Spring 2020 Eau Claire County Board Candidate Questionnaire District 18

Spring 2020 Candidate Questionnaire: Eau Claire County Board

District 18: James Dunning and Chase Matthews

Note: These questions were drafted and candidate responses requested before concerns about COVID-19 escalated to their current level.

Q1. What are your background and qualifications for this position, and why are you a candidate?

James Dunning
There are still County programs to be completed that I believe I have the ability, desire and experience to complete.  My background as an engineer, business owner, environmental engineer, community service involvement, and county supervisor have prepared me to accomplish the tasks that need to be done to continue to create a community that we want for the current residents and the residents of the future. 

Chase Mattews
No response received


Q2. What is the County Board’s role in promoting economic development, business maintenance and commercial growth in the county?

James Dunning
The County has the need to make the County attractive as a place to develop a business.  It can do this by providing the necessary infrastructure needed such as roads, transportation, appropriate regulations and a culture that will be attractive to incoming workers.  It needs to be able to address obstacles that may delay development, but still protect the existing environment and population. It is generally not capable of providing direct financial support, but can make the process more friendly.

Chase Mattews
No response received


Q3. What should the County Board do to address the current budget issues and program demands in the Human Services area?

James Dunning
The current budget issue is caused by the inability to raise taxes to address issues that are becoming more serious.  The road maintenance issue was partially addressed by the vehicle tax. The Human Services issues have resulted from a combination of problems that require the County’s attention.  The out-of-home placement is the result of increased drug usage and the lack of education to prevent the usage. It is also the result of a lack of mental health support to address family problems, drug use, and other mental issues.  Part of our financial problems are trying to be proactive in these problems.

Chase Mattews
No response received

Q4. What are the two biggest issues you expect Eau Claire County to face during your term, and how do you think the County Board should address them?

James Dunning
The budget will be the primary issue and it can be solved by continuing to address the causes driving the budget problems.  This is driven by the need to solve several issues that relate to the budget issue. It may also be necessary to request a referendum to increase our taxes.  A second issue will be trying to implement the Sustainability Resolution.

Chase Mattews
​No response received