WELLS — The Wells City Council approved an up to eight-week medical leave for City Administrator Robin Leslie Monday evening.

The action was followed by the appointment of Wells Police Chief Tim Brenegan as co-city administrator and Accounting Clerk Jennie Kloos to the position of interim deputy city clerk.

Leslie said the appointments are intended to ensure city operations continue to run smoothly as she temporarily steps away from her duties.

“I think Chief Brenegan will do great in this assignment,” Leslie said. “I would not have recommended him if I thought otherwise. He has worked for the city for over a decade and has the necessary management skills and temperament to supervise staff and deal with residents.

“Also, along with Chief Brenegan, Accounting Clerk Jennie Kloos will be stepping in to fill the role of Deputy Clerk to assist him with managing city staff and resources. I have complete faith in their abilities, and I know they will do what’s right for the city of Wells. It gives me great peace of mind to know that upon my return, the city will be in order under their guidance and that my transition back to full-time work will be as smooth possible.”

According to Leslie, Brenegan is up to speed on many of the projects she’s working on and will be available as a point person for residents to talk from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at City Hall.

Due to Brenegan’s shift in schedule, which is typically a rotating schedule of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., the chief will not be going on regular police calls during this time. He will be available in cases of emergency or if on duty officers need assistance.

Brenegan said the change will not affect police services. With Leslie’s leave being an anticipated event, he was able to posted opportunities for current part-time Wells officers to pick up additional shifts to fill in for him.

Leslie will be available to consult with Brenegan on issues during this time and is hopeful that she will be able to return to her duties on a part-time basis before the conclusion of her leave. Her absence will begin Thursday, the day Leslie is scheduled to have surgery.

Leslie has been diagnosed as having a benign brain tumor and has elected to have the mass removed because it has caused her to experience headaches and has adversely affected the vision in her right eye. Doctors have told her to expect at least a four-week recovery time following the procedure. She said further treatments for the tumor may be needed if it is unable to be fully removed, however, she intends to return to her duties and work through such treatments. She has been informed by medical staff that potential treatment options could include radiation.

Brenegan and Kloos’ interim positions will officially begin Monday.