A Northern Lakes fire chief was chosen by the governor to fill a seat on the Dalton Gardens City Council that was left vacant after this month’s recall election.

Dalton Gardens resident Tyler Drechsel, a longtime resident and firefighter, will serve on the council at least until the November election.

Gov. Brad Little announced Friday his appointment of Drechsel to serve after the council was left without a quorum. The mayor and two council members were ousted in the March 12 recall election.

With a quorum, the council can now appoint a fourth council member and a new mayor.

“Tyler’s long history of community service and involvement made him an ideal candidate for this appointment,” Little said. “I have no doubt he will fulfill the duties as a council member to the best of his ability.”

Drechsel, who works as the Northern Lakes Fire District fire marshal and division chief, said Friday he looks forward to bringing continuity to the council and the city.

“I wanted to see the community and the council come together and do what’s best for the community,” Drechsel told The Press. “I am excited for the opportunity.”

Drechsel said he’s aware of the issues facing the city and that community safety is among the issues he hopes to address as a council member.

Drechsel, who grew up in the Coeur d’Alene area and attended North Idaho Community College, began serving as a volunteer firefighter in 1996 before accepting a position as fire inspector in 2008. He has been fire marshal and division chief since 2015.

As part of his job, Drechsel serves on a variety of state and regional boards. He is a fourth-generation Idahohan and lifelong area resident.

“Kootenai County, North Idaho, Coeur d’Alene, they are all a part of my heart,” Drechsel said.