Paid Letters to the Editor

We welcome letters to the Editor, a chance for members of the community to comment on issues of concern to them. All letters must be original, not duplications of letters addressed to public officials or written by others. The views and opinions expressed are those of the letter writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of this publication, its publishers, Editor, or staff.

To the Editor:
Four years ago, Jeremy Thompson wrote a letter in support of Steve Hass as mayor. He said, Steve is one of the nicest people you will ever meet. He was spot on and so was Elroy “Heine” Lemke, one of Merrill’s World War II heroes. Tina Scott wrote a spectacular story months before Heine’s death, and in that story, when asked what advice he had for everyone, his reply was: “to be kind”. Mayor Hass follows this advice daily. I also learned early in working with Steve not to get him upset and that was even after sharing about blood pressure medication during the council meetings. If he has to be the bear you tried to brand in hibernation, he can deliver.
I had the unique opportunity to work with the last three mayors during my eight years serving on the City Council and the write-in candidate for this year’s election. They are all my friends. But this election isn’t about friends, but who is best qualified and most experienced to lead the executive branch of government in the City of Merrill. Most citizens don’t know how local government works, but understand who the mayor is and like to see him at community events, business celebrations, etc. We all have our strengths and weaknesses, as do mayors and candidates, but Mayor Hass stands out in a few areas. He has heart, which is critical if you have to lead or be responsible for people. He listens and is always willing to meet with citizens who disagree or agree with his policies. He is the best deal the City of Merrill has for the city’s employee budget. He is paid as a half-time mayor working full-time, 36-40 hours a week, plus community events. He is the most visible mayor to the community we have had in the last decade, constantly in the Foto News, WJMT, and at events. Mayor Hass has a strong working relationship with the Common Council for the city of Merrill. Combined, all levels of our government are where decision-making and power lie for the city. That doesn’t happen overnight since new members of the council don’t have the experience and knowledge of their positions. Mayor Hass served as an alderman from 2004-2014 and 2018-2022, in addition to serving as mayor from 2022 to present, totalling 18 years of service to the city of Merrill. He has been a great role model and mentor for others in city government to do what is best for the citizens/taxpayers of our city.
For all of these reasons, I will be voting for Mayor Hass and encourage all of you to do the same.

- Very respectfully, Paul Russell
(Former city council president and 1st district alderman)
Merrill, Wis.

The cost for Paid Letters to the Editor is $100 for the first 200 words and an additional $25 per additional 50 words, and must be prepaid prior to printing. All Paid Letters to the Editor will be clearly labeled as a “Paid Letter to the Editor.” [Some submissions may be referred to our advertising department to be run as ads.]
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