Rep. William Penterman Recognized as a WEDA Champion of Economic Development
The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) is excited to recognize State Rep. William
Penterman (R–Hustisford) with its Champion of Economic Development Award for his leadership during the 2025–26 Wisconsin Legislative Session. The award, which recognizes legislators who championed policies to strengthen Wisconsin’s economy, was presented by local WEDA members during a recent business event in Jefferson, WI.
“Our members are excited to recognize Rep. Penterman with the WEDA Champion of Economic Development Award. His leadership on legislation to encourage housing development, strengthen the workforce, and promote economic growth in his community is laudable,” said Michael Welsh, WEDA Vice President of Legislative Affairs. “His work during the 2025-26 session has provided communities with new economic development tools to help address housing and workforce challenges and will have a significant impact across Wisconsin.”
Penterman earned WEDA’s top legislative award for his work on policies to address Wisconsin’s housing supply and affordability crisis, which is one of the state’s biggest economic challenges. More specifically, WEDA recognized Penterman for his support of legislation to enhance financing programs for workforce housing and provide communities with more flexibility to encourage residential development.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the Wisconsin Economic Development Association,” said Rep. Penterman. “Economic growth is a team effort, and I’m grateful to work alongside so many dedicated local leaders who are committed to making Jefferson County and Wisconsin great places to live, work, and do business.”
Rep. Penterman, who was first elected to the Wisconsin Assembly in a 2021 special election, serves on several key legislative committees, including the Assembly Committees on Housing and Real Estate and Ways and Means. He represents the 38th Assembly District, which is comprised of portions of Dodge and Jefferson counties, including the cities of Jefferson and Watertown, as well as the villages of Hustisford and Johnson Creek.
The Wisconsin Economic Development Association, founded in 1975, is a statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to growing Wisconsin’s economy. Driven by the needs of its members, WEDA represents the economic development interests of both the private and public sectors through professional development, best practices, and advocacy.
