County Auditor to retire after 42 years of state and county work

Contributed photo
Otter Tail County Auditor Wayne Stein stands in front of the county voting machines. Stein has worked for the county’s auditor office since 1983.

Otter Tail County announces the retirement of Wayne Stein, a lifelong resident of Fergus Falls, after a remarkable 42-year career dedicated to public service. Stein’s contributions to Otter Tail County and his commitment to public service will be celebrated at a public retirement event on Tuesday, March 25 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Government Services Center at 500 West Fir Avenue in Fergus Falls.

Stein grew up on a farm outside Fergus Falls and graduated from Fergus Falls High School. He attended Fergus Falls Community and Technical College before earning his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Moorhead State University in 1981. Stein and his wife, Vangie, have two children, Tracy and Seth, and are the proud grandparents of two.

After starting his accounting career with the State of Minnesota’s Auditor’s Office in Detroit Lakes, Stein joined Otter Tail County’s Auditor’s Office in 1983, marking the beginning of his outstanding career. In 1990, he ran for auditor and remained in the elected role, running unopposed in every election before the position transitioned to an appointed position in 2022.

Known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and wealth of knowledge, Stein built lasting connections throughout the State. 

Reflecting on his career, Stein shared, “What did I like best about my job? The people. I got to know a lot of people through my work. I met folks from every city and township during elections, sometimes working with 600 election judges,” he said. “The accuracy of post-election results, including the 2018 Sheriff’s recount, speaks volumes about the dedication of those I worked with.”

“Wayne’s work ethic, expertise, and historical knowledge have long been pillars for Otter Tail County as an organization. His retirement is well-deserved, and he has positioned the county well as he embarks on his next chapter. Working alongside Wayne has been a privilege, and I will miss him dearly,” said Nicole Hansen, County Administrator.

County Commissioner Wayne Johnson added, “Mr. Stein has always exemplified professionalism, consistently addressing requests and questions with both timeliness and thoroughness. His contributions to Otter Tail County have been immeasurable, and his forthcoming well-deserved retirement marks the loss of an incredible amount of institutional expertise. He has a remarkable ability to patiently explain the historical context to citizens, commissioners, and staff, while always respecting the board’s decisions.”

As he steps into retirement, Stein looks forward to volunteering, spending time at the YMCA, and, most importantly, spending quality time with his grandchildren.