BENSON

MARQUETTE — Nicholas Benson was appointed Thursday to fill the vacancy of Marquette County Treasurer after former treasurer Anne Giroux resigned to become county finance manager.

“I’m very honored to be the next county treasurer,” Benson said. “I’m excited to continue working in the treasurer’s office, working for the citizens of Marquette County.”

Benson, who formerly served as deputy county treasurer, said in this new role he plans to “continue what the outgoing treasurer has done.”

“I think she’s done a great job creating a great office to work in for the employees and also for the taxpayers,” Benson said. “I think we do a good job serving them and I hope to continue that tradition.”

A committee comprised of county clerk Linda Talsma, probate judge Cheryl Hill and prosecuting attorney Matt Wiese met to appoint the position after the consideration of applications from eight interested individuals.

The term Benson was appointed for will expire Dec. 31, 2020. The Marquette County Board of Commissioners set the current salary for treasurer for this term, from 2016 to 2020, at $62,922.86. As the appointee, Benson must run as a candidate for treasurer in the 2020 election cycle and be elected to retain the position. The county treasurer’s term is a four-year term.

“I would note, part of my interest or concern is that we appoint someone who can run for the position or maintain it through an election process,” said Wiese. “I believe that Mr. Benson could do that successfully and would do that successfully.”

The committee unanimously appointed Benson to fulfill the term beginning Nov. 1.

Trinity Carey can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 206.