During a recent county commission meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding a legal dispute between the city of Rochester and the county over the registrar of deeds, which has resulted in substantial financial implications for the county. One commissioner expressed frustration over the expenditure of county funds on what was described as a trivial matter involving \"three words.\" The commissioner highlighted that taxpayers in Rochester are effectively paying twice for the legal costs associated with the case—once through city taxes and again through county taxes.

The discussion revealed that the county had incurred legal fees and staff costs amounting to potentially $40,000 to $50,000, which the commissioner argued could have been better allocated to pressing needs within the county. Despite the judge denying the county's initial request for legal fees, there was a suggestion that further legal action could potentially change the outcome, allowing the county to recover some of the costs.

The meeting also touched on the personal nature of the hearings, with accusations made against the registrar of deeds, which the commissioner deemed unnecessary and unfortunate. The ongoing legal battle raises concerns about the potential for escalating costs if the city decides to pursue the matter further, possibly even to the Supreme Court.

Overall, the meeting underscored the tensions between the city and county, as well as the financial burden placed on taxpayers due to the legal dispute. The commissioners are now considering their options moving forward, with an emphasis on the need for resolution to avoid further expenditures.