Kimberly Kane, president and founder at Kane Communications Group, has announced plans to run for alderwoman of Racine’s second district.
Kane, who has resided in Racine with her family for almost five years, brings a background of business, nonprofit and media experience to the race with a keen interest in impacting local politics.
“I think local government is where people feel government most, and in our city I think we need a stronger voice from business,” Kane said. “I think we need a stronger voice from women. I have a strong background in strategic planning and in nonprofits, and I’d like to bring some of those skills to the city council.”
She also aims to incorporate skills from her reporting background into her position. From 1998 to 2006, she worked as a health reporter and weekend anchor for TMJ4 in Milwaukee.
“I think both my news background and my business background will aid me in my position as alderwoman,” Kane said. “I work very collaborative with people to define success and then create a strategy with milestones to get there. I think on our city council we need people who have experience in communications and in business (and) who have a track record of just getting things done to help our city council move very important objectives forward.”
According to Kane’s campaign website, her focus will address community safety, growth and business development, and government accountability.
“Racine is a city teeming with opportunity,” Kane writes on her website. “With Lake Michigan in our backyard, the city’s most historic homes, diverse neighborhoods and downtown within walking distance, our second district is a vital asset. Many residents have said to me, ‘This community is one people should compete to get into!’”
She believes a stronger tie is needed between local government and the business community in order to grow businesses, draw new ones and open up new job opportunities.
“I think if Racine is going to be able to attract great companies (and) create jobs for people, I think business has to be speaking opening with government about what it needs to be successful,” Kane said.
While the aldermanic race is a nonpartisan one, Kane said she is moderate.
“I’m very moderate politically,” Kane said. “I lean Democratic. I joke that I’m a mom of four so I’m always in the middle making sure that things don’t get out of control. I approach everything from that perspective.”
Racine’s general election will be held on April 1 followed by the fall primary on Aug. 12 and the fall election on Nov. 4.
