Response to recent questionnaire provided by the Tribune.
CANDIDATE PROFILES | La Crosse mayor Ellie McLoone: La Crosse mayor candidate Caden Perry Jan 29, 2025
The Tribune sent a questionnaire with a bio and three questions to all four mayoral candidates ahead of the Feb. 18 primary election.
Candidates were limited to 700 characters, about 150 words, per question. The primary election will narrow the race to two candidates. The final mayoral election takes place on April 1.
Ellie McLoone Age: 60 Occupation: Real Estate Agent
Q: Should the role of La Crosse’s mayor be more outward-facing or inward-facing? How would you balance the two?
A: The mayor’s role is both outward and inward facing, as I interpret your question. Outward as an ambassador for the city to promote our community for business growth, tourism, development for both housing and retail expansion. Tackling residents’ concerns such as roads, homelessness, safety, expenditures and environmental issues. Working with neighboring communities to better our coulee region now and for the future.
Inward, look at the city’s needs & wants to make common sense decisions. Working with department heads to address the current, future and unforeseen emergencies within the city. The mayor’s role is the face of La Crosse which tackles all inward and outward possibilities.
Q: What would you change about the city’s response to homelessness, if anything? Why?
A: As I mentioned in my mayoral announcement, we need a State funded detox and counseling facility on the west side of the State. Mental illness tends to be a leading cause of homelessness, a State funded program combined with the programs currently in La Crosse is a start to curb this complicated situation. With a State funded facility this will also alleviate the demand on local efforts so they can address those homeless for other reasons than drug or mental health concerns. Ongoing communication is an important factor to avoid any duplicated services and discuss best practices.
Q: The city’s Housing Study reported La Crosse needs 230 new housing units per year to meet demand for housing. How would you address the city’s housing crunch?
A: Updated codes will help in development. Re-evaluate the flood plain to remove homes from overburdened restrictions. About 1,700 homes are in the flood plain. State & FEMA need to assist the City to resolve the issue. A study underway, Water Resources Act, is looking at the 7 levees currently in North La Crosse for safety and improvements. This emphasizes the need to engage communication with local developers to seek their professional input. There are several developments underway or in the process of development which will add housing in the future. There will always be ups and downs in the housing market. Staying informed of updated regulations and long-term planning is a major goal.