New Franklin recognizes two officers honored nationally for ice-rescue

Mayor (speaker 2) announced that two New Franklin police officers were recognized nationally by Axon for rescuing a woman after a vehicle broke through the ice on Portage Lakes in February 2025. The mayor read a press release describing the award and asked the officers and their families to come forward for a brief presentation and photos.

The mayor said the awards ‘‘highlight the untold stories of the everyday heroes among us’’ and that the officers "exemplify the courage, leadership, and commitment to service we strive for in New Franklin," quoting Police Chief Dan Bickett as included in the release. The mayor also said the officers were able to hold the woman above water until fire personnel arrived.

The press release identified the officers in the agenda text as "Officer Daniel Kosar" and another officer named "Ethan," and it referred to them elsewhere by inconsistent spellings in the record. City staff said the officers attended a national conference in Nashville where they were honored and that the mayor9s office will post a video of the recognition when available.

The mayor and council presented city acknowledgments at the meeting; no formal council action or vote was required for the recognition.

What happens next: the mayor said staff will post photos and any available video of the award ceremony on the city website and social channels when those materials are received.