A decision could be made this week on how to fill the Bayport City Council seat of Mark Ostertag, 31, who died unexpectedly at his home on Dec. 22.
Ostertag also had been a volunteer firefighter for the past three years. His niche was working with younger people, said Fire Chief Mark Swenson.
"There's nothing worse as a fire chief than to have one of your own pass away," Swenson said. "He chased the firetrucks pretty much his whole life. He loved the fire service."
The cause of Ostertag's death hasn't been determined, but no foul play was involved, Swenson said. His funeral was held Dec. 26 in Oakdale.
Ostertag's first term on the five-member council would have expired in December 2014. Mayor Susan St. Ores and the remaining three City Council members could decide Monday whether to appoint somebody to fill Ostertag's seat or hold a special election.
"He was a very nice young man," Swenson said.
