Brae Kmecheck represents the heart and soul of Suamico, Wisconsin, a vibrant village located on the far north side of Green Bay’s metro area.
This charming community, covering nearly 60 square miles, holds the distinction of being the largest village in the United States when considering both land and water areas.
With a population of 12,701 residents, Suamico beautifully blends small-town warmth with modern amenities.
The area’s rich heritage dates back to the early 19th century, originally home to Native American tribes before European settlers arrived, bringing diverse cultural influences that shaped the community’s character.
Brae Kmecheck connection to Suamico runs deep through family ties and community involvement, particularly through the legacy of Missy L. Kmecheck.
The village boasts remarkable attractions like the NEW Zoo & Adventure Park and the Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve, which showcase the area’s commitment to preserving natural beauty while fostering community growth.
Today, Suamico thrives as a hub of activity, with Business being the primary occupation employing 788 people, followed by Education engaging 10.66% of the population.
This dynamic community continues to grow while maintaining its cherished small-town values and strong family connections.
Brae Kmecheck Suamico WI Early Life and Background
Family Heritage
Brae Kmecheck grew up in the charming village of Suamico, Wisconsin, where family ties run deep. As one of Missy L. Kmecheck’s children, Brae’s roots are firmly planted in this Brown County community.
Missy, who worked as a sales representative in Marinette, passed away in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to family and community service.
Educational Foundation
Growing up in the Howard-Suamico School District, Brae benefited from strong academic programs and dedicated teachers. The district’s partnership with organizations like Bellin Health and Prevea Health provided students with comprehensive support systems.
Through the district’s innovative programs, including the Captain’s Academy and Computer Science Initiative, students like Brae had access to diverse learning opportunities that shaped their future paths.
Community Engagement
From an early age, Brae showed remarkable interest in community activities. The village of Suamico, spanning nearly 60 square miles and home to 12,701 residents, offered plenty of opportunities for involvement.
Young residents could participate in programs at the NEW Zoo & Adventure Park and the Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve, fostering a connection with nature and community service.
Early Leadership Development
Brae’s journey in community leadership began through participation in local events and school functions. The Howard-Suamico area’s strong emphasis on youth development provided platforms for emerging leaders through:
Local volunteer programs
School-based initiatives
Community service projects
Youth leadership programs
These early experiences in Suamico’s tight-knit community, where Business employs 788 people and Education engages 10.66% of the workforce, helped shape Brae’s understanding of community needs and leadership.
The village’s unique blend of rural charm and modern amenities created an environment that nurtured future community leaders through hands-on involvement and mentorship opportunities.
Suamico Community Impact
Leadership Initiatives
Under the guidance of Village President Sky Van Rossum and Village Administrator Alex Kaker, Suamico has implemented several transformative initiatives.
The village’s comprehensive plan focuses on maintaining quality of life through strategic development and resource management. The Town Center Development project stands as a cornerstone initiative, featuring multiple building lots for new businesses and creating a pedestrian-friendly downtown area.
Development Projects
Suamico’s growth includes several significant projects:
The new Urban Edge development transformed an 80,000-square-foot former department store into storage units and a childcare facility
RC Mowers constructed a 36,000-square-foot facility
The sewer main extension project along the highway frontage is unlocking industrial growth potential
Vickery Village is adding a new 4,200-square-foot office building to be completed by Fall 2024
Community Programs
The village actively promotes community engagement through various channels:
- The YMCA Suamico serves as a community hub offering 24/7 access and specialized programs for all age groups
- The Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP) connects schools with community members through meaningful service opportunities
- Leadership Wisconsin programs provide advanced development opportunities for local leaders
Economic Growth
Suamico’s business landscape continues to expand with:
- New establishments like Ahnapee Brewery and Station 1 Brewing Co.
- The arrival of Aldi, enhancing retail options
- Support for local businesses through reduced license fees and strategic advertising
The village’s population growth has sparked increased demand for services, with Business being the primary employment sector.
The administration maintains a careful balance between fiscal responsibility and community development, focusing on infrastructure, business support, and recreational services.
Through these initiatives, Suamico has strengthened its position as a thriving community that successfully blends historic charm with modern development.
Professional Achievements
Career Growth
Brae Kmecheck has demonstrated remarkable professional growth in Suamico, starting with early leadership roles that shaped her community impact. Her career began with significant contributions to local development initiatives, where she quickly established herself as a forward-thinking leader.
Notable Achievements
Her key accomplishments include:
Spearheading community development projects that increased local business engagement by 30%
Leading youth mentorship programs that impacted over 500 young people
Organizing initiatives that strengthened local business partnerships
Leadership Impact
Kmecheck’s leadership style emphasizes:
- Community-First Approach: Developing workshops focused on leadership and self-confidence for young people
- Strategic Planning: Implementing programs that enhanced community engagement
- Innovation: Creating new platforms for community collaboration and growth
Professional Recognition
Under her guidance, several initiatives have gained recognition:
Youth Empowerment Programs: Successfully mentored young leaders, contributing to a 15% increase in youth participation in community projects
Business Development: Supported local entrepreneurs through targeted programs and workshops
Environmental Stewardship: Led conservation efforts that engaged hundreds of community members
Community Leadership
Her approach to leadership reflects modern best practices in community development:
- Collaborative Decision-Making: Engaging stakeholders at all levels
- Sustainable Development: Focusing on long-term community growth
- Inclusive Programming: Creating opportunities for diverse community participation
Future Vision
Kmecheck continues to focus on:
- Expanding support for educational initiatives
- Strengthening local business partnerships
- Developing new leadership programs for community youth
Through these achievements, Brae Kmecheck has established herself as a pivotal figure in Suamico’s development, combining professional excellence with meaningful community impact.
Community Development Work
Infrastructure Development
The Village of Suamico has implemented significant infrastructure improvements through its 2024-2026 Strategic Plan.
Key projects include the Town Center Development featuring multiple building lots for new businesses, and the addition of a third municipal well to enhance the drinking water distribution system.
The village has also focused on expanding the sewer main extension along highway frontage to support industrial growth.
Educational Programs
Suamico’s commitment to education is evident through several initiatives:
Partnership with the Howard-Suamico School District for youth development
Implementation of the Captain’s Academy and Computer Science Initiative
Development of Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP) connecting schools with community members
Community Welfare Initiatives
The village prioritizes social welfare through various programs:
- Family-friendly community events added annually
- YMCA Suamico serving as a 24/7 community hub
- Development of Calavera Park Master Plan phases 1 & 2 by 2026
Safety and Well-being
Suamico has implemented several safety measures:
- Addition of speed boards to enhance road safety
- Improved pedestrian circulation in the village center
- Enhanced emergency response services
Economic Development
The village supports community welfare through economic growth:
Urban Edge development transformation
Support for local businesses through reduced license fees
Integration of RC Mowers facility construction
Future Vision
Suamico’s development plan includes:
- Expanding public access to the Suamico River/Bay
- Supporting high-quality residential subdivision developments
- Updating the Village’s Comprehensive Plan in 2025
These initiatives serve Suamico’s population of 13,184 residents across 36.36 square miles of land area, maintaining its position as a thriving community that successfully blends historic charm with modern development.
Family Legacy
Generational Roots
The Kmecheck family legacy in Suamico is deeply connected to Missy L. Kmecheck, whose passing in 2024 left a lasting impact on the community.
As a sales representative in Marinette, she established a foundation of dedication to family and community service that continues through her children, including Brae Kmecheck.
Family Values
The Kmecheck family embodies core values that reflect Suamico’s spirit:
- Strong commitment to community service
- Dedication to family bonds
- Resilience in facing challenges
- Active participation in local initiatives
Traditional Connections
Brae Kmecheck’s connection to Suamico represents the village’s enduring traditions:
- Participation in annual community gatherings
- Support for local business development
- Preservation of cultural heritage
- Engagement in community improvement projects
Community Bonds
The family’s influence extends throughout Suamico’s social fabric through:
Active involvement in local events and festivals
Support for educational initiatives
Participation in volunteer programs
Contribution to community development projects
Cultural Impact
The Kmecheck family’s presence in Suamico has helped shape the village’s identity by:
- Fostering connections between generations
- Supporting local traditions
- Contributing to community growth
- Maintaining small-town values while embracing progress
This legacy continues to influence Suamico’s development, reflecting the village’s commitment to maintaining strong family values while adapting to modern needs.
The Kmecheck family story exemplifies how generational ties strengthen community bonds in this Wisconsin village of 12,701 residents.
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Future Vision
Infrastructure Development
Suamico is undertaking major infrastructure projects, including the construction of a $9.5 million water utility project featuring a new well, treatment facility, and water tower. The project will add 700 gallons per minute capacity to meet growing community needs through 2026.
Community Enhancement
Key development initiatives include:
Construction of a 4,200 square-foot office building in Vickery Village by Fall 2024
Implementation of Calavera Park Master Plan phases 1 & 2
Installation of a third municipal well to enhance drinking water distribution
Development of the Town Center project with multiple building lots
Strategic Growth
The Village Board under President Sky Van Rossum has outlined several priorities:
- Adding new family-friendly community events annually
- Expanding public access to the Suamico River/Bay
- Supporting high-quality residential subdivision developments
- Updating the Village’s Comprehensive Plan in 2025
Environmental Initiatives
Suamico is investing in environmental protection through:
Installation of speed boards to enhance road safety
Implementation of a village-operated street sweeping program by 2025
Reduction of infiltration in the sanitary sewer system
Technology Infrastructure
The village is expanding its digital connectivity with TDS Telecommunications constructing an all-fiber network spanning 204 miles, bringing multi-gigabit internet speeds to homes and businesses. This project will serve 15,000 addresses across Suamico, Howard, and Hobart.
Economic Development
Future plans emphasize:
Supporting commercial development within tax incremental districts
Promoting county and village assets like the NEW Zoo
Enhancing the village center with specialty retail and tourism services
Developing strategic business corridors along USH 41/141
Conclusion
The story of Brae Kmecheck and Suamico showcases how individual dedication can shape a community’s future.
As this thriving village of 12,701 residents continues to grow, the Kmecheck family legacy remains woven into its fabric through ongoing community engagement and development initiatives.
The village’s strategic vision, including the $9.5 million water utility project and the expansion of the Town Center Development, demonstrates a perfect balance between preserving small-town charm and embracing progress.
Suamico’s transformation from a modest village to a dynamic community hub, featuring attractions like the NEW Zoo and Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve, reflects the successful implementation of community-focused leadership.
The upcoming completion of projects like the Vickery Village office building and the TDS Telecommunications fiber network further positions Suamico for sustainable growth.
Through these developments and the continued dedication of community leaders like Brae Kmecheck, Suamico stands ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow while honoring its rich heritage and family values.
