Holtz rescinds resignation after Hoffman denied job

By Reed Anfinson
Swift County Sheriff John Holtz told the Swift County Board of Commissioners at their Sept. 3 meeting that he was withdrawing his retirement announcement.
Holtz, who informed the board last month he was retiring as of Oct. 1, also expressed his deep dissatisfaction with the commissioners for not supporting his recommendation to appoint Chief Deputy Mike Hoffman to take his place upon his retirement.
Hoffman would have completed the remaining two years and three months in Holtz’s elected four-year term.
“Commissioners, you’ve shown your inability to follow my succession plan and disregarded my recommendations to appoint Chief Deputy Mike Hoffman to fill my position as sheriff,” he told commissioners during their citizens comment period at the start the meeting.
“He is a person who is familiar with this office and the position. He is not only fully capable but someone who is dedicated to the protection of Swift County citizens,” Holtz said. “It was disappointing to me that there were no conversations with me with any concerns anyone may have had or that were actually presented to you.
“I cannot in good conscience leave my staff and citizens of Swift County in such uncertainty. So with that said, I am rescinding my resignation, and I will be continuing as sheriff,” Holtz told commissioners.
Commissioner Chair Pete Peterson, District 3-south Benson and Torning Township thanked Holtz for his comments, then asked if anyone else wanted to speak.
During the citizen’s comment period, commissioners give citizens a few minutes to state their issues but do not engage in a conversation with those speaking or comment on what they say.
Danver’s Fire and EMA Chief Tim Nagler told commissioners he was speaking on behalf of his staff and Benson Fire Chief Jeff Reuss who was unable to attend the meeting.
“We are here today in support of Mike Hoffman…as interim sheriff,” Nagler said. “We’ve had a very good working relationship with Mike over the last few years. In light of John’s comments, I don’t know where that is going to lead.”

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