Disagreements between Wyoming Mayor Sheldon Anderson and Councilman Gary Menne have resulted in Menne filing a harassment restraining order petition against the mayor. The petition will be heard in Chisago County District Court in Center City on Monday, Nov. 26. The hearing order, which was served on Anderson Monday, specifies that in the interim he have no contact with Menne in person, other than at city council functions, and not communicate with Menne by telephone or e-mail.

Anderson said on Wednesday he and Menne have clashed in recent weeks over city decisions involving the merger talks with Wyoming Township, funding for the joint comprehensive plan and city funding for the Forest Lake Teen Center operated by ISD 831 Community Services. Anderson said he believed Menne felt threatened and harassed because Anderson has a conceal and carry license for a handgun.

In a statement released on Wednesday relative to the Menne petition, Anderson said: "Mr. Menne may not like the comments I made to him on the telephone and via e-mail. My suggestion that if he is going to be a defender of the taxpayers of Wyoming then he should pay his bill owed to the city and become a full fledged tax paying resident. I also suggested holding Menne’s council pay and applying it to the amount he is delinquent on his debts to the taxpayers of Wyoming. I think it’s only noble that every elected official pay the same bills every resident receives.

Although at times it is uncomfortable and awkward to hold other elected officials accountable, I feel it’s only right to be the voice of the residents. Mr. Menne’s claims of statements and profanity I used are absurd. If exaggeration and holding a grudge were sport, Menne would be an Olympian. If this is what it takes to hold Menne accountable, I will go to court with Mr. Menne on a monthly basis if needed to defend the taxpayers of Wyoming."

Menne did not immediately return a phone call Wednesday, seeking comment on the dispute.

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