12/06/2024
This is a little long. I appreciate your indulgence:
To the residents of the Village of Brooklyn:
For the last 4 years, I have had the honor and privilege of serving as the President of Brooklyn. My running mates and I ran on a platform of bringing change to the Village. Looking back on our accomplishments, I feel that we have made great strides in that direction. In the last 4 years we have added 50 acres to our Business Park, which has allowed existing businesses to expand, as well as attracted new businesses. We have already negotiated the cost of the next 40 acres, due to the expertise of Trustee Mike Brusberg. We have also invested in revitalizing our downtown area, which will only make Brooklyn stronger.
After several conversations with my wife and family, I feel that the time has come to pass the torch. We have established a strong foundation, and I hope that future Village Boards continue to build on it. I did not do this myself, as I am but one vote on the Board. Therefore, there are many thanks to pass along.
First and foremost, I have to thank our incredible staff. Linda Kuhlman and Vicki Olson are possibly the most efficient clerks I have ever seen. At no time has a situation come up for which they didn’t have a solution to recommend. Ladies, you are amazing! Our Public Works Department, under the leadership of Director Leif Spilde and Assistant Director Brian Roberts, with Brandon Hollis and Joe Reilly, ensure that the physical operations of the Village run flawlessly. Thank you guys! Thank you to Merrick Grumke, our deputy, and all of those with the Dane County Sheriff’s Office who work so hard to keep us safe. A big thank you is also due to Chief Mason Barber, Assistant Chiefs Leif Spilde (again) and Justin Wicik, as well as all of the Officers, firefighters, and EMT’s of the Brooklyn Fire Protection District. We are beyond lucky to know that you have our backs.
During my tenure, I have had the privilege to serve with some incredible people on our Board. My running mates Mike Brusberg, Jacob Bachim, and Brandon Arndt shared a vision with me to make Brooklyn successful for our residents and businesses. Dan Olson, Sean Brennum, and Kyle Smith welcomed us, and made for a smooth transition. Janeen Podgorski, David Berland, Chris Gronier, Mike Gehrmann, and Christian Allen stepped up and have done a great job moving the Village forward. I can’t thank you enough for what all of you have meant to me.
I absolutely have to thank all of the people of Brooklyn. I have treasured the trust you placed in me to serve as your President. This experience has changed me so much. It taught me to think about how many people are affected by the decisions we as a Board make. I have done the best I could, and I hope all of you are at least a little better off for it.
I would also like to take a moment to express my appreciation to all of the business owners who have invested in our Village. Thank you so much for your commitment!
Finally, I have to express my deep appreciation to my wife, Julie. She backed me 100% when I decided to run, and has been by my side throughout this amazing journey. She was my sounding board, venting target, and my shoulder to lean on. Thank you, baby!
If you are walking along North Kerch Street, and you see us sitting outside, please feel free to stop by and say hello. You are why this Village is as awesome as it is, and I appreciate you. Farewell!
Mark Bruner
