MADRID, Iowa—The Madrid City Council voted not to proceed with a proposal to terminate Police Chief Rick Tasler. Current Mayor Kurt Kruse proposed the termination for a variety of reasons, many identified as violations of Tasler’s contract with the city. The Thursday Special Council Meeting was held in the Madrid Community Room to handle the community turnout.
The first issue was whether or not Val Chapman was eligible to considered a member of the Council. Chapman has submitted a letter of resignation after the last regular council meeting. City Attorney John Jordan expressed his opinion that the resignation was valid and had been accepted and would not be considered a sitting council member. Chapman accepted that opinion.
The Council then amended their agenda to remove action to request the Boone County Sheriff to fill in for police services and supervise the department. After reviewing the various reasons for requesting the termination and initial suggestion to table the matter did not advance and a motion to not terminate the Chief was approved by the four remaining council members.
Madrid residents will vote in a special election Tuesday, July 31st. Voters will select a Mayor from three candidates, Thomas W. Brown, Kurtis Kruse and Jonathan Whitten. Voters in the 2nd Ward will also vote for a council member, selecting either Steven Burich or Eric Ohrt. Voting in Madrid will be held Tuesday, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Madrid Community Room.
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