Olson to host Portage County meet-and-greets as executive bid continues

By Brandi Makuski

PORTAGE COUNTY — County executive candidate Eric Olson will host a series of informal meet-and-greet events this month aimed at connecting with voters across both rural and urban parts of the county.

Olson said the gatherings are intended to give residents a chance to share concerns, ask questions and learn more about his background in community development and public administration as he campaigns for the county’s top elected role.

“I’m running for County Executive because I believe deeply in the importance of this elected role and its ability to advance the public good,” Olson said. “Portage County deserves leadership that is accountable to all voters and focused on building a strong, healthy future for our communities.”

Olson previously ran for county executive in 2022, losing by what he described as the closest margin of any county executive race in Wisconsin history.

If elected, he said he would focus on being visible and accessible while working closely with county staff and community stakeholders.

“I will be a strong advocate for county staff who serve the public every day, and I will champion science- and evidence-based approaches to protecting public health, safety and welfare,” Olson said.

Two events are scheduled for Monday, Feb. 16, at 3 p.m. at the Jensen Center in Amherst and at 5 p.m. at the Rosholt branch of the Portage County Library. Additional meet-and-greets will be held Friday, Feb. 20, at noon at the Portage County Library in Stevens Point and Sunday, Feb. 22, at 4 p.m. at Sunset Point Winery.

Olson said residents from all parts of the county are encouraged to attend.