Several environmental organizations are challenging the legality of Gov. Matt Blunt's appointment of Becky Plattner to the state Conservation Commission, according to an Associated Press story filed Thursday, Aug. 9.

But Saline County's presiding commissioner said the argument is not about her. The issue is not whom Blunt appointed, but when he appointed her.

Critics are saying Blunt is disregarding the constitution by waiting too long to appoint Plattner.

The conservation department and governor's office both say that Plattner's appointment is legal.

The state constitution states that if a governor fails to fill a vacancy on the Conservation Commission within 30 days, the commission's remaining members shall pick someone to fill the unexpired term.

The term of Stephen Bradford's expired on June 30. Plattner was appointed by Blunt 38 days after the term expired.

"That appointment sure looks suspect," said Bruce Morrison, an attorney with the Great Rivers Environmental Law Center in St. Louis.

Denise Brown, an attorney who is the department's assistant director, said the problem is with the wording in the constitution and the two different interpretations.

"Our interpretation is that if someone still had two years left on a term (and vacated the position) and the governor did not appoint someone in 30 days, the remaining commission members would appoint someone."

But this is not the case, Brown said, noting that Bradford did complete his full term so the "30 day window does not apply."

Brown said, "We firmly believe it is legal."

Plattner is to be sworn into office Thursday, Aug. 9.

When asked to comment on the matter Plattner simply said, "It's politics."

"It is not about me," she said. "These people don't even know me."

"We welcome her with open arms and look forward to working with her," Brown said.

"I am hoping Saline County is proud of this," Plattner said about her appointment to the commission.

A unique fact about the appointment that not even Plattner realized at first is that her great uncle by marriage served as the fourth president of the Conservation Federation of Missouri from 1940 to 1942.

The late Harry A. Plattner Sr. of Malta Bend was also honored as one of Missouri's first Master Conservationists by the conservation department. He was named a Master Farmer for his pioneering work in soil conservation and scientific crop seed development.

"I truly look forward to serving on the commission," Plattner said. "My goal is to serve the public of the state to the best of my ability."

Information from the Associated Press was included in this story.

Contact Rachel Harper at

marshallcity@socket.net