GIBBON — Gibbon Fairfax Winthrop (GFW) School Board Chairman Dan Merkel responded to recent board member allegations in an email received by The Journal Friday, July 28.

At a July 24 meeting, recently resigned GFW school board members Amy Acree and Jason Haas spoke at a public comment period, saying they resigned because concerns, complaints and allegations of board member misconduct were not handled correctly and that community members and staff are afraid to talk to the board due to fear of retaliation.

“Board members are elected by GFW voters. They cannot be removed on demand from other board members,” read Merkel’s email. “I have been informed by the school district’s legal counsel that the standard for removal of a duly elected board member is established by state law and the Minnesota Constitution, and it requires a showing of malfeasance (wrongdoing) or nonfeasance (failure to perform an act required by law) in the performance of board member duties, relating to something of a substantial nature directly affecting the rights and interests of the public.”

“This is a very high standard which would have to be established at a hearing before removal of a board member,” Merkel added. “Again, it cannot be done based on demands by other board members.”

“It is not true that I did nothing to address the concerns of board members who resigned. It is clear to me that they wanted a board member removed from the board. I suggested training and guidance,” said Merkel. “Unfortunately, they rejected that suggestion and resigned. I wish they would have made a different decision.”

“As a board chair, I have a role, but it does not include deciding who should be on the school board–that is for the voters to decide,” added Merkel. “There was a difference of opinion on the best method to address concerns about a board member. I respect every board member’s right to their opinion, but a difference of opinion does not mean I did anything wrong.”

“I am committed to the best interests of the school district. We have some exciting projects and plans, and that will be my focus moving forward,” Merkel said.