By Robert Williams

Editor

Vergas Mayor Dwight Lundgren submitted his resignation to the Vergas City Council on Monday, June 9, and the council accepted. Lundgren cited increased stress and health reasons. He will remain in office until Tuesday, July 15.

“I have come to the conclusion that the stress level on me has gone up six, seven times this year, so I better slow down,” said Lundgren in a formal statement. “I love working for the city; it’s great and we have a lot of stuff going and I would love to make sure that everything is continued on, but I don’t feel like I’m doing a very good job for the city in my situation.”

Lundgren also announced he is also selling his Vergas home. 

“I’ll still be around,” he said. “My last day as mayor will be July 15. That gives them until the next council meeting to decide what they want to do to replace (me).”

Clerk/Treasurer Julie Lammers informed the council of two options: to promote a council member to the mayor’s position and fill the open council seat; or make the mayor position open to everyone in Vergas.

“The decision needs to be made so we know we are looking for a mayor or a council member,” said Lammers. 

The new mayor would be in office until the next election, 2026, which is held every two years in Vergas.

Lundgren, and council members Dean Haarstick and Paul Pinke have terms until December 31, 2026. Council members Bruce Albright and James Stenger ‘s are until December 31, 2028.

“If Dean gets elected, on our next ballot we would have two council members and a mayor. If Bruce or James moves up to the mayor position on our next ballot we would have two four-year positions on the council and one two-year position and a two-year mayor.

If a promotion occurs from the council, the council has the option to choose a replacement or advertise the opening and accept applications for the position.

“It is with some regret, mayor, that I would make a motion to accept your resignation,” said Albright. “Obviously, you’ve brought a ton of experience to this position with all of your involvement with other communities your entire life. You know the inner workings of the city way more than any of us. I also appreciate the fact that you are putting your own health and your own family in front of what this job means. I know what this job meant to you to be mayor on an interim basis.”

“I love the job,” said Lundgren.

“I appreciate also that you have the wherewithal to say there are other things in life that are more important right now,” Albright said.

The motion was accepted unanimously.

Lundgren restated his willingness to be a resource for the council and Utilities Superintendent Mike DuFrane in the future if needed.

“I thank you all for the opportunity to be the mayor for this time that I have been because I like this little town,” he said.

The council elected to delay an immediate determination on either option and will announce a decision by or during the next council meeting in July.

“I think we should wait until July so we can think this over; it’s a major decision,” said Albright.