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2 Northern Minnesota sheriffs announce retirement plans

Lake County Sheriff Nathan Stadler, left, and Polk County Sheriff Jim Tadman, right, announce their plans to retire at the end of their terms in 2026.
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Lake County Sheriff's Office / Polk County Sheriff's Office
Lake County Sheriff Nathan Stadler, left, and Polk County Sheriff Jim Tadman, right, announce their plans to retire at the end of their terms in 2026.

Polk County Sheriff Jim Tadman and Lake County Sheriff Nathan Stadler announced they wouldn't seek additional terms in 2026.

The sheriffs of Polk and Lake counties announced upcoming retirements.

Polk County Sheriff Jim Tadman is retiring after nearly 40 years with the office. Tadman said he will not seek a third term and will spend his last year as sheriff focused on a smooth and responsible transition of leadership.

“I never imagined my start as a Polk County intern would turn into becoming sheriff,” Tadman stated in his Feb. 5 announcement.

Tadman’s other roles and responsibilities over his years in the office included undercover work, patrol, investigation, and he was a K-9 handler and training instructor.

Lake County Sheriff Nathan Stadler will retire at the end of his first term this year.

Stadler has served the residents of Lake County for 32 years, beginning his career as a Silver Bay Police officer.

“From my first day in a Silver Bay Police uniform to my final days as Sheriff, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the finest men and women in law enforcement and emergency services,” Stadler stated in his Tuesday, Feb. 17, announcement.

As of Wednesday, KAXE is not aware of candidate announcements for the top law enforcement position in these counties.


Are you a prospective candidate in Northern Minnesota? Get in touch with us at news@kaxe.org.

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