On Thursday, Nov. 6, Fitchburg resident Victoria LaBrosse officially announced her candidacy for Mayor of Fitchburg.
“I’m running for Mayor because I care deeply about Fitchburg’s future,” she said.
According to a news release from her campaign, LaBrosse is a licensed broker and is the vice- president of business development at KSW Construction, as well as serves as the executive director of the Apartment Association of South Central Wisconsin, a nonprofit focused on education and support for property owners.
A lifelong resident of the area, LaBrosse credits her Wisconsin upbringing—and time spent on her grandparents' century-old farm in Oconto County—with instilling in her the values of hard work, family, and community. A graduate of Oregon High School and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she holds dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Political Science and Economics.
LaBrosse began her career at the Wisconsin State Capitol as a Legislative Aide for a State Senator on the Joint Finance Committee, where she gained firsthand experience in budgeting, fiscal policy, and responsible governance.
A lifelong competitor, she also grew up racing go-karts and continues to compete in bullseye pistol shooting, earning the Wisconsin High Woman Championship for the past five consecutive years.
Outside of her professional work, LaBrosse is deeply involved in youth sports and community development. She helps lead the Madison Starlings, a nonprofit volleyball club that provides opportunities for young athletes regardless of their socio-economic status, and has recently completed her seventh season coaching at La Follette High School.
“I am looking forward to meeting more of my Fitchburg neighbors and listening to what they value for Fitchburg’s future,” said LaBrosse.
On Thursday, Nov. 6, City of Fitchburg Mayor Julia Arata-Fratta announced the recipients of the 2025 Mayoral Awards, honoring community member Janice Hughes, Fitchburg businesses Quivey’s Grove and Kellymoss Inc., nonprofit Rooted, and staff member Deputy Fire Chief Chad Grossen for their outstanding contributions to the City of Fitchburg.
The awards will be presented at the Common Council meeting at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25.
According to a press release from her office, Arata-Fratta said the awards “recognize residents, businesses, organizations, and staff whose leadership and service have made a lasting impact on the Fitchburg community.”
“The annual Mayoral Awards celebrate those who make Fitchburg a great place to live, work, and thrive,” she said.
Janice Hughes, recipient of the Resident Award, has been a Fitchburg resident for 28 years and is recognized for her leadership, inclusivity, and lifelong commitment to learning and service. As the first Black member appointed to the Commission on Aging Well in 2023, Janice has become a champion for growth and inclusivity in Fitchburg. Her passion for older adults and commitment to lifelong learning inspired her to create the Lunch & Learn program at the Fitchburg Senior Center, which provides valuable resources on health, culture, wellness, and more.
“From the moment I met Janice, I knew she was a true agent of change,” said Mayor Arata-Fratta.
Rooted, recipient of the Nonprofit Award, connects people of all ages and cultures through community gardens, food education, and urban agriculture programs that promote equity and resilience. Through hands-on educational, employment, and community initiatives, Rooted cultivates the next generation of food system leaders and strengthens neighborhood connections.
Its programs include the Rooted in Urban Agriculture Youth Employment Program, CommUnity Markets, and CommUnity Dinners, which provide fresh, affordable food and opportunities for residents to gather and learn. Rooted also manages several community gardens, including sites in Fitchburg, where more than 100 families grow their own food each year—building relationships and resilience through the shared joy of growing and sharing food.
Quivey’s Grove, celebrating its 45th anniversary, receives the Business Award for preserving Fitchburg’s heritage and serving as a community gathering place for generations. Quivey’s Grove is much more than a restaurant—a gathering place, a piece of living history, and a true Fitchburg treasure.
With its 19th-century charm, beautiful grounds, and gracious service, it’s welcomed generations of families, friends, and neighbors. By the ownership of Craig Kuenning and Deirdre Garton this restaurant is a community anchor, for community celebrations, anniversaries, gatherings, helping foster civic pride. Places like Quivey’s Grove don’t just enrich our city—they define it..
Kellymoss Inc., which also received a Business Award, is honored for its innovation and excellence in motorsports, as well as its efforts to empower women in the industry.
“In Fitchburg, Kelly-Moss stands as a true beacon of innovation, precision engineering, and high-performance excellence,” Arata-Fratta said. “Their success brings international recognition to our community and represents exactly the kind of forward-thinking business we strive to attract and support. I honor Kelly-Moss and Victoria Thomas not only for their championship achievements, but for their leadership, their commitment to culture change, and the powerful impact they are making in motorsports and beyond.”
Deputy Fire Chief Chad Grossen receives the Staff Award for more than 30 years of dedicated service and leadership in the Fitchburg Fire Department. “Deputy Chief Grossen exemplifies what it means to serve with integrity, humility, and dedication,” said Arata-Fratta.