Council gives Regals three-week extension
New alderperson sworn in, fire chief position being advertised
By Correne Martin
The Prairie du Chien Common Council conducted a short, special meeting Tuesday night, Aug. 29, to take care of a couple of items of important business.
Representatives for the Dennis Regal family requested a two-to three-week extension to the legally-determined eviction date of Aug. 31, at which time the family was supposed to have its personal belongings and buildings removed from the city-owned marina premises. Due to an accident in late July, resulting in Dennis Regal Jr. having his left leg amputated, they appealed to the council for a bit more time to fulfill the duties. According to City Administrator Art Osten, the council decided to grant a three-week extension from Aug. 31, thus giving them until Sept. 21 for complete removal.
Also Tuesday night, Heather Olson was chosen and sworn in as the new fifth district alderperson, replacing the outgoing Jean Titlbach.
In related city news, the police and fire commission had selected Heath Smith to become the city’s new fire chief, to step into the shoes vacated by retiring Harry Remz. However, Smith declined the offer. In the past few weeks, the city has advertised for new applicants for the full-time chief position, both locally and on fire association websites in the four-state region. In the meantime, Tim Deluhery Sr. is the acting fire chief for Prairie du Chien.