"Garage Group" sponsors Grand Chute Chair forum

There's a group of local citizens who gather every month to discuss political issues affecting our area. They usually meet in a member's garage, and thus have taken to naming themselves "The Garage Group". They are becoming quite a local political force in that they interview local candidates running for office and back up their endorsed candidate with literature drops, sign placements and door to door campaigning. They make no apologies for being on the conservative side, (see number 3 below) but they do not limit themselves to endorsing strictly by party. Having been invited and having attended some of their meetings, I can attest their main focus is having open discussions and keeping tabs on spending and local issues.

The neat aspect of this group is the process a candidate goes through for an endorsement. The format is usually the same. Each candidate is interviewed separately (other candidates are not allowed in the room) and asked four questions.

1. Why are you seeking this position and what beneficial skill set(s) can you bring to the office?


2. If elected, what specific issues do you intend to focus on and what goals have you set?


3. The Group is a fiscally conservative, constitutionally-based organization. We advocate lower taxes, no unnecessary fees and a moral and financially sound government held accountable to its constituents. How do your views mesh with or differ from this position?


4. How are you different from the other candidates applying for this position?

Afterward, the audience is allowed to ask questions, and finally the candidate can give their stump speech on why this group should support them. The forum is open to the public.

If you're still reading, a Grand Chute Chairperson Forum will be held this Thursday, February 5th at the Old Bavarian 3025 W. College Ave. at 7 pm. (They need a little more space than a garage will allow!)

Candidates Michael Marsden and Jim Duncan are scheduled to attend. Lee Adamski will attend via phone due to a previously scheduled trip.