Clay County reappoints Kurt Stubstead and appoints Amos Baer to Buffalo Red River Watershed board

The Clay County Board of Commissioners on July 28 interviewed four candidates for two three‑year seats on the Buffalo Red River Watershed District Board and made two appointments required by statute before the end of the month.

The board reappointed Kurt Stubstead to a three‑year term and later appointed Amos Baer to the other three‑year seat. Chair opened the interviews by saying the county had accepted letters of interest and that appointments must be made by July 31. Commissioners discussed each candidate’s experience before voting; the transcript records motions, seconds and each motion carried without recorded opposition.

Candidates emphasized differing backgrounds and priorities. Steve Lindas, who lives in Morehead, said he would bring a scientific, systems perspective and local planning‑commission experience: “I am Steve Lindas. I am a Clay County resident living in Morehead,” he told the board. Joel Hildebrandt, a longtime Clay County supervisor, described “a lifetime of utilizing conservation practices” and experience with shared watershed projects. Kurt Stubstead, who already serves on the Buffalo River Watershed Board, said he wants to continue projects to completion: “I have been serving on the Buffalo River Watershed Board and I’ve learned quite a bit.” Amos Baer cited decades of farming and cooperative leadership and described prior watershed board experience as positive.

Commissioners highlighted the need for board members who understand both agricultural drainage and permit requirements. During interviews county staff and counsel reminded the board of statutory eligibility rules, including residency requirements. Chair asked staff to coordinate start dates and paperwork after the appointments.

The appointments were handled during the regular meeting with no roll‑call vote tallies included in the transcript. The newly appointed managers will serve three‑year terms expiring 08/31/2029.