District 4 covers Hudson Town Wards 1 and 2 and North Hudson Village Wards 1 through 6. Incumbent Cathy Leaf is on the ballot and spoke with the Star-Observer about her decision to run for another term.
Leaf said she is pursuing a fourth term on the St. Croix County Board to continue advancing policies that support local families and strengthen the county’s future. She emphasized her commitment to making the county an even better place to live and raise children.
A number of challenges have emerged as St. Croix County remains one of Wisconsin’s fastest-growing counties. Leaf highlighted concerns tied to the state’s One Big Beautiful Bill and related Health and Human Services requirements. She warned that increased reporting obligations and funding reductions could disrupt services relied upon by vulnerable residents.
Affordable housing is another priority. Leaf pointed to a shortage of reasonably priced options for seniors and young families and said county leaders need to collaborate with stakeholders to expand supply.
She also noted rising demand for county services as the population ages, along with growing needs for mental health supports and crisis response facilities.
Addressing those service pressures is central to her platform.
On county politics, Leaf said she has noticed a rise in partisan posturing during her recent terms. She criticized symbolic resolutions on topics outside county jurisdiction as a waste of meeting time and taxpayer resources. Leaf called for supervisors to set aside personal politics and focus on practical governance.
Regarding Xcel Energy’s proposed Ten Mile Creek project, Leaf explained the county has limited authority and that the Wisconsin Public Service Commission holds the final decision. She outlined two options for the county: negotiate a Joint Development Agreement with Xcel or participate as an intervenor in PSC proceedings. Because the proposal has stirred strong emotions in the community, she stressed the importance of hearing local concerns. Leaf said she has abstained from votes on the matter due to holding Xcel stock.
When asked about recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in the area, Leaf pointed out that ICE is a federal agency. She said it is essential that law enforcement actions respect constitutional protections and human dignity. The county’s role, she added, should emphasize public safety, transparent communication, and preserving trust between residents and government.
One concrete policy change Leaf would pursue involves zoning reform to help ease the affordable housing shortage. She urged local officials, developers and community groups to work together to find workable solutions.
Leaf concluded by expressing enthusiasm for the chance to continue serving District 4 and representing the interests of residents across St. Croix County.
