Lorette named Kempner chief
By MAT TAYLOR Special Correspondent

Joe Lorette

A reversal of roles will take place in the Kempner Police Department. Last week, Kempner City Council accepted the resignation of Police Chief Doug Kahlstrom and approved Mayor Gene Isenhour's appointment of Joe Lorette as the new police chief.

Kahlstrom's resignation was effective Monday, and Lorette will assume his duties today.

In a related action, Kahlstrom was appointed a reserve police office. Lorette previously served as a reserve officer in the department.

Kahlstrom did not give a reason for his resignation except to say there were some other things that needed his attention.

"I have lived in Kempner since 1975, and I appreciate my relationship with the city staff, and I would still like to serve the community as a reserve officer," he said.

"I have really appreciated what Doug has done for the city," said Isenhour. "It is a big relief to have people come in and willingly pay their fines because of the way they were treated by the police chief.

"I cannot say how much Doug has meant to me and the city. He has made a positive, professional influence to the citizens of Kempner," the mayor continued.

Isenhour said that Kahlstrom had recommended Lorette be appointed the new police chief. "I visited with Joe at length to discuss the position, and since he has served as a reserve officer he knows the city. I have the utmost respect for Joe and his professionalism."

In other business, the council approved Certificates of Unopposed Candidates issued by the city secretary and declared the mayor, Place 1 Councilman Paul Cook and Place 4 Council member Melba Vandeveer duly elected. The council also approved an ordinance canceling the May 10 municipal election, as none of the candidates were opposed.

"This will save the city a significant amount of money," Isenhour said.

City Secretary Frances Spinney administered the oath of office to Isenhour. The mayor then administered the oath of office to Mrs. Vandeveer and Cook.

After reviewing city ordinances in a workshop session, the council decided not to make any changes to the city's outdoor burn policy and burn permit rules.

Isenhour said the city still would issue permits when there is an outdoor burn ban in Lampasas County, however the burn permit would remain invalid during times of a countywide ban.

Also after the workshop, the council approved minor changes to the garage sale ordinance. One was to change wording in the ordinance from a residential area to the city of Kempner.

The council also made minor changes to its sign ordinance by clarifying what constitutes a portable sign and to set a time limit on the posting of a sign. A temporary sign could be used to announce an event or sale, but when the event is over the sign must be removed.

Isenhour said some portable signs are located in city right of way and could pose a safety hazard. "As we are responsible for the safety of the community, these signs need to be moved."

Kempner City Council will meet again April 8 at 7 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers.