Browsing Category Superior Wisconsin City Council Ex-Members

About Former City Councilors of Superior: The Legends, The Myths, The Survivors

Superior, Wisconsin—where city councilors come, go, and occasionally stick around long enough to develop a permanent chair groove. Our ex-councilors are a special breed—part civic leader, part cat wrangler, and always trying to remember if they approved that pothole patching contract back in ’09.

These brave souls took on the impossible: balancing city budgets with duct tape and good intentions, while dodging complaints about snow plows, barking dogs, and why the city didn’t put in that one stop sign someone’s been demanding since the 80s. They’ve sat through more marathon meetings than marathon runners actually run, and yet somehow survived to tell the tale.

Former councilors come from all walks of life—small business owners, teachers, retired folks who just wanted something to do on Tuesday nights. They’ve tackled everything from pothole diplomacy to explaining why tax increases don’t come with a free toaster. And when they finally escape—I mean, retire—they don’t just disappear. Nope, many of them still hang around, dishing out advice like political Yodas at local diners, reminding everyone how things were “back in my day.”

In Superior, ex-councilors are like local celebrities—minus the fame, fortune, and paparazzi. They may be out of office, but their stories (and opinions) live on!

Illustration of a city council meeting discussing a 25% pay raise proposal with various characters and elements.

SoupNutz Episode 10: Unpacking City Council Raises – Priorities in Question Amid Pothole Crisis

in City Hall City of Superior Garner Moffat Jenny Van Sickle Mayor Jim Paine Ruth Ludwig Tylor Elm on Share

In this episode of SoupNutz, we dive into the controversial city council decision to approve unearned raises while vital issues like road repairs languish. Join us for a sharp critique filled with wit as we explore bold alternatives to wasteful spending in local politics.

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A digital illustration depicting a tense Superior City Council meeting. At the center, Mayor Jim Paine and Councilor Jenny Van Sickle sit close together, their expressions calm but resolute, symbolizing their united front amidst the controversy. Across the room, Councilor Craig Sutherland stands, holding a formal letter, gesturing pointedly as he raises his concerns. The room is filled with other councilors, some appearing neutral, others whispering among themselves, reflecting divided opinions. A backdrop of Wisconsin state legal text subtly overlays the scene, highlighting the conflict-of-interest statute at the heart of the debate. The atmosphere is a blend of professional tension and political drama. Around Paine, the surrounding trees are adorned with small “Protected” signs, symbolizing the proposed conservation status. Yet, in the distance, Uncle Fred’s property has more casual fencing, showing a different, less regulated look that hints at development. An eagle is perched nearby, representing the sanctuary’s intended purpose, watching over the scene. Overall, the image portrays a juxtaposition: the untouched wilderness contrasted with encroaching development, symbolizing the tension between public preservation and private interests.

Mayor Jim Paine and Councilor Jenny Van Sickle’s Marriage Sparks Local Controversy

in City Hall City of Superior Jenny Van Sickle Mayor Jim Paine on Share

Concerns about potential conflicts of interest have arisen following the marriage of Superior Mayor Jim Paine and City Councilor Jenny Van Sickle, prompting Councilor Craig Sutherland to seek legal guidance. The situation has ignited a heated debate over ethics and transparency within local government, as both officials defend their positions amid allegations of undermining public trust.

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