Mayoral Forum Presents Differences Between Chiaverotti, Hudock

A near-capacity Alderman's room in City Hall was presented with the two candidates for mayor, Luke Hudock and Kathy Chiaverotti, and the differences that separate them.

A question that asked for each candidate's experience in several areas, including long-range planning, budgets, increasing business and leadership among others was submitted.  Hudock responded first, noting the intent of the question to present the difference in length of experience.

"I've run two businesses, had to manage a budget and have been involved in long-term planning," Hudock said.  "I have not previously held office, but I don't think that being a politician is necessarily what performing this job requires."

Hudock further explained his position, using former stock broker Bernie Madoff in saying that "he had financial experience, but no one would want him to handle their finances."

Chiaverotti cited her experience, including a seat on Paul Ryan's small business advisory board, chamber of commerce executive directorship, and her present position as a County Supervisor as important involvements leading her to a 'natural step' to running for mayor.

However, Hudock said that a longer resume also means a longer record, and stated that Chiaverotti voted for spending projects while on the board, most notably a $36 million HHS building.  The vote came as the November elections had clearly defined what "people's moods on lowering spending"  were, according to Hudock.

Chiaverotti explained that her decision to vote was based on a request by other supervisors to wait one year on the expense, which she said would have meant an additional $2 million in costs.

Regarding spending locally, each saw an estimated $250,000 shortfall to the budget in the wake of the governor's budget cuts, with Chiaverotti adding an estimated $90,ooo in transportation funds to be cut.

"Things will have to be done, but Muskego has needed to cut its spending before this happened," Hudock stated.  "Spending has increased $1.2 million, and we are taking in $50,000 less in revenue.  I am not for cutting services, but there are different ways to deliver these services, like outsourcing, that can be looked at."

Chiaverotti stated she felt more optimistic.

"I don't see anything really drastic in cuts," she said.  "The savings that could be realized with employee contribution to their benefits is estimated at $200,000." An estimated $100,000 in employee health care contributions, which the city won in arbitration, may also be realized.