WOOD COUNTY – As the spring 2026 elections approach, a mix of incumbent and new candidates have declared their campaigns. One of the most important civic duties of an American citizen is to vote, and an informed vote is the most influential in shaping our communities. The following are some of the elections taking place and those who have declared their candidacy.
Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Matt Zacher’s first two-year term will end in April, and citizens will elect a mayor to the office’s first three-year term, per a March decision by the Wisconsin Rapids Common Council. Zacher is running for reelection and is challenged by Tom Terry Mews.
The Wisconsin Rapids Common Council has half its seats up for election this spring: Districts 2, 4, 6 and 8. Current District 2 alderperson Dean Veneman filed a declaration of noncandidacy, removing himself from the race. Alderpersons serve two-year terms. Candidates include:
The Wisconsin Rapids School Board, comprised of seven members, will elect two members this spring. Board members serve three-year term. The candidates, both incumbents, are Kathi Stebbins-Hintz and John A. Krings.
The Wisconsin Rapids municipal judge, city attorney and city clerk positions are also up for election this spring. Each role serves a four-year term. Current Municipal Judge Stephen E. Walczak and City Clerk Jennifer Nepper Gossick are running for reelection, while incumbent City Attorney Susan C. Schill is also running again, challenged by Adam Vanderwerff.
All of the 19 Wood County Board seats are up for election this spring. A primary was held on Feb. 17 for the District 9 seat, and incumbent Scott Brehm and Paul Goldberg will be on the April 7 ballot. Board members serve a two-year term.
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