WINNECONNE, Wis. – On Friday, Winneconne Area School Board Clerk Kari Flagg made public the documents that formed the basis of the board’s decision to reject two recall petitions targeting Board President Kati Calewarts and Vice President Dean Ackman. The clerk said the recall organizers failed to follow state election rules when they submitted their campaign‑registration and petition‑intent forms to former District Administrator Peggy Larson instead of delivering them directly to the clerk’s office.
Procedural misstep cited as reason for rejection
Under Wisconsin’s election statutes, recall petition paperwork must be filed with the designated clerk to trigger the 60‑day signature‑collection period. Flagg explained that because the forms were handed to Larson, she never received the documents herself and therefore could not verify that the registration transaction was completed. In her view, this omission means the statutory clock never started, rendering the petitions invalid.
Allegations of illegal acceptance
Flagg also asserted that it was unlawful for Larson to accept the forms on behalf of the clerk’s office. She noted that the recall organizers have already lodged a complaint with the Wisconsin Elections Commission, seeking a review of the board’s handling of the matter.
Board’s response and next steps
The Winneconne Area School Board has stood by the clerk’s interpretation of the law, emphasizing the importance of adhering to established filing procedures to protect the integrity of the recall process. Board members said they will cooperate fully with any investigation by the state elections commission and will consider any further action if the commission finds a procedural error.
What this means for local voters
Recall petitions are a vital tool for community members who wish to hold elected officials accountable. However, the state’s strict filing requirements are designed to ensure that recalls are pursued responsibly and not used frivolously. By enforcing these rules, the board aims to preserve the legitimacy of the recall mechanism while safeguarding the stability of school governance.
Community reaction
Local residents expressed mixed feelings. Some praised the board for upholding the law, while others voiced concern that procedural technicalities might impede legitimate attempts to address perceived leadership issues. The ongoing dialogue underscores the community’s deep investment in the school district’s direction and the importance of transparent, lawful processes.
Looking ahead
Should the Wisconsin Elections Commission determine that the board’s rejection was improper, the recall effort could be revived, and a new signature‑collection window would be opened. Until then, President Calewarts and Vice President Ackman remain in their elected positions, continuing to oversee the district’s educational programs and policies.
For further updates on this developing story, residents are encouraged to monitor announcements from the Winneconne Area School Board and the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
Original reporting: WHBY (Appleton) — read the source article.
