POSTVILLE - A former councilman and state representative will lead the city until the scheduled election in November.

Leigh Rekow, 74, was appointed this week following a 3-2 vote by members of the City Council. He took the oath of office Wednesday.

Rekow previously served 14 years on the council but did not run in the last election. He also served two years in the Iowa Legislature.

Former Mayor Robert Penrod resigned in March amid growing tensions in the community. The city and its institutions are facing significant challenges in the wake of an immigration raid in May at Agriprocessors, the largest employer in Postville. Hundreds of people were arrested, and many others lost their jobs and left the city.

Rekow says he stepped forward to fill the vacant seat because of his love for the city.

"I want to see Postville succeed," Rekow said. "As a community we're all pretty much working together. We have great hopes for Postville. We're not giving up on anything."

Rekow said he is willing to do what it takes to improve employment opportunities and fill empty houses and apartments. A community coalition is trying to address those issues.

"I plan to sit in and bring the necessary information to the council," he added.

Mel Cook, a Postville resident for 14 years, also sought the mayoral appointment.

Contact Janell Bradley at jbradley@alpinecom.net.