Councilman To Be Spirit Lake Mayor

A four-year veteran of the City Council of Spirit Lake, Idaho, will serve as acting mayor after the unexpected resignation last week of Mayor Paul Korman.

Council President Bob Street said Sunday he’ll serve as mayor until the council decides how to fill the post. Korman’s term lasts through the end of the year.

Street said he’s not sure if he’ll run for mayor this November.

On Tuesday, Korman sent a letter saying he was resigning, effective the next day. He cited health problems and pending surgery, saying he anticipates a long recuperation period.

“I feel it would not be fair to the council, the city employees and the citizens of Spirit Lake for me to continue in this position under these circumstances,” Korman wrote.

Councilman Rod Erickson said Sunday that poor circulation is forcing Korman to have part of a foot amputated.

“His health has really been going downhill this summer,” Erickson said. “I don’t blame him one bit.”

He said Korman has been working more than full time in the $30-permonth post.

“He put the city first, over his health,” said Erickson.

“It was kind of sudden, but we were well-aware of his health (problems),” said Street.

During Korman’s term, the city has received more than $1 million in state grants for street and water work.

Korman could not be reached for comment Sunday.

, DataTimes