The unexpected expense of a special primary and general election for the Minnesota Senate District 11 seat was an unpleasant surprise for more than one Carlton County official.

“Why do the costs for a special primary and special election fall solely on the local counties and townships involved?” asked Carlton County Commissioner Gary Peterson at the Adjourned Session of the County Board Monday, Jan. 28. “The state of Minnesota should cover the costs.”

Auditor/Treasurer Paul Gassert explained the makeup of the more than $50,000 in costs, which include overtime pay because of the Mart...