Board appoints Edward Schmitz to Marshall trustee seat after split vote

The Marshall Village Board appointed Edward Schmitz to a vacant trustee seat on July 9 after a vote that split 4-2-1.

Administrator Brandon Bledsoe introduced the two candidates: Edward Schmitz, who moved to Marshall in September 2023 and described his priorities as steady growth, preserving a small-town character and carrying forward work of prior boards; and John Moses, who has lived in Marshall for four years, operates an RV dealership in Baraboo and emphasized pro-development positions and community involvement. Schmitz’s background cited in the minutes includes six years in the military and advanced degrees in criminal justice, business administration and compliance and risk management.

Trustees questioned both candidates about their vision and workplace strengths. According to the minutes, Schmitz said he would "carry out the will of the community regarding the future — steady growth, small town feel," and described his strengths as analytical and collaborative. The minutes record that Moses said he responds to issues like a "firefighter" and is "all-in" on seeing projects through.

Motion to appoint Schmitz was made by Trustee Elesa Kinder and seconded by Trustee Ryan Frey; the motion carried with Trustees Bowman, Frey, Kinder and Jackson voting yes, President Schuepbach and Trustee Jason Pitzer voting no, and Trustee Tara Gibbons abstaining. The appointed term runs through April 2026. The minutes do not record any further formal conditions or a swearing-in date.

The board also presented Trustee Tara Gibbons with a formal proclamation and plaque earlier in the meeting recognizing her service; that presentation was nonactionable.