Setting the record straight - executive sessions

In recent weeks, I've watched as several letter were submitted regarding a Grant County Republican Party Executive Board special meeting that was held at the request of then GCRP Chairman Tom Dent. Some who have voiced opinions were not even there when it happened but have seemingly developed opinions based upon hearsay, rumor or gossip. As a result, I write this letter with the hope of clearing up some of the facts.

At the time, I was the Commissioner District 1 Chair for the GCRP and as such was a member of the Executive Board. As a result, I was one of the attendees at the meeting. I was aware of problems between some of the people in leadership, but was not directly involved. Though I didn't know all of the details of the relationships, it was apparent to me that things were not good.

As a result of the problems, a special meeting of the Executive Board was called to discuss a "personnel issue". Since the issue was in regard to a personnel issue, it would necessarily have to be an "executive session".

Having served as Mayor of The Town of Coulee City (2010-2013) and having been involved with many executive sessions, I can tell you that it is the norm that no one other than the acting board/council and/or representative council (attorney) is allowed in an executive session as they usually involve one of three items:

1.Potential litigation

2.Personnel issues

3.Purchase/sale of real estate

Since the special meeting in question included an "executive session" with the subject being personnel related, it was a closed session. This is easily verified; just call your local city clerk and ask who is allowed to attend "executive sessions".

Rick Heiberg

Coulee City