Ramsey County commissioners vote 3-2 to offer state's attorney post to Daniel Howell

The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners voted 3-2 at a special meeting to offer the county's state's attorney position to Daniel Howell, the board said.

The appointment follows interviews of three finalists to fill the vacancy described during the meeting as Beau's position. Commissioners said the finalists scored closely in interviews and that letters of recommendation and follow-up calls to referees were considered in deliberations.

Commissioners described differences among the finalists during discussion. One commissioner noted that candidate Megan had proactively met with multiple law-enforcement agencies and completed ride-alongs before applying, an experience the commissioner said distinguished her references. Other commissioners pointed to Daniel Howell's experience both as a defense attorney and a prosecutor and his outreach to community boards as strengths. One commissioner also referenced Howell's background in water law.

After deliberation, a commissioner moved to hire Daniel Howell as the county's next state's attorney; another commissioner seconded the motion. The board conducted a roll-call-style vote that resulted in a 3-2 decision to offer Howell the position. Commissioners Gessner and Otis were recorded as voting no; the board reported the motion carried by three votes to two. The meeting record did not specify all individual yes votes by name.

The board indicated that details of salary and terms would be negotiated between Commissioner Bridal and Daniel Howell rather than resolved by the full commission during the meeting. One commissioner said they had considered holding a special election given tight scores and the importance of the office but supported making an appointment at the meeting.

Commissioners thanked all applicants for applying and praised the strength of the finalist pool. The special meeting concluded after the appointment vote and brief remarks thanking candidates for their interest.