Letter: Wabasha County is top in state

To the Editor:

I would like to thank the Wabasha County commissioners for their leadership and commitment to the taxpayers. Their perseverance for a more effective and efficient government has made Wabasha County No. 1.

According to the Minnesota Department of Revenue, out of the 87 counties in Minnesota, Wabasha had the greatest levy reduction of the entire state. Our commissioners reduced the 2012 levy 7.7 percent, giving the taxpayers a much needed break from the spending of previous boards.

Did you know the Wabasha County levy had doubled from 2004 to 2009? As a taxpayer I was feeling the pain as the cost of government was increasing at a much faster and higher rate than my income.

We have leaders who, despite vicious attacks, did not waver from their principles and dedication to smaller and more efficient government. Only 12 other counties in Minnesota were able to bring a levy decrease to the taxpayers. However, none of them performed to the level of Wabasha County.

I frequently attend board meetings, and I have witnessed firsthand that being one of these commissioners that accomplished this task was not an easy job. They frequently were the target of unjust criticism and harassment, including personal attacks and vandalism.

The commissioners deserve to receive recognition for this accomplishment. Thank you for your leadership and dedication in making Wabasha County No. 1.

Virginia Kautz

Zumbro Falls

Tags: opinion, letters