League of Women Voters Candidates Forum recorded March 10, 2026

This was a candidate forum held on March 10, 2026, for Portage County Board Supervisors districts 15, 17, 19, 20, and 25, organized by the League of Women Voters and other local nonpartisan groups. Candidates discussed various county issues including environmental regulations related to livestock and manure management, the impact of federal budget cuts on social services, inter-municipal cooperation, courthouse and jail remodeling projects, and the role of local law enforcement in immigration enforcement. Several candidates emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility, transparency, and collaboration with state and federal agencies. The forum also highlighted the county's 2026 budget of $142.2 million, with allocations for general operations, EMS, and debt service. While no specific contract awards or procurement decisions were made during the forum, candidates addressed ongoing capital improvement projects such as courthouse security upgrades and jail construction, underscoring the need for careful funding and timelines. The event served to inform voters ahead of the April 7 election.