Mayor Ross resigns

Tom Ross
The city of Minot released a redacted investigation report Tuesday finding Mayor Tom Ross accidentally sent a sexually explicit video of himself to City Attorney Stefanie Stalheim.
According to the report, Stalheim received a phone call from Ross on Jan. 14 informing her of a city police matter. Shortly after the call, Ross mistakenly texted Stalheim the explicit video, which was intended for his romantic partner.
Ross called Stalheim and asked her to delete the text, saying it was an accident. The video’s thumbnail, containing graphic content, was visible when Stalheim attempted to delete it.
The report said that Ross uses his personal cellphone for city business.
Stalheim filed a formal complaint on Jan. 28, requesting a formal apology from Ross and that he consider resigning.
The investigation concluded that the incident, regardless of whether it was accidental, met the city’s definition of workplace harassment.
Ross submitted his letter of resignation before the Minot City Council was scheduled to hold a special meeting at 4 p.m. today to further discuss the report.