Former Councilperson Birke appointed to fill out term vacated by Welter in Ward 8

Nov. 12, 2025

VIROQUA, Wis. — Tanja Birke has been appointed to complete the term of former Alderperson Kristal Welter, who stepped down from the Viroqua City Council seat for Ward 8. The council officially accepted Welter’s resignation on Sept. 30 and later approved Birke’s appointment unanimously at its Oct. 28 meeting, following a recommendation from Mayor Justin Running.

To fill the vacancy, the City invited letters of interest from Ward 8 residents. Birke will serve in the interim role until April 21, 2026.

Viroqua Mayor Justin Running recommended Birke’s appointment to the council. Mayor Running said there were a number of applicants who expressed interest in serving but Birke was a “very good fit” for the needs of the council based on her previous experience, interest in the role, and the short-term requirements of the vacancy. The Mayor also noted that several constituents in Ward 8 had reached out expressing support for her candidacy.

Birke previously served as a City Councilperson in Ward 4 but stepped down when she purchased a home and moved to Ward 8. Emma Hood was appointed to fill out Birke’s term in Ward 4.

As part of the appointment, she was assigned several key committee assignments which include:

• Finance and Personnel Committee.
• Public Works Committee.
• Plan Commission.
• Housing Advisory Board (Birke was already serving on the the Housing Board but now will serves as the council representative).

Birke has now been sworn in and attended the Common Council meeting on Tuesday, No. 11.