WASHBURN COUNTY DrydenWire) — Washburn County has announced that current Sheriff Dennis Stuart has been hired as the county’s new Zoning Administrator.
Stuart will begin working part-time in the zoning administrator position on February 9, 2026, and will transition to the role full-time on August 24. Stuart confirmed to DrydenWire that he will resign as Washburn County Sheriff on or near August 24th in order to assume the zoning administrator position full-time.
Stuart recently announced he will not seek a third term as sheriff, bringing to a close a 25-year career in law enforcement, including eight years as Washburn County Sheriff. His current term would otherwise run through January 2027.
Stuart’s resignation will create a vacancy in the Washburn County Sheriff’s Office prior to the completion of the election cycle. Under Wisconsin law, Governor Tony Evers would be responsible for appointing an interim sheriff to serve until the position is filled through the election process.
The primary election for Washburn County Sheriff is scheduled for August 11, with the general election set for November 3, 2026. Deputy Warren Tuttle and Investigator Jason Bartholomew, both Republicans, are the only candidates who have announced campaigns for the position.
Below is the full news release issued by Washburn County:
NEWS RELEASE
Washburn County Hires a New Zoning Administrator
Washburn County is excited to announce that Dennis Stuart has accepted the position of Washburn County Zoning Administrator. He will begin part-time on February 9th and advance to full-time on August 24th.
Dennis brings a wealth of valuable experience in serving our community. He previously served the Village of Minong as chief of police, zoning administrator, and building inspector.
We look forward to welcoming Mr. Stuart to this new role on our county team.
-- Per Washburn County
Last Update: Jan 26, 2026 10:20 am CST
