Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent
Mike Koles, head of the University of Wisconsin-Extension office for Waupaca County, has been hired as the new executive director of the Wisconsin Towns Association. He will replace Richard Stadelman, of Shawano, who is retiring on Aug. 31.
Koles is currently the department head of the UW Extension Waupaca County. He has served as a community, natural resources and economic development educator for Waupaca County since 2003. He will begin his new duties on Aug. 1.
“Mike has an outstanding record in education of local elected officials and has been particularly strong in developing leadership programs at both the local and state level,” said Lee Engelbrecht, president of the Wisconsin Towns Association. “He has demonstrated a strong working relationship with town, village, city and county officials in Waupaca County.”
Stadelman also praised the board’s selection.
“I am pleased that Mike Koles was selected by the board and that he accepted the board’s offer,” he said. “Mike is a recognized leader among UW-Extension agents in the state and I believe he will help Wisconsin Towns Association maintain a strong position in providing service to member town and village officers as well as positive working relationships with other statewide organizations.”
The Wisconsin Towns Association is a voluntary association of 1,251 towns and 18 villages across the state. The organization provides education and training to local officials, as well as represents local government interests at the state and federal level.