Transferring the Town of Mentor to Jackson County?

Transcribed by Stan

Owen Enterprise, April 7, 1927

and attached to Jackson County is favorably considered by the legislature. Observers take the view that the present controversy is the loudest gun thus far discharged in a fight for a new county alignment. Now, it is said, active political leaders in Clark County, who have been disposed to treat the matter lightly are cognizant of having been forced into a veritable cul de sac and that they are face to face with a portentous problem.

Jackson County is not only willing, it is pointed out, to annex Mentor Township, but is looking with an acquisitive eye to additional annexations. That county, it is generally believed, would in no wise be averse to having it northern boundary line follow the north line of Mentor straight across Clark County to the Wood County line. If this were accomplished, it would be a strategic coup for Jackson County, because embraced within the territory is a luscious prize, the city of Neillsville.

That the suggested alteration in boundary lines would be greeted with enthusiasm by the northern portion of Clark County seems to be a forgone conclusion, for in that section a movement has already gained a strong momentum for the formation of a new county with the City of Owen as the proposed county seat. The change suggested would bring this plan to a happy fruition. Further, it is believed that the proposition would carry by a heavy majority, under the present conditions, if it were submitted to the electors affected in a referendum election.

The only dissension would emanate, in the opinion of many who have studied the question, out of the City of Neillsville, where the distinction of being the County Seat would have to be forfeited. If a fight were precipitated in this direction, Black River Falls would be strongly favored for the plum because of its geographical location, main-line railway facilities, traditional sentiment and other advantages.

Meanwhile, the bill, first viewed as an innocent and impotent measure, is fast assuming imposing proportions.

(Eau Claire Leader)

Follow-on: This historical consideration was never imposed and today, Mentor Township remains an entity of Clark County, Wisconsin.