December 20, 2022 – West Bend, WI – Denis Kelling filed papers today to run for mayor of West Bend, WI in the April 2023 election.
Kelling currently is serving his fourth term as Dist. 3 Washington County Supervisor.
“With my experience and connections from throughout the community, I am confident I can continue the great progress we’re on while still holding true to our conservative principles,” wrote Kelling.
Within the next two months, prior to the April election, Kelling will have to vote as a member of the County Board on the future of the Samaritan Home, which is located in the City of West Bend. An Ad-Hoc committee is currently reviewing options including demolishing the home, a possible remodel, or sending residents to other facilities.
Questioned how he intended to vote, Kelling said he has not received any calls to level the building. “I’ve received five calls to keep it open but there are 138,000 constituents and at this point I’m listening, but I’ll make the decision in the best interest of the county. My thing is I have to make a choice for the county and right now as it sits to tear it down and staff it, it will cost many, many millions of dollars.
“Building a new building or remodeling is $20 million to $30 million.
“If they come up with something that’s doable, then I’ll support it but the way it stands at this moment I can’t support spending that kind of money… at least without a referendum,” he said. “It’s not just the building costs it’s the operational costs.”
Kelling said he would “absolutely support a referendum on the Samaritan Home.”
“But I don’t think a referendum would pass,” he said.
During the day Kelling works as a facility manager with Batesville Casket Company.
“With my time at the County level and connections from throughout our community, I
am confident I can build upon the progress we’ve been making and continue to support our
public safety men and women, fix more of our needed infrastructure, spur ongoing economic development, and make West Bend a destination for all,” he said.
Kelling lives in West Bend with his wife, Debbie, and has three grown children and 1
grandchild.
Questions can be directed to Denis Kelling at: 262-305-2678
