Wes Sparkman stands in downtown Madison, Wisconsin speaking with a woman. Wes is looking out-of-frame while he speaks.

Why I’m running

I'm running to become your Dane County Executive, grounded in a deep-seated connection to this place we call home.

My journey in Dane County started when I was 17, arriving to study at UW-Madison—a decision that not only shaped my career but my family life, as it was here I met my wife, Catrina. Together, we've raised our four children in this vibrant community, cementing our dedication to its future.

My academic background with a BA in Sociology and a Master's in Public Affairs from UW-Madison, coupled with my diverse experience from serving on the City of Madison Police and Fire Commission to being a Dane County Department Head, has imbued me with a profound understanding of our community's needs.

My service as a Community Development Block Grant Commissioner and the honor of receiving the Robert M. La Follette 2023 Alumni of Distinction Award reflect my unwavering commitment to this region. As life members of the UW Madison Alumni Association, Catrina and I continue to be actively involved in enriching the fabric of our community.

These experiences, my leadership roles in the AFSCME Local 1871, as Police and Fire Commissioner, and my efforts to diversify Dane County's management class, underscore my readiness to propel Dane County forward with a thoughtful, inclusive approach.

My vision for Dane County intertwines the necessity for strategic leadership and compassionate governance.

Through roles such as the past presidency of the Downtown Madison Rotary Club and its Rotary Foundation, and serving as current Chairman of the Board of a regional healthcare system, I have honed the skills necessary to navigate our county through the complexities of modern governance while ensuring fiscal responsibility, equity in housing, and the protection of our treasured lakes.

I am well-positioned to steward our funds wisely, channeling them into cost-effective social programs that provide mental health support, facilitate addiction recovery, and expand access to affordable childcare, maximizing the impact of each dollar.

My approach to public service is holistic—balancing economic development with essential social programs and transparent community engagement.

My love for Dane County is not just in titles held or initiatives led, but in the grass-roots engagement that sees me coaching youth sports and championing community causes.

This blend of professional acumen, heartfelt community service, and a personal lifelong commitment to Dane County fortifies my candidacy as the most suitable to guide us into a thriving and inclusive future.