After heated public comments alleging misconduct, Madison County board votes to refer county attorney matter to Iowa attorney general

Multiple Madison County residents used the board’s public‑comment period to raise allegations about County Attorney Steven Swanson’s conduct and application record, prompting the Board of Supervisors to vote to forward concerns to the Iowa Attorney General’s office.

Speakers criticized the board’s use of outside counsel, potential conflicts of interest and the prospect of significant legal bills for taxpayers. Several commenters referenced local news reporting and public records alleging issues with the county attorney’s application and past conduct. "It turns out that county attorney Swanson has, wait for it, a misdemeanor," one commenter said during an extended public comment period.

James Phillips told the board that already more than $20,000 has been spent on outside counsel for the board and warned that continued litigation could reach "six figures," potentially meaning taxpayers would fund both sides of a dispute. Rachel Terhar said she objected to a proposed 13% raise for the county attorney and questioned whether the compensation board had been given full, representative data.

In response to public concerns, the chair proposed — and a supervisor moved — that the board refer any concerns about County Attorney Steven Swanson to the Iowa Attorney General. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The board did not take direct disciplinary action during the meeting.

What happens next: The board’s action directs the county attorney or board counsel to forward complaints and supporting material to the Iowa Attorney General’s office for any review the AG deems appropriate. The vote does not itself find wrongdoing; it requests an external review of complaints raised publicly and in submitted documents.