Incumbent councilman Kirk Koberg did not respond to The NSP's questionnaire.
1. What motivated you to run for City Council?
Lynnette Tarchinski: I’m running to help Walcott continue thriving as a safe, welcoming, and forward-thinking community. I believe in responsive local government and want to strengthen communication between residents and city leadership while honoring our town’s proud history.
Bobbie Martinez: Walcott is a small town, and it takes the entire community to make it wonderful. Serving on City Council is another way I can support the place I love and call home. I believe in doing my civic duty, giving back, and helping our community continue to thrive.
2. What relevant experience in leadership will you bring to the council?
Tarchinski: I bring years of experience in public affairs, strategic communication, and community engagement. I’ve been active in Walcott Women, PTA, Calvary Church and Preschool, the Walcott Chamber, Walcott Townball, Tri-County Townball, and other local volunteer organizations.
Martinez: I’ve spent many years volunteering and representing others. I currently serve as vice president of my church’s parish council, president of the Walcott School PTA, and a member of Walcott Women. I also volunteer as a Jr. Panthers coach. On top of that, I’m a wife, mother of four, and a small-business owner — experiences that have taught me how to listen, stay organized, and work hard. Being self-employed gives me the flexibility to dedicate time to our community and the drive to take initiative and get things done.
3. What is the most pressing challenge now facing Walcott, and how do you hope to address it?
Tarchinski: Walcott must stay engaged in the Davenport School District’s Master Facility planning. Growth management is also key—I support development that preserves our small-town character while improving infrastructure, new housing, and citizen services.
Martinez: I think one of the top issues that has been facing us for several years is the potential for our elementary school to be closed. Our school is one of the big factors that drive home-owners to purchase in Walcott. To keep our town relevant and growing, we need to do what we can to ensure that school stays as is, K-8! Keeping our town growing in the ways we can, will help with that! I intend to do what I can to help with continued growth and development in the right ways!
4. What other issues or goals would you hope to see city council address?
Tarchinski: I’d like the Council to prioritize schools and the next generation. We need to modernize thinking and rules to attract new families. I support continued investment in youth sports, parks, and envision a public gym or community center for Walcott.
Martinez: I am here to be a voice for the people of Walcott. We all have different concerns and issues that we face, and I will be here to do what I can to address all of those issues. I may not be able to solve them all, but I can guarantee I will take the time to listen, care and do what I can!