Local

Onalaska city council appoints interim Mayor

Published

5 years ago

December 18, 2019

The City of Onalaska has appointed Alderperson Kim Smith to be the interim mayor.

Smith said during a special council meeting on Wednesday that she initially never considered the position after Mayor Joe Chilsen resigned suddenly on Monday.

After conversations with friends and employer, she said she’d be honored to serve the city in that role.

Smith’s appointment was passed in a unanimous vote.

The district seat she left will remain unrepresented until the election in April.

The election for a new mayor is also in April.

Chilsen cited health issues as the reason for his resignation, calling it one of the most difficult decisions of his life.

Drew Kelly

Born in Decorah Iowa. I've been a news reporter for the last 10 years, starting right out of college in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Other professional opportunities led me to Marshalltown, Iowa and Antigo Wisconsin, before I finally was afforded the opportunity here in La Crosse. I've been here since 2016. I also act as the voice of local sports, doing play by play of high school and college football and basketball. When not working I enjoy golfing.