Stearns County Commissioners to Consider Sanner Replacement

ST. CLOUD -- Stearns County commissioners Tuesday, will consider how to fill the sheriff vacancy. Sheriff John Sanner is retiring Monday leaving the position open until the board appoints a replacement.

Sanner's term has just under two years remaining on it. The term expires December 31st, 2018.

At a discussion during the county's last board meeting, some commissioners expressed disappointment in Sanner's decision to leave his post with so much time remaining.

Sanner has recommended current Chief Deputy Sheriff Bruce Bechtold be named to the position. But, commissioners were noncommittal on how to proceed.

Commissioner Jeff Mergen has suggested appointing the runner-up to Sanner in the 2014 election. Mark Bromenschenkel is a former Stearns County Commissioner and former Sartell police officer. He lost to Sanner 55% to 45% in that election.