Sheriff announces he will not seek re-election; county honors Chief Joel Sedera on upcoming retirement

Sheriff Doug Merltec told the Sawyer County Board during public comment that he will not seek another term as sheriff, saying, "I am not seeking another term." He noted his current term ends in January 2027 and encouraged anyone interested in running to enter the race.

The board paused later in the meeting to recognize Chief Joel (Joe) Sedera, who joined the Sawyer County Sheriff’s Office 28 years ago. Sheriff Merltec recounted Sedera’s service as a patrol deputy, jailer, court deputy, jail lieutenant and, for the past six-and-a-half years, chief deputy. "Your knowledge, experience, and understanding ... has made our sheriff's office flow seamlessly," Merltec said, presenting the recognition.

State Representative Chance Green also addressed the board and presented Sedera with a citation from the legislature, praising his service to Northern Wisconsin and Sawyer County. The sheriff invited county staff, board members and the public to a gathering in the Courthouse Assembly Room on Jan. 9 with presentations at 2 p.m.

In a personal statement, Chief Sedera thanked colleagues and family and reflected on his career, including earlier service in a reserve program and decades with the sheriff’s office. He closed by saying he was proud of what had been accomplished and grateful for the relationships formed during his career.

The announcements were delivered during the meeting’s public-comment and recognition segments and did not include any formal action or vote related to succession planning. The sheriff’s statement begins the process by putting potential candidates on notice that the seat will be open when his term ends in January 2027.