My Priorities

Economic Growth

As President of the Village of Waunakee, I have worked to ensure our community remains a vibrant, thriving place to live while keeping property taxes manageable for residents. A key part of this effort is expanding our local tax revenue base by fostering residential and business growth and enhancing services that drive economic prosperity.

By attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and encouraging strategic residential development, we have strengthened our community. This approach generates additional revenue and helps us move toward a more balanced tax base that will help offset the reliance on residential property taxes, reducing the financial burden on homeowners. Investments in infrastructure, streamlined business regulations, and innovation-friendly policies continue to make Waunakee a hub for sustainable growth.

A strong and growing community directly benefits our schools. Increased revenue means better resources, competitive teacher salaries, and improved facilities, ensuring Waunakee’s students receive the highest quality education. Strong schools are essential to our village’s long-term success, and by continuing to grow our tax base through residential and business expansion, we can provide financial stability without increasing property taxes on families.

I remain committed to smart, forward-thinking policies that drive economic growth while keeping Waunakee an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.

Working to Address Missing Middle and Workforce Housing

Every community across the state, ours included, is struggling to create and maintain a supply of homes accessible to middle- and working-income families.

In 2024 I worked with the Community Development Authority to establish the Waunakee Housing Betterment Fund. Funded through state rules that allow the extension of a TID district by one year, in its first year the program granted over $75,000 to qualified residents whose homes need repair.

Over the past several years, those of us on the Community Development Authority committee have been researching additional programs to help address missing middle and workforce housing in the Village.

Sense of Belonging

I have been committed to fostering a community where every resident feels welcome, valued, and connected. A strong sense of belonging is essential to the well-being of our village, and I am proud of the progress we have made in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Moving forward, I remain dedicated to strengthening this sense of belonging by enhancing public spaces, promoting community events, and fostering dialogue that brings us closer together. By continuing to listen, engage, and lead with a focus on unity, we can ensure that Waunakee remains not just a place to live—but a place to truly call home.

Thoughtful Growth

As President of the Village of Waunakee, I believe in a philosophy of controlled, responsible growth that ensures our community remains a welcoming place for all who wish to call it home. Over the years, I have taken a thoughtful approach to development, ensuring that housing remains accessible, essential services keep pace with growth, and our village maintains its high quality of life.

Moving forward, I will continue to prioritize smart growth in including businesses, amenities, and shops that ensure affordability, sustainability, and strong community connections.

Collaboration with Neighboring Communities

Collaboration has been key to our success so far, and I will ensure that we will continue working with neighboring municipalities to address regional growth challenges in a constructive and forward-thinking way. By fostering strong partnerships, we can guide development that supports our long-term vision while maintaining Waunakee’s small-town feel.

Our village is growing, but we are ensuring that growth happens the right way—with careful planning, a focus on public services, and a commitment to keeping Waunakee a place we are all proud to call home.

Get in touch at krisrunge@gmail.com