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Baraga County Commissioner Will Wiggins has resigned, after attending only one official meeting. Wiggins was elected to represent the second district in November, ousting 40-year incumbent Mike Koskinen. Wiggins did not attend last night’s meeting. Current board chair Bill Roelof read his resignation letter.
There was no elaboration about what the “misguidance” was. Wiggins thanked those who voted for him, and wished the board continued success. The board will appoint a replacement at next month’s meeting. Anyone interested in serving should submit a letter of intent to County Clerk Wendy Goodreau by 4:00 pm on March 5 th.
Board members heard from both sides about the controversial Baraga County Manifesto that was published after last month’s meeting. The manifesto was highly critical of the government’s COVID-19 mitigation efforts, and pledged that the county would take no further actions to support them. James Niemela appreciated it.
Rebecca Schultz, though, said the approach is misguided, given that Baraga County has one of the highest COVID-19 death rates in the state.
Dr. Eileen Schweickert said those who signed the manifesto haven’t done their homework.
She also chided the board for considering and issuing the manifesto through back channels.
The manifesto was not discussed at any county board meeting. It was signed by all five commissioners, and the county clerk, treasurer, sheriff and prosecutor. It was released on the Facebook site that had been used by Sheriff Joe Brogan’s election campaign. Officials at Baraga County Memorial Hospital, which is owned by the county, have said they will continue to enforce COVID-19 safety procedures.
