By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

A potential resolution, discussed since April and pushed by commissioner Kent Becker, that would oppose a federal program viewed by right-wing Republicans as a “land grab,” was voted down 3-2 Monday by county commissioners.

Commissioners David Mueller, Dave Crofoot, and Randy Dallke voted against the proposed anti-30x30 resolution. Becker and commissioner Jonah Gehring voted in favor.

During the lengthy process of commission discussions, the resolution was made weaker and weaker until it amounted to little more than a position statement to be sent to various state and federal agencies.

Dallke said Monday that he had received from 8 to 10 calls from people who did not want the county to pass the resolution.

Gehring moved to approve the resolution. Becker seconded.

“I will say I still hold my position that we don’t need a resolution, it can be done with a letter,” Mueller countered. “I’ve had a lot of calls, and we’ve had an election in our district that was pretty clear where the voters in my district stand, and I will vote in opposition to the resolution.”

Becker’s reaction was sour.

“All I can say is, the taxpayers have not spoken,” he said.

Mueller disagreed.

“Our voters spoke, loud and clear,” Mueller said. “Landowners are entitled to make their own decisions, but they need to be informed, and we are all right with that.”

Steve Schmidt, who has followed the discussion and spoken in favor of conservation measures, said Tuesday: “As I said at the public hearing, I am sympathetic to an anti-30x30 position but agree with commissioner Mueller that a letter from the commission instead of a resolution would be preferable.”

In other business, commissioners reviewed bids for a 30-by-50-foot lean-to to be built next to an existing shop at the county lake. NF Construction was the successful bidder with a bid of $43,501.