Village Administrator Charlie Kudy to step down in Campbellsport

Village Administrator Charlie Kudy will leave his post later this month, concluding a tenure marked by significant growth and development in Campbellsport.
Kudy, who has served as administrator since 2020, said his decision to step down was not an easy one. “Campbellsport has become my home and I am very proud of the progress and work we have been able to do as a community,” Kudy said. “The right opportunity and the right time have presented themselves to make a change in my path and allow a new leader to organize and empower the staff.”
During his time in office, Campbellsport saw a 16% increase in housing stock, large-scale public investments, and an influx of new businesses. The village’s overall property value grew from around $120 million to more than $205 million, allowing for the highest levels of public investment in its history, Kudy said. More than $10 million has been invested in infrastructure since 2022, including the resurfacing or reconstruction of 15% of all public roadways and major improvements to Fireman’s Park.
Kudy also highlighted the village’s success in securing approximately $2.2 million in grants from state, federal, and local sources, offsetting the need for tax or rate increases. The Main Street business district welcomed eight new small businesses, and the community collaborated with regional partners to create the WRNC Small Business Fund, focused on helping Campbellsport entrepreneurs start and expand their businesses.
Kudy said he is proud of the relationships he built with local organizations, including the Campbellsport Area Chamber of Commerce and the Lions Club, and emphasized the importance of community involvement. “The support for our village’s progress has been amazing, and I am hopeful that it will continue into the future,” he said.

As for challenges, Kudy cited the normal ups and downs of staffing changes and the importance of collaboration.
“With all challenges, I found it best to lean on my fellow Campbellsport community members, coworkers, and community partners for help, advice, and advocacy,” he said.
Kudy’s last day will be Nov. 21. Jessica Wildes, partner at Innovative Public Advisors and former assistant city administrator for the City of West Bend, will serve as interim administrator starting Nov. 17.
Kudy said he leaves behind robust transition documents and is confident in the abilities of the village staff. “There should be no major changes at this time,” he added.
Looking ahead, Kudy plans to move into the private sector as a real estate developer, focusing on projects to help grow communities’ tax bases. He offered advice to his successor and the village board: “Be open-minded, be patient, and operate with care and intention, and our community will support you along the way.”