The two men running to be Mayor of Manitowoc discussed numerous topics during round two of the 2025 Seehafer News Mayoral Debate.
Incumbent Justin Nickels and challenger Jason Prigge were in the Seehafer Broadcasting studios, where they each outlined their plans for the Clipper City.
Both were asked about their main platform objectives, and Prigge said his main goal is fiscal responsibility.
“Fiscal responsibility isn’t about cutting costs, it’s about making smarter choices and providing tax relief,” he said. “It’s about ensuring Manitowoc can thrive today while preparing for the challenges that we’re going to face tomorrow.”
A big part of Prigge’s platform revolves around the tax bill and trying to reduce the tax burden on the residents.
Nickels agreed that the city needs to be fiscally responsible, but also noted that taxes are a necessity.
“We get our dollars from you, the taxpayer, and that’s a sacred thing, and I do not take that lightly,” Nickels explained. “But I have to think of also the services that the taxpayer expects, the needed services, the required services, quality of life and parks, and just making our community a more beautiful and attractive place.”
The candidates were also asked to address topics such as homelessness, recovery residences, lakefront development, and the state of the 37 parks in the city.
The candidates agreed on some topics; they disagreed on others, but in the end, they both voiced their mutual respect for each other.
Nickels specifically pointed to the work Jason and his wife Tina have done promoting the City, specifically after the departure of Mirro and Manitowoc Cranes.
“They stepped up at a time of need. They did an excellent job of it,” Nickels recalled. “The city, we did a lot of stuff with. We did our 150-year video, which was very well done, with Jason and Tina. They’re ambassadors for the community.”
Prigge admitted that running for office bolstered his respect for the Mayor, and praised the work he has put in over the last 15 plus years.
“I think Justin has done some wonderful things for our community. The mayor always has a positive attitude,” he noted. “If we compete, we’re competing on who’s the loudest voice for Manitowoc. And what he has accomplished in his sixteen years is very commendable.”
The entire debate can be heard at SeehaferPodcasts.com.
