BUCYRUS — A lawsuit between the City of Bucyrus and one of its department leaders has been resolved.

According to Bucyrus Mayor Jeff Reser, a lawsuit filed by Bucyrus Fire Department Chief Jay Keller has been resolved. In May, Keller filed the lawsuit against the City of Bucyrus, Bucyrus Mayor Jeff Reser and Bucyrus Safety Service Director Jeff Wagner.

“We are happy that a resolution could be reached,” Reser said.

He said both parties and the attorneys involved signed the resolution, dropping the lawsuit.

Keller v. City of Bucyrus timeline:

  • July 2017 – Keller is placed on probation upon his return from medical leave.
  • October 2017 – Keller was informed of the beginning of a termination process against him.
  • November 2017 – Keller refuses to sign a “Last Chance Agreement” with the city.
  • April 2018 – Keller returns to work at the Bucyrus Fire Department in capacity as chief.
  • December 2018 – Judge dismisses Keller’s initial complaint against the city.
  • May 2019 – Keller files a lawsuit against the city and administrators.

The resolution included Keller submitting his intent to retire Jan. 1, 2021 and being placed on paid administrative leave until the retirement date.

Reser said Keller will be paid his current salary with the department.

Reser said BFD Capt. Chad Schwemley will be acting chief, as he was when Keller was on medical leave, and the search for a permanent chief will begin after the upcoming new year.

Reser said he wanted to thank Keller for his many years of service to the city and to the attorneys and judge for their assistance in resolving the matter.

“I’m glad to have this resolved, and want to wish the best for Chief Keller,” Reser said.