Dear editor,

I have known Zach Vruwink for many years.  It was my pleasure and privilege to work with him and his staff to address economic development and workforce development in our region.

I have always been impressed with his professional approach and open mind.  Several years ago the city commissioned a housing survey and with that information Zach pursued what was needed.  Look at the number of new housing properties in the city now.

The riverfront development leverages our great natural asset, the river, like has never been done before leveraging various new funding sources.

Engaging the younger generation, his Mayor’s Youth Council has inspired many of our youth with the knowledge and potential to activate positive change in our community.

And finally, after decades of talk and no action, we finally will have a new aquatic facility that will be the envy of the region, attracting new families and businesses like Matalco.

This is the Zach that gets things done, truly renewing Rapids, our beloved city.  Please join me in voting for him in the coming election.

Rick Merdan

Wisconsin Rapids