Delafield resident to run for 33rd Assembly District <|> Joe Deklotz seeks Scott Newcomer's seat
PrintBy ERIN LAMB
A Delafield resident has thrown his hat in the ring to run for a seat in the 33rd Assembly District.
Joe Deklotz, a 25-year resident of the district and a real-estate broker in Lake Country, has announced his candidacy.
"I have become very disappointed in the performance of our state government, specifically as it relates to fiscal and social issues," Deklotz said on his campaign Web site. "Their actions have resulted in larger government, higher taxes and a number of social programs that many of us do not agree with. All of this has encouraged a number of very good businesses and citizens to leave the state. It's time to get serious; this can not continue."
Scott Newcomer has held the 33rd District Assembly seat since a special election in December 2005. Newcomer was re-elected in 2006 and again in 2008. Newcomer could not be immediately reached for comment on his plans for re-election.
Newcomer has had a number of legal issues recently.
In July, Newcomer reported to police that Keith Brouwer of Hartland had been going to Lake Country Pool and Spa stores, of which Newcomer is co-owner, and harassed employees and customers. Newcomer filed for divorce from his wife in August, and Brouwer accused Newcomer of having an affair with his wife last year.
Newcomer has other problems as well, according to court documents.
American Express Bank filed a lawsuit against Newcomer and Lake Country Pools LLC, claiming the business has $35,015 in unpaid credit card bills.
Also, the state Department of Revenue has filed seven tax warrants against the business for delinquent taxes totaling more than $31,000. Newcomer has said he is not affiliated with Lake Country Pools LLC.
This year, four lawsuits have also been filed against the firm, naming Brouwer's ex-wife as well as four small claims. Two of the lawsuits have been settled, totaling nearly $30,000 in judgments.
The primary election is over a year away on Sept. 14, 2010. Deklotz said on his site that he is starting to campaign now so that people in the district will fully get to know him and feel confident supporting and voting for him. He said the time will also give him the opportunity to listen and fully understand the issues facing the district and state, he said.
Deklotz said he will take his responsibilities seriously if elected and give each task his complete attention.
"I spend time listening and studying before setting a course of action and then work to build consensus while never losing focus on what is important," he said. "As your representative, you can expect to be kept informed on issues affecting the district and state and also, if you want, called upon to take action (make phone calls, send e-mails, attend events) when needed. I will also be responsive to your requests and can be counted on to support the district."
Deklotz's wife, Pat, is superintendent of the Kettle Moraine School District. They have three children.
Jim Stevens contributed to this report.
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