The Oshkosh Chamber is recognized as the premiere advocate and guardian for the Oshkosh business community. We advocate for the business interests of our members and the Oshkosh area business community to ensure business perspectives and inputs are represented, heard, and considered concerning current and proposed policies at the local, State, and federal levels. Ultimately, we will identify, develop, and advocate for policy initiatives to advance local business investment and create a positive business environment in our region.
Advocate public policies and representatives that foster and sustain economic prosperity through a strong business climate for the community.
We support:
- A tax system that incentivizes business growth and workforce investment.
- Efforts to streamline and reduce regulation that increases the cost of doing business.
- Empowering local government to use economic development tools in ways that will help them grow their employment and tax base.
- Honesty in taxation that ensures revenues collected are expended for the reason stated.
- Initiatives that ensure Wisconsin workers have the skills to compete in a global economy
2025-26 Legislative Agenda
Every two years, the Oshkosh Chamber’s Public Policy Committee and its Board of Directors set a legislative agenda based on input, conversation, and debate with Oshkosh Chamber members and leading area experts. The agenda outlines the Chamber’s local, state, and federal public policy priorities.
The Oshkosh Chamber supports a wide variety of initiatives that build a stronger local and regional marketplace and economy. A strong economy provides the tax base necessary to support education and local services, along with building and sustaining community infrastructure. Consequently, we support a public policy agenda that fosters business growth and creates jobs. Additionally, cutting taxes, reducing the regulatory burden, and investing in a skilled workforce have enabled Wisconsin to realize the tremendous gains we have seen in recent years.
Legislative Programs
BUSINESS DAY IN MADISON
The Oshkosh Chamber sponsors Business Day in Madison, an opportunity for businesses to meet and discuss business issues of importance with state representatives.
WASHINGTON D.C. FLY-IN
The Oshkosh Chamber’s Washington DC Fly-In event is an exclusive opportunity for chamber members to engage directly with policymakers and key stakeholders in the nation’s capital. This event typically involves a delegation of business leaders and representatives from the Oshkosh community traveling to Washington, D.C., for a series of meetings, briefings, and networking sessions aimed at advocating for policies that benefit the local business community and the broader region.
Voter Education
The Oshkosh Chamber educates the public on the candidates’ positions on key business issues by utilizing candidate forums and questionnaires as well as an annual voter’s guide.
For any questions please contact Rob Kleman at rob@oshkoshchamber.com or (920) 303-2265 EXT. 14.
Advocacy Resources
2025 Oshkosh Area School District Referendum
Oshkosh Chamber Board of Directors unanimously voted to support Oshkosh Area School District’s 2025 Phase 2 Facilities Consolidation Referendum that will appear on the April 1 ballot.
The school district is asking voters to approve a $197.8 million capital referendum. This referendum focuses on the district’s facilities consolidation plan, prioritizing student safety and improving learning spaces while maintaining a zero-dollar tax increase to the debt levy.
Advocacy Affiliations
U.S Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business organization representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions. Our members range from mom-and-pop shop2s and local chambers to leading industry associations and large corporations. They all share one thing—they count on the Chamber to be their voice in Washington, D.C.
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC)
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) is the state chamber of commerce, the state manufacturers’ association and the state safety council. Founded in 1911, WMC is Wisconsin’s leading business association dedicated to making Wisconsin the most competitive state in the nation. We work tirelessly to advance policies that are in the public interest of our state and nation. Currently, the association has nearly 3,800 members that include both large and small manufacturers, service companies, local chambers of commerce and specialized trade associations.
Legislative Watch
Ron Johnson – US Senate
Ron Johnson began serving as Senator for Wisconsin in 2011 and is currently serving his second term.
Tammy Baldwin – US Senate
Tammy Baldwin began serving as Senator for Wisconsin in 2013 and is currently serving her second term.
Glenn Grothman – US House of Representatives
Glenn Grothman is Wisconsin’s 6th District Congressman. First elected to the House of Representatives in 2014.
Rachel Cabral-Guevara – Wisconsin State Senate
Rachel Cabral-Guevara was elected in 2022 and is serving as Wisconsin State Senator for the 19th District.
Kristin Dassler-Alfheim – Wisconsin State Senate
Kristin Dassler-Alfheim was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in November 2024 to represent District 18.
Nate Gustafson – Wisconsin State Assembly
Nate Gustafson has served as Wisconsin’s 55th Assembly District Representative since 2020.
Lori Palmeri – Wisconsin State Assembly
Lori Palmeri was elected in 2022 and is serving as State Assembly Representative for Wisconsin’s 54th District.
Wisconsin State Cabinet
Official website for Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Cabinet.
Winnebago County Board
The Winnebago County Board consists of 36 district supervisors, each elected to a two-year term.
Oshkosh City Council
The Oshkosh City Council consists of 7 council members, including an elected Mayor, all elected at large from throughout the city.
Board of Education
The Board of Education consists of seven members elected at large to three-year terms.
Government Entities
If you are new to Oshkosh and have questions about government services, such as water, utilities, and waste management, you’ll find assistance through the following municipalities’ websites:
State of Wisconsin
City of Oshkosh
Winnebago County
Town of Algoma
Town of Black Wolf
Town of Nekimi
Town of Oshkosh
Town of Utica
Town of Vinland
