Commissioner distances himself from colleague's comments

As a commissioner chosen by the electorate of Flathead County to administer the affairs of the county fairly and without prejudice or racism, I must respond to statements attributed to Commissioner Phil Mitchell recently.  

Mr. Mitchell’s statement that the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe is not a part of the United States is an embarrassment to me, Flathead County administration and the employees of Flathead County. Please understand that Mr. Mitchell’s views are not held by Flathead County and his statements were made as an individual and not as a representative of the office of the Flathead County commissioners.  

Had any county employee while administering Flathead County business made those derogatory statements, the employee would face serious disciplinary action. As commissioners we must hold ourselves to the highest of ethical standards. I cannot stress enough the outrage I have for Mr. Mitchell’s misrepresentation of Flathead County.   

As a member of the Flathead County Board of Commissioners, I apologize to those offended, and ask that misjudgment on the part of Mr. Mitchell not become the lens Flathead County, its officials and employees are viewed through. —Gary Krueger, Kalispell, Flathead County commissioner