Newton County Commission Votes to Resolve All Pending Lawsuits

NEOSHO, Mo. - The Newton County Commission voted in closed session on January 2, 2025 to voluntarily dismiss two pending lawsuits brought by previous members of the Commission.

The first of the two suits was brought against then-presiding Judge Gregory Stremel in 2021 about the use of the historic courtroom.  The second suit was brought in November 2024 against County Treasurer Gina Rodriguez regarding the selection of a depository for County financial accounts.

"We finally have a Commission made up of problem solvers that are willing to sit at a table and act as adults," said Newton County Presiding Commissioner Daniel Swem. "Today's vote achieves something I've been working toward for my entire time in office and puts an end to wasteful spending on attorney's fees."

"This was a promise we made to voters on the campaign trail," stated District 1Commissioner Mark Knight. "It means alot to me to be able to keep that promise on day one in office."

"I'm excited to be able to work with all elected officials in this county," Stated District 2 Commissioner Mark Bridges. "We all work for our citizens and the ability to sit down and resolve our problems is the most basic part of the job."
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The Commission has directed the attorney representing the Commission to file voluntary dismissals in each of the lawsuits.