Otter Tail County Assesor has long history in OTC

Contributed photo
Otter Tail County Commissioners Lee Rogness, Dan Bucholz, Kurt Mortenson, County Assessor Doug Walvatne, Betty Murphy and Wayne Johnson present Walvatne a plaque of appreciation for his years of service to Otter Tail County.

Doug Walvatne began employment with the Otter Tail County Assessor’s Office on Sept. 1, 1985, first as an office technician then two years later moving to an appraiser position working in the Fergus Falls area. 

In 2010, he began his service as county assessor. As an appraiser he was responsible for assessing taxes on 64,409 total parcels of which 37,984 are parcels with a dwelling and 4,131 commercial/industrial parcels.

Walvatne’s work and commitment to serving the public through fair, equitable and responsible appraisals and property tax systems is recognized both regionally and statewide. Within the County Assessor’s Office, he is known as a compassionate, quiet leader who provides mentorship to staff.

Kevin Scheidecker, Chief Deputy Assessor, said, “Doug built leadership within the Department, by advancing and promoting the strengths in others and fostering a positive team approach. He recognized the importance of providing us (employees) with training opportunities along with encouragement to achieve the highest level of licensure.”

Walvatne is described as a trusted leader who carried out the mission of the Assessor’s Office: ‘To treat all people fairly and with respect and to value and classify property under state law with competency and diligence.” 

Those in his office spoke highly of his leadership and describe him as a quiet leader and humble person who provided mentorship and placed confidence in their skills to ensure a customer-oriented department.

“Doug’s dedication, compassion, and willingness to work hard, meeting the needs and taking the time to listen to the residents has been very admirable.,” said Chair, Betty Murphy. “Working through property taxes and assessments throughout the years cannot be easy, but Doug’s patience and professionalism is something we can all learn from. On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, we wish all the best to Doug and his family.”

At the recent Board of Commissioner’s meeting, Walvatne’s years of dedicated service was recognized. 

“We express our utmost gratitude and appreciation for his many years of dedicated public service to the residents of Otter Tail County and the State of Minnesota,” read Nicole Hansen, County Administrator.