Ramsey County commissioners authorize additional assistant state's attorney after debate over remote work and space

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners approved a request from the county’s state's attorney to authorize an additional assistant state's attorney, saying the office needs more capacity to handle trials, appeals and legal representation for county departments.

“...I need that third attorney, third or the second assistant in my office,” the state's attorney said during the meeting, describing increased workload and the need to provide more legal support to county departments. He told commissioners the office is moving toward a paperless case-management system and that much of the work is managed electronically, and he proposed a hybrid work arrangement if courthouse space cannot be found immediately.

Commission discussion focused on whether the new position could be hybrid remote, how the county would provide workspace, and how the county would monitor productivity. One commissioner said remote work had not worked well for them during the COVID period; others said hybrid arrangements can work with appropriate oversight. The state's attorney said current staff have worked effectively with remote arrangements and that the new attorney would be monitored.

A motion to authorize the addition of the assistant state's attorney was moved and seconded; the commission voted in favor and the request was approved. Commissioners directed staff to explore available space in the courthouse (including the auditor’s office and other nooks) to provide on-site workspace, while recognizing the new hire may work a hybrid schedule until permanent space is found.

The state's attorney said the additional hire would help the office provide legal support to the commission and county departments and reduce the risk of staff burnout.