Resident Launches Write-in Campaign for Open Seat

After Ald. Joe Dean filed his noncandidacy papers in December and no other candidates for the 5th District surfaced, the spot became slated for a write-in race — a race that seemed to be very empty until Kevin Rudser's announcement to run.

"I have enjoyed my nearly 8 years in Port Washington and have been active in a number of committees and boards," Rudser said in an e-mail to Patch. "I believe in our community and want to see it continue to grow and prosper.  As an alderman, it would allow me to serve our community and be a voice for our district. I believe we still have work to do, but that we are headed in a very positive direction. With the support of my family and friends, I ultimately decided to run."

Rudser's slogan on fliers is, "A TALL man with a BIG heart for Port Washington." He is a Board of Public Works member, co-chair of the Port Washington Beach Safety Committee, works with Main Street, helped build Possibility Playground and more.

On election day, voters should write his name in the write-in space available for 5th District alderman if they choose to elect him; there will be no candidate names officially on the ballot.

The three other seats up for election all have uncontested races. Those include the 3rd District, where Ald. Jim Vollmar has decided not to seek re-election. There, newcomer Bill Driscoll is the only candidate.

In the 1st District, incumbent Mike Ehrlich is the only candidate; in the 7th District, incumbent Dan Becker is the only person running.

Port Washington aldermen make $3,750 annually and serve two-year terms. The spring election is April 2.