City of Muskego Livestream, Mayoral Candidate Forum - 3/19/26

The City of Muskego held a mayoral candidate forum on March 19, 2026, featuring incumbent Mayor Rick Pepfolski and former Mayor Kathy Chevarati. The forum focused on voter education rather than debate, with candidates addressing key community issues including public safety, infrastructure, housing development, fiscal responsibility, and economic drivers. Both candidates discussed budget management strategies, with Mayor Pepfolski highlighting nearly $900,000 in debt refinancing and returning $2 million to the fund balance while expanding services. Chevarati emphasized operational efficiencies and concerns about borrowing for road maintenance. The candidates also addressed the city's comprehensive plan, housing density, and the need for transparent governance. Public safety priorities such as police staffing and fire/EMS services were central themes, alongside infrastructure improvements like road repairs and multi-use trail enhancements. The forum included audience questions and concluded with closing statements reaffirming each candidate's commitment to community values and fiscal stewardship.