Otter Tail County Commissioners Doug Huebsch and John Lindquist were honored at the final board meeting of 2020. Both commissioners retired after having served on the board for 12 years. The newly elected commissioners will be sworn in on Jan. 5.
A virtual celebration was held on Dec. 15 to say farewell to the retiring commissioners. Employees thanked the commissioners for their public service and wished them well. “Your advocacy for youth is commendable,” said Probation Director Michael Schommer. “You have taken strides to benefit youth and families for the long run. Thank you for your service.”
Huebsch, District 1 Commissioner, served as the board’s representative on a range of boards, committees, and advisory groups, including Community Development Agency, Community Health Board, Otter Tail Country Lakes Association, and Prairie Lakes Municipal Solid Waste Authority Board. He recently was awarded the Recycling Association of Minnesota’s ‘Public Service Award’ for his work as a member of the PLMSWA board.
“Doug has devoted the past 12 years to serving the public, his devotion to civic-mindedness has always been informed by a philosophy of serving constituents’ needs and immediate concerns,” said former County Administrator John Dinsmore. “Although keenly aware of how county government affects people broadly, Doug never lost sight of the importance of representing and serving the individual needs of the people who lived in his district.”
Dan Bucholz will serve as the commissioner for District 1.
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Lindquist, affectionately known as the Board’s “Water Boy”, was recognized for his devotion to conservation efforts, effective management of natural resources, and regard for the importance of water stewardship. Lindquist’s leadership implemented numerous technology innovations to streamline county government operations, and supported investments to enhance the management and improvement of water quality in the county's lakes and streams.
“While John has devoted the past 12 years to serving the public, his humility and gentle demeanor has always been informed by a philosophy of serving constituents’ needs and immediate concerns,” County Administrator Nicole Hansen said. “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.”
Kurt Mortenson will serve as the new District 3 Commissioner.
Otter Tail County Board of Commissioner meetings may be viewed via live stream by visiting ottertailcountymn.us/board-of-commissioners . Community members may also subscribe to county board agendas and minutes at this site.
