Newly-elected council members take office in La Crosse

For many local governments in Wisconsin, a new year begins in April.

La Crosse city clerk Teri Lehrke conducted swearing-in ceremonies Tuesday for six city council members elected this month. 

Two of those members are new — Larry Sleznikow and Christine Kahlow, who replaced retiring lawmakers. 

Two members did not seek re-election — Jacqueline Marcou and David Marshall.

“I’m proud of what we have accomplished but, more importantly, how we accomplished it,” Marcou said. “We have treated one another with the dignity and respect we all deserve, no matter what our position on an issue is.”

Marshall also thanked people he worked with at City Hall during his two years in office. He expressed “absolute admiration” for fellow council members, “for how profound the commitment of your service is, and your love for the city.”

Kahlow was nominated Tuesday for a council position on the La Crosse Board of Public Works. 

She finished third behind the two council members now serving on that board Gary Padesky and Phil Ostrem.

Sleznikow won a two-way race this month, to succeed Marshall in the 4th District.

Kahlow ran unopposed for the seat in the 6th District, being vacated by Marcou.

Six council seats in all were filled in the election. Mayor Tim Kabat isn’t up for re-election for another two years.