Click HERE to DOWNLOAD poster for event.
Monday, April 20, 2015 @ 7:00 p.m. FVTC Riverside
Inside the Joint Finance Committee: Tough Issues and Options
Oshkosh area residents are invited to attend a community meeting focused on the proposed Wisconsin State Budget on Monday April 20, 7:00-8:30 pm at Fox Valley Technical College, 150 N. Campbell Road, Oshkosh, Room 133. The program is entitled “Inside Joint Finance: tough issues and options”. State Representatives Michael Schraa (R-Dist. 53) and Gordon Hintz (D-Dist. 54) will share their insights into the state budget process through the eyes of the Joint Finance Committee. Audience questions will follow the presentations. The meeting is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO).
“Our area is fortunate to have two Oshkosh area representatives serving on this important committee. This is a unique opportunity for the public to hear about the role of Joint Finance in reviewing the 2015-2017 Wisconsin state budget and about some of the tough issues and options facing the state” said Tom Willadsen, a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh. Both legislators will have an opportunity to explain the issues, ideas and initiatives within the proposed state budget that they believe are particularly important for the greater Oshkosh community.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry.
Recent CSO meetings included an overview of the Wisconsin State Budget by Legislative Fiscal Bureau Director Bob Lang in May 2014, a CSO Community Conversations evening in Oct. 2014 to discuss the growing Oshkosh area Information Technology sector, and the Third Annual Oshkosh Outlook 2015 in Nov. 2014 with reports by city, county and educational leaders.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com or on Facebook. CSO has created another website at http://positivelyoshkosh.weebly.com and Positively Oshkosh Facebook page as an outreach tool to help build awareness of the many positive things taking place in our community.
Contact Kathy Propp at 920-231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event.
“Our area is fortunate to have two Oshkosh area representatives serving on this important committee. This is a unique opportunity for the public to hear about the role of Joint Finance in reviewing the 2015-2017 Wisconsin state budget and about some of the tough issues and options facing the state” said Tom Willadsen, a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh. Both legislators will have an opportunity to explain the issues, ideas and initiatives within the proposed state budget that they believe are particularly important for the greater Oshkosh community.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry.
Recent CSO meetings included an overview of the Wisconsin State Budget by Legislative Fiscal Bureau Director Bob Lang in May 2014, a CSO Community Conversations evening in Oct. 2014 to discuss the growing Oshkosh area Information Technology sector, and the Third Annual Oshkosh Outlook 2015 in Nov. 2014 with reports by city, county and educational leaders.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com or on Facebook. CSO has created another website at http://positivelyoshkosh.weebly.com and Positively Oshkosh Facebook page as an outreach tool to help build awareness of the many positive things taking place in our community.
Contact Kathy Propp at 920-231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event.
~ CSO 2013-2014 ~
Meeting Schedule ~ First Friday
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh meets on a regular basis - generally, 7:30 a.m. on the First Friday of each month. Please contact us by email for more information.
1. Fri Aug 2, 2013 7:30am – 9:00am
2. Fri Sep 6, 2013 7:30am – 9:00am
3. Fri Oct 4, 2013 7:30am – 9:00am
4. Fri Nov 1, 2013 7:30am – 9:00am
5. Fri Dec 6, 2013 7:30am – 9:00am
6. Fri Jan 3, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
7. Fri Feb 7, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
8. Fri Mar 7, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
9. Fri Apr 4, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
10. Fri May 2, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
11. Fri Jun 6, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
12. Fri Jul 4, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
13. Fri Aug 1, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
14. Fri Sep 5, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
15. Fri Oct 3, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
16. Fri Nov 7, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
17. Fri Dec 5, 2014 7:30am – 9:00am
18. Fri Jan 2, 2015 7:30am – 9:00am
19. Fri Feb 6, 2015 7:30am – 9:00am
20. Fri Mar 6, 2015 7:30am – 9:00am
21. Fri Apr 3, 2015 7:30am – 9:00am
Download May 5 Program Announcement Here
CSO Conversations - Referendum for Learning
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh is proud to announce and host a public conversation on the referendum advanced by the Oshkosh Area School District. The CSO Conversation will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, March 10 at Becket’s (2 Jackson St, Oshkosh, WI 54901). The meeting will be held in the front enclosed glass room. (Participants can order food or drink from the bar as part of this evening out.)
CSO Conversation – Consider Public Education
Focus on the School Referendum
Proposed by the Oshkosh Area School District (April 1st election)
Monday, March 10, 2014 ~ 6-8 p.m. (Becket’s)
Invited Presenters: Stan Mack and David Gundlach (OASD); Karl Loewenstein (former school board member and citizen advocate)
About the Referendum for Learning
Advanced Unanimously by the Board of Education, Oshkosh Area School District:
1. On April 1, 2014, residents of the Oshkosh Area School District will be asked to decide whether the school district should be able to increase its funding to support student learning.
2. If approved by voters, the Referendum For Learning would provide $3.95 million per year for seven years to protect academic programs for students and improve technology for teaching and learning.
3. If not approved by voters, Oshkosh will need to make $2.5 million in cuts that will affect the classrooms and will be unable to make important investments in technology for students and teachers that have been outlined in the district’s strategic plan.
Questions to Consider:
• What are the “basic facts” about the referendum?
• In what ways will the referendum strengthen, improve and enhance the educational quality provided by the Oshkosh Area School District?
• How is the quality of life (i.e. living and working in Oshkosh) impacted by the Oshkosh Area School District?
About CSO: Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh is an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. Many public issues and political discussions seem to be framed in an “either/or” model that highlights tradeoffs and choices between limited options. We seek to broaden this discussion to explore or consider more options and possibilities.
The following beliefs unite those who join in this common purpose:
1. We believe in a future of hope, promise and genuine distinction for greater Oshkosh area.
2. Although we have different points of view, we are united in the belief that the process of community-based discussion and conversation is an important and often neglected part of the process of leadership and governance.
3. We believe civic advancement requires open, objective and fact-based discussions, dialogues and even pointed debate.
4. We believe our combined efforts are important and necessary to keep our community strong.
Download this Announcement Here
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh is proud to announce and host a public conversation on the referendum advanced by the Oshkosh Area School District. The CSO Conversation will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, March 10 at Becket’s (2 Jackson St, Oshkosh, WI 54901). The meeting will be held in the front enclosed glass room. (Participants can order food or drink from the bar as part of this evening out.)
CSO Conversation – Consider Public Education
Focus on the School Referendum
Proposed by the Oshkosh Area School District (April 1st election)
Monday, March 10, 2014 ~ 6-8 p.m. (Becket’s)
Invited Presenters: Stan Mack and David Gundlach (OASD); Karl Loewenstein (former school board member and citizen advocate)
About the Referendum for Learning
Advanced Unanimously by the Board of Education, Oshkosh Area School District:
1. On April 1, 2014, residents of the Oshkosh Area School District will be asked to decide whether the school district should be able to increase its funding to support student learning.
2. If approved by voters, the Referendum For Learning would provide $3.95 million per year for seven years to protect academic programs for students and improve technology for teaching and learning.
3. If not approved by voters, Oshkosh will need to make $2.5 million in cuts that will affect the classrooms and will be unable to make important investments in technology for students and teachers that have been outlined in the district’s strategic plan.
Questions to Consider:
• What are the “basic facts” about the referendum?
• In what ways will the referendum strengthen, improve and enhance the educational quality provided by the Oshkosh Area School District?
• How is the quality of life (i.e. living and working in Oshkosh) impacted by the Oshkosh Area School District?
About CSO: Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh is an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. Many public issues and political discussions seem to be framed in an “either/or” model that highlights tradeoffs and choices between limited options. We seek to broaden this discussion to explore or consider more options and possibilities.
The following beliefs unite those who join in this common purpose:
1. We believe in a future of hope, promise and genuine distinction for greater Oshkosh area.
2. Although we have different points of view, we are united in the belief that the process of community-based discussion and conversation is an important and often neglected part of the process of leadership and governance.
3. We believe civic advancement requires open, objective and fact-based discussions, dialogues and even pointed debate.
4. We believe our combined efforts are important and necessary to keep our community strong.
Download this Announcement Here
CSO Conversations: Infrastructure Outlook
v Interested in a better Oshkosh? v Interested in learning about the important role that infrastructure plays in economic development? Join Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh for the next CSO Conversation dubbed “Infrastructure Outlook”. This informal public meeting will be held Monday, February 17, 6:00- 700 pm at Oshkosh City Hall, 215 Church Ave., Room 404.
v “A Citizens Guide to the Local Impact of the Wisconsin State Budget” with guest speaker Todd Berry, President, Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance was held April 29, 2013. On Sept. 12, 2013. v An informal “CSO Conversation” engaged many around the theme of opportunities to build a stronger Oshkosh. v “Oshkosh Outlook 2014” with leaders of key public institutions was held Nov. 18, 2013 at Oaklawn School. Go to our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/citizensforastrongoshkosh?ref=tn_tnmn )or visit CSO on the web at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com/. Contact Kathy Propp at [email protected] or 231-4770 with questions. (Download this announcement here.) |
CSO is Positively.Oshkosh!
Responding to an idea advanced at the CSO Conversations community discussion, Positively.Oshkosh has been launched as a developmental and experimental effort. This is used to explore ideas about how "good news" about the many "positive things" happening in Oshkosh can be shared using social media. The provisional website is at - http://positivelyoshkosh.weebly.com/ - and a Facebook page and TWITTER account have also been established.
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Our Hometown: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Data as of 04-20-2013
CSO Conversations - September 12, 2013
Please complete our SURVEY - click here
Download a paper version here - mail to:
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh
320 E. Parkway Avenue
Oshkosh, WI 54901
CSO Conversations
Those who were interested
in a better Oshkosh joing Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh at an informal meeting billed as “CSO
Conversations” on Thurs. Sept 12, 6:30-8:30 pm, at Becket’s Restaurant front
glass room.
More information will be added here regarding that meeting!
More information will be added here regarding that meeting!
Oshkosh Outlook 2014: Here's the slides used at the program (11-18-2013)
Nov. 18 ~ Focus on the Future ~ Oshkosh Outlook 2014
Mark your calendars.
Oshkosh Northwestern Community Newsroom Release 11-18-13
A Sneak Peek at Upcoming Oshkosh Initiatives
Oshkosh area residents are invited to participate in the second annual “Oshkosh Outlook 2014” on Monday November 18, 5:00-6:30 pm at the new Oaklawn Elementary School, 112 Viola St., Oshkosh. The program will feature brief presentations by leaders of the key public institutions in Oshkosh about the major issues, initiatives and priorities that the public can expect to see in the coming year. Audience questions will follow the presentations.
“This is a unique opportunity for the public to hear from key institutions about plans, projects, and collaboration,” said John Nichols, retired Executive Director, Oshkosh Public Library and Winnefox Library System, and a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh. “This program will allow people to see what we all will be talking about in 2014.” It will also allow the public to view and tour the new Oaklawn Elementary School.
Invited presenters include Mark Rohloff, Oshkosh City Manager; Stan Mack, Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent; Richard Wells, UW Oshkosh Chancellor; Mark Harris, Winnebago County Executive; Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator, Fox Valley Technical College.
“Oshkosh leaders have been very creative despite the economy, in initiating new projects,” said Paulette Feld, AFSCME Council 24 President and CSO member. “The unique combined presentation will allow everyone to see the real progress being made in the greater Oshkosh area. Last year’s Outlook 2013 was very well received.”
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry. CSO recently sponsored an open CSO Community Conversations evening on Sept 12 which asked participants to identify community strengths, needs for improvement, and ways to move forward.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com or on Facebook. CSO has created another website at http://positivelyoshkosh.weebly.com and Positively Oshkosh Facebook page as an outreach tool to help build awareness of the many positive things taking place in our community.
Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event.
A Sneak Peek at Upcoming Oshkosh Initiatives
Oshkosh area residents are invited to participate in the second annual “Oshkosh Outlook 2014” on Monday November 18, 5:00-6:30 pm at the new Oaklawn Elementary School, 112 Viola St., Oshkosh. The program will feature brief presentations by leaders of the key public institutions in Oshkosh about the major issues, initiatives and priorities that the public can expect to see in the coming year. Audience questions will follow the presentations.
“This is a unique opportunity for the public to hear from key institutions about plans, projects, and collaboration,” said John Nichols, retired Executive Director, Oshkosh Public Library and Winnefox Library System, and a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh. “This program will allow people to see what we all will be talking about in 2014.” It will also allow the public to view and tour the new Oaklawn Elementary School.
Invited presenters include Mark Rohloff, Oshkosh City Manager; Stan Mack, Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent; Richard Wells, UW Oshkosh Chancellor; Mark Harris, Winnebago County Executive; Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator, Fox Valley Technical College.
“Oshkosh leaders have been very creative despite the economy, in initiating new projects,” said Paulette Feld, AFSCME Council 24 President and CSO member. “The unique combined presentation will allow everyone to see the real progress being made in the greater Oshkosh area. Last year’s Outlook 2013 was very well received.”
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry. CSO recently sponsored an open CSO Community Conversations evening on Sept 12 which asked participants to identify community strengths, needs for improvement, and ways to move forward.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com or on Facebook. CSO has created another website at http://positivelyoshkosh.weebly.com and Positively Oshkosh Facebook page as an outreach tool to help build awareness of the many positive things taking place in our community.
Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event.
Here's a video showing some of our early our work
Meet Todd Berry
Todd A. Berry, Ph.D., President
Email Todd Berry Todd Berry has been President of the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) since 1994. His experience spans the public, private and non-profit sectors. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, he was Assistant Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Revenue and Executive Director of the Governor's Tax Reform Commission. From 1983 to 1993, he was a marketing executive with one of Wisconsin's oldest family firms. Todd served as a member of the non-partisan Dane County Board, the Jefferson School Board and the CESA #2 Board of Control. He also served 14 years on the North Central College (IL) Board of Trustees. With Bachelor's and Doctoral degrees from UW-Madison, Todd also holds Master's degrees in planning/policy analysis (Harvard) and business administration (University of Chicago).
Learn More about the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance
CSO is very thankful to our friends from the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance for supporting this community-based discussion. Visit WTA on the web at http://wistax.org/.
The nonpartisan Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) was created to empower citizens to run their government by providing them with the research and education needed to fulfill that task.
WISTAX founders believed that informed citizens are vital to effective, representative government. They also recognized the importance of an independent source of unbiased information about Wisconsin government that could be used by citizens and government officials alike.
The Alliance began in the fall of 1931, as the Great Depression began tightening its grip on the state economy. Gov. Philip F. La Follette convened a group of Wisconsin's business leaders to discuss the problems facing state government. State tax collections were declining because of rising unemployment and tax delinquency. At the same time, state government needed more revenue to cover the rising cost of unemployment relief.
From these discussions came the idea for a statewide organization to study taxation and recommend ways to reduce the cost of providing government services. As a result, the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance was formally established on Feb. 15, 1932.
In its first two years of operation, WISTAX was an advocacy group. It developed specific proposals for cutting taxes and government spending and solicited public support for those proposals. WISTAX also attempted to form county taxpayer groups with dues-paying members.
In 1934, this initial approach was abandoned. The Alliance's reports lacked credibility because the organization advocated a point of view and the local taxpayer groups sometimes became involved in political contests.
Since then, WISTAX has done objective research and provided citizens, the media, and public officials with accurate, unbiased information about the workings of Wisconsin state and local government. Over time, WISTAX built an unrivaled reputation as "the independent voice of authority" on Wisconsin state and local government finance.
We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
The nonpartisan Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) was created to empower citizens to run their government by providing them with the research and education needed to fulfill that task.
WISTAX founders believed that informed citizens are vital to effective, representative government. They also recognized the importance of an independent source of unbiased information about Wisconsin government that could be used by citizens and government officials alike.
The Alliance began in the fall of 1931, as the Great Depression began tightening its grip on the state economy. Gov. Philip F. La Follette convened a group of Wisconsin's business leaders to discuss the problems facing state government. State tax collections were declining because of rising unemployment and tax delinquency. At the same time, state government needed more revenue to cover the rising cost of unemployment relief.
From these discussions came the idea for a statewide organization to study taxation and recommend ways to reduce the cost of providing government services. As a result, the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance was formally established on Feb. 15, 1932.
In its first two years of operation, WISTAX was an advocacy group. It developed specific proposals for cutting taxes and government spending and solicited public support for those proposals. WISTAX also attempted to form county taxpayer groups with dues-paying members.
In 1934, this initial approach was abandoned. The Alliance's reports lacked credibility because the organization advocated a point of view and the local taxpayer groups sometimes became involved in political contests.
Since then, WISTAX has done objective research and provided citizens, the media, and public officials with accurate, unbiased information about the workings of Wisconsin state and local government. Over time, WISTAX built an unrivaled reputation as "the independent voice of authority" on Wisconsin state and local government finance.
We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law.
Open Public Forum
Monday, April 29, 2013
5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
Room 1214 Sage Hall
Park in Lot 7 (adjacent to Sage Hall)
5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
Room 1214 Sage Hall
Park in Lot 7 (adjacent to Sage Hall)
Additional Sponsors
The Oshkosh Scene Newspaper
League of Women Voters of Winnebago County
Winnebago County Labor Council
Photos from the Citizens Guide Budget Forum
See the slides here - April 29 Citizens Guide to the State Budget
Moving Forward a Thoughtful Public Policy Framework
CSO meeting held in downtown Oshkosh on Flag Day 2013.
(Oshkosh, Wis. 06-14-2013)
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh held a regular meeting in downtown Oshkosh on Flag Day 2013. The group will continue to explore and discuss the alternative ways to help promote thoughtful and forward-looking discussion on various public policy issues and priorities.
CSO continues to develop ideas and approaches to help the people of Oshkosh see how local, state, national, and global issues all impact the nature, character and quality of public life in the public space of our immediate community.
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh held a regular meeting in downtown Oshkosh on Flag Day 2013. The group will continue to explore and discuss the alternative ways to help promote thoughtful and forward-looking discussion on various public policy issues and priorities.
CSO continues to develop ideas and approaches to help the people of Oshkosh see how local, state, national, and global issues all impact the nature, character and quality of public life in the public space of our immediate community.
An Open Invitation to Dialogue and Discussion
You are cordially invited to attend and participate in open-ended conversations with individuals who are actively involved with the ad hoc grassroots organization known as "Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh" (CSO).
CSO Conversations
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Becket's (Front "glass" room)
Thursday, September 12
We invite participants to get a drink at the bar, order from the menu if you wish, and join the conversation. Some of the items to be discussed include:
CSO Conversations
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Becket's (Front "glass" room)
Thursday, September 12
We invite participants to get a drink at the bar, order from the menu if you wish, and join the conversation. Some of the items to be discussed include:
- Is there an interest in creating an informal network or ongoing discussion forum for individuals to discuss issues and opportunities to build a stronger Oshkosh?
- What type of format or setting would be most conducive for your participation and involvement?
The State Budget: What Will it Mean for Oshkosh Area Citizens?
See also the Oshkosh Northwestern at - web
Oshkosh area residents are invited to participate in a public meeting on “Citizens Guide to the Local Impact of the State Budget” on Monday, April 29, 5:00-6:30 pm, UW Oshkosh Sage Hall Room 1214. Park in Lot 7 on High Avenue adjacent to Sage Hall. Todd Berry, Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) President, will be the keynote speaker. Berry will outline the context and character of the Governor’s proposed 2013-15 biennial budget. The budget is currently being reviewed by the Legislature’s Joint Finance Committee. The Legislature is expected to approve the final 2013-15 state budget in June.
A panel of local officials will comment on the impact of this budget on local government and educational services. Invited panel members include Mark Rohloff, Oshkosh City Manager; Stan Mack, Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent; Richard Wells, UW Oshkosh Chancellor; Mark Harris, Winnebago County Executive; and Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator, Fox Valley Technical College. Audience questions will follow the presentations.
The Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit research organization dedicated to citizen education since 1932. It is considered the state’s leading nonpartisan authority on state government finance and publishes a biweekly newsletter and monthly magazine. Learn more at www.wistax.org.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). Additional sponsors include the League of Women Voters of Winnebago County, Oshkosh Student Association, and others.
“We are fortunate to have one of the state’s leading budget analysts come to Oshkosh to help citizens understand how the budget is constructed and how decisions made in Madison affect local services,” said John Nichols, retired Executive Director, Oshkosh Public Library and Winnefox Library System, and a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh.
CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com . Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event. Download this press release here.
A panel of local officials will comment on the impact of this budget on local government and educational services. Invited panel members include Mark Rohloff, Oshkosh City Manager; Stan Mack, Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent; Richard Wells, UW Oshkosh Chancellor; Mark Harris, Winnebago County Executive; and Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator, Fox Valley Technical College. Audience questions will follow the presentations.
The Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit research organization dedicated to citizen education since 1932. It is considered the state’s leading nonpartisan authority on state government finance and publishes a biweekly newsletter and monthly magazine. Learn more at www.wistax.org.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). Additional sponsors include the League of Women Voters of Winnebago County, Oshkosh Student Association, and others.
“We are fortunate to have one of the state’s leading budget analysts come to Oshkosh to help citizens understand how the budget is constructed and how decisions made in Madison affect local services,” said John Nichols, retired Executive Director, Oshkosh Public Library and Winnefox Library System, and a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh.
CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com . Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event. Download this press release here.
Understanding Wisconsin's Biennial Budget - the Local Impact on Oshkosh Institutions
Plans are being developed for an open public form on the impact of the biennial budget on the people and the institutions of the greater Oshkosh area. Pencil the following date onto your calendar: 5 p.m., Monday, April 29, 2013. Additional details will be provided once the arrangements have been finalized.
Sent to the Oshkosh Northwestern Community Newsroom, Tuesday, September 18 - By Kathy Propp
Oshkosh area residents are invited to participate in “Oshkosh Outlook 2013” on Thursday, September 27, 5:00-6:30 pm at the Oshkosh Convention Center, 2 N. Main St. The program will feature brief presentations by leaders of the key public institutions in Oshkosh about the major issues, initiatives and priorities that the public can expect to see in the coming year. “This is a unique opportunity for the public to hear from key institutions about plans, projects, and collaboration,” said John Nichols, retired Executive Director, Oshkosh Public Library and Winnefox Library System, and a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh. “This program will allow people to see what we all will be talking about during 2012-2013.”
Invited presenters include Mark Rohloff, Oshkosh City Manager; Stan Mack, Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent; Richard Wells, UW Oshkosh Chancellor; Mark Harris, Winnebago County Executive; Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator, Fox Valley Technical College; and Wendy Hielsberg, Executive Director, Oshkosh Convention and Tourism Bureau. Audience questions will follow the presentations.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). Additional sponsors include the League of Women Voters of Winnebago County, American Democracy Project UW Oshkosh, Oshkosh Area United Way, Middle Village Neighborhood Association, Oshkosh Civility Project, The Oshkosh Scene, Oshkosh Race Unity Project, Community for Hope of Greater Oshkosh, Winnebago County Labor Council, and others.
Program sponsors are optimistic for the future of Oshkosh. “Oshkosh leaders have been very creative despite the economy, in initiating new projects,” said Paulette Feld, AFSCME Council 24 President. “Even during difficult times, our broader community is advancing a number of key projects and priorities.” She added that the combined presentation will allow everyone to see the real progress being made in the greater Oshkosh area.
CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com . Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event.
The meeting is free; non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. Optional post-event conversations will take place at Cranky Pat’s, 100 N. Main St.
Invited presenters include Mark Rohloff, Oshkosh City Manager; Stan Mack, Oshkosh Area School District Superintendent; Richard Wells, UW Oshkosh Chancellor; Mark Harris, Winnebago County Executive; Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator, Fox Valley Technical College; and Wendy Hielsberg, Executive Director, Oshkosh Convention and Tourism Bureau. Audience questions will follow the presentations.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh (CSO). Additional sponsors include the League of Women Voters of Winnebago County, American Democracy Project UW Oshkosh, Oshkosh Area United Way, Middle Village Neighborhood Association, Oshkosh Civility Project, The Oshkosh Scene, Oshkosh Race Unity Project, Community for Hope of Greater Oshkosh, Winnebago County Labor Council, and others.
Program sponsors are optimistic for the future of Oshkosh. “Oshkosh leaders have been very creative despite the economy, in initiating new projects,” said Paulette Feld, AFSCME Council 24 President. “Even during difficult times, our broader community is advancing a number of key projects and priorities.” She added that the combined presentation will allow everyone to see the real progress being made in the greater Oshkosh area.
CSO describes itself as an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization. The organization promotes civil dialogue and creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement. CSO believes that a key to community growth – and for preserving and enhancing quality of life – is an active, informed, and involved local citizenry.
Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com . Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event.
The meeting is free; non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. Optional post-event conversations will take place at Cranky Pat’s, 100 N. Main St.
Oshkosh Outlook 2013
Sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh
Thursday, September 27, 2012 – 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.
Oshkosh Convention Center – 2 N. Main Street, Oshkosh, Wisc.
- Oshkosh Outlook 2013 is a preview of coming attractions for the people and the organizations of the greater Oshkosh area.
- Speakers will address issues, initiatives and priorities for the coming year.
Invited Presentations
- City of Oshkosh – Mark Rohloff, City Manager
- Fox Valley Technical College (Oshkosh) – Melissa Kohn, Campus Administrator
- Oshkosh Area School District – Stan Mack, Superintendent
- Oshkosh Visitors and Convention Bureau – Wendy Hielsberg, Executive Director
- University of Wisconsin Oshkosh – Art Rathjen, President, UW Oshkosh Foundation
- Winnebago County – Mark Harris, County Executive
- Winnebago County Labor Council
- League of Women Voters of Winnebago County
- American Democracy Project, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh
- Oshkosh Area United Way
- Middle Village Neighborhood Association
- Oshkosh Civility Project
- Community for Hope of Greater Oshkosh, Inc.
- The Oshkosh Scene
- Oshkosh Race Unity Project
- OACF
- Friends of Winnebago County Dog Parks, Inc.
- If your organization wants to be listed as a sponsor, please see below, or contact CSO by email sent to the following: [email protected]
Note: Beverages will be provided. Optional post-event conversations will take place at Cranky Pat’s Pizzeria and Pub – 100 N. Main Street, Oshkosh.
About CSO: Visit Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh on the web or on Facebook. Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh is an open, inclusive and non-partisan community-based organization that creates settings for citizens to identify, review and discuss current needs, emerging priorities and opportunities for improvement.
Contact us at: [email protected]
Visit IWF at: Institute for Wisconsin's Future
Contact IWF at: [email protected]
IWF's Mission
- Sustain strong communities where effective public structures ensure every person and business has the opportunity to succeed and prosper.
- Promote a revenue system for Wisconsin that generates adequate funding so that local government, school districts and state programs can maintain quality services.
- Strengthen citizen engagement and power in public policy decision making through community education and organizing.
- Champion state and local tax policies that are fair and progressive.
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh
Institute for Wisconsin's Future
The organization known as the "Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh" was developed as a result of organizing efforts made possible by the Institute for Wisconsin's Future (IWF).
Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh: Organizing for Strength
Download WTA Report
Special thanks to our friends from WTA for allowing us to provide this download of a key report. Please consider joining or supporting that organization.
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We Are Now Recruiting Members
There is no charge for being a member of Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh. Individuals can choose either to have their name published (we don't publish membership emails). Individuals who join with us can opt to have their name not published. Email lists will be used to inform members of activities and events relating to the efforts of the organization.
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Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance points out some interesting facts about biennial budget
The $3.6 billion deficit said to be addressed in the biennial budget was an estimate of the general fund imbalance caused by a combination of factors, not limited to prior fiscal expenditures. It related to projected revenues and planned or proposed expenditure requests.
The net GPR spending under the new budget - nearly $28 1/2 billion is a $1.84 billion increase over the past biennium. General fund expenditures are 6.0% greater than the prior biennial budget.
The net GPR spending under the new budget - nearly $28 1/2 billion is a $1.84 billion increase over the past biennium. General fund expenditures are 6.0% greater than the prior biennial budget.
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Oshkosh, Wis. (12-14-2011). Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh, CSO, is in the process of creating a web presence reflective of efforts dating back to 2007. CSO is established as an independent and non-partisan unincorporated non-profit organization. Learn more on this website:
CSO Sponsors a Community Conversation
7:00 to 8:30 p.m. - Thursday, April 12
FVTC Riverside Campus - Room 133
150 N. Campbell Road - Oshkosh, Wisconsin
A Taxing Conversation: Competing Views on Wisconsin Tax Policy
Two noted experts on tax policy – George Lightbourn from the conservative Wisconsin Policy Research Institute and Dr. Jack Norman from the progressive Institute for Wisconsin’s Future will address two key questions:
1) How does tax policy impact economic growth?
2) How should tax responsibility be shared?
George Lightbourn is President of the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute, a free market think tank committed to small government. Mr. Lightbourn served two governors as Secretary of the Wisconsin Dept of Administration.
Dr. Jack Norman is Research Director at the Institute for Wisconsin’s Future, a progressive think tank committed to a strong public sector. Before joining IWF, Jack was a reporter at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel where he served as president of the Milwaukee newspaper Guild.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh, a non-partisan organization of community leaders which promotes civil dialogue and debate to further understanding of the importance of public structures and the impact of government policy on those structures. Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com for further information.
Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event. The meeting is free but donations to cover costs of videotaping will be accepted.
Please click on the appropriate response, below. [You may also RSVP by visiting the following website: http://tiny.cc/cso_tax_policy.)
[] - RSVP - YES - I plan to attend the meeting 7 p.m., Thursday, April 12 - room 133 FVTC Riverside Campus - 150 N. Campbell Road, Oshkosh
[] - RSVP - NO - Sorry: I am not able to attend the event.
FVTC Riverside Campus - Room 133
150 N. Campbell Road - Oshkosh, Wisconsin
A Taxing Conversation: Competing Views on Wisconsin Tax Policy
Two noted experts on tax policy – George Lightbourn from the conservative Wisconsin Policy Research Institute and Dr. Jack Norman from the progressive Institute for Wisconsin’s Future will address two key questions:
1) How does tax policy impact economic growth?
2) How should tax responsibility be shared?
- Stew Rieckman, General Manager and Executive Editor of The Oshkosh Northwestern, will act as moderator for the discussion. Audience members may submit questions in writing to the speakers.
George Lightbourn is President of the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute, a free market think tank committed to small government. Mr. Lightbourn served two governors as Secretary of the Wisconsin Dept of Administration.
Dr. Jack Norman is Research Director at the Institute for Wisconsin’s Future, a progressive think tank committed to a strong public sector. Before joining IWF, Jack was a reporter at Milwaukee Journal Sentinel where he served as president of the Milwaukee newspaper Guild.
The event is sponsored by Citizens for a Strong Oshkosh, a non-partisan organization of community leaders which promotes civil dialogue and debate to further understanding of the importance of public structures and the impact of government policy on those structures. Visit the CSO website at http://csoshkosh.weebly.com for further information.
Contact Kathy Propp (League of Women Voters) at 231-4770 or [email protected] for questions about the event. The meeting is free but donations to cover costs of videotaping will be accepted.
Please click on the appropriate response, below. [You may also RSVP by visiting the following website: http://tiny.cc/cso_tax_policy.)
[] - RSVP - YES - I plan to attend the meeting 7 p.m., Thursday, April 12 - room 133 FVTC Riverside Campus - 150 N. Campbell Road, Oshkosh
[] - RSVP - NO - Sorry: I am not able to attend the event.