'He is a valuable resource'

AITKIN - Bob Nelson of Baxter was awarded the 2006 Association of Minnesota Counties Outstanding Service Award for his work as the Aitkin County veteran's service officer/special projects assistant.

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Nelson has worked for Aitkin County since 1998 and has increased the amount of money for veterans in Aitkin County from $2.3 million to $6.5 million.

The presentation was made Monday in Rochester at the annual AMC conference.

Aitkin County Administrator Scott Arneson nominated Nelson. In his nomination letter, Arneson said, "Bob provides a high level of dedication and service to veterans, citizens and organizations in Aitkin County and throughout the state.

"Bob has the skills, abilities and willingness to tackle any project, big or small. He is a valuable resource to county staff and its citizens and is most deserving of this award."

Bob

Nelson

Nelson's primary duty is to serve veterans. He hosts informational booths and makes presentations to community organizations to inform citizens about the services and benefits available to veterans and their families. He has helped Aitkin County's military personnel who have served overseas.

Nelson works with a variety of special projects in the areas of legislation, budgeting, computers, phone systems, audio equipment, feasibility studies, human resources, facilities, property acquisition, elections, emergency management, orientations and county auctions.

In 1998-99, Nelson helped Aitkin County with a statewide legislative effort to gain study money and statutory changes for regional jails. Nelson coordinated the meetings and gathered statistics. He also coordinated all legislative presentations for all regional jail presentations. In addition to these legislative efforts, Nelson was involved in many other legislative initiatives and communications over the years.

Other accomplishments include implementing big-screen viewing for citizens on election night, repairing and implementing changes in the county's phone systems, setting up audio and video systems for public meetings and emergency management communications and has been involved in building renovations, construction, space-need studies and acquisitions. Nelson also compiles the workload data and budget information for all departments within Aitkin County.

Nelson and his wife, Shari, have three sons. Nelson attends Lord of Life Church in Baxter and sings in the Legacy Chorale, Harmony Engineers and other local choirs. Nelson also is a member of The Sons of Norway.