Geauga County Maple Leaf 6-06-2024

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Vol. 30 No. 23 • Chardon, www.geaugamapleleaf.com

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Judge Orders Berkshire to Vacate Fair Building District Plans to Appeal Decision

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

The former Berkshire Schools Board of Education office on the Geauga County Fairgrounds — used most recently as a bus garage, die sel repair workshop for students and a living skills classroom — must be vacated, said Chardon Municipal Court Judge Terri Stupica May 30. No date was set in the threepage judgment Stupica handed down a week after attorneys for the Geauga County Agricultural So ciety and the school district made their arguments in her courtroom May 23.

See Berkshire • Page 5

Meijer Eyes Chardon for Supercenter, Gas Station

By Allison Wilson editor@kArlovecmediA com

A future Meijer may join the shops lining Water Street, with representatives from both the shopping supercenter and architecture firm Woolpert Inc., of Dover, appearing before Chardon Planning Commission May 28 to discuss their ideas.

The talks were strictly informal, with no action or request for action taken.

Meijer is considering a piece of land on the southwest corner of the intersection between Loreto Way, Meadowlands Drive and Water Street for their project, said Community Development Administrator Steve Yaney.

“Meijer is proposing an approximately 160,000-square-foot store

See Meijer • Page 5

By Amy PAtterson Amy@kArlovecmediA com

Former Chester Township police officer Nick Iacampo testified May 28 he felt “compelled” to give a statement incriminating himself on a sexual battery charge last August.

Iacampo, also a former school resource officer at West Geauga High School, has been accused of having sexual contact with a

16-year-old WGHS student on Aug. 6 in the parking lot of the Church of the Blessed Hope on Wilson Mills Road in Chester Township.

Iacampo took the stand last Tuesday in front of retired Portage County Common Pleas Court Judge John A. Enlow during the second portion of a hearing over two motions to dismiss the case against him.

The first is based on a 1967 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court

in Garrity v. New Jersey, which determined employees of the state cannot be compelled to incriminate themselves under threat of termination.

The other motion asks the court to consider Iacampo, who had temporarily taken on the school resource officer role at West Geauga High School, was not employed in that role during the incident last August.

See Iacampo • Page 7

Foster Program Changing Lives One Child at a Time

By cAssAndrA shofAr cAssAndrA@kArlovecmediA com

When Corey first entered foster care at age 10, he was scared, angry and unsure of what to expect.

At age 15, he got placed with his first foster family.

“It had its up and downs,” the now 21-year-old recalled. “But, overall, it was nice because I had good people to help me along with that. My anger issues were a big problem for me … got me kicked out of a few places, but I got it under control eventually.”

Corey was one of many chil-

who is still a support to him.

tional Foster Care Month in May.

“In the month of May, GCJFS had 23 children in GCJFS custody,” said Recruitment Specialist Allie Hulsmann. “This is a lower number than we have seen in the past. This could be attributed to preventative efforts by our agency and also an increase in kinship families obtaining custody of children instead of GCJFS holding custody.”

While the transition to foster care had its rocky moments for Corey, he was grateful he was given the opportunity to experience some “normalcy,” as well as work

See Foster • Page 6

dren placed in the Geauga County Job and Family Services foster program, which just celebrated Na-

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions in the county for the coming week, unless otherwise noted. To have a public meeting included in this section, fax information to 440285-2015 or email editor@geaugamapleleaf. com no later than Monday noon. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: June 11, 7:30 a.m. – Geauga SWCD, Ste. 240, 9:30 a.m. – Board of County Commissioners. All county meetings are held at the Geauga County Administrative Building, 12611 Ravenwood Drive (Ste. #), Claridon, unless otherwise noted. County commissioners’ meetings are held in Suite 350.

Auburn Township: June 11, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; June 13, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Administration Building, 11010 Washington St., unless otherwise indicated.

Bainbridge Township: June 10, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, unless noted.

Burton Township: June 10, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Township Administration building, 14821 Rapids Road, unless otherwise noted.

Burton Village: June 10, 7 p.m., Village Council; June 11, 7 p.m., Board of Public Affairs. All meetings are held at 14588 W. Park St., 2nd Floor, unless otherwise noted.

Chardon City: June 13, 6:30 p.m., City Council. All meetings are held at Municipal Center, 111 Water St., unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: June 10, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals; June 13, 4:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Middlefield Township: June 10, 7 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at Township Office, 15228 Madison Road, unless otherwise noted.

Middlefield Village: June 11, 5:30 p.m. – Streets, Sidewalks & Utilities Committee, 6 p.m. – Planning Commission; June 13, 5:30 p.m. – Recreation, 6 p.m. – Finance & Ordinance, 6:30 p.m.

– Safety, 7 p.m. – Village Council. All meetings are at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave. Munson Township: June 10, 6:15 p.m., Park & Recreation Board, at Scenic River Retreat; June 11, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; June 12, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: June 10, 7 p.m., Board of Zoning Appeals. All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

South Russell Village: June 10, 7 p.m., Village Council. All meetings are held at Village Hall, 5205 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Troy Township: June 6, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at Troy Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road, unless noted.

Berkshire BOE: June 10, 6 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at BOE Auditorium, 14155 Claridon Troy Road, Burton, unless otherwise noted.

Cardinal BOE: June 12, 6:30 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings held at BOE Office, 15982 E. High St., Middlefield, unless otherwise indicated.

West Geauga BOE: June 10, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.

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Planning Commission Provides Feedback on Potential Meijer

By Allison Wilson editor@kArlovecmediA com

While Woolpert Inc. engineers did their best to work within city ordinances designing a potential Meijer supercenter for Chardon, landscape and local laws posed issues for both parties to resolve.

Although Meijer is considering a Chardon location, the discussion with the Chardon Planning Commission May 28 was strictly informal, held only for feedback and ideas.

Wetlands

The commission asked the engineers about wetlands on the property.

“You said there were some wetlands on the property, but looking at the site plan, it looks like the property is fairly extensively developed,” commission Chair Andrew Blackley said.

Engineer Brian Smallwood said a little less than 0.5 acres of the property’s wetlands would be impacted.

“There are pretty extensive wetlands mostly to the south of our south property line,” said engineer Abby Jacobs, explaining some of the wetlands crossed the border onto their property. “We are doing what we can with some retaining walls to try to minimize the impacts to those wetlands.”

Signage

The size of the Meijer sign across the building’s front came into question. The M alone is around 10 feet high, said commission member Colin Wantz.

“That, to me, might be a little bit excessive and size 7-to-8 feet probably isn’t on this

TOP: A rendering of the gas station proposed for the potential Chardon Meijer. Though five pumps are displayed, in reality, it would have six. BOTTOM: Shoppers would be able to purchase both groceries and home goods at the proposed Meijer supercenter in Chardon.

size of a building,” Yaney said.

While not a fan of the massive sign, a small sign on a large building can also look awkward, he added.

“Does it need to be a 17-foot tall letter J? That probably doesn’t need to be there that big. But there’s somewhere in the middle there that we can probably meet to make it work for everybody,” he said.

Despite his issues with the main Meijer

sign, Yaney didn’t think the amount of signs on the building would look outlandish, noting there were a minimal number of them across the facade.

“They’re putting pretty much all, the majority of their signage into the Meijer logo, and then the ‘home’ and the ‘fresh,’” he said.

While the building has signs projecting outward, the commission did not take issue with them, Blackley said, adding they were

important for wayfinding on a large site.

Yaney had concerns about the ground sign for the gas station.

“It’s got a 9-foot height on it,” he said. “Which exceeds our 6-foot height limit for ground signs.”

Meijer could instead install multiple ground signs, Yaney said.

Jones said they had reduced four signs See Planning • Page 5

Planning from page 4

along Water Street to two.

“I think when we did that, we’re asking for a little bit more height on those signs. Instead of asking for four signs that meet the criteria, we’re asking for two that are a little bit over your standards,” he said.

Trees

The city’s rules regarding street trees, specifically a requirement of three trees per every 100 feet, also posed a complication for

Meijer

from page 1

with a separate, detached gas station in front of the corner,” Yaney said.

Based out of Grand Rapids, Mich., Meijer is family owned and a typical supercenter includes groceries, a pharmacy, health, beauty, general merchandise, soft goods and shoes, said Meijer Senior Real Estate Manager Cris Jones.

“We really pride ourselves on the grocery side of our business, since we started out as a grocery store 90 years ago,” he said, adding Meijer differentiates itself from its competitors through philanthropy.

“We donate 6% of our net income to charity. We just opened two new stores in Ohio, our 55th and 56th store in Ohio on May 14, so just a week or so ago. Both of those stores donated $25,000 to local charities at the grand opening,” he said, adding each store has a charitable giving budget.

“I think we support about 200 youth athletic programs in the state of Ohio,” he said.

The Site Plan

Engineer Abby Jacobs went over the site plan. Using a concept plan on the overhead screen, she pointed out a garden center on the north end of the building, alongside a drive-through for the pharmacy.

Berkshire

from page 1

The only lease document between the parties dates back to 1981, when the fairgrounds’ board of directors agreed to lease the site for a vocational building to the district for 25 years with an option to renew for another 25-year term and a second 15-year term, Stupica wrote.

In January 2006, the Berkshire superintendent and treasurer sent a letter to then Geauga County Fair Board Director Dick Moss asking to renew the lease for another 25 years to 2031, but no response was documented. Moss passed away in 2008.

In January 2023, agriculture society attorney Casey O’Brien sent a letter of repossession to the district due to the expiration of the lease term, setting a date of May 23, 2023, for the district to vacate the property.

The district was sent a 30-day notice of intent to terminate tenancy on Nov. 30, 2023, by Petersen and Petersen attorneys, formally requiring the district to vacate the property by Dec. 31, 2023.

When the district did not vacate the building, the society filed a lawsuit on Jan. 1, 2024. After documenting the history, Stupica set out the arguments.

the supercenter.

“I think we’ll be able to meet the number of street trees, but I don’t know if we have enough length in certain places to place all the street trees,” Smallwood said, adding while the number could be maintained, it would not be done in a linear fashion.

“Maybe they’re double stacked,” he said.

Wantz said he would prefer to have the trees even if they aren’t spaced exactly per the city’s code (33 feet apart).

“I’m sure there’s trees actually closer than 33,” he said. “I don’t think that’s the intent of the requirement, is that they have to be exactly spaced over 100 feet.”

The front would be split into two entrances, one for grocery and one for home goods, and there would be parking spaces dedicated for digital pickup for online ordering, she said.

Truck docks would be placed behind the store, along with a screen wall along Water Street on the north side. Landscape screening is also proposed along the south and west sides of the dock, Jacob said.

The front of the building would be a gas station, about 33,000 square feet, with a convenience store. While the plan showed five double-sided fuel pumps, Jacobs noted they would actually have six.

The plan also showed two water detention areas, one on the west and one on the east. A retaining wall would run the south side of the property to maintain existing wetlands.

Landscaping proved slightly more incomplete.

“The majority of the landscaping that we will propose on this site, we’re still working through the final detailing as we work through the site plans,” Jacobs noted. “But we showed the screening along the west and south, and then straight trees along the north and east. Trees throughout the detention areas. And parking lot islands within the parking lot.”

Commission Chair Andrew Blackley asked if the firm has provisions — given the large parking lot and gas station — for trash

“The defendant (school district) argues that it has used that building for more than 40 years and made significant improvements in excess of $880,000 by virtue of monies obtained through school levies,” she wrote.

“These building improvements are now housing the school buses, a diesel tech program and the Badger Lab. Defendant actions were in reliance that the sublease was continuing.”

Stupica notes the improvements were made in 2001 and 2002 during the first 25year lease period.

“When the defendant was in receipt of the first notice of plaintiff’s intent to terminate the tenancy, in January 2023, they failed to act,” she wrote. “The defendant did nothing in that one-year period from Jan. 5, 2023, to Jan. 1, 2024, to negotiate a renewal of the sublease. The court does not find this argument well-taken.”

Stupica granted a writ of restitution of the property to the Geauga County Agricultural Society.

Stoddard said in a Geauga County Maple Leaf story in December 2023 the school board reached out to GCAS’s legal counsel to find out if there was anything they could do before reaching out to the media, but they did not respond. He noted the district is piling up legal costs.

“It’s all a big waste of taxpayer dollars,”

Jones noted they had doubled layered trees in several locations of the lot.

Smallwood said Meijer is willing to work with the city on the exact placement of trees.

“We’ll plant however many trees will fit on the site,” Jones said. “We want them to live, to flourish and to grow.”

The commission concluded the spacing requirement could be flexible.

Lights

While the store will not be open 24-hours a day, the supercenter would like to leave some lighting on in the parking lot overnight for their third shift staff.

separation and fuel and oil contamination in drainage.

“Within the fuel center parking lot specifically, Meijer prototypically uses what we call an ‘environmental catch basin,’” Jacobs replied, explaining the basin has a 3-foot sump, hood and snout structure to provide what she referred to as a “safety blanket.”

There is also a secondary catchment and monitoring system, said engineer Brian Smallwood, adding drive entrances are requested to be wider to better accommodate truck traffic.

“The primary goal here was to have the trucks be able to cycle from Water to the rear and back out through Loreto, or vice versa,” Smallwood explained.

The primary truck access points would have a minimum 50-foot radius, he said.

The drives don’t just help truck traffic to cycle through, but should also help to prevent damage by lost truck drivers who aren’t sure which entrance to use, Jones added.

Smallwood noted a traffic impact study is currently in preparation.

Architecture

Smallwood explained the appearance of Chardon’s hypothetical store.

“Most of this material you see that is not at the front vestibules itself, it’s all brick imprint. So, it has the look of masonry all the

Stoddard said. “We won’t have much choice. Where will we put those kids and the maintenance department?”

When contacted by phone June 3 Petersen said he had just been informed via email the school board is filing an appeal to Stupica’s decision.

Petersen said he rarely comments on a case but wanted to make an exception because he feels his client made an effort to negotiate a settlement with Berkshire BOE

“We think about where the employees park and make sure they can safely walk to their cars,” Jones explained. “We typically choose some lights to leave on.”

Jones said the company has control of their lights from their home office.

Street lighting on Meijer’s section of Loretto Way would also be the developer’s responsibility, Blackley said, something Jones noted they were unaware of.

“The power’s going to run off the existing street lighting power system that’s on Water Street, it’d be part of that circuit and the city will be paying for the cost of lighting,” Blackley said.

way around,” he said of the building’s facade. “Also, the parapets have been varied higher, (with) more variation than you would see in a normal Meijer store.”

The main entrances, composed of glass, extend the front vestibules back farther than normal as well, he said, allowing natural light through most of the floor. To either side of the entrances would be concrete panels formed to give both the appearance and feel of a wood texture.

The building also features vertical and horizontal articulation along the front, Smallwood noted, with the entrances and canopies protruding out.

He described a knee wall surrounding the garden center, also with a masonry look to it.

“While that normally is a decorative fencing type material, we elected to go ahead and show a small masonry screen wall with some decorative or ornamental stuff at the top of that,” he said. “If you’ve ever been to the Mentor store, it’s similar to that in nature, in that it provides additional screening.”

Blackley, noting the amount of gray on the building, asked if it was a corporate color. Jones said it isn’t and other stores feature sand and taupe.

“Let’s think about something that’s maybe not quite as bland as gray,” Blackley said, later adding the city has received negative feedback on recent developments that predominantly feature gray tones.

to no avail.

“I’m surprised. I’ve been on this for more than a year. We have made efforts to try to resolve this,” he said, noting he has reached out to the school board. “My phone never rings. We haven’t even been approached.”

“I think it’s unseemly to see two public agencies in dispute,” Petersen said.

School board member John Manfredi and Stoddard did not respond to request for comment prior to press deadline.

Proposed Dissolution of Aquilla Village Starts with Petition

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Aquilla Village Mayor Richard Wolfe laid out some tentative plans to dissolve the village while speaking to Claridon Township Trustees June 3.

The village, which could be bankrupt by the end of 2025, is surrounded by Claridon Township and, if the village dissolves, the small community would become part of the township.

“The way the village is heading, between economics and our tax base for our general fund, we’re just running out of money,” he said.

A plan of action was created during discussions with Geauga County Auditor Chuck Walder and Prosecutor Jim Flaiz, Wolfe said.

The first step — a public forum — took place in Aquilla May 15.

“It was a pretty good meeting. There was a lot of tension,” he said. “A lot of older people want to keep the village going.”

Dissolution is probably a foregone conclusion — but it is something village voters might approve Nov. 5.

“We have a petition we got from Jim (Flaiz) just lately. We need 50 signatures to put (the issue) on the ballot,” Wolfe said.

The petition does not affect the dissolution — it is strictly a document proving the necessary percent of village voters want the issue on the ballot, Wolfe explained.

An alternative to dissolution would be for the voters to approve a large levy — possibly as much as 10 or 15 mills — to build up the general fund, he said.

The outcome is uncertain.

“If both (issues) fail, we really are going to be dead in the water,” Wolfe said. “We are in the process.”

He was confident residents understand if the village reunites with the township, their taxes will go down.

If both issues pass, the village would dissolve and the levy, along with the other village levies, would be eliminated, Wolfe said.

Residents would then be subject to the same millage as Claridon property taxes, but exact figures are not yet known, he said.

“Is the dissolution something you support?” asked Trustee Roger Miller.

“Yes, I do,” Wolfe said. “We’ve never been in the red. This year, we won’t be in the red. We’re not broke.”

Preliminary figures from the auditor indicate if the dissolution succeeds in November, the village would have some money left in the road fund to put in the township coffers, he said. The village has been able to take care of its roads, crack sealing and repairing pot holes, Wolfe said.

Miller estimated the average value of a property in Aquilla Village is $150,000, but the mayor said he hadn’t worked that out, yet.

“The bad part about it, as far as I’m concerned, is we have to wait until November when they vote on it,” Wolfe said, adding the village has to plan soon for winter snow removal.

“You are preparing for two different scenarios, so Claridon has to prepare for those same scenarios,” Trustee Jonathan Tiber

November.

said. “We need to find out from Chuck Walder how much we are losing and gaining. We don’t know what’s going to happen, either.”

Wolfe said he doesn’t have a timeline for when the proposed dissolution would take place if it passes.

“If both (issues) fail, we’re probably going to be bankrupt in some part of 2025. We are trying not to eat up all the money. If we join with Claridon Township, we would transfer (funds) to Claridon Township.”

The village has been independent for a long time, but Wolfe said the relationship with the township is strong.

“I’m hoping the residents look at this and see things aren’t going to change. The streetlights will stay on, the roads will get plowed,” he said.

Tiber noted there is still more to learn on the dissolution process from the auditor and prosecutor since there has been a recent law change on the subject.

“Claridon is more than willing to work this out,” Miller said, recommending the mayor and council make residents’ choices clear.

The mayor said his immediate concern is to get the petition signed by the end of June and that people understand they are not being asked to choose a side when they sign it, just agreeing the issue needs to go on the ballot.

Claridon resident Dennis Kellogg asked several questions.

“Have we thought about if our budget can handle this? What are you going to do for maintenance workers? You need more people.” he said.

The village contracts to have its road work done, Wolfe said.

Tiber added the township is short on labor with only 1.5 workers.

“What about our taxes?” Kellogg asked. “This all sounds good, in theory. How much money will the village have (left) to transfer to Claridon Township?”

Tiber said Walder will provide all the numbers. The township needs to understand the village’s expenditures.

Wolfe agreed.

“We will work with you as much as we can,” he said.

through his struggles.

“I got to go to Cedar Point for my first time and walk on the Cavs court, which was a good experience and it made everything feel more normal,” he said. “I learned I could read people, also be good support for them — which I learned a lot with foster care meeting and everything. Also learned how to cope with my anger.”

GCJFS’s foster care program has grown immensely over the years, Hulsmann said, adding they focus a lot on retaining foster parents and supporting them along their journey.

“We currently have 10 licensed foster families. We also have five open home studies, which means we will have an additional five licensed homes in the near future,” she said, adding the increase is encouraging, as the program faced challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“During the uncertain times of COVID, we saw a decrease in homes as families were nervous to have people come in and out of their homes,” she recalled. “Additionally, some of our homes adopted children and were at maximum capacity for children in their homes. Preservice training is now offered virtually and I believe this, along with focusing more on recruitment, has increased our prospective foster families currently going through the training and home

study process.”

Children are placed with GCJFS when they are no longer able to live safely in their own home and cannot be placed with a relative, according to the organization, which added the reasons for placement can vary from addiction and neglect to the illness or death of a child’s parents.

While GCJFS aims to reunite children with their families, fostering is often needed for temporary placement, according to the organization, which provides foster parents with a per-diem payment, a voucher for clothing and provides medical insurance for foster children.

Those interested in becoming a licensed foster parent would need to complete pre-service training — which is virtual and includes education on trauma, discipline, working with birth families and CPR — as well as fill out an application, complete a background and financial check, and undergo a medical examination before the home study process begins, according to GCJFS.

While there are no restrictions on marital status — both single people and same-sex couples are able to foster — those with a history of abuse, a criminal background or inability to financially provide for foster children would be disqualified, Hulsmann said, adding there is also no “upper age limit” on fostering, as long as the person is physically capable of caring for the child.

Some children are placed in foster care for a day, while others are place for several months or, in some cases, a couple years, Hulsmann said.

Corey, who currently resides in Canton, was in foster homes, a kinship home, detention and group homes until he became a legal adult in 2021, she said.

While less common, adoption does occur in some cases, Hulsmann added.

“The ultimate goal of foster care is to provide a safe and loving environment for children while their biological family is working through a case plan to rectify any safety concerns,” she said. “The first goal is to reunify the children with their families when appropriate and safe. If that cannot happen, the goal then switches to finding permanency for the children which could mean adoption.”

While fostering has its hardships, it also has its rewards, Hulsmann said.

“Becoming a foster family is a challenging ask. We ask that you care and love for a child like they are your own, but also support and help them on their reunification journey,” she said. “When speaking with foster families about their hardships, they almost always reflect on the positives and say that despite the challenges, the rewards are so much greater.”

People often think about becoming a foster parent, but put off taking the steps to get licensed, Hulsmann said.

“It really just takes one phone call or one email to start the process and we will guide you through the rest of the way,” she said. “All you need to do is take that first step.”

Corey encouraged both children in foster care, as well as foster families to “keep an open mind” throughout the process.

“Going into foster care at a young age is scary because you don’t know what to expect, but it will help and in some situations, it will help more than where you are used to,” he said. “Foster parents, you are appreciated. Only thing I would say is some kids need more work than others. I know I was a ‘troubled’ one, but sometimes, that work pays off and they end up being one of the best foster kids you ever had.”

Anyone interested in or who has questions about becoming a foster parent can contact Allie Hulsmann at 440-285-1205 or allie. hulsmann@jfs.ohio.gov. Foster from page 1

While on the stand, Iacampo asserted he felt pressured to admit to the charge during an interview with Lake County Sheriff’s Office Detective Dominic Hren, which took place in the Chester Township police station around 3:45 a.m. Aug. 7.

Hren and LCSO Lt. Larry Harpster questioned Iacampo’s version of events on the evening of Aug. 6. During the interview, Iacampo said he and the alleged victim were “chatting” about some issues and shared a hug, before learning from Hren and Harpster the victim was already at Hillcrest Hospital being examined.

The issue at hand was not whether contact took place, but whether that contact was consensual, they told him. Hren added Iacampo’s role as a police officer could have given the victim the impression he had authority over her.

“We don't know if this was a situation where you guys met up tonight and you obviously saw an opportunity where you're alone, so you took advantage of that, or if … you guys both engaged in it together,” Hren said. “So, that's what we want to figure out.”

“I would never force anyone to do anything,” Iacampo replied.

Lake County Assistant Prosecutor Adam Downing asked Iacampo why he did not initially tell the truth in the interview last August.

“I was scared,” he said.

In addition to evidence showing Iacampo also carried on text conversations of a sexual nature with two other female students at WGHS and one more who “did not reciprocate,” Hren said Iacampo and the alleged victim traded over 1,000 text messages during the weekend leading up to his arrest.

Under defense attorney Ian Friedman’s cross examination, Hren said over 1,600 texts were exchanged between Iacampo and the alleged victim between June 20 and Aug. 6, the day of the reported offense. With the 2022-23 school year ending June 2, Friedman pointed out those messages came after Iacampo’s tenure as SRO.

In addition to the texts, Hren said a forensic examination of Iacampo’s iPhone showed an extensive search of sexual offense laws in the time between his contact with the victim — around 10 p.m. Aug. 6 — and his being called into the Chester police station around 3:45 a.m. Aug. 7.

“Shortly after 12:30 in the morning on the 7th, the defendant just begins to go section-by-section through the 2907.04 section of the (Ohio Revised Code), which covers all the sexually-related offenses,” Hren said, adding Iacampo made 31 searches of the ORC in a roughly four-minute window.

Turning to the other motion to dismiss, Friedman questioned Hren about his understanding of Garrity, and whether a warning

to Iacampo that his interview was “no longer voluntary” violated Iacampo’s rights.

Hren said that warning was not meant to compel a statement that would cause Iacampo to lose his job or violate his right to remain silent. Rather, it was a warning that Iacampo would likely not be permitted to leave, given the evidence against him.

“I wanted to let him know that — Hey, listen, this is not a voluntary situation, where even if you choose not to talk to me, I can't just let you get up and leave. We did have some evidence regarding text messages, victim statements, things like that. Even if he chose not to speak to us, we were going to evaluate what level of probable cause we had to make an arrest if that's what we were going to do that night,” Hren said. “This is not a situation where you can just say, ‘Hey, I want to get up and leave’.”

Friedman asked if, at any point in the evening, Hren explained the meaning behind his warning to Iacampo. Hren said he did not.

“So, you meant that it had to do with … him being in custody or detained,” Friedman said. “That wasn't made clear to Mr. Iacampo on the evening of August, 7, 2023, correct?”

“I don't know what he believed,” Hren said.

Hren also reiterated testimony given during the first part of the hearing, held May 14, by Chester Police Capt. Jeff Sherwood and Chief Craig Young that a Miranda warning given during a criminal investigation supersedes a Garrity warning given during an administrative investigation.

In his testimony, Iacampo said while he could not remember the exact words used, he recalled Sherwood — after relieving him of his gun — ordered him to enter the room with Hren and Harpster, and to answer their questions.

Downing said the order to enter the room and tell Hren and Harpster the truth was different than being told he would be disciplined or fired if he refused.

“At any point, other than the insubordination (rules) in the policy manual, did anybody speak to you about being fired, terminated or being punished prior to the end of your interview?” Downing asked.

“No, but that is how I felt,” Iacampo said.

“I understand that's how you felt, but I'm asking, did anybody say those words to you?” Downing asked.

“No,” Iacampo said.

Friedman told Enlow he had one remaining witness to call — an expert in police employment law. However, the witness was unavailable due to a medical issue. A third hearing, scheduled for June 4, was delayed again after the same expert witness was unavailable due to a medical emergency.

Friedman said he plans to call a different expert witness, who will join virtually from Washington, D.C.

Enlow set the next hearing for June 10 at 1 p.m. Iacampo from page 1

Farm Bureau Highlights Future of Geauga Agriculture

By rose nemunAitis editor@kArlovecmediA com

Driving across Geauga County farmland amid its picturesque barns, lush greenery and colorful summertime crops can spur a sense of respect for the hard-working, faithful farmers committed to carrying on its agricultural roots.

“It's going to take all kinds of farms, big and small, using a variety of practices to make sure we can feed the world,” said Mandy Orahood, Ohio Farm Bureau organization director, who serves Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake and Trumbull counties. “The future of farming — both around our area and throughout our state and country — is going to be incredibly diverse. Many farms will need to diversify, exploring new ways to generate income, such as agritourism or direct marketing.”

Nowadays, people care more and more about where their food comes from.

“They might not want to get physically involved, but they do seek a connection and an understanding,” Orahood said. “By bringing people to the farm and sharing their experiences, these farmers and producers are meeting that need. We have both small and large farmers doing this very well. Direct marketing and finding a niche are very important to the future of agriculture.

“Smaller farms like Rogish Farm, G.A.R. Horizons and Seldom Seen Farm represent the future of farming in our area because they excel at connecting people back to the farm,”

Orahood added. “These farms engage with the community, sharing both their successes and the challenges they face.”

Rogish Farm

Township, a former dairy and Christmas tree farm.

In 2016, they returned to the farm’s roots and began planting their own Christmas trees.

“We are known for our cut your own sunflowers and lavender, our self-serve flower wagon that we stock with cut flowers all summer and pick your own blueberries,” said Bob, incoming Geauga County Farm Bureau president. “And finally, this year, our Christmas trees will also be available for cut your own.”

Every year, they have more and more customers asking for additional cut your own flower opportunities or hands-on flower-related activities, so they have shifted to incorporating more of that.

“We also offer many opportunities for photo sessions to capture families experiencing the beauty of our farm,” Bob said. “Our customers like the small-farm experience they can have here.”

They use a reservation system for most activities to control the number of guests at one time.

“This allows our guests to have a peaceful experience with no large crowds or long lines and also allows us to interact with everyone,” Bob said. “Our farm is our home, so it means a lot to us to be able to welcome our customers and tell them about what we do.

Geauga County residents have a unique understanding and appreciation for agriculture and small businesses, so we are very fortunate to live and farm here.”

The Rogishes are proud to be a part of the community and love sharing what they do. They also attract customers from neighboring, more urbanized counties.

“It takes everything you've got,” Bob said. “Our farm is 100% our first priority.”

ROSE NEMUNAITIS/KMG

From left, the Holy Family — owners of Seldom Seen Farm in Montville Township — Morgan, Kevin, daughter, Cora, son, Chase; Steve and Catherine Wolcott, owners of G.A.R. Horizons in Hambden Township; and Bob and Amy Rogish, owners of Rogish Farm in Chester Township, gather at The Great Geauga County Fair in Burton.

First generation farmers Bob Rogish and his wife, Amy, own Rogish Farm in Chester

from page 8

The weather and seasons dictate their schedules and everything else must come second, he said.

“We are proud of our dedication and hard work and are motivated by knowing we are providing the absolute best products and experiences for our customers,” he added.

Bob believes it is important to bring back agricultural education and promote trade training as part of school curriculums so future generations continue farming or take a supportive role in other related industries.

“Running a farm seems to be a popular idea with younger generations, but they need to be educated on all aspects of farming, especially understanding the immense commitment to be successful,” Bob said. “Properties in Geauga County are mixed between residential and farmland. The farmland has been here long before development and people need to realize that a thriving community can continue to exist with both and benefit from one another.”

G.A.R. Horizons

Catherine Wolcott is the winner of Ohio Farm Bureau’s Young Agricultural Professionals 2024 Outstanding Young Farmer competition.

She and her husband, Steve, own and operate their small farm, G.A.R. Horizons, in Hambden Township, raising pork, beef and chicken with an on-site farm store, and crop farming 110 acres around the county.

The dream began in 2009 as a hobby for Catherine sparked by her experience with 4-H and desire to know where food came from. She sold pork to friends and family.

Steve came along in 2013 with his knowledge of raising meat chickens, beef cattle and grain farming.

Together, they added a few outbuildings for animals and farm equipment and two years later, Catherine was selling meats at farmers’ markets along with homemade jams.

By fall of 2017, Steve thought they should build a farm store on their property. Catherine believed it was important to include her farmers’ market friends, letting them sell products year-round, as well.

The farm store recently celebrated its sixyear anniversary.

“COVID was a blessing in disguise, the little store had finally been found,” Catherine said.

By 2022, they expanded their store front and added more freezers and coolers. G.A.R. is known for selling locally-raised meats. Seasonally, customers may also find turkey and lamb.

New faces come in daily along with returning customers.

“We still have customers who started buying from us off the front porch of the house,” Catherine said. “It is all about customer relations, we don't do this for us, we do it for the people. It is important to know where your food comes from and even more that you can speak to people raising it for you.”

These first-generation farmers described started from scratch. Beginning with one tractor and one barn to now many. It has taken over 10 years to get where they are today. As they’ve gained more farm ground, they’ve upgraded equipment.

“Farming is a daily investment as you grow your business, debt is absolutely involved,” Catherine said. “Farming takes a lot of time, especially adjusting with family schedules.

Days are much more stressful than others. Some seasons can be harder than others as we get into planting or harvesting, Mother Nature does not always cooperate. Once you've lived this life and experience what it takes, it is truly a rewarding job.”

She hopes Geauga County will remain a rural area and allow farmland to be used rather than developed.

“It would be great for youth to get involved with 4-H and find jobs in agriculture. Large animal vets are needed in our area,” Catherine said. "Mommas, please let your babies grow up to be farmers, girls can be farmers, too.”

Seldom Seen Farm

Kevin Holy and wife, Morgan, as well as their children, Chase and Cora, are full-time farmers at their Seldom Seen Farm in Montville Township.

The farm is known for its award-winning traditional and bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup, blueberries and peonies.

Kevin is the outgoing Geauga County Farm Bureau president and chairman — along with Morgan’s assistance — of the Geauga County Maple Festival syrup contest committee.

They purchased their property in 2008 as a horse farm originally and slowly switched to maple-production over the following years.

They had no initial intentions of being full-time maple producers, but as opportunities presented themselves over the years, they knew it was a great fit.

“We are truly blessed to have the support of the local community in our specialty product line,” Kevin said. “When we initially started with the aged maple syrup, we never expected it to take off like it did.”

The Holys are adding pick your own blueberries this year and pick your own peonies in 2025.

“With the great agritourism space here in Geauga County, we are excited to see what the future brings for all three products,” Kevin said. “You have to be passionate about your farm and the products you produce. Farming definitely is no simple or small task, but with the grit to keep moving forward and sharing the best product with the community, it definitely makes it worth it.”

Kevin said Geauga County has a very unique landscape, with a mix of suburban and farmland with easy access to all parts of the county.

“This gives a very unique opportunity for those farmers who focus on agritourism to really draw in and market the direct-to-consumer sales,” Kevin said. “We also have great farmland available for grain and hay farming, making Geauga County truly diverse in all sectors of agriculture.”

Orahood also recognized these farming leaders for being involved in their communities, such as actively hosting Leadership Geauga’s Program Day stops.

“They serve on boards and actively share their voices to make a difference,” Orahood said. “Specifically, they are all active farm bureau members. They listen to other farmers, share those stories, share their own stories and take action to address the challenges agriculture and our communities are facing.

“If you want to see change, you have to be willing to fight for it,” she added. “These three farms do that well — not just for themselves, but for the future of agriculture.”

Cardinal Forecast Shows Fiscal Trends for 5 Years

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Ten years ago, Cardinal Schools received about $2 million from tangible personal property taxes to help keep the small district afloat.

In 2024, the district’s income from taxes on business inventories will be less than $164,000, according to its five-year forecast. And in 2025, its TTP is projected to be $62,680.68.

By 2026, Cardinal will receive no TTP.

“This is due to the locally-generated tangible personal property tax being eliminated,” district Treasurer Terry Armstrong said in a summary of the forecast. “Based on phase-out payments, since the elimination (of TTP by) the State of Ohio, the district has lost an accumulated over $13 million dollars the past 10 years.”

Armstrong presented the five-year forecast of Cardinal’s general fund at the May 29 Cardinal Schools Board of Education meeting, explaining the year-to-year carryover balances, surplus or deficit spending for each year, as well as the percentage of carryover to expenses.

“Generally, districts try to maintain a 40-percent carryover, which Cardinal is doing

(in 2024) and for the next couple of years,” he said in the summary.

Over the last several years, the board and administration worked to make the operation of the district more efficient, selling the Cardinal Intermediate School property to All Around Children child care, closing Jordak Elementary School, and restructuring grades in the high school and the middle school.

“We discussed strategies to maintain closer to a 40% carryover by continuing to rightsize the district,” Armstrong said. “Currently, our building operation costs are 40% higher than similar districts in Ohio. The closing of Jordak will help lower building cost.”

The board plans to reduce staffing costs by decreasing personnel when possible through attrition, he said.

Cardinal has an enrollment of about 700 students.

The securing of a $250,000 grant to complete district-wide LED lighting installation is one example of how the district is coping with increasing costs, Armstrong said.

“We also discussed the fact that Cardinal Schools has the lowest effective tax millage in Geauga County,” Armstrong said, pointing to a slide showing projected local taxes of $10,498,985 in 2024, projected state funding of $3,626,761 and all other revenue projected to be $1,822,402.

Expenditures for 2024 are expected to include personnel salaries of about $6.3 million, benefits of about $3.5 million, purchased services at roughly $2.3 million and all others at $2.6 million, he said.

Cardinal is a funding guarantee district. Ohio law requires the state to increase funding to schools on the guarantee in accordance with inflation, especially those like Cardinal that have low property tax income, Armstrong said.

This is particularly important in looking five years down the road.

In fiscal year 2024, Cardinal has slightly more revenue projected than expenditures. In 2025, Armstrong said income versus outgo will be close to equal and after that, expenses are expected to be higher than revenue through 2028.

The general fund cash balance will decrease as carryover funds are needed to maintain Cardinal’s operations.

Cash balance in 2026 is projected to be about $6.27 million, falling to $4.6 million in 2028, according to Armstrong’s figures.

CARDINAL LOCAL SCHOOLS

This chart from Cardinal Schools’ five-year forecast shows the difference between revenue and expenses projected through 2028.

Munson Trustees on Board with Zoning Letter

By Ann WishArt Ann@kArlovecmediA com

Munson Township Trustees signed a letter May 28 supporting township zoning in the face of possible action by the Ohio Legislature to eliminate the authority of townships to control local zoning.

The letter, penned by Claridon Township Trustee Jonathan Tiber, is being circulated by an informal group of Geauga County township zoning officials and will be sent to state legislators.

“We’re being asked to endorse a letter to protect our local zoning,” Trustee Andy Bushman said.

Trustee Jim McCaskey said Geauga County townships need to start a groundswell of support for local zoning.

“Nobody knows about this (legislation). It’s gaining traction,” he said, adding he sees both sides of the issue.

“Some (townships) are so small, just one lady works (as a zoning inspector) from 6 to 7 p.m.,” McCaskey said. “It’s hard to get a permit in those places.”

Trustee Nate McDonald said he understands the movement to remove township control of zoning and grant it to the state originated when a large development in Ohio was denied permits because of township zoning. “(Developers) feel like this is a solution,” he said.

Trustees voted unanimously to support the letter.

In other business, Munson Township Fire Chief Mike Vatty told trustees his depart-

ment is encouraging responsible individuals as young as 11 years old to learn safe babysitting skills and practices during classes June 8 and July 6.

Vatty said thanks to an anonymous donation, the department, along with University Hospitals Emergency Medical Services Training and Disaster Preparedness Institute, will sponsor the four-hour clinics.

Munson residents can take the course for free, he said, adding the first course will be at the Munson Township Fire Department.

Those completing the American Heart Association Babysitter Class will learn Heartsaver CPR and AED techniques, and become familiar with Stop the Bleed, a program provided by the American College of Surgeons, according to the flier Vatty presented.

MFD Battalion Chief Caleb Ferroni and Beth Sundman, instructors for UH and EMSDI, will lead the class of no more than 18 participants, Vatty said.

A representative from the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office may talk about security, as well, he said, adding participants will receive certification, a CPR mask and a first aid kit at the end of the program.

The June class is full, he said in an email June 1, but there was still space in the July class. To register, contact Ferroni at c.ferroni@munsonfire.org.

Vatty added teens ages 14-18 may register for the MFD Junior Fire Academy to be held in July. Those completing the one-day class will receive lunch, a T-shirt and a certificate of completion. Vatty said they are hoping for 18-20 participants.

Local Author to Share Love of Horse Stories May 30

What makes a good horse story?

Betty Weibel, author of the book titled, “The Cleveland Grand Prix: A Show Jumping First” and “Little Victories: A True Story of the Healing Power of Horses,” invites area horse lovers to join her for a visit from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Fireside Book Shop, 29 North Franklin Street in Chagrin Falls.

“Whether you are a seasoned rider, or just like to admire horses from afar, join horse lovers of all ages for a discussion on favorite horse stories from childhood to adulthood,” Weibel said in an email. “Learn what makes a great horse book and discover some you may have missed in your reading journey.”

She plans to talk about why horse stories are so popular, how she wrote her books and her writing process.

All ages are welcome, even last minute, or reserve a spot(s) by emailing vjsfbs1@ gmail.com.

Weibel

S P O R T S

Tigers Defeat Hoban 17-8 in

Regional Semifinal

By AlAn kornsPAn sPorts@kArlovecmediA.com

The theme for the Chagrin Falls boys lacrosse team this season has been brotherhood — and in the OHSAA Regional Semifinal, the Tigers demonstrated a high level of cohesiveness and brotherhood in their dominating victory over the Hoban Knights.

The Tigers took an early 6-2 halftime lead, then added 11 second-half goals to defeat the Knights, 17-8.

Working together at a high level was an important component of the Tigers offensive game plan.

In fact, Head Coach Zak Gebler said that offensively, his Tigers were focused on maintaining possession, limiting turnovers, and taking a lot of shots on goal.

“We shot the ball well today,” Coach Gebler said. “We made (the goalie) work. We moved the ball around the cage and gave him some different looks.

“Seventeen goals against that good of a goalie, the region of the year goalie, is diffi cult to do, so I'm pretty happy with how we

The Tigers offense did an excellent job of executing the game plan, as they were able to

Thatcher Nets 4 Against Rival Chardon in Semifinal

By AlAn kornsPAn sPorts@kArlovecmediA

com

On May 29, the Chardon Hilltoppers girls lacrosse team hosted the Chagrin Falls Ti gers in the OHSAA Regional Semifinals.

In this rivalry contest, the Tigers took an early 3-1 lead. The Hilltoppers came back to make it 5-4 midway through the third quarter, but the Tigers stayed resilient and scored the final four goals to claim a 8-5 win.

Chagrin Falls Coach KC White expressed how proud she was of her team.

“We were really excited for this game be cause Chardon has been such a great rival for us,” White said. “We knew they would play us really hard, and we were very confident in our game plan. I'm so proud of the girls for exe cuting what we had worked on in practice.”

A main focus of the Tigers' game plan was to slow down the Hilltoppers offensive attack, which netted 10 goals the last time the two teams met in the regular season.

The Tigers took an early 2-0 lead on goals by senior Bailey Corto and junior Emma Thatcher, and led 3-1 with under four minutes to play in the first half.

Chardon would add goals goals by Riley McKenna and Gray Tyminski, but the Tigers added a late first-half goal to take a 4-3 lead heading into halftime.

Sylar Duval-Lewis and Gray Tyminski hug at midfield after an 8-5 home loss to Chagrin Falls in the Regional Semifinals.

Third quarter tension and excitement were intense as the teams evened the score twice and also exchanged the lead twice.

First, the Hilltoppers evened the contest at 4-4 when Elle Deszczykiewicz netted her second goal of the game just 34 seconds into the third quarter.

The Hilltoppers then took a 5-4 lead midway through the third quarter on a goal by Morgan Slack.

After Chardon took the lead, the Tigers finished the contest by scoring four unanswered goals.

Thatcher scored two of the final four,

BILL

while Corto and Lyla Breeden added the other two goals.

In obtaining the victory over the Hilltoppers, the Tigers limited their opponents to five fewer goals than they'd scored in the previous contest.

scored two goals in the win. The Tigers season ended May 30 with a 18-5 loss to the University Preppers.

FUGATE/KMG

Cerha Dominant on Mound in Bombers Regional Semifinal Win

By AlAn kornsPAn sPorts@kArlovecmediA com

The Kenston Bombers were led on the mound this season by senior Jimmy Cerha, and May 30 in the OHSAA Regional Semifinal was no exception.

Cerha, the Ohio University commit, was again dominant as he led Kenston to an 8-0 victory over the CVCA Royals.

In throwing a complete game shutout, Cerha only allowed two hits while striking out eight.

For his senior season, he finished with a 4-0 record and an amazing earned run aver age of 0.32.

He'd Cerha struck out 59 batters over 44 innings of work.

After the win, Cerha discussed his ap proach on the mound against the Royals.

“Same approach today as my last outing,” Cerha said. “Threw my slider early in the counts, and the change-up, and then threw the fastball by them at the end.”

For many of Cerha's strikeouts, he caught the Royals' batters looking. He said when that occurred, he usually threw his fastball or slider.

Afterward, Bombers Head Coach Joe Hritz also discussed Cerha's excellent pitch ing performance.

“He absolutely had a day out there,” Coach Hritz said. “Eighty-three-pitch complete game, eight strikeouts (and) two hits against a team that's been rolling through districts against very premium opponents.”

Kenston's offense was led by senior University of Akron commit LA Mighton, who went 3-4 (2 doubles, 2 RBIs).

The Bombers took a 2-0 lead in the fifth inning when Mighton drove in an insurance run with a two-out double, scoring Latz from third base.

After adding a run in the sixth inning, the Bombers scored five runs in the top of the seventh inning.

Mighton got the top of the seventh started with his third hit of the game, a line-drive

two outs in the seventh inning.

After scoring on a line-drive RBI single by Wes Toth, who was 2-4 on the day, the Bombers added two more runs on a triple by Dylan Krupp.

Grady Flynn's RBI single scored Krupp from third base for the final score.

This would be the third consecutive year Kenston played in the Regional Final.

groundout by Toth, which scored Beclay from third base.

West Branch plated a run in the bottom of the fourth inning to tie things up, and the score remained 1-1 until the bottom of the seventh.

That's when the Warriors scored again on a one-out RBI single to make it 2-1 and claim the title for themselves.

Tigers from page 12

In addition, the team's excellent teamwork led to efficient passes and 12 assists for the contest.

Leading the Tigers with six goals against the Knights was junior Drew Zelch.

“All (the credit) goes to the team,” Zelch said. “Obviously the offense, but definitely the defense. We played great today.”

Zelch also stressed that the Tigers' offensive key was to move the ball well and maintain possession — and to that effect, it is difficult for opponents to stop Zelch, said his coach.

“Drew is always a nightmare matchup for other teams, with his athleticism and ability to shoot the ball,” Coach Gebler said.

Also leading the Chagrin Falls' offense was sophomore Owen Edwards, who had four goals.

After the game, Edwards noted when teamwork and brotherhood were especially evident.

“As a team, we really just came together in the fourth quarter,” Edwards said. “That's been a struggle all year, so it was nice to see us come together in the fourth quarter and put 11 (in the net) in the second half.”

Coach Gebler was also very happy with Edward's performance.

“Tonight (Owen) really stepped up and

Thatcher from page 12

To limit the Hilltoppers' scoring, the Tigers coaching staff implemented a defensive strategy that yielded effective results. In fact, the coaching staff decided to face guard one of the Hilltoppers leading scorers.

In lacrosse, face guarding is when a de-

found the back of the net,” he said. “He was throwing fakes; he was putting the ball off stick, and made their goalie work.”

In addition to Zelch (6 goals) and Edwards (4), also netting Tigers goals were Owen Adelman (3), Jacob Kay (2) and JP Shaw (2).

Providing assists against the Knights were Adelman (6), Edwards (2), Zelch (2), Jack Gellin (1) and Kay (1).

The Tigers season would come to an end with an 18-5 loss May 30 in the Regional Final. Scoring goals against the University Preppers were Adelman, John Catney, Edwards, Shaw and Zelch; Edwards, Kay, and Shaw recorded assists.

fensive player is assigned to follow an opponent's top offensive scorer to limit them from receiving the ball and getting shots on goal.

Afterward, Coach White explained the defensive strategy.

“We knew that they had a player that scored, I think, five goals on us last time, and so we felt like if we could face guard her and take her out of the offense, that would improve our chances,” Coach White said.

As the defense, led by Brix Niethammer, effectively implemented its defensive strategy, the Tigers offense was led by Emma Thatcher, who had four goals.

Post-game, Thatcher emphasized that the team's offense worked really well together and focused on spacing and effectively maintaining possession of the ball.

With the win, Chagrin Falls advanced to the Regional Final against Hathaway Brown on May 31.

It was a close contest, but Hathaway Brown ultimately won the title by outscoring the Tigers 9-6.

Barbara Ann Sherbondy

Barbara Ann Sher bondy, age 89, of New bury Township, peace fully passed away on May 30, 2024, at her home.

She was born to Arthur and Evelyn (nee Spoonhauer) Haines, in Canton.

In 1954, Barbara married George Sher bondy, the love of her life, at Lake Cable in Jackson Township. In Crestline, they built a loving home where they raised their family before later moving to Newbury.

Barbara was dedicated to and loved her work as a purchasing manager for Newbury Industries, where she served with distinction for many years.

Outside of work, she found joy in simple pleasures. She loved spending time at the beach, particularly Virginia Beach and Myrtle Beach, and cherished the many camping trips with her family. Barbara was very scheduled, dedicating every Friday to cleaning.

Shopping was Barbara’s favorite pastime, and her passion for it was well-known. She never missed an opportunity to visit a store, whether she was on the way to or from her kids’ sporting events or any other outing she always made time to shop.

Floral gardening was another of Barbara’s loves and her garden was always full of beautiful flowers. She was a wonderful cook and loved hosting gatherings, ensuring there was always plenty of delicious food for everyone. Her dog, Kobe, held a special place in her heart, providing her with companionship and joy.

Above all, Barbara’s greatest love was her family, and she found immense happiness in spending time with them. Her presence and warmth will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her loving children Steven (Karen) Sherbondy, of Newbury, Mike (Nancy) Sherbondy, of Chardon, and Nancy (Guy) Munn, of Newbury.

She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Benjamin Sherbondy, Amber (fiance Jimmy Dematties) Sherbondy, Nathan (Courtney) Munn, Jonathan (Ashley) Munn, Jordan (Chelsey) Munn and Ryan Munn. Her great-grandchildren, Madison and Brandon Sherbondy, Harper, Scarlett and Franklin Munn, and Cali and Lexi Munn will also carry forward her legacy of love.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; beloved husband, George Sherbondy; daughter Chris Anne Sherbondy; and sister, Mary Lou Fulton.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 9:30-11 a.m. in the vestibule at St. Helen Catholic Church, 12060 Kinsman Road, Newbury. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m., with the burial at Munn Cemetery in Newbury.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.

Notices should be sent in writing to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 44024-5166 or emailed to editor@karlovecmedia.com.

Obituaries

Jack Dennis Jackson

Jack Dennis Jackson, age 69, peacefully passed away on May 26, 2024, in Warrensville Heights.

Born on Sept. 28, 1954, in Chardon, to Ashby and Beverly (nee Crislip) Jackson, Jack was a lifelong resident of Chardon.

He dedicated over 35 years of his life to his work as a diesel mechanic.

After retiring from his career as a me chanic, Jack continued to serve the communi ty by working for Geauga County Transit. He was known to be able to fix or build anything.

Beyond his professional life, Jack found joy in the outdoors. He was an avid gardener, walleye fisherman and deer hunter. His passion for bowling brought him many cherished moments with friends and family.

Jack’s love for his boys was evident to all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving mother, Beverly Speer, of Chardon; his devoted sons, Jack “Jay” D. Jackson (Katy Shain), of Chardon, Mitchell Jackson, of Huntsburg Township, and Michael Jackson, of Chardon; and his beloved granddaughter, Ella Jackson, of Chardon.

He is also survived by his dear sisters, Jill (Joe) Colizoli, of Columbus, and Lisa Lanstrum, of Chardon.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ashby Jackson.

Although he will be deeply missed, his family and friends will cherish the countless memories they shared with him.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Chardon. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.burrservice.com.

Mark John Wilhelm

Mark John Wil helm, age 68, a resident of Put-in-Bay Township, passed away unexpect edly at his home on Sunday, May 26, 2024.

He was born on July 26, 1955, in San dusky, to Harold and Mary Anne (nee Hite) Wilhelm and had been a lifelong resident of Put-in-Bay.

Mark dedicated over 33 years of service working for the physical facilities at The Ohio State University, Put-in-Bay Campus.

He was deeply committed to his community, having served for 55 years on the Put-in-Bay Volunteer Fire Department, where he held the position of fire chief for many years. Additionally, he held an officer position in the Northwestern Ohio Volunteer Firemen’s Association.

Mark found joy in the camaraderie of the "Men’s Breakfast Club," where he enjoyed meeting friends at various breakfast venues around the island.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Karen (nee Gray) Wilhelm, whom he married on April 16, 1983. He also is remembered by his mother, Mary Anne Wilhelm; daughters, Amy (Kurtis) August, of Florida, Jacqueline (Dustin) Boyed, of Kettering, Ohio; and son, Doug Wilhelm, of

Put-in-Bay. He is further survived by his cherished grandsons, Lincoln and Andrew; siblings Charles (Sue) Wilhelm, of Put-in-Bay, Kathleen Kissell, Karen (Dale) Burris, of North Bass Island, and Sue (Tom) Seaburg, of Put-in-Bay; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mark was preceded in death by his father; brother John David “MoJohn” Wilhelm; and brother-in-law, Tom Kissell.

Visitation and a Mass of Christian Burial were held May 31, 2024, at Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church, 632 Catawba Avenue, Put-in-Bay.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Put-in-Bay Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 68, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456; or Mother of Sorrows Catholic Church P.O. Box 179, Put-in-Bay, OH 43456.

Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Chardon. Information and condolences online at www.burrservice.com.

Fenton C. Koch

Fenton C. Koch, age 94, of Chesterland, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2024.

He was the son of Ernest and Arvilla Koch, of New Castle, Pa., and loving husband of Peggy (nee Minner) Koch.

Fenton is survived by his wife, Peggy, of 60 years; children, Jeff (Cathy), Matt (Shirley) and Kim; grandchildren, Nicole, Chloe and JR; and five great-grandchildren.

He was a long-time partner at High Temperature Systems, Inc., Active Chemical Systems, Inc., and Graphite Technology, Inc. in Chagrin Falls.

He graduated from New Castle High School in Pennsylvania in 1948, and from Youngstown State University, where he majored in mechanical engineering, in 1956. That year, he also was awarded the Henrick Ovesen Award for mechanical engineering, and the Henry Roemer Prize for Men for outstanding work in mechanical engineering.

A U.S. Navy veteran, Fenton served as a Hurricane Hunter in the VX4 Squadron from 1948 to 1952. It was one of his proudest achievements.

In retirement, Fenton played golf for many years and was a partner in BLM Properties.

Beyond anything else, Fenton loved spending time with the family he adored, and laughing with cherished friends across Geauga County.

A die-hard Cleveland Guardians fan, he rarely missed a game.

Fenton was a devoted husband, a proud and loving father and grandfather, and a kind and witty friend who lived life with gratitude for his many blessings. He once described himself as “the most contented” person he knew. His family is heartbroken to lose him and will miss him every day.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Fenton to Wounded Warrior Project.

Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Fenton at The DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Cen-

ter of Chesterland, 12811 Chillicothe Road, on Thursday, June 6, 2024, from 1-3 p.m. A Celebration of Life Service will immediately follow at 3 p.m. at the funeral home.

Online obituary and guestbook at www. DeJohnCares.com

Marilyn L. Cillian

Marilyn L. Cillian (nee Kohout), aged 92, peacefully passed away on May 27, 2024, surrounded by her loving extended family.

Marilyn was born in Cleveland on March 18, 1932, to the late Fred and Dorothy Kohout (nee Bridle).

She was the cherished wife of the late James; devoted mother to David and James (Annette); and adored grandmother of James Jr. and Jacqueline Nimietz (Dan).

Marilyn was also a proud great-grandmother to Ariana, Danny, and Charlotte.

She is survived by her brother Lowell (Darlene); sister Annette Klomfas; brothers Dan (Linda), Dale and Frank; sisters-in-law Dolores (nee Bowes) and Judy; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was preceded in death by siblings Douglas and Cecil; and sister-in-law Janet.

Marilyn will be remembered as an extraordinary mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, always showing unwavering support for her sons.

She was a devout Catholic and a diligent worker, spending 29 years employed at Newbury Schools, where she eventually became the cafeteria manager.

Marilyn's compassion knew no bounds as she went above and beyond to assist disadvantaged students with encouragement, clothing and meals.

Throughout her life, Marilyn enjoyed traveling, particularly with her husband, Jim. They chaperoned Newbury High School students on trips throughout Europe and explored destinations such as Hawaii, the Outer Banks and Disney World with their family.

Her love for camping brought her immediate and extended family together for over 20 years at Kelley's Island, where she cherished moments spent by the water.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Drs. Matthew Pawlicki, Krishnan Sundararajan and Guilherme Attizzani, as well as nurse Jen Slocum and Dawn Judge, Marilyn's dedicated home physical therapist and friend, for their compassionate care.

Special appreciation is reserved for Fr. Jay McPhillips of St. Helen Church for his frequent visits, administering Holy Communion, and providing comfort to Marilyn in her final moments, preparing her for her journey into Heaven.

A visitation was held Saturday, June 1, 2024, at St. Helen Church, followed by a mass. Marilyn was laid to rest at Newbury Center Cemetery.

Arrangements entrusted to The DeJohn Funeral Home & Crematory of Chardon, 126 South St., Chardon. Online obituary and guestbook at www.DeJohnCares.com

Geauga Sheriff’s Report

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office May 24 to May 30, 2024.

ANIMAL BITE

May 29

12:59 p.m., Mayfield Road, Huntsburg. Was bit by a dog yesterday and needs to make a report for his work. Phone call only he is not currently in the county. Referred to dog warden. Complainant advised he was bit by a dog while delivering for Amazon

CITIZEN DISPUTE

1:10 p.m., Laural Drive, Newbury. Complainant advised his neighbor built a fence three feet onto his property, but he has not had it surveyed. Complainant was advised to get the property surveyed and report issues to Newbury zoning. Not a criminal matter at this time. Advice given.

ROAD RAGE

May 30

4:50 p.m., Tavern and Gingerich Road, Burton. Caller states this vehicle ran him off the road, caller states the vehicle left westbound. Line then disconnected, not a good call back number. Other half on the line stating he's at Hotchkiss and Bigelow. Caller states he had an altercation in the same location and the other driver sprayed him in the face with bee spray. Caller states the other male pulled a gun on him. White Econline Ford van by the sugar the shack in the Square. Report to follow

SUSPICIOUS

May 24

8:19 a.m., Old State Road, Middlefield. Blue SUV with a 3- or 4-year-old child inside. Doors are locked and the windows are up. Unknown where parents are. Nature change from Child Abuse to Suspicious. Child was sitting in the vehicle while the mother was buying an item. Vehicle's AC was on and child checked okay.

May 29

4:11 p.m., Kevin Lane, Hambden. Caller states someone approached his 13-yearold son stating he had a bomb and showed him some type of contraption with a fuse and wires. Lives in the back of the park on Kevin Lane. Located other kids in the development. Object was a sparkler. Complainants were advised.

THREATENING

May 24

7:24 p.m., Franks Road, Auburn. Caller advised her husband is mowing the lawn and the neighbor came out and threatened to shoot the caller's husband, and the male is now outside with a rifle. Neighbor lives four houses east of the caller's house on the south side. Caller can't see the male. Husband called the caller and told her to call. Male came out the house swearing and told him to stop mowing the grass and said he was going to come back out with a gun. Male than went inside and came back to five feet of the property line. Caller never point the rifle at the caller. Black male, dreads, 45-year-old unknown clothing, has never seen him before.

WEAPON OFFENSE

May 27

8:36 p.m., Taylor Wells Road, Claridon. Caller was in her outhouse today and heard a loud bang and then found an entry and exit from a bullet. Happened within the last hour, caller only heard one shot, caller went next door to the neighbor and they said they weren't shooting but heard at least one shot. Deputy responded on scene and spoke with caller. Stated she believed the bullet came through the house. Deputy observed a bullet hole on the west side of the house and an exit inside the residence. Only wanted the incident documented and for Deputy not to talk to the neighbor because she already did. Photographs were taken and entered into the report. Deputy attempted to locate the bullet inside the residence but was unable to do so.

Bulletin Board

Effective Aug. 1, 2023, for-profit and nonprofit organizations or groups will need to purchase a paid advertisement for an event anytime tickets are sold, a fee is charged or a freewill donation is taken. If an organization or group does not wish to buy an ad to promote their event and connect with our readers, Karlovec Media Group will print a simple liner-type ad identifying the event, date/time/place and a number to call for more information. E-mail submissions to: cbb@karlovecmedia.com

Chardon VFW Wednesday Dinners Wednesdays, 5-7 p.m.

Chardon VFW Post 6519 will serve butterflied shrimp and coleslaw dinners with sides on Wednesdays in June at the post located at 752 Water St.

The post also serves steak-um style sandwiches on Tuesday evenings and hamburgers on Thursdays. All dinners are open to the public.

Young

of Heart

June 7, 11:30 a.m.

Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Bring a brown bag lunch. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Speaker Ginnie Jescheling will talk about the Cleveland Clinic fire in 1930.

The annual for-members-only birthday party with a Western theme will be on June 21 in St. Anselm’s Kelly Hall. Lunch and birthday cake will be provided by YOH. Entertainment will be by Steppin’ Out. To reserve a spot, sign up at the meeting or call Elaine Hippley at 440-729-9371.

NE Ohio Volunteer Summit

June 9, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake, Portage and Trumbull County Democratic Parties are hosting a Northeast Ohio Democratic Volunteer Summit in Geauga County. A social hour will follow the event.

Open to the public, engage in campaign training and insightful discussions with panels of experts. Featured speakers are U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown; Melissa Cropper, AFL-CIO/OFT/AFT; and more.

RSVP to mobilize.us/s/CfckC4; reservations are required for the location of the event.

Family Fun Day

June 9, 12-5 p.m.

Miss SNPJ’s Family Fun Day at SNPJ Farm, 10946 Heath Road, Kirtland features the Chardon Polka Band from 1-5 p.m., kids crafts from 1-3 p.m. and Jungle Terry at 3 p.m. The kitchen and bar open at noon. Open to the public. For information, call 440-256-9373.

Entertainment in the Park

June 11, 7 p.m.

Thompson Township begins its free summer entertainment series on Thompson Square with the Big North Band. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Well-behaved pets are welcome.

Refreshments will be offered by local organizations. For information, call Audrey Kerr, 440-862-0043, or Pat Downing, 440968-3558.

Women’s Caucus Meets

June 11, 7 p.m.

The Geauga Democratic Women’s Caucus will meet at the Geauga Democratic Headquarters, 12420 Kinsman Road, Newbury Township. Social hour begins at

6 p.m. All are welcome. Donations are requested for the Hola Cupboard by June 9. For information, call 440-273-8200.

Geauga Dems Film Showing

June 12, 7 p.m.

In recognition of Pride Month, the Geauga Democratic Women’s Caucus presents the movie “The Times of Harvey Milk” at the Geauga Democratic Headquarters, 12420 Kinsman Road, Newbury Township. Doors open at 6 p.m.

All are welcome to the free event; donations will be accepted. For information, call 440-273-8200.

Geauga Pride Day

June 15, 2-6 p.m.

The third annual Geauga Pride Day will be held on Chardon Square. Celebrate, honor and embrace Geauga’s LGBTQIA community. Event will include live music, dancing, drag show, vendors and food trucks. Visit geaugapride.com for information.

Taste the Tea

June 18, 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Join Christian Women's Connection of Lake County for a ladies luncheon featuring Alice Sems, Stonecroft Ministries speaker, and Pat Dennison, of Palmer Place Fine Teas. The luncheon will be held at Pine Ridge Country Club, 30601 Ridge Road, Wickliffe. To RSVP by noon June 13, email cwcstonecroft@yahoo.com or call 440487-0661.

Polka-Style Worship

June 23, 9:30 a.m.

Join the Chardon Polka Band as it leads its 10th annual polka-style worship service at Celebration Lutheran Church, 10621 Auburn Road, Chardon.

Following the 10 a.m. worship service, members of the congregation will provide a free picnic lunch. The band will present a free concert from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Kids are welcome. Bring lawn chairs. The event will be held indoors in case of inclement weather.

Donations will be accepted during the service and concert to benefit The Ox Shoppe, a nonprofit serving people with employment barriers.

For more information, call Paul at 440897-0121.

Pioneer School

July 8-12, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Geauga County Historical Society will host its 51st annual Pioneer School for campers ages 8-12 on the grounds of Century Village Museum in Burton. Each day will be filled with a variety of activities, each with a link to the past. On the last day, families can bring a picnic lunch and participate in a scavenger hunt.

Cost is $100 per child for Society members and $120 for nonmembers. To register, call 440-834-1492.

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

Division of the State Fire Marshal Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations

Pursuant to the rules governing the remediation of releases of petroleum from underground storage tank (UST) systems, notice to the public is required whenever there is a confirmed release of petroleum from an UST system(s) that requires a remedial action plan. Notice is hereby given that a confirmed release of petroleum has occurred from the UST system(s) located at: Chagrin Oil & Gas Co. 15385 Old State Rd Middlefield, OH Geauga County

Release #28000046-N00001 & N2

A proposed remedial action plan (RAP) dated January 2, 2024, was submitted by the owner and/or operator of the UST system(s) for the review and approval of the State Fire Marshal (SFM). Once the SFM has reviewed and approved the proposed RAP, the owner and/or operator of the UST systems will be required to implement the proposed RAP.

A copy of the proposed RAP, as well as other documentation relating to this release and the UST system(s) involved, is maintained by the Bureau of Underground Storage Tank Regulations (BUSTR) and are available for inspection and copying by the public. Please make all requests for copies of the proposed RAP or for inspection of the RAP and other related documentation in writing to BUSTR, P.O. Box 687, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068.

Information that may help you understand the requirements of BUSTR’s rules may be found on BUSTR’s Resource Page at http://www.com. ohio.gov/fire/BUSTRResources.aspx.

The SFM will accept written comments on this RAP for a period of 21 days from the date of publication of this notice. You may submit any comments regarding this site and the RAP, in writing at the above address. For further information, please contact Tanya Nell at (614) 728-5120. Please reference release #28000046-N00001(2) when making all inquiries or comments.

May23-30 Jun6, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS GEAUGA COUNTY, OHIO

24-D-000272 – Joshua Miller vs. Silke Rei McGraw Miller, Defendants Silke Rei McGraw Miller, whose last known address is 572 Virginia Avenue, Unit B, Fort Campbell, KY 42223, and whose current address is unknown and cannot with the exercise of reasonable diligence be ascertained, and upon whom service of summons cannot be had in the State of Ohio, will take notice that you have been named as the Defendant in a Complaint for Divorce filed on April 17, 2024, in the Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations, captioned as Joshua Miller v. Silke Rei McGraw Miller, Case No. 24-D-000272, by which Plaintiff is seeking an absolute divorce from Defendant. A hearing on this matter is scheduled for August 22, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. before Magistrate Kevin L. Starrett, Geauga County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations, One Short Court, Chardon, OH 44024. You will further take notice that you are required to answer the Complaint for Divorce within 28 days of last publication. The last publication date will be June 27, 2024. If you do not answer the Complaint, a judgment may be granted against you for the relief demanded.

By Michael Drain, Attorney for Plaintiff, 147 Bell Street, Suite 202, Chagrin Falls, OH 44022. (440) 247-3380. May23-30 Jun6-13-20-27, 2024

BID NOTICE

Troy Township

Notice is hereby given that bids will be received by the Troy Township Board of Trustees, c/o Jane Grudowski, Fiscal Officer, at 13950 Main Market Rd., Burton, OH 44021 until 6:55 PM official local time on June 18, 2024 for The Chip Seal of Various Roads in Troy Township. Bids received will be read aloud the same day at 7:05 PM.

Copies of the plans and/or specifications may be obtained online at TROYTWPGEAUGA.COM or a hardcopy is available at the Troy Township Community House, 13950 Main Market Road, Burton, Ohio.

The Troy Township Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive any informalities or irregularities in the bids received, and to accept any bid or bids which are deemed most favorable to the Board at the time and under conditions stipulated, all in accord with the applicable provisions of laws of the State of Ohio governing the conduct

of the Troy Township Board of Trustees. BY THE ORDER OF THE TROY TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Jane Grudowski, Fiscal Officer May30 Jun6, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Geauga County Public Library

The Geauga County Public Library Board of Trustees will hold a Budget Hearing on Tuesday June 18, 2024, at 4:00 pm with the June Board meeting to follow. The meeting will be held at our Thompson Branch, 6645 Madison Road, Thompson, Ohio 44086. – A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection in the office of the Fiscal Officer at 12701 Ravenwood Drive, Chardon, Ohio 44024 between the hours of 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Lisa Havlin, Fiscal Officer Jun6, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

Geauga Park District

Per Ohio Revised Code 5705.30, the Geauga Park District 2025 Tax Budget is currently available for public inspection at www.geaugaparkdistrict.org under News & Updates, and two copies are available to review in person at Big Creek Park’s Meyer Center in Chardon, prior to a public hearing on said budget at the Board of Commissioners’ regular meeting at the Meyer Center on June 17, 2024, at 8:30 a.m.

John Oros, Executive Director Jun6, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

BUDGET HEARING

Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held on the budget prepared by the Russell Township Board of Trustees for the next succeeding year ending December 31, 2025. The hearing will be held on June 20, 2024, at 7:05 p.m. at the Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, Ohio 44072.

Two copies of the proposed budget are available for public inspection in the office of the Fiscal Officer of Russell Township at 8501 Kinsman Road from 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. during normal workdays. The proposed 2025 budget may also be viewed on the Russell Township website at www.RussellTownship.us under Departments/ Administration/Fiscal Office Information.

By order of the Russell Township Trustees

Karen F. Walder, Fiscal Officer Jun6, 2024

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

2025 TAX BUDGET

Two copies of the proposed 2025 Tax Budget for the Township of Bainbridge, Geauga County, Ohio will be on file and available for inspection on or after June 14, 2024 in the office of the Fiscal Officer of said township, 17826 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township. These copies are available for public inspection from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday during normal workdays. A Public Hearing on this Tax Budget will be held at the Bainbridge Town Hall, 17826 Chillicothe Road, Bainbridge Township, at 7:30 PM, on Monday, June 24, 2024.

Janice S. Sugarman, Fiscal Officer Jun6, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE

Troy Township

Two copies of the tax budget for the year 2025 for the Township of Troy, Geauga County, Ohio, will be on file and available for inspection 10 days prior to the Budget Hearing at the Troy Township Community Center. There will be a Public Budget Hearing on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 6:45 p.m. at the Troy Township Community Center, 13950 Main Market Road (US 422), in said township. Two Copies of the budget will also be available at that time for viewing.

Jane Grudowski, Fiscal Officer Jun6, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPEAL FOR VARIANCE TO PARKMAN TOWNSHIP ZONING RESOLUTION

Notice is hereby given that the Parkman Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on an appeal for a Use Variance to the Parkman Township Zoning

Resolution on Tuesday the 11th day of June 2024, at 7:00 o’clock p.m. at the Parkman Township Community House located 16295 Main Market Road, Parkman, Ohio. This application submitted by, Mary Koscelnik, appellant, 16175 High Street, Parkman Township, is requesting a Variance from the Parkman Township Zoning Resolution for property located at, 16175 Parkman Township, Ohio which shall be in accordance with all of the applicable regulations for the District and the following regulations: ARTICLE 1V Section 402.1 F Minimum Yards A. A single family detached dwellings, subject to regulations set forth in section 402.11. Jan Helt, Secretary Jun6, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE Munson Township Board of Zoning Appeals Munson Township Board of Zoning Appeals will conduct a public hearing on June 18, 2024 at 6:30 pm at the Munson Town Hall, 12210 Auburn Rd., Munson, OH to consider the following appeals for variances.

CASE 24-07: Jacob Doerger, 11679 Mayfield Rd., Chardon OH – requesting to construct a detached garage approximately 8’ from the west side property line. Violates SEC. 411 Minimum Dimensional Requirements – minimum side yard setback is 25’.

CASE 24-08: Brandon Wosotowsky, 11130 Elk Run Rd., Chardon OH – requesting to keep an existing accessory structure that is 36’ from the rear property line and 34’ from the corner side yard. Violates SEC. 411 Minimum Dimensional Requirements – minimum side yard corner lot is 60’; minimum rear yard is 40’.

CASE 24-09: James Byers, 12285 Rockhaven Rd., Chesterland OH – requesting to construct a detached garage approximately 10’ in front of the home. Violates SEC. 509.2 no freestand-

ing garage or other accessory structure shall be erected within the front yard of any district.

CASE 24-10: Scott Pritchett, 11505 Bass Lake Rd., Chardon OH – requesting to keep recently constructed partially covered deck approximately 13’ from the south side property line. Violates SEC. 411 Minimum Dimensional Requirements – minimum side yard setback is 25’.

CASE 24-11: Patricia Palcic, 9852 Mulberry Rd., Chardon OH – requesting to install a fence 6’ in height in front of the home. Violates SEC. 509.5c (in part) Fences and walls shall be a maximum of 4’ in height in any front yard and no more than 6’ in height in any side or rear yard.

Paula Friebertshauser, Secretary Jun6, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2025 TAX BUDGET

Village of Middlefield

Middlefield Village Council has scheduled a public hearing on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. at the Municipal Center, 14860 N. State Ave., Middlefield, Ohio 44062 pursuant to the following: 2025 Tax Budget All interested parties are invited to attend and be heard.

Leslie McCoy, Village Administrator Jun6, 2024

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Russell Township Park District 1545

The Russell Township Park District 1545, will have a special meeting on June 17, 2024 at 7:00 pm at Geauga West Public Library. The meeting will be to approve the 2025 Park budget. A regularly scheduled meeting will take place immediately following the special meeting.

Chris Hare, Chair Jun6, 2024

Following is a list of real estate transfers for the week of May 27, 2024, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.

AUBURN TOWNSHIP

William F. and Jessica R. Bauer, 11779 Derbyshire Lane, to Marc Estafanouys, $630,000. (2.02 acres)

BAINBRIDGE TOWNSHIP

Susanne Wise, 7070 Pine St., to Nest Pine LLC, $332.200. (0.31 acres)

Mark A. and Laura A. Hoehn, 7286 Aurora Road, to CMT Group LLC, $645,200. (1.78 acres)

Bradley A. and Sandra L. Blackburn, Crescent Ridge (s/l 422), to Michael D. Powall, $%300,000. (0.95 acres)

Lori A. Robertson, 8680 Bainbridge Road, to Scott Veit Eakin and Laurie D. Harrison, $405,000. (0.51 acres)

Gretchen Fruchter, 9103 Lake in The Woods Trail, to James D. Thompson and Pamela A. Pavco (trustees), $548,000. (1.63 acres)

Thomas R. Kovalcik, 8648 Tanglewood

Real Estate Transfers

Trail, to Denise M. Dixon and Michael Welch, $590,000. (0.50 acres)

Frederick Richard Shafer and Lori Gordon, 17008 Chillicothe Road, to Garry J. Homany, $320,000. (0.34 acres)

Piunno Family Properties LLC, 17969 Haskins Road, to Paul and Allison B. Jung, $490,000. (8.13 acres)

James and Alecia Christiansen, 19132 Ridgeview Drive, to Benjamin and Jayde Snyder, $510,000. (4.24 acres)

BURTON TOWNSHIP

Kelly Costanzo, 13591 Aquilla Road, to Kenneth W. Lewis, $185,000. (8.58 acres)

CHARDON CITY

Sheldon J., Sharon K. and Scott C. McCartney, and Sandra G. Allard, 225 Allynd Blvd., to Jamie Carpenter and Logan Foster, $245,000. (0.51 acres)

John M. Healey, 130 Center St. (Unit 10A), to Karen S. Lanstrum (TOD), $135,000. (0.00 acres)

Danielle M. Smith, 232 N. Hambden St., to Sarah Stefancin, $155,000. (0.25 acres)

CHARDON TOWNSHIP

Marilyn A. Skoch (trustee), 11011 Sunshine Drive, to Cole D. Schinness, $355,000. (1.00 acres)

Nicole E. Miller, 9985 Auburn Road, to Daniel A. and Becky E. Piterski, $355,000. (2.01 acres)

CHESTER TOWNSHIP

Apple White Equity LLC, 8600 Mulberry Road, to Aleksandr E. Shapiro, $285,000. (1.10 acres)

Nicholas A. Simoni, 9658 Kim Drive, to Samuel Orth and Alexandrea Spies, $270,000. (1.07 acres)

Donna R. Daugherty, 9052 Forest Lane, Tanya Zimina, $285,000. (1.28 acres)

CLARIDON TOWNSHIP

Frank Patrick Cunnane, and Frank Patrick and Mary Elizabeth Cunnane, Claridon Troy Road, to Kevin and AmySue O’Reilly (trustees), $499,707. (45.51 acres)

HAMBDEN TOWNSHIP

Brian R. and Nicole E. Cassidy, 13451 Chardon Windsor Road, to Brian and Natalia Bernard, $355,000. (1.55 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD TOWNSHIP

Jonathan R. Kotrlik, 15245 Georgia Road, to Quin Properties LLC, $52,500. (0.25 acres)

MIDDLEFIELD VILLAGE

NVR Inc., 15228 Timber Ridge, to Eric J. and Alyssa M. Head, $328,800. (0.21 acres)

Middlefield Parkway, 15224 Timber Ridge, to NVR Inc., $64,600. (0.27 acres)

NVR Inc., 15245 Timber Ridge, to Kelly Shively, $378,400. (0.21 acres)

MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP

Margaret F. Bertone and William Cotter, 10714 Plank Road, to Margaret F. Bertone, $171,000. (11.87 acres)

MUNSON TOWNSHIP

Nancy M. Ivanovis (TOD), 12335 Carroll Drive, to Anthony Jr. and Rhondalynn Smith Brustoski, $390,000. (3.72 acres)

Lindsey E. Schweizer, 12611 Fowlers Mill Road, to Scott A. and Elizabeth Walsh Moorman, $402,000. (3.60 acres)

Mary A. Goetz, 11795 Wellesley Lane, to John F. Jr. and Helen J. Shubsda, $484,900. (2.50 acres)

Kay Fagan Smith (TOD), 10792 Sherman Road, to Robert A. and Rebecah E. Troutman, $395,000. (2.80 acres)

NEWBURY TOWNSHIP

Troy and Abbey Carroll, 9755 Fairmount Road and Sperry Road, to Alexander Arnold and Tricia Davis, $370,000. (3.35 acres)

Michelle L. Dorazio (trustee), 15870 and 15880 Ravenna Road, to John T. McDonald Jr., $110,000. (4.16 acres)

PARKMAN TOWNSHIP

Daniel E. and Clara Yoder, Reeves Road, to Martin D. and Kaylene Yoder, $14,000. (5.27 acres)

RUSSELL TOWNSHIP

Hummingbird Property Holdings LLC, 15883 Sylvan Road, to Tyler York and Lewis Reese, $515,000. (0.75 acres)

MLR & Schrock LLC, 15511 Russell Road, to Michael and Sarah A. Swope, $1,332,200. (1.28 acres)

THOMPSON TOWNSHIP

R.W. Sidley Inc., 8094 Madison Road and Rock Creek Road, to Great Sand LLC, $7,400,000. (1503.03 acres)

TROY TOWNSHIP

Herbert J. and Maria C. Vallier, Claridon Troy Road, to Marlin G. and Viola Kurtz, and Elizabeth and Owen U. Byler, $8,900. (5.67 acres)

FOR RENT

Office Space in Chardon: second floor, Main Street, approx. 535 square feet. $600/month, includes HVAC and water. Call 440-285-2247.

FOR SALE

Howard Rototiller: 42” wide, for compact tractor. Cat 1 three-point hitch. $1,800. 440-487-2955.

Small stack of lumber: multiple sizes. 2007 Dodge Dakota SLT: 161,000 miles, silver, 6’6” bed w/liner, body some rust-back fender wells. Call for details 440-2239471.

Solid Cherry Corner Desk: like new, 78” tall, 48” depth, 64” wide, paid $2,250, asking $1,480/OBO. Antique French round marble table w/4 chairs, $1,600/OBO. 440-338-3563.

DIGITAL PIANO: multiple functions, Yamaha, with carrying case, pedals, 2 stands, bench; $300. 440-7293974.

MOVING MUST SELL all fishing equipment: Shimano, Abu Garcia, Penn rods and reels, fish finders, trolling motor, running lights. Everything priced to sell. 440729-3974.

Utility Trailer: 7’x12’, needs work. 440-313-5896.

John Deere Lawn Tractor: Model 314, 14-HP, hydraulic 3-blade 46” cutting deck, w/snow plow and trailer; $1,200/OBO. 440-564-1172.

MOVING MUST SELL Bikes: Cannondale Women’s 24-speed, excellent condition, helmet, odometer and other accessories; $75. Electra Townie Women’s 21-speed, good condition, helmet; $50. 440-7293974.

Three Piece Octagon Picnic Table: made with KDAT yellow pine treated wood, with benches, new; $550. 440548-2657.

GARAGE/ESTATE SALES

Nottingham Woods Multi Neighborhood Garage Sale, in Chardon (Munson Township): Jun 6-7, 9a-3p, and Sat. Jun 8, 9a-12n. Two neighborhoods participating: Sutton Place and Bridal Trail, both off Auburn Road. Garage Sale: June 7, 9a-6p; June 8-9, 9a-2p. 11341 Spruce Drive, Chesterland 44026. Sale! Tools, glassware, crafts. Too much to list. Priced to sell. Jun 21-22, 9a-4p. 18071 Tilden, Troy, close to Rt. 700. Huge free pile.

Barn & Yard Sale: Jun 6-8, 8a-5p. 11085 Taylor Wells Rd. Household, crafts, Longaberger, books, tools, sandblaster, lift-table, wood chipper, leaf blower, tiller, bullet heater, acetylene torches. Vintage: mill stone, outdoor decorations, toy metal truck, Mercury kids wagon. LOTS MORE!!!

Second Hand Treasures. A unique shopping place. Something for everyone! Weekly Sales: Thursday, Friday, Saturday. 9a-5p. Many $1 bargains. 9098 Old St Road, Rt.608, Chardon.

Multi Family: Jun 6-7, 9a-4p; Jun 8, 9a-2p. 12897 S. Woodside Dr, Chesterland. Boys and adult clothes, housewares, books and games, tools. Something for everyone!

Estate Sale! One day only! Sunday, June 9th from 10am-4pm. Furniture, tools, lawn/yard, antiques and more! Many FREE items. 13023 West Geauga Trl, Chesterland.

Classifieds

HELP WANTED

Yard Work: must be able to use lawn equipment and have own transportation. Flexible days and hours. 440729-1158.

PETS & ANIMALS

Barn homes needed for semi-feral cats, as their elderly caretaker is being evicted. All cats are being fixed & vaccinated. Rebecca 440-321-2485.

MISCELLANEOUS

FREE fact: Marijuana has been involved in 25 per cent of road deaths in Colorado.

REAL ESTATE

Homes & Land Wanted: any condition or situation! Fast, friendly, local. Serving Geauga and surrounding counties. Text or call Wayne at 330-269-9595. 57 acres of farmland: in Jefferson, Ashtabula county $3,800/acre. Call 330-979-2618.

RENTAL WANTED

Healthy mature senior quiet Christian female seeking Christian woman’s or a married Christian couple’s home to rent a quiet room and private bath in Chardon area. I am waiting for my subsidized senior unit to open within 3 to 9 months or maybe a bit longer. I have good references. No smoking. No pets. 619-709-0069 or g.laurel@icloud.com.

SERVICES

Did you know Karlovec Media Group prints business cards? Prices start at only $30 for 500 (B&W, 1-sided, no bleed). Call 440-729-7667 or email ads@karlovecmedia.com.

Top Shelf Construction LLC: Decks, Garages, Trim interior and exterior, Remodeling. Jonathan Fisher, 330-4423995, topshelfconstrunction@yodermail.net.

Albert’s Complete Tree Service: 45+yrs experience! Competent in all aspects of Arboriculture, Forestry and Land Clearing Also, Firewood, Excavation and Sewer Work. Free Estimates. 440-687-5404.

Taxi Service: 4 passengers only, for cleaning crews, short and long trips. Contact Lisa at 440-708-4835.

Doing in-home Elder Care: laundry, cleaning, personal care. Certified with references. 440-313-1804.

Experienced Housekeeper: will help clean, do laundry, and more, in Geauga county. 440-313-1804.

Mullet’s Precision Trim Work LLC: specializing in cabinetry, flooring and any interior moldings. Licensed and insured. Call 440-228-6837 for free estimate.

Joe Eicher doing roofing, siding, remodeling, cleanout houses, we do most anything. Call between 8a-4p, 440-813-4272. No answer, leave message.

WANTED

Wanted: a used wheelchair in good to fair condition. Call 440-636-3601.

WANTED TO BUY

Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.

Buying all Stanley Bailey planes and machinist tools. Call Karl at 440-812-3392.

4-wheelers, 3-wheelers, dirt bikes, mini-bikes, go-carts, golf carts, gators, farm tractors/equipment, trailers, riding mowers, snowplows. Paying cash. 440-413-3119.