'I'm glad to be back': Portage County Executive John Pavelski returns from nearly two-month medical leave

STEVENS POINT – Portage County Executive John Pavelski returned to his role Monday and will work on a half-time basis for the next couple of weeks.

“I’m glad to be back,” Pavelski said in a Tuesday news release. “I would sincerely like to thank all the people who contacted us and reached out in compassion and concern for my recent medical leave.”

The Portage County Executive’s Office first announced Pavelski’s temporary medical leave on May 21. Ray Reser, District 25 supervisor and county board chair, served as acting county executive in Pavelski’s nearly two-month absence.

“I would also send my thanks to the department heads and county staff who did exceptional work and decision making in my absence, especially Board Chair Reser for all the added responsibility,” Pavelski said. “To know that we have this kind of a community is humbling and exceptionally gratifying to be a part of.”

People wishing to contact the executive should continue to call Executive Assistant Jane Iwanski at 715-346-1997 or email iwanskij@co.portage.wi.gov.

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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.