Kunst addresses villagers for first time since taking over
By Steve Kunst
The beginning of 2023 in the Village is one of excitement and transition.
As mentioned in President Davies’ article, we are welcoming a new Village President this April. President Davies served the Village as a Trustee and President for the last 20 years and you will not find a stronger supporter of the Village, its residents, businesses, and employees.
I’d like to thank him for his countless hours of service, energy, and passion serving our community. From everyone under the municipal umbrella, we wish him the absolute best in his future endeavors.
The early part of this year also saw the retirement of Village Administrator and former Chief of Police, Dan Ault. Dan’s impeccable character, strong leadership, and forward-thinking approach to municipal management will surely be missed.
Which brings me to myself. I’m excited to continue serving Plover in my new role as Village Administrator. I came to the Village in 2019 as the Community Development Manager to oversee aspects of planning, zoning, and economic development.
As part of the Village Board’s succession plan for the Administrator position, I also became the Assistant Administrator in 2021 and worked with Dan Ault up until his retirement. The ultimate goal of the succession plan is to provide a seamless transition of leadership and continue building on all the wonderful things that make Plover a great place to live, work, and play.
As for the exciting things to come, we look forward to the first full season of the updated Lake Pacawa Park. The grand reopening of the Park as part of Celebrate Plover last year was an incredible success. The Park saw a significant increase in activity. From the splash and play area, beach, multi-use path, fishing piers, and canoe kayak launch, Lake Pacawa Park brought a lot of people to the heart of Plover.
Speaking of Celebrate Plover, starting this year it is now a two-day event. Kicking off the festivities is the 3rd annual Lake Pacawa Run, Walk, and Roll 5K on Friday, July 28th with music by Southbound.
Saturday the 29th includes numerous youth activities, water fights, a performance by Dance Dynamics, music by the Ultimate Polka Band, Pat Keller and Grand Union, a business expo, craft vendors, and a firework show at dusk.
Stay informed on all things Celebrate Plover by following the Celebrate Plover Facebook page or the Celebrate Plover website.
This year will also provide a renewed focus on promoting the Plover area. As part of a joint effort between the Village and Town of Plover a new Plover Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is being formed to promote everything our great area has to offer. I am so proud of our community and look forward to our future.