March 12, 2026 Local Stories in and Around St. Joseph, Illinois

5 Questions with Republican caucus candidate Matt Wolfersberger

1. What made you want to run?
My original plan was to step aside at the end of my term, but I decided that I should stay on to make the transition easier for the new mayor and newly elected trustees. We have some good things in the works right now and I would like to see them come to fruition.


2. What are the major challenges you believe are facing the village?
We need to attract a few additional businesses and grow/develop a little. We have declining enrollments at the schools and the only real solution is to get a few more homes for families to move into the village. I know there are a lot of people that want zero growth, but I do not think that is the best thing for the village.

3. What would be your four year goal for the village?
I
am only running for a two-year term and my goal will be to work on the items I mentioned in the second question.

4. What should people know about you?
We have lived in St. Joe for 19 years. Both of our sons grew up here. I have coached many of your kids, who are no longer kids, in soccer, basketball, baseball and track over the years. St. Joe is our home. I did not ask to be on the board but accepted an appointment when the mayor asked me. I am someone who tries to step up whenever the need arises.

5. How would your previous experiences benefit the board?
Honestly, I have only been a trustee for a little over a year. I do not know everything but the experience I have gained so far will help with a new mayor coming on board. I have learned that having a Village Administrator and great staff are a great benefit to the community. I’ve met most of the village employees and got a peak at their daily grind and they too are a great asset to our community. I have learned to listen to people around town and what I know is there are a lot of good people with good ideas and people here do not hesitate to come up and talk to you.

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