Benjamin Kyle, mayor of Hubbard

HUB_BARD — City residents could see their mayor back in action sooner rather than later.

Mayor Ben Kyle, who was involved in a crash on New Year’s Day while vacationing in the Bahamas, said Friday that he hopes to come back to his position sometime next month, but it was dependent on several factors.

“I want to make sure that I have (my) doctor’s clearance and have the stamina to be able to be in the office during the day and then any meetings at night,” Kyle said. “So unfortunately, I won’t be able to drive for a while, so I’ll have to rely on people to get me where I need to go, but I’m hopeful for April.”

Kyle said recovery has been long, but he’s been working with physical therapists three days a week to return, acknowledging that he’ll be using a cane, walker or other medical device for a while.

“I’ve got a ways to go, but all that matters is I’m upright,” Kyle said.

Kyle said he’s still not acting as mayor because of his inability to get around, but he’s still “very much involved” in a multitude of things.

Kyle said he’s felt “very lucky” for the support his family has received since the accident.

“I’m extremely fortunate for all of the outpouring of support from not only the community,” Kyle said. “But the whole Valley, and the amount of people that were openly coming to help and do whatever with my family and the amount of prayers and support has been overwhelming.”