Paul Esslinger
Candidate for Mayor

2350 High Oak Drive
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 426-9750

Biographical Information

Age: 39
Occupation: Account Executive with Charter Media
Family: Wife: Jackie, Children: Carson 5, Sydney 3
Hobby: Collecting old brewery items
Special interest: World War II history (especially aviation related)

Position Statement

Last November, the citizens of Oshkosh by referendum said that they wanted to directly elect their mayor.  I would like to have the privilege of holding the position of mayor for several reasons.

1. I believe that the mayor of Oshkosh must be able to represent every segment of the community regardless of wealth, political persuasion, or where in the city a resident resides.  Respect must be given to all.
2. I am in touch with the hardworking citizens of Oshkosh.
3. I am not swayed by special interest groups.
4. I encourage citizen participation in city government.
5. As an elected representative of the city, I believe the mayor should represent the majority interest of the citizens of Oshkosh.

As you may know, I have fought hard over the past 4+ years to stop spending on “wants” and luxury items, and have concentrated on core services like improved streets, quality fire and police protection, the alleviation of flooding and a new city garage.

I have also asked tough questions of the city staff and have been critical of them when they recommended public bids be waived for playground equipment and the Riverside Park restrooms.

While other candidates’ talk of “progress” will push us further into debt with items we don’t need or can’t afford, I will continue to fight to reduce our debt.  Oshkosh taxpayers currently pay 26 cents of every dollar just to pay off our debt payments.  This is wrong and we need to get a handle on our debt and spending.

If elected to the position of mayor, I will focus on bringing back the Citizens Advisory Committee so average citizens will have a voice in their government, not just well- connected special interest groups.  I will also try to find a way to bring some family venues to the city that will bring people into Oshkosh that will produce revenue and reduce the burden on the taxpayer.  I think some type of facility like Green Bay’s Bay Beach Amusement Park would be a great asset to the city of Oshkosh.

In closing, I would ask that you vote for someone who has a proven track record of asking tough questions, keeping the city administration accountable, listening to your concerns and not selling out to special interest groups; VOTE PAUL ESSLINGER FOR MAYOR.