People are getting it: Steele County MN Sued for Public Data Violations.
Prosecutor, a former Police Officer Lawyer, tells recipient, we aren't answering ANY of your Data Requests because you're suing us
Ellendale, MN – August 19, 2024 –
Daniel Petsinger, a dedicated resident of Ellendale, MN, has initiated legal proceedings against Steele County after a protracted struggle to obtain public data that he is legally entitled to under Minnesota State Statutes Chapter 13.
Petsinger's case underscores the challenges citizens may face when attempting to access public information and highlights the need for transparency and accountability in local government.
In 2017, Petsinger purchased a parcel of land in Ellendale from the State of Minnesota in a tax forfeiture sale. Since late March 2024, Petsinger has diligently pursued public records concerning this property from several county offices, including the Auditor’s Office, the Assessor’s Office, and the Recorder’s Office. Despite his repeated, patient, and civil attempts to obtain these documents, he has encountered significant delays and non responsiveness. After following up multiple times with these agencies without success, Petsinger was advised to direct his requests to the County Attorney’s Office. Unfortunately, Robert J. Jarrett, the Steele County Attorney, has also failed to respond, leaving Petsinger without a resolution for over a month.
Jarrett, a former police officer, is expected to understand and uphold the legal obligations of the county to comply with public data laws. Faced with no other recourse, Petsinger has filed a lawsuit in the 3rd Judicial District of Steele County under Case Number 74-CV-24-1313.
The lawsuit seeks a court order to compel the county to fulfill its legal obligations and provide the requested public data. Petsinger’s case brings to light the importance of public officials adhering to transparency laws and the need for efficient access to public records. As a community member and taxpayer, Petsinger’s actions are driven by a commitment to ensuring that public data remains accessible and that government accountability is maintained.
The court proceedings will now address the issue of whether Steele County has met its legal responsibilities under Minnesota’s public data statutes. Petsinger remains hopeful that this legal action will prompt a resolution and reaffirm the principle that public records should be readily accessible to those who seek them.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Keith Haskell Independent Investigative Reporter
Media Liaison for Petsinger 763-327-0964
WeThePeopleOfMn@gmail.com
About Daniel Petsinger
Daniel Petsinger is a local resident of Ellendale, MN, and 30+ year local business owner, as well as a combat veteran in United States Military, committed to civic engagement and transparency. His recent legal action came only after being more attentive to local political bodies and their behaviors sparked his interest. He aims to hold local government accountable and ensure that public data remains accessible to all citizens.
About Keith Haskell
Keith Haskell is a citizen journalist and frequent podcast guest that advocates for citizen rights, and is often the Master of Ceremonies or Keynote Speaker at rallies, symposiums, Haskell, festival's, parades and similar events. Haskell teaches subject matter to Scholl boards, city councils, and also civilian groups that desire a better understanding of rights and responsibilities on several topics, including Minnesota's Open Meeting Laws and Public Data Requests, and visits form Child Protective Services and/or interactions with Law Enforcement.