After nearly 40 years working with Otter Tail County, county assessor Doug Walvatne will be retiring.
Walvatne originally started at the Otter Tail County Assessor’s Office in 1985, first as an office technician before getting an appraiser position two years later, according to a press release from the county. In 2010, he began his service as county assessor. As an appraiser, he was responsible for assessing taxes on 64,409 total parcels.
March will be Walvatne’s last month with the county, and a retirement party will be held to thank him for his many years of service. Within the County Assessor’s Office, he is known as a compassionate, quiet leader who provides mentorship to staff.
Chief Deputy Assessor Kevin Scheidecker shared his thoughts about what Walvatne’s leadership meant to the Assessor’s Office, saying, “Doug built leadership within the department by advancing and promoting the strengths in others and fostering a positive team approach. He recognized the importance of providing us (employees) with training opportunities along with encouragement to achieve the highest level of licensure.”
At the recent Board of Commissioners meeting, Walvatne’s years of service was recognized.
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“We express our utmost gratitude and appreciation for his many years of dedicated public service to the residents of Otter Tail County and the State of Minnesota,” read County Administrator Nicole Hansen.
“Doug’s dedication, compassion, and willingness to work hard, meeting the needs and taking the time to listen to the residents has been very admirable,” said Chair Betty Murphy. “Working through property taxes and assessments throughout the years cannot be easy, but Doug's patience and professionalism is something we can all learn from. On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, we wish all the best to Doug and his family.”
