Leadership for Lake Geneva’s Future

My decision to run for Mayor of Lake Geneva is rooted in a lifetime of leadership, a deep respect for good governance, and a clear understanding of how communities thrive when government is steady, transparent, and well-run.

Why I am Running For Mayor

Why I am Running for Mayor & Alderman

A Mayor Who Listens, Plans, and Delivers

Lake Geneva deserves steady leadership, clear priorities, and transparent decisions grounded in facts.
As Mayor, I will focus on strengthening our local economy, protecting our neighborhoods, investing wisely in infrastructure and public safety, managing tourism responsibly, running City Hall professionally, and safeguarding taxpayer dollars.

Experience, Integrity, Results

Serving on the City Council and the Plan Commission has given me a deep understanding of our community, its people, businesses, and the workings of city government. Combining my qualifications and past experiences, I can contribute in unique and impactful ways.

My professional background as a CEO has given me a distinct and valuable perspective. I’ve guided budgets greater than $27 million and led high-performing staff teams. I’ve also been elected to leadership roles at both the state and national levels.

If elected as your Mayor, I would have the energy, time, and expertise to listen, plan, and deliver agreed-upon outcomes on key issues. It would be an honor to serve Lake Geneva.

FIRST TERM RESULTS

Alderman Joel Hoiland, 2024-2026

BACKGROUND & QUALIFICATIONS

My wife and I own a home adjacent to Hillmoor Park and are deeply invested in the long-term success of the Lake Geneva community. We have three adult children and six grandchildren. Over the years, we’ve lived in Minnesota, St. Louis, Chicago (Park Ridge), and now proudly call Lake Geneva home. I was raised in a small farm community in west-central Minnesota and have since experienced life in both small towns and large cities.
For more than 30 years, I served as President and CEO of state, national, and international trade associations (business organizations) representing a wide range of industries, including grocery, supply chain logistics, window and door manufacturing, and electric, gas, and water utilities, among others.
Throughout my career, I have led government affairs teams, served as chief industry lobbyist, testified before legislative and regulatory bodies, and contributed to numerous boards, task forces, and public policy think tanks. These experiences have given me a unique set of skills and capabilities.
Expanding on my work as an Alderman and Plan Commissioner, I’ve consistently drawn on my professional experiences and family, who spent their careers in the building and construction trades. This background has empowered me to deliver results thoughtfully and effectively.

Lake Geneva faces a range of important issues, including the Hwy 50-Main Street Rebuild, the future of Hillmoor, public safety facility planning, parking, Airbnbs, among others. Addressing these challenges requires capable, experienced, collaborative leadership. At the end of the day, delivering results is what matters.
Our city has a rich history that deserves to be honored and preserved. At the same time, it is evolving as a vibrant place to live and work. while also one of the Midwest’s premier vacation and tourist destination. With my background in business and government, I’m well-equipped to shape the city’s path forward.
City Councils function best when the interests of residents, businesses, and visitors are foremost, above personal agendas. As Mayor, my top priority will be to collaborate with others to deliver the best solutions and results for the entire community.
Keeping the community informed about pending issues, actions, and advisories is my top priority. There are many ways to share important information. I currently provide monthly updates from City Hall and will work with city staff to implement an effective community communication process.