By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – Normal Mayor Chris Koos is taking a leave of absence to be treated for prostate cancer.

Koos, elected to a fourth term last year, made the announcement at Monday night’s town council meeting.

“In December, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and I will be having that dealt with in the month of April.”

Koos said he’s otherwise in very good health and is optimistic about his recovery. However, Koos believes he’ll be out of commission for a while.

“I’m sure there will be an effort to keep me informed on things,” the mayor said.

“At least for the first week to 10 days, I’ll be knocked back pretty hard, so I’m stepping back,” Koos said.

The council’s senior members, Kevin McCarthy and Jeff Fritzen, will perform the mayor’s duties during Koos’ three-to-four week absence.

“We are a team. This is not a leadership vacuum that’s happening here,” Koos said.

“Everyone who sits at this (council) table is capable of doing this job.”

Koos said his businesses, Vitesse Cycle Shop and Often Running, will be run by store managers while he’s gone.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]