*Opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of The Messenger.
To the Editor
As a resident of Wabasha County, I am writing to express concerns about the lack of accountability of certain elected county officials to the County Commissioners, even though county tax revenue is the source of their salaries and fringe benefits.
A prime example is County Attorney Matthew Stinson. To my knowledge, he has never disputed information published in prior newspaper articles. In the absence of correction or rebuttal, it is reasonable to presume that the reporting was factual.
When a government official takes an oath of office, that oath represents a contract with we the people to perform the duties of the position faithfully, within the law, and in the best interest of the public. In the private sector, an employee with a comparable performance record would likely face reprimand or termination. If self-employed, such a record would likely lead to financial insolvency.
Individuals who choose to file or refile for elected county office are fully aware of the responsibilities, salary, and benefits associated with the position. If those terms are unacceptable, they should not seek the position.
The real concern lies in the financial consequences of nonperformance. One of many instances as reported, Mr. Stinson and his office failed to fulfill required duties in 2024, resulting in approximately $180,000 in additional taxpayer costs to outsource legal services—on top of his full salary. Despite this, he successfully appealed a pay reduction imposed by the County Commissioners and was awarded full compensation by a State District Court, even in light of documented nonperformance.
This approach—using arbitration or litigation during salary disputes—is too often employed by elected county officials, frequently resulting in outcomes favorable to the official while taxpayers absorb the financial burden. Meanwhile, county residents face higher costs through increased property tax levies—most recently a 5 percent increase—as well as rising consumer taxes.
A similar issue has been brought to public attention involving Sheriff Rodney Bartsh, who is reportedly demanding a higher salary increase than what the County Board has offered. Is this matter also be heading toward arbitration? Again, at taxpayer expense?
This raises an important question: How do we, the taxpayers, gain accountability?
One possible solution is to urge our state legislators, working with knowledgeable County Commissioners, to draft and pass legislation requiring that all elected county officials be fully accountable to the County Board. The Board should have clear authority to set salaries, fringes and the ability of elected officials to seek arbitration or court intervention over any disputes should be eliminated. This would help prevent continued taxpayer burden and restore accountability in county government.
Respectfully,
Paul Kottschade
Kellogg, MN
507-421-5437
