, undermined land use regulations designed to protect the value of private property and instead allow for irresponsible, unsafe development.
“Efforts to remove politics from the DNR, AB 504, and to deal pro-actively with greenhouse gases, AB 157, and hazardous electronic waste, SB 397, were turned down,” said Terrell. “The major bright spot was the adoption of the Great Lakes Water Resources Compact, SB1, in the April Special Session.”
Senate and Assembly scores were based on different measures, so comparisons between the two houses are not valid.
Racine and Kenosha legislators were among the best, and worst, according to the Sierra Club's tracking of legislative votes on ten environmental issues.
Among the best are Reps. Cory Mason and Bob Turner, both D-Racine, and Sen. John Lehman, D-Racine, all with scores of 100%, and Rep. Jim Kreuser, D-Kenosha, with 90%.
Among the worst are Reps. Scott Gunderson, R-Waterford, Samantha Kerkman, R-Burlington, and Rep. Robin Vos, R-Racine, all of whom had 10% ratings.And, yes, we did notice that the Sierra Club's tree-hugging favorites here are all Democrats, and the environmental dunces it would send to the corner are all Republicans. Those three 10-per-centers, by the way, were spared the ignominy of 0% environmental ratings only by their vote in favor of the Great Lakes Compact.
“The Sierra Club Scorecard illustrates which lawmakers are committed to protecting Wisconsin’s environment,” said Shahla M. Werner, PhD., John Muir Chapter Director. “The Scorecard also shows us which lawmakers consistently protect the interests of polluters.”
Thirty-nine state lawmakers scored 100% on the Scorecard. On the opposite end of the scale were Representatives Mark Gundrum, Mark Gottlieb, and Sheryl Albers, all of whom earned the score of zero. An additional forty-five members of the Assembly garnered a 10% score, meaning they voted against the environment nine times out of ten.
“Our Assembly has a core of legislators who consistently vote for more pollution,” said Dave Blouin, John Muir Chapter Political Committee Chair. “There is a very stark and partisan difference between legislators who consistently strive to protect and conserve Wisconsin’s air, drinking water, lakes and streams and legislators who do not.”
Forty-six Representatives received a passing grade for their votes in the last session by voting at least 80% pro-environment including twenty-one who scored a perfect 100%. Eighteen State Senators compiled 100% positive scores. Failing grades were given to fifty Representatives and two Senators who consistently vote pro-polluter and anti-environment (scores of 20% or less in
the Assembly, 29% or less in the Senate where few environmental votes were taken).
“The agenda of this Legislature was to roll back basic services and environmental protection while shifting costs to taxpayers,” said Legislative Coordinator Caryl Terrell. By voting to pass AB 163, Wetlands, Assembly proponents gave a developer a special favor to allow a road through a specific wetland, ignoring the science-based permit process and degrading Nature’s flood mitigation systems. Votes to repeal the Nuclear Moratorium, AB 346, erased the commonsense requirement that the Public Service Commission ensure that secure nuclear waste facilities are identified and all financial costs of life cycle operation are considered against all other alternatives before new nuclear power plants are constructed in Wisconsin Votes to pass three bills, AB 543 Ordinary High Water Mark, AB 718 Delay Implementation Date of Smart Growth Law and AB 805 Takings, undermined land use regulations designed to protect the value of private property and instead allow for irresponsible, unsafe development.
“Efforts to remove politics from the DNR, AB 504, and to deal pro-actively with greenhouse gases, AB 157, and hazardous electronic waste, SB 397, were turned down,” said Terrell. “The major bright spot was the adoption of the Great Lakes Water Resources Compact, SB1, in the April Special Session.”
Senate and Assembly scores were based on different measures, so comparisons between the two houses are not valid.
July 30, 2008
Local Obama campaign plans counter-event to McCain visit
The local Obama campaign will be hosting a counter event to Sen. John McCain's visit Thursday afternoon. Here's the details:
Racine Leaders, Residents to Discuss Devastating Effects of McCain-Bush Policies on Economy
RACINE – State Senator John Lehman, Representative Bob Turner, and Representative Cory Mason will join local residents at a news conference in Racine tomorrow, Thursday to discuss the need for a President who understands the struggles of working families and will turn around our economy.
With gas prices skyrocketing while oil companies are set to report huge profits once again tomorrow, Racine residents are looking for a President who will stand up for hard working men and women and reverse the disastrous Bush Administration policies of the past eight years. Unlike John McCain who will continue implementing many of the failed economic policies of the Bush Administration, Barack Obama will work to put money back in the pockets of middle class families and turn our economy around.
WHO: Sen. John Lehman
Rep. Bob Turner
Rep. Cory Mason
Racine Residents
WHAT: News conference to discuss devastating effects of McCain-Bush
policies on economy
WHEN: Thursday, 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: Racine Campaign for Change Office
522 6th St.
Racine, WI
June 18, 2008
Rep. Turner running for re-election
Rep. Bob Turner is running for re-election this fall. He was first elected to the Assembly in 1990, and has coasted to re-election since then. The one exception came a few years back when John Dickert challenged him in a primary. Turner won the Democratic nod and cruised in the general election.
Here's Turner's full announcement:
Here's Turner's full announcement:
Turner Announces Re-Election Bid
RACINE, WI – State Representative Robert Turner (D-Racine) announced today that he plans to seek re-election to the 61st Assembly District in the State Legislature. Turner was first elected to the seat in 1990.
“I am grateful for the support I’ve consistently received from my 61st Assembly District constituents,” said Turner. My service in the Legislature has always been challenging and fulfilling. However, the past few years have been the most challenging, as we have dealt with the change in our state’s fiscal scenario due to falling tax revenues and a decrease in federal funding for state programs,” said Turner. “There has been reluctance in the Legislature to address the priorities that most of our citizens support,” he added.
“I want to help people listen to each other, so we can all work together in encouraging state solutions that are workable, yet cost effective,” Turner stated. Representative Turner said he hopes the voters will allow him to continue working to shape state policy in the areas of health care, education, tax fairness, crime, and the environment.
“My job begins with the individual, and then requires determining how state programs, policies and legislation can improve the lives of each resident of my district. Whether it be people in need, those who require assistance with tax forms or the Division of Motor Vehicles, or people wanting to advance new ideas for consideration in the Legislature, I thoroughly enjoy working on behalf of all the residents of the 61st Assembly District,” Turner emphasized.
“I once again look forward to hearing from my constituents as we discuss the well being of Racine, and how those of us at the state level can strengthen and encourage what’s best in our community. I trust in my constituents’ views and opinions, and I want to carry on with the task of communicating those concerns to my colleagues in the Legislature,” Turner concluded.
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