Another interim Arcadia police chief introduced

For the second straight meeting, the Arcadia city council met a new interim chief of police. 

Former Arcadia council member Kyle Myhre was introduced as the city’s interim police chief during last Wednesday’s meeting. Myhre is a former Trempealeau County sheriff’s deputy.

On Feb. 5, the council was introduced to Eric Puent, a former Galesville police officer, who was hired as the interim chief. The council did not discuss why Puent would no longer be serving as the interim chief. In a letter of resignation obtained by the Times after the Feb. 26 edition went to press, Puent stated he “drastically underestimated how much time and energy would be required to do the job correctly.” 

“At this time, I do not feel that I can adequately give enough of my time and attention to the department,” Puent wrote. “I also feel that I would be doing a disservice to the city and police department if I didn’t give this position the attention that it requires.”

The position was opened when former chief Diana Anderson resigned in January. 

Myhre is still working full-time otherwise but said he wanted to provide what help he could while the city looks for a new permanent chief.

“I’m just happy to help out the community again a little bit,” Myhre said. “I keep telling everybody for a good time, not a long time. Things are more productive when you have your full-time staff in place.”