Special Series on Local Government Officials: Amanda Golson of Fort Atkinson – Reflections on her First Year as Jefferson County Supervisor
- The Editors
- May 28
- 5 min read
Fort Atkinson Independent Reporter begins a special series of feature stories on our elected local and appointed government officials – an opportunity to get “better acquainted” outside of the election cycle. In this series, we focus on how our government representatives address community issues and priorities which influence our quality of life.
Amanda Golson, Supervisor for District 26, Jefferson County Board of Supervisors
Fort Atkinson resident Amanda Golson was elected to the Jefferson County Board of Supervisors as a write-in candidate for District 26 on the April 2, 2024 Spring general election ballot, and was sworn in to that office on April 16, 2024. Represented by Golson, Jefferson County District 26 covers Wards 1 and 2, City of Fort Atkinson.
To reinforce voters’ insights into Supervisor Golson’s background, and to bring voters up to date on current issues in Jefferson County government, Fort Atkinson Independent Reporter recently asked Supervisor Golson about her experiences on her first year anniversary, to which she provided the following reflections:
"Having served my first year on the Jefferson County Board my commitment to the well-being and progress of Jefferson County remains steadfast and my energy for supporting the work done at the county level has only grown.
"In 2014, I relocated to Fort Atkinson to return to small town life and teaching at the School District of Jefferson. I have served as a public educator, fostering the development of countless students for over 20 years. This experience has instilled in me a deep understanding of the importance of accessible and quality education, as well as the value of collaborative problem-solving.
"While at the School District of Jefferson, I also served as the Director of Communications for several years during the Covid pandemic. In this role, I worked collaboratively with stakeholders to support district-wide initiatives, earning recognition at the state level for my work in public relations. Notably, I also contributed to the district's strategic planning processes, ensuring effective communication and alignment with long-term goals.
"My academic background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Education and Physical Science with an emphasis in Geology from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and a Master's Degree in Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. My commitment to public service is rooted in my upbringing, as I come from a family with a strong history of serving their community. Both of my parents were employed by Walworth County, and my grandmother served multiple terms on the Walworth County Board.
"In addition to serving on the County Board, I have been appointed to serve on the Jefferson County Library Board and the Bridges Federated Library System Board. On both boards, I collaborate with board members, directors, and the administrative team, to support the work being done in our fantastic public library system. In the past year, my work on the Jefferson County Board has led me to support the following.
Addressing Tax Dollars and Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility
Modernizing Tax Foreclosure Policies: We've updated our tax foreclosure processes to comply with state laws, ensuring efficiency and responsible use of tax dollars. This means streamlined procedures and better management of county assets.
Responsible Budgeting: We've approved the 2025 county budgets, demonstrating careful planning and allocation of resources. We are committed to transparency and getting the most value for tax contributions.
Sound Financial Planning: We've initiated a Fund Balance Reserve Study to ensure we're prepared for future economic challenges. This proactive approach safeguards constituents’ tax dollars and maintains the county's financial stability.
Investing in Our Community and Economic Future
Food & Beverage Innovation Campus: We have partnered with the City of Jefferson and attracted innovative businesses like Onego Bio, Inc. to create new jobs and boost our local economy. This investment will create a hub for sustainable growth.
Revitalizing Former Industrial Sites: We're working to redevelop tax-foreclosed properties, transforming them into valuable assets for our community.
Expanding Broadband Access: We are actively pursuing state and federal funding to improve broadband access throughout Jefferson County. This will enhance connectivity for residents and businesses alike.
Supporting Community Well-Being and Essential Services
Enhancing Services for Seniors and Disabled Residents: Our current board secured grants and contracts to improve services for our aging and disabled populations, ensuring they receive the support they need.
Investing in Our Parks: We are committed to maintaining and improving our parks for everyone to enjoy.
Responsible Land Management: We are actively managing land use and zoning to balance agricultural preservation with residential and business needs.
Streamlining Government Operations
Efficient Staffing: We are consistently restructuring our staff to better serve needs.
"These actions demonstrate my personal and Jefferson County Board's dedication to responsible governance, economic development, and the well-being of all residents.
"Looking forward, I aim to apply my experience and the principles outlined in Jefferson County's strategic plan to my work on the County Board. Specifically, I am committed to fostering:
Effective and Efficient Government: By promoting transparency and accountability, ensuring responsible fiscal management, and streamlining county operations.
Strong and Vibrant Communities: By supporting initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all residents, including access to affordable housing, quality education, and recreational opportunities.
Sustainable and Resilient Infrastructure: By advocating for investments in infrastructure that support economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Collaborative Partnerships: By building strong relationships with local stakeholders, businesses, and neighboring municipalities to address shared challenges and opportunities.
"I am dedicated to serving the residents of Fort Atkinson and Jefferson County, working collaboratively to achieve these goals and ensuring a prosperous future for the region."
Background: How Fort Atkinson is Represented on the Jefferson County Board of Supervisors
At the County Level of Government
The people of Jefferson County are represented by 30 elected Supervisors from the 30 Supervisory Districts of the County. Supervisors are NOT at-large representatives, but are elected by, and represent, specific geographic areas or jurisdictions known as supervisory districts comprised of towns, villages, and cities.
At the Local/City Level of Government
At its own level of local governance, Fort Atkinson is comprised of 13 wards, which are specific areas used for political representation, voting, or administrative tasks. Proceeding beyond its local governmental jurisdiction, Fort Atkinson’s 13 wards are then represented at the county-level of government. In addition to Amanda Golson representing Fort Atkinson Wards 1 and 2 in Board of Supervisors District 26, there are five other Jefferson County supervisors representing the 11 remaining Fort Atkinson wards as follows:
Joan Callan, Wards 3 and 4 (District 27)
Mary Roberts, Wards 5 and 6 (District 29)
Anthony Gulig, Wards 7, 9, and 13 (District 28)
Walt Christensen, Ward 11 (District 30)
George Jaeckel, Wards 8, 10, and 12 (District 23)
The County Board of Supervisors restructured itself according to the required reapportionment plan adopted in September 2011. Jefferson County is one of the 25 counties in Wisconsin having a County Board/County Administrator form of government.
Editor Note
As stated in our Editorial Policy, the Fort Atkinson Independent Reporter is nonpartisan and does not endorse or affirm political candidates or partisan causes. The foregoing news article represents general insights for the purpose of informing relevant constituencies of issues and activities in performance of a public office.
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