Lake County Probate Court Judge Mark J. Bartolotta will soon make his first appointment to the Lake Metroparks Board of Commissioners as the term of Ellen Foley Kessler expired Dec. 31.

Metroparks commissioners do not receive compensation and serve three-year terms on the board.

The judge, who is a Republican, could reappoint Kessler, a Democrat, or he could choose someone else. Park Commissioners Frank Polivka and Dennis Eckart are also Democrats.

I’m not suggesting that party affiliation is the only requirement for an appointment, but it’s likely to be taken into consideration.

My hunch is we’ll see some development on that appointment next week.

In Geauga County, Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Tim Grendell has three appointments to make to the Geauga Park District Board of Commissioners, an entity that currently has no members. Those appointments will consist of terms for one, two and three years.

There could be an interesting little-known wrinkle to watch for down the road in Lake or Geauga counties that Ohio Revised Code allows.

Any board of park commissioners of a park district may elect to expand the membership of the board from three members to five members upon a majority vote of the board.

After such a vote, the board would certify to the probate judge a resolution requesting the judge to appoint two additional members to the board. The judge would then need to appoint those additional members, and they would take office immediately upon their appointment.

It’s not unprecedented as the county park boards in nearby Trumbull and Ashtabula counties each have five members.

Taken out petitions

Concord Township Trustee Christopher Galloway, a Republican, has taken out petitions with the Lake County Elections Board to run for county commissioner. Judge Cynthia Rice has taken out petitions to seek re-election for 11th District Court of Appeals. Painesville Township Republican Chuck Laughlin has taken out petitions for Ohio’s 14th Congressional District.

Filed petitions

Lisa Klammer, a Concord Township Democrat, has filed candidacy petitions with the Lake County Elections Board to run for county Probate Court judge.

Swearing in

Eastlake Mayor-elect Dennis Morley and council members Kenneth Hoefle, Laura DePledge and councilman-elect Kimberly C. Evers will be sworn-in at 6 p.m. Tuesday at city hall during council’s organizational meeting.

At a 7 p.m. city council organizational meeting Monday, Beachwood Mayor Merle S. Gorden, Councilman Melvin Jacobs, Councilmen-elect James Pasch and Alec Isaacson will be sworn-in.

Willoughby Mayor David Anderson along with city Councilmen Jeffrey H. Black, Christopher W. Woodin, Robert A. Fiala, Robert E. Carr, Jerome P. Ranally, Robert J. Harrold and Councilman-elect Stephen T. Norris will be sworn-in during a ceremony at 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Event

Retirement party for former Painesville Township Trustees Jeanette Crislip and Jim Falvey from 5 to 8 p.m. Jan. 24 at Hellriegel’s Inn in Painesville Township.

Deadlines

The weekly deadline to submit information for this column is each Wednesday by 5 p.m. Email or fax is preferred.

Fundies

• Campaign kickoff for Lake County Juvenile Court Judge Karen Lawson, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 16 at LaMalfa Party Center in Mentor. See Lu Dunlap.
• Bartolotta hosts a fundraiser, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 21 at LaMalfa Party Center in Mentor. See John Redmond or Amy Sabath.
• John P. O’Donnell, candidate for Lake County Common Pleas Court, hosts a fundraiser 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Jan. 23, at LaMalfa Party Center. See Mike Lucas, Mike Bucci or Ann Bergen.
• Lake County Domestic Relations Court Judge Colleen A. Falkowski hosts a fundraiser from 5:30 to 7:30 Jan. 30 at LaMalfa Party Center in Mentor. See Brian Falkowski.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

It appears that Gov. John Kasich has not given up on the idea to provide Ohio residents an income tax cut.

An emerging proposal aims to increase the tax on oil and gas drilling and send a quarter of the raised revenue back to the state’s Appalachia area, according to various media reports.

The new plan would increase the severance tax to 4.5 percent and send 25 percent of that money to 33 Appalachian counties, where the bulk of the drilling occurs, The Associated Press reported.

That could mean the remaining 75 percent would provide $1.1 billion in income tax cuts during the next five years and $370 million for the Appalachian region.

The Ohio Senate approved its version of the state budget this week, and Kasich’s plan was not included.

However, a conference committee that will hammer out a version between what the Ohio House of Representatives passed earlier and what the Ohio Senate passed Thursday. That version would be sent to the governor and must be signed by Kasich before July 1.

The oil and gas drilling tax increase proposal might be a tough sell, especially in the Ohio House, where Republican members have not been exactly keen on the idea even with an accompanying income tax reduction.

When it comes to a potential expansion of Medicaid in Ohio, something also wanted by Kasich, a plan was not included in either the Ohio House or Senate version.

However, legislative study committees have been established to try to work on a plan potentially before the end of the year.

Lake County Probate Court bench

Shortly after Lake County Probate Court Judge Ted Klammer died in March, Geauga County Probate and Juvenile Court Judge Tim Grendell was assigned by Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor to assist with Lake County Probate Court proceedings through Sept. 20.

So far, Grendell hasn’t been needed to sit in, but the appointment allows Grendell to assist retired Stark County Probate Court Judge R.R. Denny Clunk, who had been appointed by O’Connor for a three-month assignment to the Lake County Probate Court bench.

Sitting judges of the county Common Pleas Court also have helped to cover the probate court docket until a judge is appointed by Kasich.

From what I’m told four names have been sent by the Lake County Republican Party to Columbus for the governor to consider: Geauga County Assistant Prosecutor Mark Bartolotta; Lake County Probate Court Magistrate Lora Lynne Krider; Lake County Assistant Prosecutor John O’Donnell; and Jim O’Leary, a Painesville Township attorney.

It might be another month or so before Kasich makes an appointment.

Ohio Senate District 25 update

Former state Rep. Kenny Yuko, D-Richmond Heights, announced he will run for Ohio Senate District 25, which consists of Eastlake, Fairport Harbor, Grand River, Lakeline, Mentor Ward 4, Mentor-on-the-Lake, Painesville, parts of Painesville Township, Timberlake, Wickliffe, Willoughby and Willowick in Lake County, plus Euclid, Richmond Heights and other eastern Cuyahoga County communities.

State Sen. Nina Turner, D-Cleveland, represents the district. She is eligible to seek re-election, but is considering running for Ohio Secretary of State, although she has not announced her intentions. I would say look for something soon, now that the Ohio Senate has passed a state budget bill.

Former state Rep. Ed Jerse, D-Euclid, also is considering running for the Ohio Senate District 25 seat, but has not made an announcement on his plans.

Portman office hours

Staff for U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, will hold office hours in Lake County from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.

The location will be at the fifth floor of the county administration building, 105 Main St. in Painesville. No appointments are necessary.

Fundies

n Willoughby Hills Councilwoman Nancy Fellows hosts Flag Day Family Picnic from 6 to 8 p.m. June 14 at Campbell Park in Willoughby Hills. See Nancy or Dale Fellows.

n John Plecnik, candidate for Willoughby Hills Council, Slovenian Style Dinner from 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 12 at Willoughby Hills Community Center. See Plecnik or Tony Manfredi.

n Eastlake Mayor Ted Andrzejewski, ninth annual golf outing, 8:30 a.m. shotgun start July 19 at Pine Ridge Golf Course in Wickliffe. See Andrzejewski.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

With the retirement of Ohio Supreme Court Justice Evelyn Lundberg Stratton slated for year’s end, who might be on tap to replace her on the bench?

It will be up to Gov. John Kasich to appoint a new justice, as Stratton’s term expires in 2014.

The Republican governor recently said he and his staff would evaluate applicants with input from several distinguished legal professionals from across the state.

Kasich said that he will accept applications through Nov. 16 and would like to announce an appointment by the end of the year, but would take whatever time is needed to evaluate candidates for his decision.

Might there be some interest by some local folks?

How about Diane or Tim Grendell? She’s been an 11th District Court of Appeals Court judge since 2000 and has served as a visiting judge for Ohio Supreme Court cases.

Tim Grendell currently sits on the bench as Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court judge.

He’s no stranger to the appointment process as Kasich appointed him in September 2011 to his current role on the bench.

What about Lake County Common Pleas Court Judges Richard L. Collins Jr., Vincent A. Culotta or Eugene A. Lucci?

Remember Lucci ran for 11th District Court of Appeals in 2010 and was the Republican Party’s nominee after winning a primary against Colleen O’Toole.

It’s settled

Because the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted’s appeal of a lower court’s ruling, there will indeed be in-person absentee voting across the state for the final three days before the Nov. 6 election. Those hours are: Nov. 3, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Nov. 4, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; and Nov. 5, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Local election officials now at least know what to expect as the case had remained in legal limbo for weeks during the appeals process.

The decision to extend hours during the week and on the final three days will require staffing and time to assist voters with their ballots.

I think it will be interesting to see what that means in terms of lines at elections board offices. Elections officials hope with expanded hours during the weekdays voters who choose to vote an in-person absentee ballot won’t have to wait long because they will have more opportunities.

Will voters go to their respective elections boards on that Sunday? Some elections officials expressed relief that the in-person voting ends at 2 p.m. on that Monday because they will need time to process those voters and make sure that all the poll books reflect that someone already voted.

Candidate event

Soup and crackers lunch with David M. Fiebig, candidate for Lake County commissioner, 11:30 to 1 p.m. Oct. 29 at Surfside Towers Party Room in Eastlake.

Candidate endorsements

For any Nov. 6 candidates who have earned endorsements (not from The News-Herald), feel free to email them or fax them. Because of the volume and space required to list them, these items will not be printed in this column. Instead, they’ll be posted periodically on The News-Herald’s Northern Ohio Politics Blog at NorthernOhioLocalPolitics.blogspot.com.

Deadline reminder

The weekly deadline for information to appear in this column is each Wednesday at 5 p.m. Email or fax is preferred.

Fundies

n Judy Moran, candidate for Lake County commissioner, hosts a Ladies Luncheon with special guest speaker Kathy Purmal, noon to 2:30 p.m. Oct. 21, at Cappelli’s Party Center in Mentor. See Kathy Russo or Shirely Vesel.

n Last Clam Bake for U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette, with proceeds to be given to the campaign of David Joyce, candidate for Ohio’s 14th Congressional District, 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Croatian Lodge in Eastlake. See Nick Ciofani or Liberty Schindel.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Tim Grendell announced he received endorsement by the Western Lake County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 116.

John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Doesn't it seem like there have been a lot of appointments lately?

I’m not talking about the ones you make with your doctor or business associate.

On Wednesday, the Lake County Republican Party appointed Jason Wuliger as the new county recorder.

That’s because there was a vacancy left by the resignation of former Recorder Frank Suponcic.

Before that, John Rogers was appointed as the Democratic Party’s nominee for Ohio House of Representatives District 60 after Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy decided to drop out as the candidate to finish his last two years on his current term as commissioner.

Shockingly, U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette decided to retire and drop out from running again effective Aug. 8 after he won the Republican Party’s nomination in March. David Joyce was then appointed as the new nominee by the seven county party chairman and central committee secretaries.

To replace Joyce on the Nov. 6 ballot for Geauga County prosecutor, the county GOP last month appointed Jim Flaiz as the new nominee.

At the same meeting, Dr. Robert S. Coleman was appointed as the new Republican nominee for coroner after Dr. John Urbancic dropped out.

In June, former Geauga County Commissioner Bill Young retired and that created two appointments.

First, Geauga Republicans appointed Walter “Skip” Claypool as commissioner to serve until after the Nov. 6 election.

Then at the same meeting, Mary Samide, who lost in a primary for re-election, was appointed as the GOP nominee to run Nov. 6 to fill the unexpired term of Young. Geauga Democrats selected Jim Dvorak as their nominee and he’ll run against Samide.

Matt Lynch was appointed by Ohio House Republicans to serve as state representative to replace Mary Brigid “Bridey” Matheney for Ohio House of Representatives 98th District. Lynch got the nod after it was agreed that the Ohio House GOP would appoint the winner of the 76th House District’s four-way primary. Matheney had been appointed prior to that to replace Richard Hollington, who became Hunting Valley mayor.

State Sen. John Eklund was appointed last year to represent Ohio’s 18th Senate District after Tim Grendell left the Ohio Senate to be appointed as Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court judge.

Going back in time, there are a few more appointments in Geauga County that all seemed to start when former state Rep. Matt Dolan resigned to run for Cuyahoga County executive.

Appointments are a necessary part of the political process because it’s inevitable that positions become vacant.

But again, doesn’t it seem like there have been more than usual in Lake and Geauga counties within the past year or so?

I wonder how, or if, this might resonate with voters on Nov. 6. Will it really matter?

Candidate forum

Lake County Chambers of Commerce will host a Legislative Candidates Forum and Breakfast to highlight candidates running for the Ohio House of Representatives and Ohio Senate at 7:30 a.m. Friday at Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites LaMalfa in Mentor. Contact your local respective chamber for registration details.

Meet-and-greet

Candidates David M. Fiebig, John Hamercheck, Bob Patterson, Ron Young, Wuliger, and Eklund will be at the Willoughby Hills home of Bob and Carolyn Patton, at 3 p.m. Saturday for a meet-and-greet event in conjunction with the Heritage Club of Northeast Ohio.

Fundies

n Fifth Annual Oktoberfest for Judy Moran, candidate for Lake County commissioner, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Regovich’s in Eastlake. See Kathy Russo or Robert Leach.

n Susan McGuinness, candidate for Ohio House of Representatives District 61, hosts a fundraiser from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 19 at Hellriegel’s Inn in Painesville Township. See Lindsay Baruffa.

n Golf Outing and Dinner fundraiser for Nancy McArthur, candidate for Ohio Senate District 32, lunch at noon, tee-off at 1 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. Sept. 22 at Fowlers Mill in Chester Township. See Jim Flaiz or Mike Petruziello.

n Troy hosts his Fall Classic and Clam Bake, 12:30 p.m. shotgun start, 5 p.m. dinner, Oct. 1 at Lost Nation Municipal Golf Course in Willoughby. See Troy or Kip Molenaar.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Before David Joyce was named as the new Republican Party nominee for Ohio’s 14th Congressional District, there were several others who could have been selected.

However, Joyce, who has served as Geauga County prosecutor for 24 years, worked to earn unanimous support from party leaders to get the nomination. He will be a good candidate and I consider him the favorite against Democrat Dale Virgil Blanchard.

I believe if some others had expressed they wanted the nomination it would have been very interesting when the seven party chairman and seven county central committee secretaries met to cast their votes.

Judges Diane and Tim Grendell and Vincent Culotta were among those initially under consideration when U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette decided to retire.

Ultimately, they each passed on the chance to head to Washington.

One reason I think each declined is because they’d have had to step down from the bench in order to run for Congress, as they would not be allowed to run while in office.

That means they’d have to give up a paycheck for several months without any guarantee of winning, although each likely would have been the frontrunner.

Judges like Culotta and the Grendells normally are on the ballot every six years. But, Tim Grendell has an election this fall to keep his seat on the Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court bench for the next few years, because he’s filling an unexpired term.

Those serving in Congress face re-election every two years, so just as you get settled in, it’s time to think about campaigning.

I also think LaTourette’s chief of staff Dino DiSanto would have gotten strong consideration had he wanted the position, but he decided against it.

Others who were interested in the nomination such as former state Rep. Matt Dolan and state Rep. Ron Young apparently didn’t get enough support from the party chairman and central committee secretaries.

But in two years, when the position is up again, it will be all hands on deck. No matter who wins this November, Joyce or Blanchard, I think there will be primaries on both the GOP and Democratic sides in 2014, and look for some of the same names I’ve mentioned.

Lake County recorder update

With Lake County Recorder Frank A. Suponcic’s resignation effective on Friday, the county Republican Party will need to make an appointment to fill the vacant position.

Suponcic said when he announced his resignation that he recommended Jason Wuliger be appointed as the new recorder. Wuliger is the Republican Party’s nominee for the position Nov. 6 and he faces Democrat Ann Radcliffe.

The Republican Party has a meeting set Wednesday for other purposes but once Suponcic’s resignation is official it is likely the party will add making an appointment to fill the vacancy to the agenda.

Although stranger things have happened, look for Wuliger to get that appointment.

Political event

The Bolton Republican Women’s Club invites all interested ladies to attend the Cupcakes and Candidates Social from 5:30 to 7:30 Sept. 12 at The Confectionary Cupboard in Mentor. Attendees will an opportunity to meet candidates and discuss issues.

Fundies

n Fundraiser for Lori DiNallo, candidate for Ohio House of Representatives District 60, with guest Ohio House of Representatives Speaker Bill Batchelder, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at the home of Tonja Schleicher in Willoughby. See Jan Clair or Sally DiNallo.

n Fundraiser for state Rep. Casey Kozlowski, candidate for Ohio House of Representatives District 99, 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday at the home of Tom and Melissa Pope in Saybrook Township. See Kozlowski.

n Fifth Annual Oktoberfest for Judy Moran, candidate for Lake County commissioner, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13 at Regovich’s in Eastlake. See Kathy Russo or Robert Leach.

n Susan McGuinness, candidate for Ohio House of Representatives District 61, hosts a fundraiser from 5 to 7 p.m. Sept. 19 at Hellriegel’s Inn in Painesville Township. See Lindsay Baruffa.

n Golf Outing and Dinner fundraiser for Nancy McArthur, candidate for Ohio Senate District 32, lunch at noon, tee-off at 1 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. Sept. 22 at Fowlers Mill in Chester Township. See Jim Flaiz or Mike Petruziello.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette’s announcement to not seek re-election sent shockwaves around political circles in Northeast Ohio.

With LaTourette saying he will formally submit his decision Wednesday, it is up to seven county party chairmen and central committee secretaries within the 14th Congressional District to nominate another Republican to run Nov. 6.

The quick race behind the scenes to gain party favor for that nomination is in full force.

Depending on who is named, it could create a domino effect.

Sources say 15 to 20 already have expressed interest. Among the early names are Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Tim Grendell and his wife, 11th District Appeals Court Judge Diane Grendell; Lake County Common Pleas Court Judges Vincent A. Culotta and Eugene A. Lucci; Geauga County Prosecutor Dave Joyce; former state Rep. Matt Dolan; state Rep. Ron Young; and LaTourette’s chief of staff, Dino DiSanto.

Willoughby-Eastlake School Board Member Paul Brickner and Cuyahoga County District Councilman Jack H. Schron, both Republicans, each have publicly expressed an interest.

Getting early buzz is Dolan, who also ran unsuccessfully for Cuyahoga County executive.

Now living in Chagrin Falls, Dolan would have the means to be able to spend his own money to run a campaign with so little time left in the election cycle.

Joyce’s name continues to float around, as do the Grendells. What if it was Tim Grendell, who was just appointed as the Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court judge? No secret he’s always wanted to run for Congress, but never against LaTourette. Well, that stumbling block is removed. Despite angering some people prior to his bench appointment by staying in the Ohio Senate rather than move over to the Ohio House of Representatives after he won election to that seat, he would be tough to beat.

At least 15 people expressed an interest to sit on the bench before Grendell was appointed and maybe they still would be interested if he left.

Among those names were Chardon Mayor Phil King; Geauga County Public Defender R. Robert Umholtz; Daniel Bond; county GOP Party Chairman Ed Ryder; South Russell Village Councilman Jim Flaiz, Pearce Leary of Chagrin Falls; former state Rep. Mary Brigid (Bridey) Matheney of Bainbridge Township; Robert E. Zulandt; Benjamin Calkins of Newbury Township; James G. Dickinson of Russell Township; Patricia Schraff of Chester Township; David Ondrey of Chardon; Brad Somogyi; and Dan Bagley.

Young also has gained some buzz to seek the congressional nomination. He’s running for re-election as a state representative, but would have time to drop out of that race.

Perhaps former state Rep. Jamie Callender or Concord Township Trustee Christopher Galloway would have an interest to Young’s seat if he left? Both had previous interest in an appointment to the Ohio Senate before state Sen. John Eklund got the nod.

Meet-n-greet

Lorraine Fende, Lake County Treasurer candidate, and Susan McGuinness, Ohio House of Representatives District 61 candidate, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at Madison Township Park.

 

Fundies

n Reception for Geauga County Recorder Sharon C. Gingerich, 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Chagrin Valley Athletic Club, with U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette. See Gingerich.

n David Fiebig, candidate for Lake County commissioner, backyard barbecue, 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 11 at home of David and Pauli Bokor in Concord Township. See Joyce Hribar Fiebig or John Plecnik.

n Judy Moran, candidate for Lake County commissioner, fundraiser hosted by Dan Mcurdy with special guest U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, 5 to 7:30 p.m. at Mentor Beach Park. See Kathy Russo or Robert Leach.

n Fundraiser for Emilee Teresczuk, candidate for Lake County Clerk of Courts, 6 to 8 p.m. Aug. 13 at Harry Buffalo in Painesville Township. See Emilee orMatthew Teresczuk.

n Fundraiser for McGuinness, candidate for Ohio House of Representatives District 61, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Aug. 14 at home of Joyce Fitzpatrick. SeeLindsay Baruffa or Carol Roe.

John Arthur Hutchison 

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy easily won his party’s nomination March 6 to run Nov. 6 for the Ohio House of Representatives District 60 seat.

Troy defeated Willowick Democrat James Helmink and Eastlake Democrat Laura DePledge. Painesville Councilwoman Lori DiNallo was unopposed in the Republican Party primary.

So Troy will face DiNallo in November, right?

Well, there is increased speculation that Troy might not run for the position after all and instead serve the remaining two years of his commissioner term.

When Troy was in the process of making a decision last year on whether to run for a seat in the Ohio House of Representatives, he was clearly torn.

Troy enjoys service as a commissioner, but he also felt a strong pull to serve in Columbus, where he served as a state representative for 14 years in the 1980s and 1990s.

Supporters would mention to him that he should stay in Lake County and utilize his experience on the three-member Board of Commissioners.

Also weighing on the decision was if elected to serve in Columbus, he might be part of the minority party that has a smaller voice in how things are run.

That’s because Republicans currently hold the office of governor and both chambers of the Ohio General Assembly, although the majority party could change next year in the House, but not likely the Senate.

As a commissioner, Troy is highly influential regarding decisions made on a county level. Would he have that same level of clout in Columbus?

If Troy wins election as a state representative, the Lake County Democratic Party would then be able to appoint someone to complete the remaining two years on his commissioner term.

Democrats such as Willoughby Hills Councilman Kevin Malecek, former state Rep. Mark Schneider of Mentor, and former Willoughby Municipal Court Judge Larry Allen have expressed some interest in a possible appointment.

There could be several other names that could come to the forefront if the situation presents itself.

But what if Troy dropped out as the Democratic nominee for Ohio House District 60?

The county Democratic Party would need to make an appointment for a new candidate to run against DiNallo.

However, a state representative needs to live within the district they represent, so that would narrow the field of potential candidates.

Due to state reapportionment that takes effect next year, the 60th House District will consist of Eastlake, Fairport Harbor, Grand River, Lakeline, Mentor Ward 4, Mentor-on-the-Lake, Painesville, parts of Painesville Township, Timberlake, Wickliffe, Willoughby and Willowick.

Interestingly, Malecek, Schneider and Allen currently in what will be District 61 consisting of Kirtland, Kirtland Hills, Mentor Wards 1-3, North Perry Village, Perry Village, Waite Hill, Willoughby Hills, the townships of Concord, Leroy, Madison, Perry and parts of Painesville Township.

It would be surprising if Troy didn’t continue to run for state representative, especially after he was critical of former state Sen. Tim Grendell’s decision to stay in the Ohio Senate after he won election to the Ohio House of Representatives in November 2010.

Grendell’s situation was slightly different because it was a general election, not a party primary in the spring to nominate a candidate to run in the fall.

There is a lot of time left before November rolls around, let’s see if Troy changes his mind.

Fundies

n Willoughby-Eastlake Levy Committee will host a pasta dinner fundraiser, 4 to 7 p.m. May 14 at the Stadium Bar and Grill in Mentor.

n Eleventh District Court of Appeals Court Judge Mary Jane Trapp will have a fundraiser from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. May 16 at the home of Todd and Susan Petersen in Munson Township. See Mike Apicella.

n Lake County Engineer James R. Gills hosts his 12th Annual Pig Roast with guest state Rep. Ron Young, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. May 16 at the Lake County FOP Hall Pavilion in Concord Township. See Bruce Landeg.

n Lake County Sheriff Daniel A. Dunlap, 21st annual golf outing and steak dinner, June 8 at Painesville Country Club. See Frank Leonbrunno, Sheryl DePledge.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Now that the March 6 primary results are finalized, political parties are in the process of reorganizing and preparing for the Nov. 6 election.

This process is important as the selection of leadership will shape how fundraising is conducted, which candidates get support, both financially and through grassroots efforts.

The Lake County Republican Party conducted its reorganization Monday night in Painesville. Selected as officers were Dale Fellows, chairman; Amy Sabath, first vice chairwoman; Greg Schmidt, second vice chairman; Susan Betteley, secretary; Dave Vitaz, treasurer; Janet Clair, chairwoman.

Meanwhile, the Geauga County Democratic Party has its reorganization meeting Monday night in Newbury Township. Selected as officers were Janet Carson, chairwoman; Dennis Pavella, vice chairman; Glen Quigley, treasurer; and Terri McIntee, secretary.

The Geauga County Republican Party will meet at 7 p.m. April 10 at Munson Township Hall.

The Lake County Democratic Party was slated to have met at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at Bricklayers Hall in Mentor, which is after the deadline for this column’s publication. Check back next week for results.

Statewide, the Ohio Democratic Party will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday to reorganize at the state party headquarters in Columbus. Word is party Chairman Chris Redfern might have a challenge from Lorain County Democratic Party official Anthony B. Giardini.

The Ohio Republican Party will meet Friday for its reorganizational meeting in Dublin. Chairman Kevin DeWine plans to step down from his position. Perhaps former Chairman Bob Bennett could be the interim chairman as the party gears up for the Nov. 6 election?

Potential commissioner?

What if Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy is elected as state representative for Ohio House District 60 in November? Of course, he must first defeat Republican Painesville Councilwoman Lori DiNallo.

But if Troy wins, the Lake County Democratic Party would need to make an appointment to fill out the remaining two years of Troy’s term.

I’m told former Willoughby Municipal Court Judge Larry Allen has an interest in the potential appointment. Others mentioned so far within party circles are Willoughby Hills Councilman Kevin Malecek and former state Rep. Mark Schneider.

Paper ballots

Lake County Elections Board reports that 28 people used a paper ballot during the March 6 primary. The state required each county that uses electronic voting equipment to have paper ballots on hand equivalent to 10 percent of the number of people who cast ballots in the March 2008 primary. The idea is for them to be available to people who want a paper ballot or in case of emergency.

That means 7,778 paper ballots were ordered at a cost of $2,022.28 in Lake County. That equates to $72.23 per vote cast by paper.

LGYR Hall of Fame

The 12th Annual Lake-Geauga Young Republicans Hall of Fame Dinner will be April 20 at Cappelli’s Party Center in Mentor. It is the organization’s sole fundraiser of the year.

The club will induct into its Hall of Fame former founding member Stephen Patt, who was instrumental to help restart the organization in 1999.

Past inductees include Steven LaTourette, Fellows, Jamie Callender, Raymond Sines, Timothy Grendell, B.J. Kresnye, Louis Mucci, Clair, Schmidt, Vincent Culotta and Eugene Lucci.

The LGYRs meet on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7:30 p.m. at Cork’s Wine Bar in Willoughby.

Fundies

n Fundraiser for Susan McGuinness, candidate for Ohio House of Representatives District 61, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 16 at Match Works Tavern in Mentor. See Walt McNamara or Ray McGuinness.

n Annual Buffet Dinner fundraiser for Lake County Prosecutor Charles E. Coulson, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 18 at LaMalfa in Mentor. See Stephen Byron.

John Arthur Hutchison

JHutchison@News-Herald.com

Twitter: newsheraldjah

State Sen. Tim Grendell has introduced a resolution in the Ohio General Assembly in Columbus that aims to commend and honor those responsible for the successful U.S. operation that killed al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden May 1.

Grendell, R-Chester Township, said Senate Resolution 71 honors Navy Seal Team 6, the U.S. Armed Forces, the intelligence community, the Bush Administration and the Obama Administration.

"This resolution also acknowledges those who have sacrificed their lives for this cause, and the people of 9/11 who suffered and/or died at the hands of this terrorist," Grendell said. "This welcomed news followed years of tireless efforts by our government to bring to justice those responsible for attacking this country on Sept. 11, 2011, and the numerous attacks before and since.

"Although we may never know all of their identities, it is appropriate to thank each and every one who made this operation a success."

-- John Arthur Hutchison
JHutchison@News-Herald.com | @newsheraldjah

There is no shortage of critics for the proposed state budget that lawmakers and Gov. John Kasich need to approve before July 1.
As state leaders work to fill an $8 billion hole with a variety of changes and cuts in funding, many groups are unhappy.
Among them is the Ohio Fraternal Order of Police, which the Columbus Dispatch reports recently voted to retract its 2010 endorsement of Sen. Shannon Jones, R-Springsboro, who is the lead sponsor of Senate Bill 5, the new law that limits collective bargaining for public employees.
Other groups have formed, such as We Are Ohio, which says on its website, www.weareohio.com, that “Ohioans know Gov. John Kasich and extreme politicians in the state legislature went too far.” The group is leading a referendum effort to repeal Senate Bill 5.
This week a new group that supports the proposed state budget emerged: One United Ohio.
The organization says Ohioans need to understand the budget crisis facts and unveiled a television commercial Monday to promote its message.
The advertisement can be viewed at www.oneohiounited.com/ad-facts.
One United Ohio says “By closing an $8 billion structural deficit, offering $34 million in job-creating tax incentives, pursuing major reforms and significantly reducing spending in principled, thoughtful ways, the Ohio Jobs Budget helps create the jobs friendly environment that Ohio needs and transforms complex, ineffective programs into sustainable efforts that deliver better services at a better value to the taxpayer.”
State representatives passed their version of the proposed budget last week, 59-40, in the Ohio House, and not surprisingly, the vote followed strict party lines.
Lake County’s two state representatives don’t exactly see eye to eye on the budget.
In fact, they couldn’t be farther apart.
State Rep. Ron Young, R-Leroy Township, says the legislation, House Bill 153, was the product of 57 committee hearings, 811 witnesses and nearly 200 hours of testimony.
He believes it maintains a commitment to Ohio’s job climate and fiscal sustainability and successfully makes significant reductions in the size of state government.
State Rep. Lorraine M. Fende, D-Willowick, says rarely was she as disappointed with her colleagues in the Ohio General Assembly. She also said she was unhappy there was no common ground during the budgeting process.
She blasted the budget and said the bill “is a farce and could prove downright dangerous for the future of Ohio.”
Now the legislation moves to the Ohio Senate, where state Sen. Tim Grendell, R-Chester Township, and 32 other state senators will have their chance to shape the bill.
After reading the entire bill, Grendell says he’s got a list of at least 26 items that need to be addressed before he will take a position on the bill.
He’s also concerned that Ohio’s 18th Senate District, which comprises Lake, Geauga and portions of eastern Cuyahoga counties, will lose $41 million in school funding.

Brunner to headline
Former Ohio Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner will speak at the Geauga Democratic Party Headquarters, 12420 Kinsman Road, Newbury Township, to discuss Senate Bill 5, redistricting and other election issues on May 21 during the party’s annual dinner event.
Tickets for admission to the headquarters are $45 in advance ($50 at the door).
A private reception with Brunner will be held at the home of Janet and Terry Carson prior to the dinner.
Visit www.geaugadems.org for more information.

Candidate announcements
Kirtland Mayor Mark A. Tyler announced that he is seeking re-election. In the announcement, he cited leadership, experience and the completion of several major projects within the city.

Lake, Geauga candidate filings

• Sean Blake has filed petitions to run as a candidate for Mentor Council Ward 1.
• For Chardon Municipal Court, Timothy H. Synder of Burton Township has filed as an independent candidate.

Fundies

• Fende will host “Families for Fende” spaghetti dinner 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday at Dino’s Restaurant in Willoughby. See Nick Cindric.
• Desirea Thompson, a candidate for Mentor-on-the-Lake Council, hosts a spaghetti dinner 5 to 9 p.m. July 16 at the Stadium Grill in Mentor. See John Thompson.

-- John Arthur Hutchison | JHutchison@News-Herald.com | @newsheraldjah

Most branches of government are facing tough tasks putting together their budgets, and Lake County commissioners are no exception.

Due to decreased revenues, some elected county officials and department heads have had to utilize staff furloughs, announce layoffs, leave vacant positions unfilled and consider shortening office hours.

Sheriff Daniel A. Dunlap recently laid off two deputies. The Elections Board will implement furlough days, and potentially consider other cost-cutting options, because there is a $130,000 difference between what the department requests and what commissioners propose.

The reasons for the declining revenues?

Interest earnings in 2008 provided the county with $6.9 million. But rates remain at historically low levels, meaning revenue dipped to $4 million in 2009 and shrunk to $2.18 million for 2010 as higher returning investments came off the book. This revenue is projected to provide $1.25 million this year.

Collections from annual property taxes have dropped because property valuations that determine how much one’s home and land are worth declined two years ago by 10 percent in the county — and aren’t likely to rise when the triennial update is completed next year.

Sales tax revenues are the county’s biggest source of revenue, and collections have remained flat. Sales taxes generated  $14,524,182 in 2009, $14,519,064 in 2010, and is projected to be around $14.1 million this year.

The only controllable option commissioners have to increase revenue is to raise the county’s sales tax. The idea is unpopular and not one commissioners are seriously considering.

Should the commissioners ever change their mind, there’s a process they would have to follow to do so.

How it would work

Ohio law permits county commissioners to levy additional sales tax by increments of a quarter of 1 percent by adopting a resolution that generally must state the tax’s purpose and how long it would be in effect.

Two public hearings would need to be conducted before passing the resolution. The second hearing must be held not less than three days, nor more than 10 days, after the first.

In the resolution, commissioners may — but are not required to — direct the Elections Board to ask voters whether to approve the increase.

If the resolution is passed as a non-emergency measure, commissioners must pass it by at least a 2-1 vote and the question may be submitted to the Elections Board 90 days before the election.

If the resolution is adopted as an emergency measure deemed necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health or safety, it must receive a unanimous vote and it needs to state the reasons for such necessity.

Voters can use a referendum to prevent a non-emergency tax from going into effect 30 days after the resolution is passed. An emergency tax is not subject to a referendum, but voters can decide to repeal it by petition.

The petition would need to be filed at least 75 days before the general election in any year and must be signed by at least 10 percent of the voters who voted in the most recent gubernatorial election.

If a tax were to be repealed by voters, it would be effective after the current year.

Announcements, endorsements

Highland Heights Mayor Scott Coleman announced he will seek a third term in office this November.
 

Coleman cites support and endorsements from U.S. Rep. Steven C. LaTourette, Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel, state Sen. Tim Grendell, Mayfield Heights Mayor Greg Costabile, Mayfield Village Mayor Bruce Rinker, Gates Mills Mayor Connie White, Lyndhurst Mayor Joe Cicero, Richmond Heights Mayor Dan Ursu, Willoughby Hills Mayor Robert Weger and South Euclid Mayor Georgine Welo.

Fundies

Lake County Commissioner Daniel P. Troy: Mardi Gras Party, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Holiday Inn Express LaMalfa Centre in Mentor. See Kip Molenaar.
 

Jamie Callender, candidate for Ohio Senate: Mardi Gras party, 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Quail Hollow Inn in Concord Township. See Jamie or Heidi Callender.

Lake Commissioner Robert E. Aufuldish: St. Patrick’s Day celebration from 5 to 7:30 p.m. March 17 at Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites LaMalfa in Mentor. See Kathie Aufuldish-Freshour or Ernie Koenig.

Willoughby Hills Councilman David M. Fiebig: Spring Fever party, 5 to 7 p.m., March 22 at Willoughby Hills Community Center. See Joyce Hribar Fiebig.

John Arthur Hutchison’s column appears Sundays in The News-Herald. View it online at www.northernohiolocalpolitics.blogspot.com.

JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Ohio Senate Bill 5 is shaping up to be one of the most spirited pieces of legislation in recent state history.

The measure, sponsored by state Sen. Shannon Jones, R-Springboro, aims to prohibit state employees from collective bargaining.

It also would abolish salary schedules for public employees and instead require merit pay, among other changes, to the Collective Bargaining Law.

The bill comes at a time when state officials are trying to find ways to eliminate an estimated $8 billion or more budget shortfall.

Gov. John Kasich has expressed his support for the bill in concept, but he has also signaled that he might bring forward his own plan that could go even further by banning public employee strikes.

Reports from Columbus, including those from national media outlets, showed thousands of union employees, teachers, police and firefighters and others descended onto the state capital to let their presence be felt and voices be heard during opposition testimony for the bill at an Ohio Senate Insurance, Commerce and Labor Committee hearing. Among them was Tim Burga, president of the Ohio AFL-CIO.

“Workers and trade unions understand the state of our economy and the challenges confronting our public budgets at all levels,” Burga testified. “State and local employee unions are regularly working with government administrators and elected officials to find ways to be flexible and reduce costs to balance budgets while delivering needed services.

“As a result, pay freezes, cost pick-ups, benefit reductions and unpaid leave have been implemented at the state and local levels. Public employee unions have assured this Committee that they will continue to work collaboratively with government officials as we work together to find solutions to create private sector jobs that sustain our public budgets.”

As reported last week, state Sen. Tim Grendell, R-Chester Township, said he does not support the bill in its current form and believes the bill in general goes too far.

“When talking about labor situations, you need to have a balance,” Grendell said. “If problems with the current system are too costly to taxpayers and too favorable to employers we need to address those issues.

“As written, Senate Bill 5 essentially tips the balance in a way that eliminates any protections for people who work as public employees.”

Grendell said later that discussions have begun to encourage more flexibility on the bill.

Announcements and filings
Peter V. Wayman announced he will seek a fourth term for Madison Township trustee. Wayman cites the township’s ability to provide basic services of police, fire and roads during a rough economy while maintaining a good fiscal budget.

Wayman has filed petitions with the Lake County Elections Board. Stay tuned for future fundraiser details.

Kirtland Councilman Doug Davidson has filed petitions to run for mayor against incumbent Mark Tyler.

Former Euclid Councilwoman Charlene Mancuso has announced she is running for Euclid mayor. Mancuso served on Euclid Council from 2003 to April 2008.

A registered nurse, Mancuso says she has a track record of building consensus among disparate parties in her work with state and local government agencies.


Fundies
Karen Kowall, candidate for Willoughby Municipal Court judge: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday at Pine Ridge Country Club, Wickliffe. See Marisa Cornachio or Dana Lutz.

Lake Commissioner Daniel P. Troy: Mardi Gras Party, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. March 8 at Holiday Inn Express LaMalfa Centre in Mentor. See Kip Molenaar.

Jamie Callender, candidate for Ohio Senate: Mardi Gras party from 6 to 8 p.m. March 8 at the Quail Hollow Inn in Concord Township. See Jamie or Heidi Callender.

Lake Commissioner Robert E. Aufuldish: St. Patrick’s Day celebration from 5 to 7:30 p.m. March 17 at Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites LaMalfa in Mentor. See Kathie Aufuldish-Freshour or Ernie Koenig.

Deadlines for information within this column are Thursdays at noon.

John Arthur Hutchison’s column appears Sundays in The News-Herald.
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah

Last week, I wrote that after redistricting is completed, it’s quite possible that Lake County could wind up with three Ohio House of Representatives districts.

The change could occur because Ashtabula and Trumbull counties have lost population while Lake County has gained during the past 10 years.

Ashtabula County also shares a portion of the 99th House District with five townships in Trumbull County.

That Trumbull County territory shared with Ashtabula County might be needed for other House districts in Trumbull.

So if that scenario happens it would dramatically change how the 18th Senate District is shaped because state law requires each Ohio Senate District to contain three House districts.

Currently, the district is comprised of Lake, Geauga and portions of eastern Cuyahoga counties and is represented by state Sen. Tim Grendell, R-Chester Township.

The House districts within the 18th Senate District are the 62nd, consisting of western Lake County and Concord Township, and the 63rd, consisting of Mentor and eastern Lake County, plus the 98th that consists of Geauga County, and Gates Mills, Highland Heights and Mayfield Village in Cuyahoga County.

If the Madison area is joined with the 99th House District, as is quite possible, then Lake County’s Ohio Senate district would most likely be redrawn so that the district is comprised of Lake and Ashtabula counties, dropping Geauga and eastern Cuyahoga counties. Just like it was 10 years ago.

Geauga County’s new state Senate district would likely move south toward Portage County and potentially into the eastern portion of Summit County.

Best guess is Geauga County’s new Senate district and the 98th House District would no longer include Cuyahoga County.

So if Lake County joins with Ashtabula County to form a Senate district, how would that affect potential partisan candidates?

Ashtabula County with 65,010 registered voters traditionally leans Democrat and had 19,594 Democrats and 10,069 Republicans registered at last count.

Lake County, known as a bellwether county, has 157,387 registered voters who are mostly independent. The county had 11,241 Democrats and 12,577 Republicans registered at last count.

So when the political parties nominate candidates in primary elections in 2012 for state Senate, could it be a Lake County Republican vs. an Ashtabula County Democrat?

You may remember that Roaming Shores Democrat Robert Boggs, former Ohio Department of Agriculture chief, county commissioner and state representative, was the 18th District’s senator in the 1990s prior to the tenure of Republican Robert A. Gardner of Madison Township.

Concord trustee bid?
Is attorney Erik L. Walter planning another bid to run for Concord Township trustee this November? Trustee Connie Luhta is up this year. Walter ran for trustee in November 2009, but lost to Trustees Christopher A. Galloway and Paul R. Malchesky. Walter and Bob Patterson also ran in 2007, but Luhta fended off their challenge.

Fundies
n Willoughby Hills Mayor Robert M. Weger: 5 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday at Willoughby Hills Community Center for “Envision the Future” pasta dinner. See Tom Lobe, Gloria Majeski or Darleen Weger.

n Karen Kowall, candidate for Willoughby Municipal Court judge: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. March 3 at Pine Ridge Country Club, Wickliffe. See Marisa Cornachio or Dana Lutz.
n Lake Commissioner Dan Troy: Mardi Gras Party, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. March 8 at Holiday Inn Express LaMalfa Centre in Mentor. See Kip Molenaar.

n Jamie Callender, candidate for Ohio Senate, will host a Mardi Gras party from 6 to 8 p.m. March 8, at the Quail Hollow Inn in Concord Township. See Jamie or Heidi Callender.

John Arthur Hutchison’s column appears Sundays in The News-Herald.
JHutchison@News-Herald.com
Twitter: @newsheraldjah