By Kim McDarison

Whitewater City Manager John Weidl in a statement to WhitewaterWise Saturday said that Whitewater Common Council President Jim Allen was found deceased in his home.

Weidl noted that at approximately 8 p.m. Saturday, the Whitewater Police Department received a request for a welfare check at Allen’s home. The request was made by a family member.

Lt. Jacob Hintz, of the Whitewater Police Department, upon arrival at the residence, Weidl said, was able to “visibly observe Mr. Allen in his recliner through a window.”

Upon entering the residence and gathering information at the scene, Weidl said that law enforcement was able to deduce that Allen likely had been deceased for “about a day.”

Weidl said that while he was unaware of the specifics of Allen’s health, he understood that circumstances found at the scene did not indicate suspicious activity. 

Weidl said that Allen’s family had been made aware of events at the scene and the Medical Examiner’s Office had been notified.

“Mr Allen was a part of the (city of Whitewater) organization for a long time and he left a unique impact on our community, and he will be missed. In the short time that I have worked with Jim, it was clear to me that he was well respected and he left an impact on thousands of people. His contributions to the city will not soon be forgotten,” Weidl stated. 

Additionally, on Saturday, Weidl released the following statement:

“Dear Members of the Common Council and City Staff, It is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of the Council President, Mr. James Allen. At the request of family, the Whitewater Police Department conducted a welfare check at 8 p.m. this evening, during which Mr. Allen was found deceased.

“Please know that his next of kin have been duly notified. As we come to terms with this unexpected loss, our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Allen’s family, friends, and colleagues. His long-standing service to our community has left a unique mark, and his absence will be deeply felt.

“In this difficult time, let us honor his memory and continue his legacy of service. Further details regarding any arrangements will be shared as they become available.”