Board honors Nelson's service

The Board of County Commissioners honored Blair Nelson at its June 6  regular meeting by taking turns talking about what Nelson meant to them. Each of them also set a can of Coca-Cola by their computers, just as Nelson always had. Commissioner Brian Harguth started the meeting by saying how heartbroken the commissioners are on losing a colleague and friend. 

“We can’t possibly recognize all the good that Blair has done,” Harguth said among stifled sniffles and tears from the room. He said the commissioners will conduct business in a way that honors the community. 

After a moment of reflection and respect for Nelson, Commissioner DeAnne Malterer recalled Nelson’s sense of humor and his deep connections to the community, commenting that his influence can never be measured. 

Commissioner Brad Krause commented on how he had always appreciated Nelson’s support during his own tenure as board chair. “I could always depend on him,” said Krause. “Although we did get into trouble every once in a while for talking.”

Commissioner Doug Christopherson reflected on Nelson’s determination to learn about people on a personal level - he wasn’t just business. “He took interest in our personal families, " said Christopherson. “We didn’t always see eye to eye, but we always respected each other's opinions. We’ll miss him dearly.”