Bill Baker For Sun Prairie

Questions I was recently asked by the League of Women Voters:

1. How would you evaluate your city’s current efforts to increase the amount of affordable housing? Are there additional steps the city should take to address this issue?

Sun Prairie has made progress in affordable housing through the establishment of a Housing Committee, TIF incentives, zoning changes, and partnerships, but demand still outpaces supply. To improve, we should expand public-private partnerships, encourage accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and streamline zoning for multi-family housing. A community land trust could help preserve long-term affordability, and rental assistance programs should be expanded. Partnering with employers for workforce housing and pursuing state and federal grants can also boost efforts. By taking these steps, we can create more affordable options while maintaining Sun Prairie’s quality of life.

2. How should your city balance the need for development with other concerns, such as public safety, traffic, historic preservation, and conservation of natural areas?

Sun Prairie must balance growth with safety, traffic, history, and conservation. Smart planning ensures responsible development while preserving our community’s character. We should prioritize infrastructure upgrades, traffic management, and public safety funding as we grow. Historic sites must be protected through zoning and incentives, while green spaces should be integrated into new developments. Thoughtful land use, sustainable design, and community input will help us grow responsibly while maintaining Sun Prairie’s charm and quality of life.

3. Is there another compelling issue on which, if elected, you think you can make a difference?

A key issue I will focus on is improving community engagement and transparency in city government. Residents deserve a stronger voice in decisions that shape Sun Prairie’s future. I will work to enhance communication between the city and residents, ensuring greater access to information and public input on key issues like development, public safety, and infrastructure. By fostering a more open, responsive government, we can build trust, encourage civic involvement, and make decisions that truly reflect the needs of our growing community.

4. Describe your specific experience (educational, occupational, civic, and community) that prepares you to effectively address your priorities. Cite an example of how you worked productively on an issue as an involved citizen or elected official.

As a Sun Prairie Alderman, real estate professional, and community leader, I understand growth, housing, and civic engagement. I’ve served on the Lions Club, Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce, and City Housing Committee, working to strengthen local businesses and address housing challenges. My experience on the Sun Prairie Real Estate Show has helped educate residents on homeownership and development. As a citizen, I’ve advocated for responsible growth and infrastructure improvements. For example, my work with city planning discussions and housing initiatives has helped shape policies that balance affordability, development, and community needs.

Join me this morning at the Colonial Club "STRAWBERRY FEST". This is the 37th Annual fund raising event and is a tasty one! I will bring you the updates, info, and music, this moring on 103.5 The Sun, Sun Prairie's Community Radio Station LIVE. Stop by and say hello. You can't miss me...... 🤣

For those that consider me a firestarter 🤣. This photo proves that I actually extinguish fires......... and I am well trained by Sun Prairie Fire & Rescue 😁

In current housing market, it is best to "Marry The House & Date The Rate". The results of the first quarter showed a 12% increase over the previous year 1st qt. If you purchased a $400,000 home, that translates into $48,000 in equity. Talk to your Realtor for more information. If you are without a professional, reach out to me.

Marry The House .... Date The Rate Video made with Biteable. The World's Simplest Video Maker

Neighborhood Warning: Watch out For Quick Change Artist.

While Santiago Rosas may present himself as a candidate for change, it is important to critically assess his promises and capabilities. Anyone can criticize and offer vague statements about change, but it takes someone truly ingrained in the community, who has built relationships with its people, possesses a deep understanding of its history, and has hands-on experience and the capability to present a well-thought-out plan that will help the city THRIVE. I am that Candidate!

Initially, his proposal to increase police staffing fails to tackle the underlying reasons behind the shortage of officers in our city. Chief Steffes acknowledges the difficulties in recruiting and retaining officers, yet it is unacceptable that Sun Prairie officers are lured away by larger salary offers from the Dane County Sheriff's Department or Madison Police Department. It is crucial to recognize that this is not a criticism of the officers themselves and I advocate for fair compensation for them based on their merits. However, it is vital to consider the financial burden on the city in terms of training and preparing officers for active duty on our streets. This issue extends beyond Sun Prairie, prompting me to engage with our state Representative Melissa Ratcliff during the campaign with a plan and to initiate discussions on how her office could address this costly problem.

When it comes to backing small businesses, I place my trust in the robust network and connections fostered by the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is committed to providing comprehensive support to small businesses, aiding them in every aspect of their operations and expansion. As a Chamber Ambassador, I've personally witnessed the positive impact of this support on the growth of small businesses in our community.

Certainly, there will be instances where businesses may close their doors, merge with larger entities, or transition due to retirement or other reasons. However, this is a natural part of the business cycle, and it does not detract from the ongoing efforts to bolster and sustain our local small business ecosystem. Through continued collaboration with organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, we can ensure that our small businesses have the resources and support they need to thrive in both good times and challenging ones.

Furthermore, Rosas’s notion of transitioning from the “old” Sun Prairie to the “new” Sun Prairie could be seen as divisive and neglectful of the city’s history and existing neighborhoods. Plus, I believe it gives a clear indication that my opponent has no connection or understanding of the City history. This is another example of a per Change for the sake of change may not always be beneficial, especially if it disregards the needs and perspectives of all residents.

It is essential for voters to scrutinize candidates’ platforms and ensure that their proposed changes are comprehensive, inclusive, and truly beneficial for all constituents, not just certain sectors of the community. I have the tools and plans to help Sun Prairie thrive and with your vote for Bill Baker on April 2nd, we will hit the ground running.

I found this on Nextdoor from a supporter. Thank you Dannelle Gay.

nextdoor.com

Vote for Bill Baker for Sun Prairie City Council. Bill is very active in our community, hosting two local radio programs, member of the SP Chamber of Commerce, Lions Club, Sunshine Supper, local farmers' market and many other events and happenings. He know the folks in Sun Prairie and listens to their opinions. He knows what we want in our community.

He will be a sterling representative of us and deserves to be elected. Please vote now via absentee ballot or on election day, April 2.