Word on the street has it there was a home invasion within our community in the past week. This serves as a reminder to be cautious and secure your home. I am sorry to hear of this, and don't have hard facts as to what really occurred, but apparently the family was home when the "break in" happened; sometime between 7 and 11 pm.
I would advise residents to lock their doors and keep outdoor lights on. A classic after-Christmas tip off for burglars is boxes outside from expensive Christmas gifts; be aware of this when disposing of your packaging.
In previous winters we have experienced minor vandalism within the park. On multiple occasions our vehicles have been opened and change was taken from the ashtrays. No one was hurt, but it goes to show a larger crime could easily occur. These were reported to the Mayor in the past, though there isn't much to be done about it other than increased patrolling, community awareness, and perhaps increased lighting.
In the instance in the past week, I heard about it through neighborly word of mouth, thanks to our police chief asking a neighbor to spread the word. Keep your neighbors aware, and be cautious throughout the winter.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Jason Gross Appeal Hearing
This June officer Jason Gross was terminated from the Minerva Park Police Department. Due to the circumstances surrounding his termination, he filed an appeal with the Village, the hearing of which took place in September.
There were several issues with both the manner in which this hearing was conducted and things stated during the hearing. As such, Jason Gross has filed further legal action against the Village Council and the Mayor, the next step in receiving the justice he hopes for. And in my opinion rightfully deserves.
Details on these cases can be found at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Website, here:
http://fcdcfcjs.co.franklin.oh.us/CaseInformationOnline/caseSearch?s3TBWdZuWU57SDnV9U1x
http://fcdcfcjs.co.franklin.oh.us/CaseInformationOnline/caseSearch?k6Mb3zMJGEHCVkVyNpNx
Because of the length of these hearings, I have been unable to quickly summarize the proceedings and issues I found with the case, and I fear if I wait for the time to get this well organized too much time will pass. In fact, I wish I would have resorted to this format before the election, because perhaps there would have been some eye-opening as to how our mayor's system is currently running. I digress...
Below are links to the raw notes taken during these meetings. I will leave it to you to read through them and come to any conclusions you see in them, but I would like to highlight some points quickly.
Lynn Eisentrout presided over the hearing, a hearing appealing a decision made by her. Jason Gross's legal representation pointed out in the meeting how this was a conflict of interest and someone other than the mayor should have presided over the hearing; the President of Council being a more suitable choice in this situation. Lynn continued to preside over the hearing, regardless.
Because of officer Gross's request for a public hearing, council was prohibited from going into executive session. They did so anyway, in an executive session from 7:15pm to 8:59pm.
Unlike the rest of the witnesses, Lynn Eisentrout was allowed to hear others' testimony (accordingly, as she was presiding over the hearing) but then gave her testimony. I encourage you to read her testimony notes verbatim, I wouldn't want to misquote, but I recall a lot of "I don't recall" and a few times hearing an answer relative to "you heard what she said". Please, find it in the notes from the first night and tell us what you think.
Matthew Fenstermaker credited Jason as "one of the best officers I've seen"
He also stated that "police are allowed to lie to get what they need" "deception is used" in respect to his using recording and not specifying that there was an ongoing investigation when collecting details in the investigation. (Matthew Fenstermaker was promoted soon after the hearing took place, though the FOP was unhappy with a member representing police officers this way.)
Reprimands that Matthew Fenstermaker was directed to shred were not present in Jason Gross's employee file at the time of his firing (requested by a 3rd party by public records request) but the documents reappeared to be used in the case against him (reprimands 8, 9, and 10).
There are many, many more issues and inconsistencies but I have not collected all the notes and double checked the details. In the mean time, here they are, for everyone to see. I am not surprised at all the Minerva Park hasn't "fixed" the problems they started when they fired Jason Gross. His rights were violated more than once, first before he was fired, in the manner in which he was fired, in the way his hearing was conducted, and the way he was reinstated. This isn't the kind of thing our police department deserves, regardless of anyone's understanding (or more likely misunderstanding) of a General Order.
Personal notes from the Jason Gross Appeal Hearing dated 9/21/11
http://www.scribd.com/doc/76101762/Jason-Gross-Hearing
Personal notes from the Jason Gross Appeal Hearing Continuance dated 9/26/11
http://www.scribd.com/doc/76104364/Jason-Gross-Appeal-Closing#
There were several issues with both the manner in which this hearing was conducted and things stated during the hearing. As such, Jason Gross has filed further legal action against the Village Council and the Mayor, the next step in receiving the justice he hopes for. And in my opinion rightfully deserves.
Details on these cases can be found at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Website, here:
http://fcdcfcjs.co.franklin.oh.us/CaseInformationOnline/caseSearch?s3TBWdZuWU57SDnV9U1x
http://fcdcfcjs.co.franklin.oh.us/CaseInformationOnline/caseSearch?k6Mb3zMJGEHCVkVyNpNx
Because of the length of these hearings, I have been unable to quickly summarize the proceedings and issues I found with the case, and I fear if I wait for the time to get this well organized too much time will pass. In fact, I wish I would have resorted to this format before the election, because perhaps there would have been some eye-opening as to how our mayor's system is currently running. I digress...
Below are links to the raw notes taken during these meetings. I will leave it to you to read through them and come to any conclusions you see in them, but I would like to highlight some points quickly.
Lynn Eisentrout presided over the hearing, a hearing appealing a decision made by her. Jason Gross's legal representation pointed out in the meeting how this was a conflict of interest and someone other than the mayor should have presided over the hearing; the President of Council being a more suitable choice in this situation. Lynn continued to preside over the hearing, regardless.
Because of officer Gross's request for a public hearing, council was prohibited from going into executive session. They did so anyway, in an executive session from 7:15pm to 8:59pm.
Unlike the rest of the witnesses, Lynn Eisentrout was allowed to hear others' testimony (accordingly, as she was presiding over the hearing) but then gave her testimony. I encourage you to read her testimony notes verbatim, I wouldn't want to misquote, but I recall a lot of "I don't recall" and a few times hearing an answer relative to "you heard what she said". Please, find it in the notes from the first night and tell us what you think.
Matthew Fenstermaker credited Jason as "one of the best officers I've seen"
He also stated that "police are allowed to lie to get what they need" "deception is used" in respect to his using recording and not specifying that there was an ongoing investigation when collecting details in the investigation. (Matthew Fenstermaker was promoted soon after the hearing took place, though the FOP was unhappy with a member representing police officers this way.)
Reprimands that Matthew Fenstermaker was directed to shred were not present in Jason Gross's employee file at the time of his firing (requested by a 3rd party by public records request) but the documents reappeared to be used in the case against him (reprimands 8, 9, and 10).
There are many, many more issues and inconsistencies but I have not collected all the notes and double checked the details. In the mean time, here they are, for everyone to see. I am not surprised at all the Minerva Park hasn't "fixed" the problems they started when they fired Jason Gross. His rights were violated more than once, first before he was fired, in the manner in which he was fired, in the way his hearing was conducted, and the way he was reinstated. This isn't the kind of thing our police department deserves, regardless of anyone's understanding (or more likely misunderstanding) of a General Order.
Personal notes from the Jason Gross Appeal Hearing dated 9/21/11
http://www.scribd.com/doc/76101762/Jason-Gross-Hearing
Personal notes from the Jason Gross Appeal Hearing Continuance dated 9/26/11
http://www.scribd.com/doc/76104364/Jason-Gross-Appeal-Closing#
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Vacancy On Council
Councilman Matthew Danzuso previously announced his resignation, effective November 15th. It should be known that this announcement was made before the elections, and I am unaware of any purpose of it being held until November 15th, excepting that there is a council meeting November 14th and perhaps he had unfinished business to attend to. Benefit of the doubt. Otherwise, I see an ability for current council members to appoint who they want to council based on who did not get elected. The truth may never really be known, but it is something to consider.
The Mayor's Report in the November 2011 Villager states:
The 2011 Rules of Council states the following regarding vacancies:
To indicate interest, a citizen must submit a resume and letter of intent to the mayor or any of the council members. Once the mayor or council member receives the resume and letter, he/she will immediately see that all members of council receive copies. If no regular meeting is scheduled, a special meeting will be scheduled immediately after the deadline in order for the interested citizens to appear in person before the mayor and council to both ask and answer questions.
Every effort should be made to have all council members present to interview and select a new member. At least four members* of council must be present in order to call the meeting to order and select and vote to fill a vacancy. Filling the vacancy will be the first order of business on the agenda.
All candidates would be interviewed and a vote taken. Voting is to be done by secret ballot one position at a time with the vacancy of shortest duration filled first. Because there might be multiple vacancies (one, two or even three vacancies) on council at one time, there must be at least three council members present to proceed with the voting. Whether there are three, four, or five members of council present to select a new member, at least three votes must be cast in favor of any one individual for that person to be selected. In no instance would a person be voted to council with fewer than three votes. Once the vote is taken and an applicant has received three or more votes, that person can be placed on council by resolution and sworn in by the mayor and can begin his/her duties immediately. If there are still vacancies and still interested applicants for the positions, the voting can continue until all positions are filled. All members of council are required to vote unless there is a conflict of interest (see section on Voting), and , if a member feels there are no qualified candidates among those interested, that council member can cast a blank ballot that indicates "NO VOTE.”
If council is unable to select a replacement within the 30 day period, the mayor shall appoint a replacement or the mayor can decide that the position will be re-advertised and there will be another 30 days to fill the position.
Unless otherwise decided by the mayor and council, the person filling the vacancy will serve on all the committees as the person being replaced until the end of the year, however, if the person being replaced was chair of the committee, the mayor and council may appoint one of the existing committee members to serve as chair for the remainder of the year.
*In the unlikely event that there are three vacancies on council at one time, a meeting can be called to order with only three members with appointing a new council member being the first and only item to be acted upon with three members. In the case of three vacancies, if any one person receives all three votes of the council members present, that person is immediately placed on council by resolution and sworn in by the mayor. At that point there are now four on council, the new member may vote, and there is a quorum to conduct business.
To the best of my knowledge, this is the pattern of appointed council members in the past 11 years:
Darrell Kem appt 01/2000 replaced vacant
Don Champney appt 01/2000 replaced vacant
Dick Busick appt 01/2002 replaced vacant
Dave Stahr appt 01/2002 replaced vacant
Lou Busick appt 01/2002 replaced vacant
Donald Cox appt 10/2002 replaced Darrell Kem
Sharon Bierman appt 01/2003 replaced vacant
Brian Downey appt 12/2003 replaced Donald Cox
Ron Yarano appt 02/2004 replaced vacant
Marty Grosh appt 01/2005 replaced vacant
Chuck Gibson appt 08/2005 replaced Marty Grosh
Jeff Rigg appt 01/2006 replaced vacant
Todd Walter appt 09/2006 replaced Ron Yarano
David Way appt 06/2007 replaced Chuck Gibson
Matthew Danzuso appt 03/2010 replaced Jeff Rigg
? appt 12/2011 replaced Matthew Danzuso
The Mayor's Report in the November 2011 Villager states:
If you are interested in the position, please send a letter of interest and a resume to either the Mayor (mayor@minervapark.org), the President of Council (mpcurry@minervapark.org), or to any Council member by December 2.
You may also send your mail to the Village Offices at 2829 Minerva Lake Road, Columbus OH 43231.
Interested parties will be interviewed at the December 10 work session and appointed at the December 12 Council meeting.
You may also send your mail to the Village Offices at 2829 Minerva Lake Road, Columbus OH 43231.
Interested parties will be interviewed at the December 10 work session and appointed at the December 12 Council meeting.
The 2011 Rules of Council states the following regarding vacancies:
Filling Vacancies on Council
When a vacancy arises on council either through a council member vacating an unexpired term or because no one ran to fill a 4-year term, there will be an immediate call for citizens to indicate their interest in filling the unexpired or vacant term. Such call will be made through announcements in the village newsletter, phone calls from council members and others knowing of the vacancy, and announcements placed at appropriate places in the village. Such announcements will include the deadline for citizens to indicate their interest. The deadline will be within 30 days of the first date the vacancy was announced to the public.
When a vacancy arises on council either through a council member vacating an unexpired term or because no one ran to fill a 4-year term, there will be an immediate call for citizens to indicate their interest in filling the unexpired or vacant term. Such call will be made through announcements in the village newsletter, phone calls from council members and others knowing of the vacancy, and announcements placed at appropriate places in the village. Such announcements will include the deadline for citizens to indicate their interest. The deadline will be within 30 days of the first date the vacancy was announced to the public.
To indicate interest, a citizen must submit a resume and letter of intent to the mayor or any of the council members. Once the mayor or council member receives the resume and letter, he/she will immediately see that all members of council receive copies. If no regular meeting is scheduled, a special meeting will be scheduled immediately after the deadline in order for the interested citizens to appear in person before the mayor and council to both ask and answer questions.
Every effort should be made to have all council members present to interview and select a new member. At least four members* of council must be present in order to call the meeting to order and select and vote to fill a vacancy. Filling the vacancy will be the first order of business on the agenda.
All candidates would be interviewed and a vote taken. Voting is to be done by secret ballot one position at a time with the vacancy of shortest duration filled first. Because there might be multiple vacancies (one, two or even three vacancies) on council at one time, there must be at least three council members present to proceed with the voting. Whether there are three, four, or five members of council present to select a new member, at least three votes must be cast in favor of any one individual for that person to be selected. In no instance would a person be voted to council with fewer than three votes. Once the vote is taken and an applicant has received three or more votes, that person can be placed on council by resolution and sworn in by the mayor and can begin his/her duties immediately. If there are still vacancies and still interested applicants for the positions, the voting can continue until all positions are filled. All members of council are required to vote unless there is a conflict of interest (see section on Voting), and , if a member feels there are no qualified candidates among those interested, that council member can cast a blank ballot that indicates "NO VOTE.”
If council is unable to select a replacement within the 30 day period, the mayor shall appoint a replacement or the mayor can decide that the position will be re-advertised and there will be another 30 days to fill the position.
Unless otherwise decided by the mayor and council, the person filling the vacancy will serve on all the committees as the person being replaced until the end of the year, however, if the person being replaced was chair of the committee, the mayor and council may appoint one of the existing committee members to serve as chair for the remainder of the year.
*In the unlikely event that there are three vacancies on council at one time, a meeting can be called to order with only three members with appointing a new council member being the first and only item to be acted upon with three members. In the case of three vacancies, if any one person receives all three votes of the council members present, that person is immediately placed on council by resolution and sworn in by the mayor. At that point there are now four on council, the new member may vote, and there is a quorum to conduct business.
To the best of my knowledge, this is the pattern of appointed council members in the past 11 years:
Darrell Kem appt 01/2000 replaced vacant
Don Champney appt 01/2000 replaced vacant
Dick Busick appt 01/2002 replaced vacant
Dave Stahr appt 01/2002 replaced vacant
Lou Busick appt 01/2002 replaced vacant
Donald Cox appt 10/2002 replaced Darrell Kem
Sharon Bierman appt 01/2003 replaced vacant
Brian Downey appt 12/2003 replaced Donald Cox
Ron Yarano appt 02/2004 replaced vacant
Marty Grosh appt 01/2005 replaced vacant
Chuck Gibson appt 08/2005 replaced Marty Grosh
Jeff Rigg appt 01/2006 replaced vacant
Todd Walter appt 09/2006 replaced Ron Yarano
David Way appt 06/2007 replaced Chuck Gibson
Matthew Danzuso appt 03/2010 replaced Jeff Rigg
? appt 12/2011 replaced Matthew Danzuso
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Emotions Run High
You may have read that Minerva Park has recently hired a new Fiscal Officer, Nancy White.
Nancy is filling the place previously held by Suzanne Coulter as the elected Clerk-Treasurer. The position was eliminated later this year and made into that of a Fiscal Officer, a hired rather than elected position.
There are details previously posted on this issue here.
Suzanne Coulter resigned following the May 7th regular council meeting in 2011 during which tensions rose and she had an emotional moment, removing herself to the basement and making a frightful, loud noise.
Suzanne continuted to do the duties of an Acting Fiscal Officer until Nancy White was hired. Residents and Council who inquired about why Suzanne continued to handle the village funds were told that she had to be there to pay the police officers. Whether Minerva Park laws require this and the mayor's signature is not enough to write checks to the Police officers and employees I am not sure.
Suzanne signed a contract as an employee of the village that stated she was required to have worker's compensation and liability insurance. There is a pattern of village employees signing contracts stating they have these important contract qualifications and documentation is not checked ensuring that they have them. More than once they have not in fact had them.
Suzanne's case was no different. When she signed her contract with the village, she did not have proof of workman's compensation. When public records requests were submitted for this documentation, the village avoided a direct answer to the requests.
Eventually, one resident was given a copy of Mrs. Coulter's homeowners' insurance as documentation of liability insurance. This is the document described in her contract.
If this woman, with a business degree, truly thought that a resident was asking to see her homeowner's insurance, I understand her frustration. Having a business degree, though, I suspect she knew better.
Her response to the resident was left as a voice message:
The worst part of this situation is that it was allowed to happen. There are several lawsuits with Minerva Park about a hostile work environment, and it sounds as though this could have been led to another one.
Mayor Lynn Eisentrout and the present Council have allowed attitudes to get so unprofessional in the community building that it led to someone feeling this emotional about a public records request for documents that should have been on file. Something has to change.
Furthermore, Lynn Eisentrout didn't actively respond to this situation. The resident filed a police report about the message, Lynn made a copy of it, and apparently it was marked "in her file" but nothing else came of it. The police chief denied any threats were present and stated there weren't any charges to prosecute.
This environment that Lynn Eisentrout and the rest of council has put up with needs to change. There is a chance to make that happen with your voice and your vote.
Nancy is filling the place previously held by Suzanne Coulter as the elected Clerk-Treasurer. The position was eliminated later this year and made into that of a Fiscal Officer, a hired rather than elected position.
There are details previously posted on this issue here.
Suzanne Coulter resigned following the May 7th regular council meeting in 2011 during which tensions rose and she had an emotional moment, removing herself to the basement and making a frightful, loud noise.
Suzanne continuted to do the duties of an Acting Fiscal Officer until Nancy White was hired. Residents and Council who inquired about why Suzanne continued to handle the village funds were told that she had to be there to pay the police officers. Whether Minerva Park laws require this and the mayor's signature is not enough to write checks to the Police officers and employees I am not sure.
Suzanne signed a contract as an employee of the village that stated she was required to have worker's compensation and liability insurance. There is a pattern of village employees signing contracts stating they have these important contract qualifications and documentation is not checked ensuring that they have them. More than once they have not in fact had them.
Suzanne's case was no different. When she signed her contract with the village, she did not have proof of workman's compensation. When public records requests were submitted for this documentation, the village avoided a direct answer to the requests.
Eventually, one resident was given a copy of Mrs. Coulter's homeowners' insurance as documentation of liability insurance. This is the document described in her contract.
If this woman, with a business degree, truly thought that a resident was asking to see her homeowner's insurance, I understand her frustration. Having a business degree, though, I suspect she knew better.
Her response to the resident was left as a voice message:
The worst part of this situation is that it was allowed to happen. There are several lawsuits with Minerva Park about a hostile work environment, and it sounds as though this could have been led to another one.
Mayor Lynn Eisentrout and the present Council have allowed attitudes to get so unprofessional in the community building that it led to someone feeling this emotional about a public records request for documents that should have been on file. Something has to change.
Furthermore, Lynn Eisentrout didn't actively respond to this situation. The resident filed a police report about the message, Lynn made a copy of it, and apparently it was marked "in her file" but nothing else came of it. The police chief denied any threats were present and stated there weren't any charges to prosecute.
This environment that Lynn Eisentrout and the rest of council has put up with needs to change. There is a chance to make that happen with your voice and your vote.
Elections quickly approaching
The elections are quickly approaching, and I have both excitement and dread. After Tuesday, Minerva Park's destiny will be decided for another four years. Will we continue to be lead by our current mayor, who has questionable motives and ethics? Will we have a new leader in our village, and will he have the influence to make the changes so many residents are seeking? Will the newly elected council members have the backbone to make their own informed decisions, and not just follow the crowd? Throughout this drama-filled campaign, residents have chosen sides, made their opinions known, and have become a little more involved and educated in the government as it now stands. I am hoping that this election has record number of Minerva Park resident voters, and that even after the election, the momentum continues. Residents need to continue to question, seek facts and push for equality in our village. So, tell your neighbors, friends and family members to get out and vote- November 8th! L.A.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Second Candidates Meeting Opportunity
Candidate's Meeting
Tomorrow
Thursday November 3rd
7:00pm
Tomorrow night, Thursday, November 3rd, 2011, there will be a meeting at Hawthorne Elementary School for another opportunity to meet the candidates for Minerva Park's Village ballot. Hope to see more interested residents there!
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Happy Halloween
With the election coming up and political issues of high interest lately, it's been a while since many positive posts have been made here. While partaking in Beggar's Night with the young ones, I was reminded of the nostalgia of growing up in Minerva Park.
The rounds my child makes are the same as I once did, though a few homeowners and homes themselves have changed. It makes me think of the long resident families that have three or more generations of Minerva Park history tied to them. The community I saw last night was live and vibrant. There were lots of young families (naturally, seeing as it is largely a children's event) and many residents generously answered the calls of "trick-or-treat" from the newest generation in Minerva Park.
One of the things that takes me back to my childhood memories of Minerva Park and Beggar's Night is the police force slowly patrolling our neighborhood, stopping to pass out candy to the kids every block. As far as I know they have done this without fail every year and I think it is a great way to tie our police force into our community, something that should be preserved in our great village. I'd bet that most of those who previously did the trick-or-treating here would also remember the police stopping to hand out candy to them as well. I'm glad to see this continue.
I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween, and look forward to seeing the turn out again next year.
If you have any holiday memories from Minerva Park, please comment and share!
The rounds my child makes are the same as I once did, though a few homeowners and homes themselves have changed. It makes me think of the long resident families that have three or more generations of Minerva Park history tied to them. The community I saw last night was live and vibrant. There were lots of young families (naturally, seeing as it is largely a children's event) and many residents generously answered the calls of "trick-or-treat" from the newest generation in Minerva Park.
One of the things that takes me back to my childhood memories of Minerva Park and Beggar's Night is the police force slowly patrolling our neighborhood, stopping to pass out candy to the kids every block. As far as I know they have done this without fail every year and I think it is a great way to tie our police force into our community, something that should be preserved in our great village. I'd bet that most of those who previously did the trick-or-treating here would also remember the police stopping to hand out candy to them as well. I'm glad to see this continue.
I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween, and look forward to seeing the turn out again next year.
If you have any holiday memories from Minerva Park, please comment and share!
Saturday, October 29, 2011
October 2011 Council Meeting Agenda
Below is the October 2011 Council Meeting Agenda.
At the October Council Meeting, Lieutenant Matthew Fenstermaker gave the report for the Police Department, he made mention of the golf course and mutual aid with other police departments to reduce vandalism.
Mike Flickinger was excused.
NCC- Lisa reported for Bob about the Rose's department store opening.
The rest of the meeting went on largely as presented in the agenda.
At the October Council Meeting, Lieutenant Matthew Fenstermaker gave the report for the Police Department, he made mention of the golf course and mutual aid with other police departments to reduce vandalism.
Mike Flickinger was excused.
NCC- Lisa reported for Bob about the Rose's department store opening.
The rest of the meeting went on largely as presented in the agenda.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Campaign Materials
The 2011 Election is approaching quickly. For those who missed Meet the Candidates Night on October 13, or anyone interested in the campaign materials available at the event, copies appear below.
Sample Ballot
Candidates appear below in alphabetical order, grouped by position sought.
Mayor - Minerva Park
Lynn Eisentrout
Marty Grosh
Council Member - Minerva Park
Tony Bendetti
Charles Legg
Jessica Rhoads
Kent Stanley
Todd Walter
David Way
Township Trustee - Blendon Township
Liz Ward
James Welch
Board of Education - Westerville City Schools
Cindy Crowe
Carol French & Peter Williams
Al Hammond
I don't seem to have any material from Al Hammond. His campaign website can be found here.
Thank you for your interest in the coming election! Please be sure to come out and vote on November 8th!
Information about absentee voting can be found here.
Sample Ballot
Candidates appear below in alphabetical order, grouped by position sought.
Mayor - Minerva Park
Lynn Eisentrout
Marty Grosh
Council Member - Minerva Park
Tony Bendetti
Charles Legg
Jessica Rhoads
Kent Stanley
Todd Walter
David Way
Township Trustee - Blendon Township
Liz Ward
James Welch
Board of Education - Westerville City Schools
Cindy Crowe
Carol French & Peter Williams
Al Hammond
I don't seem to have any material from Al Hammond. His campaign website can be found here.
Thank you for your interest in the coming election! Please be sure to come out and vote on November 8th!
Information about absentee voting can be found here.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
2012 Rules of Council In Progress
The 2012 Rules of Council as presently being discussed are available on the Minerva Park website.
There are currently amendments shown in blue that highlight the changes from this year's rules.
Many changes are formality based such as transitioning from Clerk-Treasurer to Fiscal Officer. Some are more substantial involving citizen comments and terminology about abstentions and vacancies on council.
I encourage residents to review them and if you have any issues or suggestions contact your council representatives (contact information available on the MP website) or fill out your comment card before the next regular council meeting begins (November 14th, 7pm) and use your opportunity to share your thoughts.
Council is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the residents. Many of these decisions are about tasks that simply keep our village running, but some have more effect than others. Business items must be handled one way or another, but the manner in which they are handled should reflect the interest of the residents. If you are concerned, speak up. If you have suggestions, speak up. If you are listening, I encourage you to speak up and share your thoughts; council needs to know you care about what goes on in our village.
There are currently amendments shown in blue that highlight the changes from this year's rules.
Many changes are formality based such as transitioning from Clerk-Treasurer to Fiscal Officer. Some are more substantial involving citizen comments and terminology about abstentions and vacancies on council.
I encourage residents to review them and if you have any issues or suggestions contact your council representatives (contact information available on the MP website) or fill out your comment card before the next regular council meeting begins (November 14th, 7pm) and use your opportunity to share your thoughts.
Council is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the residents. Many of these decisions are about tasks that simply keep our village running, but some have more effect than others. Business items must be handled one way or another, but the manner in which they are handled should reflect the interest of the residents. If you are concerned, speak up. If you have suggestions, speak up. If you are listening, I encourage you to speak up and share your thoughts; council needs to know you care about what goes on in our village.
Zoning Codes Now Online
The ordinances pertaining to Planning and Zoning are now available online from the Minerva Park website.
The chapter can be found as a PDF at this direct link: http://www.minervapark.org/zoning/1200s.pdf which is found under Planning and Zoning, Overview on the Minerva Park website.
Planning and Zoning meetings are regularly scheduled for the first Thursday of each month at 7:30pm. More information can be found on the official Minerva Park website.
The chapter can be found as a PDF at this direct link: http://www.minervapark.org/zoning/1200s.pdf which is found under Planning and Zoning, Overview on the Minerva Park website.
Planning and Zoning meetings are regularly scheduled for the first Thursday of each month at 7:30pm. More information can be found on the official Minerva Park website.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
According to our Code Enforcement Officer:
"The only interpretation that matters is mine. And that of the mayors court magistrate if I have to cite someone into court that fails to comply."
This is the response of our Code Enforcement Officer, Dave Hays, about the interpretation of the zoning codes. What do you think?
This is the response of our Code Enforcement Officer, Dave Hays, about the interpretation of the zoning codes. What do you think?
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Candidates Night
Candidates Night
will be held at the
Community Building
Thursday October 13th at 7pm
Event sponsored by the MPCA
Those running in the election for Minerva Park voters are:
Minerva Park
Lynn Eisentrout
Marty Grosh
Tony Benedetti
Charles Legg
Jessica Rhoads
Kent Stanley
Todd Walter
David Way
Blendon Township Trustee
James Welch
Liz Ward
Westerville Board of Education
Cindy Crowe
Carol French
Al Hammond
Peter Wilms
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Certified Candidates List
The Certified Candidates list for the November 8, 2011 election is available at the Board of Elections' website.
Minerva Park's candidates appear on page 11.
As previously posted, Lynn Eisentrout has a website for her campaign.
Charles Legg, one of six candidates for council has a website as well.
I urge you to vote in this election, and most importantly to make an informed decision with your vote. It is time for a change in the way things are done in Minerva Park.
Minerva Park's candidates appear on page 11.
As previously posted, Lynn Eisentrout has a website for her campaign.
Charles Legg, one of six candidates for council has a website as well.
I urge you to vote in this election, and most importantly to make an informed decision with your vote. It is time for a change in the way things are done in Minerva Park.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Lynn Eisentrout Website
There is a website for the current Mayor, Lynn Eisentrout:
http://eisentrout-mayor.com/index.htm
So far, there isn't much on her website, but I suspect as the election draws closer there may be more info there.
http://eisentrout-mayor.com/index.htm
So far, there isn't much on her website, but I suspect as the election draws closer there may be more info there.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Appeal Hearing Continued
The appeal hearing for Officer Jason Gross has been continued and will reconvene Monday, September 26, 2011 at 6:30pm.
During yesterday's meeting both Minerva Park and Jason Gross' legal counsel presented their evidence and called all their witnesses.
The conclusion of the hearing is expected to contain a summary from both parties and likely a ruling from council.
More to follow.
During yesterday's meeting both Minerva Park and Jason Gross' legal counsel presented their evidence and called all their witnesses.
The conclusion of the hearing is expected to contain a summary from both parties and likely a ruling from council.
More to follow.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Special Council Meeting/Appeal Hearing
Tomorrow, September 21st, 2011, there will be a Special Council Meeting/Appeal Hearing for Patrolman Jason Gross (otherwise known as a former MP police officer, in case you too feel "patrolman" insufficiently describes his service to our community).
The meeting will be held at 5:30pm at the Community Building.
Details to follow.
The meeting will be held at 5:30pm at the Community Building.
Details to follow.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Nuissance Geese
Resident concern has been raised about the goose population in Minerva Park.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has some helpful information online about dealing with nuissance geese.
Nuisance Species
Harassment Techniques & Timeline
One primary message from ODNR related to goose populations is not to feed the geese. When geese become accustomed to being fed by humans not only do they lose their fear of humans and become more of a threat to us, they lack proper nutrition by supplementing their natural food source for carbohydrates.
If you personally have had a conflict with the Canadian Geese in Ohio you can make a conflict report online with ODNR.
The telephone number for ODNR Division of Wildlife in our district is 614-644-3925.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has some helpful information online about dealing with nuissance geese.
Nuisance Species
Harassment Techniques & Timeline
One primary message from ODNR related to goose populations is not to feed the geese. When geese become accustomed to being fed by humans not only do they lose their fear of humans and become more of a threat to us, they lack proper nutrition by supplementing their natural food source for carbohydrates.
If you personally have had a conflict with the Canadian Geese in Ohio you can make a conflict report online with ODNR.
The telephone number for ODNR Division of Wildlife in our district is 614-644-3925.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
If you come from the North on Cleveland Ave. or the West on Dublin-Granville Rd., the new traffic camera may be of interest to you.
The Dispatch published an article about the new red light camera installed at the corner of 161 and Cleveland Ave, which took effect Monday.
The Dispatch published an article about the new red light camera installed at the corner of 161 and Cleveland Ave, which took effect Monday.
"Two more intersections will fall under the unblinking eye of red-light cameras on Monday.
Starting at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, Columbus will activate cameras at Brice Road and Scarborough Boulevard on the Far East Side and at Cleveland Avenue and E. Dublin-Granville Road on the North Side.
For the first 30 days, those caught running the light will receive a warning. After that, the fine is $95.
Crashes are common at both intersections, said Deputy Safety Director George Speaks, with an average of 45 crashes per year at Cleveland and E. Dublin-Granville and 39.7 per year at Brice and Scarborough.
“We have 15,000 intersections in Columbus, and these rank very high,” he said.
The activations will bring to 24 the number of Columbus intersections covered by red-light cameras."
Garage Sale 2011
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
2012 Local Government Fund Allocation
Last week's Columbus Dispatch included a clip of the "2012 Allocation of the Undivided Local Government Fund" on page B2 of the Wednesday, August 10, 2011 Issue. I can't seem to find an online version of this, however the following is the list containing our subdivision:
Subdivision Estimated Allocation Percent of Total Allocation
Brice 7,273.46 0.0138
Canal Winchester 81,244.71 0.1541
Groveport 98,582.82 0.1869
Harrisburg 25,049.29 0.0475
Lockbourne 28,981.40 0.0550
Marble Cliff 16,427.62 0.0312
Minerva Park 52,995.29 0.1005
New Albany 43,919.35 0.0833
Obetz 107,266.29 0.2034
Riverlea 16,803.61 0.0319
Urbancrest 74,944.08 0.1421
Valleyview 46,477.75 0.0881
Subdivision Estimated Allocation Percent of Total Allocation
Brice 7,273.46 0.0138
Canal Winchester 81,244.71 0.1541
Groveport 98,582.82 0.1869
Harrisburg 25,049.29 0.0475
Lockbourne 28,981.40 0.0550
Marble Cliff 16,427.62 0.0312
Minerva Park 52,995.29 0.1005
New Albany 43,919.35 0.0833
Obetz 107,266.29 0.2034
Riverlea 16,803.61 0.0319
Urbancrest 74,944.08 0.1421
Valleyview 46,477.75 0.0881
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
2011 Election Candidates
Today was the filing deadline for candidacy in Minerva Park for the 2011 election.
The following is an alphabetical list of the candidates running:
Mayor of Minerva Park
Lynn Eisentrout
Martin Grosh
Village Council for the Village of Minerva Park
Anthony Benedetti
Charles Legg
Jessica Rhoads
Kent Stanley
Todd Walter
David Way
The election will be held November 8th, 2011.
The MPCA sponsors a "Meet the Candidates Night", typically held sometime in October. When the date is released it will be posted on the Collective Calendar page (above) and will likely appear in the September/October issue of The Villager.
The following is an alphabetical list of the candidates running:
Mayor of Minerva Park
Lynn Eisentrout
Martin Grosh
Village Council for the Village of Minerva Park
Anthony Benedetti
Charles Legg
Jessica Rhoads
Kent Stanley
Todd Walter
David Way
The election will be held November 8th, 2011.
The MPCA sponsors a "Meet the Candidates Night", typically held sometime in October. When the date is released it will be posted on the Collective Calendar page (above) and will likely appear in the September/October issue of The Villager.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Mayoral Candidate
One of the candidates for Mayor of Minerva Park has a facebook page, show your support here!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grosh-for-Mayor-Minerva-Park/194903090570358
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grosh-for-Mayor-Minerva-Park/194903090570358
Thursday, August 4, 2011
The Villager on the 2003 Clerk-Treasurer Election
Apparently the bias in the Villager has been long-standing. The November 2003 issue featured details on candidates as provided from Meet The Candidates Night. I found the following interesting:
ClerkTreasurer
Suzanne R. Coulter, incumbent
• 6 years as MP Treasurer
• Chosen by State Auditors Office
to assist in training other
treasurers
• Changed the Village accounting
system from completely manual
to a State-approved
computerized system
• Endorsed by Minerva Park
Police, MP EMS, and MP Swim
Club Board
• Chairperson of MPCA Children’s
Committee for 5 years
Loree B. Cox
[Editor’s Note] At Candidates
Night, Loree Cox, candidate for
Clerk-Treasurer, distributed
literature that alluded to “improper
activities in the Clerk-Treasurers
Office.” Complaints have been
filed against Loree Cox with the
Ohio Elections Commission, as a
possible violation of Ohio Revised
Code Section 3517.21B(10). At
press time for this newsletter, this
issue had not yet been resolved,
so we are unable to publish her
literature here.
The Villager supported Suzanne Coulter (who was running for re-election) but instead of pulling facts from Loree Cox's literature, they made a complaint against her and publicized the scandal they created.
The Village needs games like this to end.
ClerkTreasurer
Suzanne R. Coulter, incumbent
• 6 years as MP Treasurer
• Chosen by State Auditors Office
to assist in training other
treasurers
• Changed the Village accounting
system from completely manual
to a State-approved
computerized system
• Endorsed by Minerva Park
Police, MP EMS, and MP Swim
Club Board
• Chairperson of MPCA Children’s
Committee for 5 years
Loree B. Cox
[Editor’s Note] At Candidates
Night, Loree Cox, candidate for
Clerk-Treasurer, distributed
literature that alluded to “improper
activities in the Clerk-Treasurers
Office.” Complaints have been
filed against Loree Cox with the
Ohio Elections Commission, as a
possible violation of Ohio Revised
Code Section 3517.21B(10). At
press time for this newsletter, this
issue had not yet been resolved,
so we are unable to publish her
literature here.
The Villager supported Suzanne Coulter (who was running for re-election) but instead of pulling facts from Loree Cox's literature, they made a complaint against her and publicized the scandal they created.
The Village needs games like this to end.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
2003 Election Results: Mayor of Minerva Park
| Candidate | Votes | |
Lynn Eisentrout  | 259 | 43% |
| Martin Grosh | 202 | 34% |
| Jack Murray | 137 | 23% |
| LAST UPDATED: Nov-06-2003 12:35 PM Eastern Standard Time |
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Monday, July 25, 2011
We are Unique
Today I took a walk someplace other than Minerva Park and was reminded of the unique beauty of our village.
There was nothing wrong with the neighborhood I walked through today, the homes are kept up and the neighbors look friendly, but their houses are all very similar. The same 5 or 6 blueprints are found throughout the neighborhood, with a few more unique ones thrown in. As I looked to see how many of one type I could find I was reminded of how Minerva Park is not like that. Most new neighborhoods, or even those that bloomed in the '60s, '70s, or '80s are filled with the preliminary "cookie cutter" houses that are now growing in numbers throughout our area.
Minerva Park may have a few homes that share floor plans, here and there, but a typical stroll through the park will give you very different views than that in a newer neighborhood. Our trees are fully mature, our homes are largely unique, and our streets are winding, canopied by those trees we love so much.
We may not have the sidewalk systems you'll see in Westerville or Gahanna, but we have a character that cannot be found in a neighborhood with predictably spaced blocks and trees fresh from the orchard.
If searching for a home in Minerva Park, the same floor plan won't keep popping up on different blocks. Our homes each have a unique facade and character, one that can't be replaced by Dominion Homes (as fine a home builder they may be...) but is grown in time and with the history of our village.
When times get difficult politically in the Village, sometimes I have to remind myself of what it is that makes living here so great. There is a sense of community here that, when fostered, can give hope for the Village. I have found many more things to report here recently that are negative, because a lot of what is coming out of our Community Building right now is negative, but I hope to see changes made there and more positive things to bring to light as I walk through the park, because our village is unique, and I fear we stand to lose all of that if things continue the way they've been going.
Sadly, though, I feel most residents are unaware or uninterested in what is going on in the community building to be able to see the things that I (and many others) are seeing. There are high school-like games coming from "our" politicians here in the Village, and if anyone speaks out against them or tries to raise awareness they become a target. This has to stop. Our Village and our homes are worth more than that, but the credibility of our representatives is questionable and growing worse as the issues grow. I'd love to have no news rather than negative news here, but it seems that's what keeps coming from those elected to "represent us". This, I think, is worth DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
There was nothing wrong with the neighborhood I walked through today, the homes are kept up and the neighbors look friendly, but their houses are all very similar. The same 5 or 6 blueprints are found throughout the neighborhood, with a few more unique ones thrown in. As I looked to see how many of one type I could find I was reminded of how Minerva Park is not like that. Most new neighborhoods, or even those that bloomed in the '60s, '70s, or '80s are filled with the preliminary "cookie cutter" houses that are now growing in numbers throughout our area.
Minerva Park may have a few homes that share floor plans, here and there, but a typical stroll through the park will give you very different views than that in a newer neighborhood. Our trees are fully mature, our homes are largely unique, and our streets are winding, canopied by those trees we love so much.
We may not have the sidewalk systems you'll see in Westerville or Gahanna, but we have a character that cannot be found in a neighborhood with predictably spaced blocks and trees fresh from the orchard.
If searching for a home in Minerva Park, the same floor plan won't keep popping up on different blocks. Our homes each have a unique facade and character, one that can't be replaced by Dominion Homes (as fine a home builder they may be...) but is grown in time and with the history of our village.
When times get difficult politically in the Village, sometimes I have to remind myself of what it is that makes living here so great. There is a sense of community here that, when fostered, can give hope for the Village. I have found many more things to report here recently that are negative, because a lot of what is coming out of our Community Building right now is negative, but I hope to see changes made there and more positive things to bring to light as I walk through the park, because our village is unique, and I fear we stand to lose all of that if things continue the way they've been going.
Sadly, though, I feel most residents are unaware or uninterested in what is going on in the community building to be able to see the things that I (and many others) are seeing. There are high school-like games coming from "our" politicians here in the Village, and if anyone speaks out against them or tries to raise awareness they become a target. This has to stop. Our Village and our homes are worth more than that, but the credibility of our representatives is questionable and growing worse as the issues grow. I'd love to have no news rather than negative news here, but it seems that's what keeps coming from those elected to "represent us". This, I think, is worth DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Playground Structure
The Minerva Park Playground has become a sore sight. The June 1999 Villager featured a piece on the new playground to be installed, it has since been 12 years.
You might notice from this shot that things aren't exactly straight anymore. The railing next to the spiral slide indicates some of the tilting going on. In person it is much more pronounced all around, if you give it a look.
The wooden structure has been infested with bees in the warmer months, which have left holes throughout the structure. The wood is now rotting and it seems almost monthly this year there has been a board needing replaced.
Here is just one example of the damage from bees:
Almost every roof peak looks like this.
A few days ago, an entire railing fell off the upper landing:
It belongs above the yellow tunnel, seen above.
Someone propped it up against a post.
Rotten wood permeates the structure.
A look from above on where it was rotting.
Here is a shot of the underside of the large platform. It looks as though a supporting board is missing.
As of the night these photos were taken, Tuesday, July 19th, there was caution tape on the structure. I have yet to see if proper repairs have been made. Edit: as of 8:30pm July 22nd, there is still caution tape where the railing belongs.
Not only is this a safety hazard, it concerns me as a resident because on Wednesday, July 20th, Dave Hays, the Code Enforcement Officer, spoke to a resident saying that there were complaints made about the weeds in their garden, a commercial vehicle in their driveway and a few other issues. The residents neighbors didn't file any complaints and, apparently under Lynn Eisentrout and Kim Nuesse's advice, Dave came to the residents' home with a police officer. Why isn't attention being given to the safety hazard that exists in the Minerva Park playground (one that the Park stands to be in a lawsuit over if a person were hurt) but it is being focused on a resident which Lynn personally does not like?
If you want to take things further, why isn't attention being given (at least more strongly) to the commercial properties on Cleveland Avenue that fall under Minerva Park Zoning Ordinances? Any resident who drives past that strip mall serves to gain from it being cleaned up and ordinances better enforced. Better yet, residents who are trying to sell their homes in Minerva Park but can't because of the surrounding area serve to gain from those businesses being held to the zoning codes, much more-so than they do one commercial vehicle and a few wildflowers at the residence of a neighbor whom Lynn decided to single out.
The wooden structure has been infested with bees in the warmer months, which have left holes throughout the structure. The wood is now rotting and it seems almost monthly this year there has been a board needing replaced.
Here is just one example of the damage from bees:
A few days ago, an entire railing fell off the upper landing:
It belongs above the yellow tunnel, seen above.
Someone propped it up against a post.
Rotten wood permeates the structure.
A look from above on where it was rotting.
Here is a shot of the underside of the large platform. It looks as though a supporting board is missing.
As of the night these photos were taken, Tuesday, July 19th, there was caution tape on the structure. I have yet to see if proper repairs have been made. Edit: as of 8:30pm July 22nd, there is still caution tape where the railing belongs.
Not only is this a safety hazard, it concerns me as a resident because on Wednesday, July 20th, Dave Hays, the Code Enforcement Officer, spoke to a resident saying that there were complaints made about the weeds in their garden, a commercial vehicle in their driveway and a few other issues. The residents neighbors didn't file any complaints and, apparently under Lynn Eisentrout and Kim Nuesse's advice, Dave came to the residents' home with a police officer. Why isn't attention being given to the safety hazard that exists in the Minerva Park playground (one that the Park stands to be in a lawsuit over if a person were hurt) but it is being focused on a resident which Lynn personally does not like?
If you want to take things further, why isn't attention being given (at least more strongly) to the commercial properties on Cleveland Avenue that fall under Minerva Park Zoning Ordinances? Any resident who drives past that strip mall serves to gain from it being cleaned up and ordinances better enforced. Better yet, residents who are trying to sell their homes in Minerva Park but can't because of the surrounding area serve to gain from those businesses being held to the zoning codes, much more-so than they do one commercial vehicle and a few wildflowers at the residence of a neighbor whom Lynn decided to single out.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Chief Kim Nuesse
Last night the appointment of the new Minerva Park Police Chief, Kim Nuesse, was made official and accepted by Council.
The Village has done a good job touting her achievements, I have to say. She was featured on the cover of the February 2011 issue of The Villager, with a total of nearly three pages devoted to her appointment.
She has done many things in her career, and so far she has done a lot for our Police Department, though in my opinion not all of them good; some of the fired veteran officers we had likely agree. However, it is what it is and she is now officially accepted by Council.
In this post I hope to bring clarity to the timeline of her appointment and divulge some of the information that I feel was nearly covered up by those in charge of publishing and recommending Ms. Nuesse.
September 3, 2010- The Sandusky Register reports that Kim Nuesse has filed an appeal with the Sixth District Court of Appeals
September 20, 2010- Minerva Park's Public Safety Liaison begins work
October 11, 2010- Minerva Park Council ratifies the creation of a Public Safety Liaison to assist with the search for a new Police Chief. Pay set to $25/hour for an estimated 20 hour work week for a period of four to six months. Three readings waived on this resolution, declared an emergency.
December 13, 2010- Minerva Park Council establishes a pay range for the Chief of Police, set between $50,000 to $70,000 per year. Two readings waived, passed the same date as first reading, as an emergency. The previous pay range for the position was $43,001 to $48,000 set February 12, 2007 by resolution 2007-6.
December 27, 2010- Kimberly Nuesse resigns as Sandusky City Commissioner
December 29, 2010- The Morning Journal reports Kim Nuesse's resignation, stating: "Nuesse cited new employment opportunities and relocation as reasons for resigning. She would not say where she might be relocating to."...
January 8, 2011- Minerva Park's Safety Committee, Public Safety Liaison Jeff Miller, and Lynn Eisentrout presented Kim Nuesse as their "unanimous choice" out of 43 applicants nation-wide.
January 10, 2011- Minerva Park Council approves an ordinance setting forth the terms of employment for the Police Chief, in response to the letter of intent to Ms. Nuesse, increasing the vacation time of the position. Three readings waived, passed as an emergency.
January 14, 2011- Kim Nuesse is sworn in as Police Chief of Minerva Park
January 19, 2011- Kim Nuesse's live interview with Matt Westerhold of the Sandusky Register is posted online, in which she states that she decided to resign in late December to move on to greener pastures, she was "in search of full time work while this appeals process is sorting itself out" and has located potential job opportunities in the Columbus area, but that she couldn't say where but that she was hopeful and it was very promising.
When asked what she would do if working in the Columbus area and offered her position as Sandusky's Police Chief her answer was that she would take things one step at a time.
January 24, 2011- Official start date of Kim Nuesse's position as Police Chief of Minerva Park.
January 25, 2011- The Sandusky Register reports Nuesse is a police chief once again.
Perhaps more later on her achievements during this time in the Village.
July 11, 2011- Minerva Park Council passed a resolution affirming the appointment of Kim Nuesse as Police Chief of Minerva Park. Readings were held June 13, June 20, and July 11, 2011.
At the July Council Meeting, several spoke highly of Chief Nuesse, dismissing findings on the internet. A particular issue was brought up that seems to have been previously overlooked can be found in this document, the ruling of the case between Kimberly Nuesse and the City of Sandusky, in which she was found to have failed to be absolutely honest. Sounds much like our current Mayor if you ask me, but that's what research is for. Look for yourself.
We now have her as our Police Chief, and I hope she can do great things for our village, while she's here. She has shown initiative and does hold a long list of accomplishments, and only time can tell what she will bring to us, we'll have to take that one day at a time.
Given the way things were presented (or, NOT presented) to residents and the fact that these issues of character were overlooked I would not say that I agree with Council's decision last night, but as of yet they don't care to listen anyway.
The Village has done a good job touting her achievements, I have to say. She was featured on the cover of the February 2011 issue of The Villager, with a total of nearly three pages devoted to her appointment.
She has done many things in her career, and so far she has done a lot for our Police Department, though in my opinion not all of them good; some of the fired veteran officers we had likely agree. However, it is what it is and she is now officially accepted by Council.
In this post I hope to bring clarity to the timeline of her appointment and divulge some of the information that I feel was nearly covered up by those in charge of publishing and recommending Ms. Nuesse.
September 3, 2010- The Sandusky Register reports that Kim Nuesse has filed an appeal with the Sixth District Court of Appeals
September 20, 2010- Minerva Park's Public Safety Liaison begins work
October 11, 2010- Minerva Park Council ratifies the creation of a Public Safety Liaison to assist with the search for a new Police Chief. Pay set to $25/hour for an estimated 20 hour work week for a period of four to six months. Three readings waived on this resolution, declared an emergency.
December 13, 2010- Minerva Park Council establishes a pay range for the Chief of Police, set between $50,000 to $70,000 per year. Two readings waived, passed the same date as first reading, as an emergency. The previous pay range for the position was $43,001 to $48,000 set February 12, 2007 by resolution 2007-6.
December 27, 2010- Kimberly Nuesse resigns as Sandusky City Commissioner
December 29, 2010- The Morning Journal reports Kim Nuesse's resignation, stating: "Nuesse cited new employment opportunities and relocation as reasons for resigning. She would not say where she might be relocating to."...
January 8, 2011- Minerva Park's Safety Committee, Public Safety Liaison Jeff Miller, and Lynn Eisentrout presented Kim Nuesse as their "unanimous choice" out of 43 applicants nation-wide.
January 10, 2011- Minerva Park Council approves an ordinance setting forth the terms of employment for the Police Chief, in response to the letter of intent to Ms. Nuesse, increasing the vacation time of the position. Three readings waived, passed as an emergency.
January 14, 2011- Kim Nuesse is sworn in as Police Chief of Minerva Park
January 19, 2011- Kim Nuesse's live interview with Matt Westerhold of the Sandusky Register is posted online, in which she states that she decided to resign in late December to move on to greener pastures, she was "in search of full time work while this appeals process is sorting itself out" and has located potential job opportunities in the Columbus area, but that she couldn't say where but that she was hopeful and it was very promising.
When asked what she would do if working in the Columbus area and offered her position as Sandusky's Police Chief her answer was that she would take things one step at a time.
January 24, 2011- Official start date of Kim Nuesse's position as Police Chief of Minerva Park.
January 25, 2011- The Sandusky Register reports Nuesse is a police chief once again.
Perhaps more later on her achievements during this time in the Village.
July 11, 2011- Minerva Park Council passed a resolution affirming the appointment of Kim Nuesse as Police Chief of Minerva Park. Readings were held June 13, June 20, and July 11, 2011.
At the July Council Meeting, several spoke highly of Chief Nuesse, dismissing findings on the internet. A particular issue was brought up that seems to have been previously overlooked can be found in this document, the ruling of the case between Kimberly Nuesse and the City of Sandusky, in which she was found to have failed to be absolutely honest. Sounds much like our current Mayor if you ask me, but that's what research is for. Look for yourself.
We now have her as our Police Chief, and I hope she can do great things for our village, while she's here. She has shown initiative and does hold a long list of accomplishments, and only time can tell what she will bring to us, we'll have to take that one day at a time.
Given the way things were presented (or, NOT presented) to residents and the fact that these issues of character were overlooked I would not say that I agree with Council's decision last night, but as of yet they don't care to listen anyway.
Monday, July 11, 2011
Garage Sale Permit
The topic was brought up in tonight's Council Meeting about needing a permit to hold a Garage Sale in The Village of Minerva Park.
Word on the street is that Lynn Eisentrout approached at least one resident this past weekend while holding a garage sale and told them they needed a permit in order to have one. This is contrary to the following letter, written by Sara Schumacher, Office Assistant to Lynn Eisentrout.
It reads:
Perhaps those who were wrongfully charged for a permit should be reimbursed?
Lynn's comments on the matter tonight were that she misspoke, and that said comment was only a comment, not to begin discussion.
Word on the street is that Lynn Eisentrout approached at least one resident this past weekend while holding a garage sale and told them they needed a permit in order to have one. This is contrary to the following letter, written by Sara Schumacher, Office Assistant to Lynn Eisentrout.
It reads:
SUBJECT: PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST DATED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009
After much research the Village can provide you with no code regarding the garage sale permit. The fee and permit were established in years prior to the current administration. Most likely it was established verbally by a previous Mayor to limit the number of reoccurring garage sales within the Village and to ensure proper traffic control. Unfortunately all prior Mayors have since passed away so we have no way of properly tracking the exact origin of this permit and fee.
Additionally, the Village can provide you with no code regarding specific fence footer depths.
Sincerely,
Sara Schumacher
Office AssistantPerhaps those who were wrongfully charged for a permit should be reimbursed?
Lynn's comments on the matter tonight were that she misspoke, and that said comment was only a comment, not to begin discussion.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)