Councilman Castrilla Points Finger at Ward 1 Campbell

A seemingly uneventful Conneaut Council Meeting turned into complete chaos just minutes before the close of Monday night's regular council meeting.

At Large Councilmen Chris Castrilla, stated that he had something to say and it may upset some people. Castrilla accused Ward 1 Councilman and Council President Hopefull, Dave Campbell of attacking his italian heritage on an online forum hosted by the Star Beacon last year. He further demanded an apology and asked for Campbell's resignation.

His demands were disregarded as Campbell told Castrilla, "Shame on You." Campbell further stated that Chris Castrilla's remarks were completely false and violated Ohio's Revised Code. Campbell plans to seek legal council regarding the matter.

Castrilla's remarks come, just 8 days before the November election.

Political Trickery in Conneaut ?

Political Trickery in Conneaut ? You be the judge. Some say, the season for trick or treat is coming a week early, as Ward 4 Councilman Dino Julio threatened to sue Ward 1 Councilman David Campbell over allegations that Julio had an extramarital affair, according to an October 24th article in the Star Beacon. The allegations were supposedly made via email last year, and Julio's timing for a press conference regarding the allegations is raising eyebrows for some residents in Conneaut, Ohio. One Conneaut resident who wished to remain annonymous stated, "It's obviously a political stunt. Who cares whether Mr. Julio had an affair or not, we should focus on developing our town not pointing fingers at fellow councilmen." In addition, Ward 1 Councilman and candidate for Conneaut City Council President, Dave Campbell issued a statement responding to Julio's Press Release and the Star Beacon Article. “The statements and accusations by Tony Dino Julio in the October 24, 2009 Star Beacon are blatantly false allegations . These careless theatrics are a representation of his true character and this behavior is no surprise to the citizens who know him. It is obvious that Mr. Julio, serving as the chairman of the local Democratic Party, has made this false accusation intending to influence the November 3rd election. To make his public accusation by way of news conference, one week before the election, instead of letting the litigation resolve the false accusations, shows his real purpose. I am confident the voters will realize his motive and how divisive his conduct is to our city. Because this is a completely false attack upon me, I intend to consult legal counsel for the purpose of filing a complaint with the Ohio Elections Commission. I am confident his reckless and irresponsible statement violates Ohio campaign laws. I have not been served with any court documents so I cannot comment on them. However, if I am, I will be vindicated and intend to seek reimbursement of my attorney fees for Mr. Julio’s reckless and false statements concerning me. I am hopeful the voters will see through this cheap and illegal political trickery and evaluate me for my dedicated public service. Sincerely, Ward 1 Councilperson / City Council President candidate Dave Campbell." Tricks by the Democratic Party, or a Treat that the information came out before the election, Ultimately- You will be the judge on November 3rd. We encourage you to get out and Vote!

Lost Beagle on Furnace Road

As a "dog lover" it breaks my heart to see any animal running wild in the cold weather. After 2 hours of attempting to catch the dog, buying more time to find it's owner - the small creature retreated to the woods on Furnace Road.

Small Beagle, Approx. 11-17 lbs., Male, Age Unknown. It is very friendly, no collars, un-neutered. The dog appeared hungry and underfed, so it may have been missing for some time.

If you lost your beagle - check out the bottom half of Furnace Road :)

Conneaut Public Service Director Howland Resigns

Many were surprised when City Manager Robert A. Schaumleffel gave his report Monday Evening. Schaumleffel announced that he had accepted a resignation from Conneaut Public Services Director, Bob Howland. The resignation will be effective on Friday.

Schaumleffel further noted that he will promote Water and Sewer Department Head, Bob Mannion to the top position. Bob Mannion previously served as the Assistant Public Services Director under Howland.

Trash Talks Quiet for Now

Following a third reading of a proposed ordinance to solicit bids for a single hauler trash and hauling service - the trash talk was silent.

The motion failed with a 5-2 vote, in favor of soliciting bids for a single hauler were Conneaut City Council President, Jim Jones and Ward 4 Councilman, Dino Julio.

Schaumleffel Admits He Applied For Another Position

The seats were full at Monday night's Conneaut City Council Meeting as City Manager Robert A. Schaumleffel, Jr. admited that he did apply for the position of Mentor City Manager.

Schaumleffel stated "I did apply..."I have an obligation to my family to keep my options option." and further continued, "I am not going to apologize for that." The admission came after Ward 1 Councilman Dave Campbell asked the city manager if the rumors were true. Campbell didn't want to proceed with the proposed $1.3 million dollar AMR project if there was a potential to "lose our captain."

Department Head's Robert Howland and Robert Mannion were on hand to answer questions regarding the Lake Road Waterline and AMR projects and Safety Director Jon Arcaro disccused Pending Legislation in regards to text messaging while driving.

Conneaut City Manager Applies For Another Job

According to an article in the News Herald dated October 3rd, 2009 - Conneaut City Manager, Robert A. Schaumleffel Jr. is applying for a new position. He is listed as an applicant for the position of City Manager of Mentor, Ohio.

View Article Here.

The issue was a hot topic on Conneaut's morning show W-WOW as is expected to be discussed at tonight's council meeting which will be broadcast on Channel's 6 and 21.