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Janet Swandby

Kathi Kilgore

Kathi Kilgore has been affecting public policy on the state, federal and local level for thirteen years. She joined Coenen/Swandby Associates, Inc. in 2002, and the firm’s name was changed to Swandby/Kilgore Associates, Inc. when she became a shareholder in 2006. 

In the past six years, Kilgore has played a key role in the legislative successes of the firm. She was instrumental in crafting legislation to clarify existing law pertaining to the taxation of recreational mobile homes and advocated for legislation to specify how room tax dollars can be spent by municipalities. In the past year, she has expanded the reach of the firm and now lobbies for clients before the City of Madison Common Council. 

Before joining Coenen/Swandby Associates, Kilgore was the director of government relations for the Wisconsin Restaurant Association. While there she lobbied at all levels of government and addressed members’ legislative and legal questions. She played a vital role in the passage of key legislation for the association, such as a September 1st school start date and removing gift certificates from the Unclaimed Property Law. 

Prior to lobbying, Kilgore developed a solid political reputation while serving as staff to State Representatives Cloyd Porter and Mike Powers. While working in the State Capitol, she mastered legislative procedures and created invaluable relationships with legislators, staff and agency leaders. This enriching experience gives Kilgore a professional advantage in and around the Capitol and a comprehensive understanding of the legislative process. 

Kilgore earned her B.A. in speech communication at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in 1994. To best serve her clients, Kilgore actively participates as a member of the Association of Wisconsin Lobbyists and the Wisconsin Society of Association Executives.

Kilgore lives in Fitchburg, where she once served as an alderman on the City Council and on numerous city committees and commissions. While she is not advocating for her clients, Kilgore spends her free time with her husband, Jason, and their six-year-old son, Grant. She also enjoys golfing, reading and travel.

Government Relations | Association Management