By Mari Radtke
A special meeting of the Paullina City Council was held Wednesday June 25. Former Fire Chief Ryan Harper submitted his resignation effective July 1, 2025. He is going to continue as a fire fighter. Brytton Kelleher replaces Harper. The fire department had already voted on the leadership. Council approved the decision and offered appreciation to Harper for his years of service as both fireman and Chief.
Other business that took council’s attention on Wednesday was a decision to fill the Deputy Clerk position and approve wage adjustments for the 2026 fiscal year that began July 1.
Two candidates were considered by council to take the position. Councilman Steve Heeren was selected for the job. He must resign his Council position before he can take the job. Council can fill the position by appointment. They would have 30 days from the vacancy to do so. Procedures and deadlines to be considered for the seat have not yet been announced. Or Council can choose to hold a special election to fill the seat until the term expires December 31, 2025.
Paullina City employee wages were adjusted for the upcoming fiscal year to more closely reflect the wages of area city wages. Kelly Top’s adjustment was proposed to be 21.75%, up $8.16. He goes from $37.51 per hour to $45.67 per hour.
City Clerk Michelle Wilson was proposed a 10% wage increase that ended at $2.64. She goes from $26.46 to $29.10 per hour. Police Chief Nathan Bremer goes from $28.12 to $29.52, a 5% increase. It was announced that he would be retiring by September. Part time police officer Cain Junkman saw his wages go from $30.00 per hour to $32.00 per hour. Water and street staff adjustments range from $1.20 per hour to $1.30 per hour increases.