County attorney: Pierson not elected to full term

Hill County Attorney David Rice has determined that Havre City Council member Rick Pierson was not elected to a four-year term in 2001 and will have to run again this year if he wants to keep his seat.

Pierson, a Democratic council member for 10 years, said today he won't seek re-election.

He said Rice's ruling had nothing to do with his decision.

"It's time for me to go," Pierson said. "Ten years is enough to be a public servant."

Rice looked into the question at the request of Hill County Clerk and Recorder Diane Mellem. Mellem said today the Hill County Democratic Party asked for a clarific...