Wadena County Approves $15K for Humane Society After Missed Deadline
by Trinity Gruenberg
The Wadena County Commissioners held their regular meeting on Tuesday, March 4.
Tax-Exempt Status for the Wadena County Humane Society
The Wadena County Humane Society requested approval of tax-exempt status after missing a filing deadline by one day. Dr. Cheryl Swenson and Treasurer Jeff Harrison explained that this was the first time in 28 years they had missed the deadline, as they were focused on an urgent rescue. They noted that the organization serves as an impound facility for the county but has not received county funding for the past two years. The tax burden they now face is $17,000.
Jason Jorgenson, county assessor, stated that after consulting with the Department of Revenue, he was informed that granting an extension would be illegal and unethical, as the deadline is not flexible. He added that the only option to rectify the situation would be through tax court. While sympathetic, Jorgenson emphasized that he could not risk his license by making an exception.
Commissioner Bill Stearns proposed using $15,000 from the MCIT dividend fund to ease the financial burden on the Humane Society, as the organization qualifies for county funding.
Heather Olson, auditor/treasurer, reviewed the county’s allocation process, noting that communication with the Humane Society had been inconsistent due to changes in leadership. While past allocations had been made, the organization had not requested funding in the last two years....
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