STEVENS POINT – Portage County Executive John Pavelski remains on temporary medical leave, according to a statement Wednesday from the chief’s office.
Pavelski’s departure was announced via press release more than a month ago, on May 21, and Wednesday’s statement was the first update provided by the executive branch’s office. Neither statement provided information on a timeline for Pavelski’s return.
Ray Reser, chairman of the county board and supervisor of District 25, has assumed executive duties and will continue in that role until Pavelski’s return, the statement said.
“I personally hope for the supervisor’s speedy recovery and wish him and his family the best possible outcome for his health,” District 1 Supervisor and Board First Vice Chairman Vinnie Miresse told a Stevens Point Journal reporter on Wednesday.
Reser was traveling Wednesday and could not be reached for comment.
Miresse has taken on the duties of chairman of the board, while Reser fulfills the executive role.
“Chairman Ray Reser and I have seized the moment to provide seamless and steady leadership during the executive branch’s furlough,” Miresse said. “Our focus has been on ensuring Portage County continues to provide excellent services to its residents, including consultation on key policy issues. and leading with kindness and compassion.”
Wednesday’s statement asked for respect for Pavelski and his family during his recovery and asked that people not attempt to email, call or text him directly.
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Erik Pfantz covers local government and education in central Wisconsin for USA-TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin and values his background as a rural Wisconsinite. Contact him at epfantz@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared in Stevens Point Journal: Portage County Executive John Pavelski remains on medical leave
