(Spirit Lake)– New developments today (Tues.) regarding an online survey that’s been a source of controversy at recent meetings of the Dickinson County Board of Supervisors.
An employee in the Treasurer’s Office nominated the county in a “best work place” contest that was based in part on the findings of a survey among county employees. Several supervisors were concerned the survey could turn up sensitive information that could fall into the wrong hands. They also had questions over the legitimacy of the company conducting the survey. At a later meeting Assistant County Attorney Lonnie Saunders reported he had checked the company’s background and found the survey to be legitimate. The supervisors at that time voted three to two to authorize the continuation of the survey.
That all changed, though this (Tues.) morning. Supervisor Mardi Allen reported that she and County Treasurer Kris Rowley had been in contact with the company conducting the survey which informed them the county would still have time to opt out of the survey if it wished to do so.
Saying that findings of the survey would probably be tainted in light of the recent controversy, Allen made a motion, which was seconded, to discontinue the county’s participation in the survey. The motion passed unanimously.
Supervisor Bill Leopold said he had reservations in voting to discontinue the survey, saying the employee who nominated the county for the honor of best work place should be commended.
