01/15/2013 Giles accepts state's attorney post By ELISA SAND, Staff Reporter Chris Giles Lake County Commissioners will be seeking applications to fill an upcoming vacancy on the county board with the appointment of Commissioner Chris Giles as state's attorney. A local attorney, Giles previously served as state's attorney for Lake County from 1997 until mid-2005, when he stepped down to accept a position at Dakota State University. Giles has been a member of the County Commission since 2009 and just started his second four-year term this month. The Lake County Commission accepted the resignation of current State's Attorney Ken Meyer in December. Meyer plans to join his family's business, AH Meyer and Sons, in Winfred beginning in March. Following a closed-session discussion for personnel purposes on Tuesday (today), Giles accepted the appointment, which takes effect March 4, and tendered his resignation as county commissioner effective March 3. Commissioners indicated they would accept applications for county commissioner until Feb. 4 and determine the next course of action, depending on the number of applicants. "I was very surprised when Mr. Meyer resigned his position," Giles said. Following Meyer's resignation, Giles was approached and asked to consider stepping into the position. "The position has positives and negatives just like private practice," Giles said. "It is set up better than before with two staff and stability with staff. That was a positive factor." Following the discussion Tuesday, Giles recused himself as each of the commissioners gave their thoughts on his appointment as state's attorney. Commissioner Dan Bohl acknowledged that it was a time-sensitive decision and Kelli Wollmann said it was in the best interest of the commission to move forward with the appointment. "He's an excellent commissioner and an excellent attorney," Bohl said. Roger Hageman said Giles was a good candidate for the position, considering he has a private practice and he has already held the position. Giles was offered the position at a salary of $75,000. "I've served in this position before and would be willing to accept this position," Giles said, later expressing gratitude to the commissioners who thought to give him the opportunity. According to state law, Giles' appointment is in effect until Jan. 5, 2015. The position will be open for election in 2014 as a two-year term. Commissioners accepted Giles' resignation with regrets and appreciation for what he's brought to the table as a commissioner. "I have enjoyed working with my fellow commissioners. It's a good group to work with," Giles said. "I will regret leaving, but it's taking on a new challenge and serving in a different capacity."

©Madison Daily Leader 2013