C H E ST E R L A N D N EWS
Abandoned Buckstop Site Set for Demo
By emma macNiveN macNiveN@kaRlovecmedia com
After sitting vacant for years, the former Buckstop property at 8491 Mayfield Road in Chester Township is one step closer to demolition.
Geauga County Commissioners approved a $136,000 grant July 2 to fund asbestos remediation and demolition of the long-blighted site, paving the way for future redevelopment.
Geauga County Community and Economic Development Director Gina Hofstetter and Program Director Elaine Malkamaki presented the grant request to commissioners.
“This has been a long-running eyesore with serious structural and asbestos issues and getting it properly remediated and cleared will be a big win for the community,” Commissioner Carolyn Brakey said in a post on social media. “Credit goes to Chester Township Trustee Brandon Davis, who started working on this before he even officially took office, and to Geauga County's Community and Economic Development team, namely Gina and Elaine, for seeing it through.”
Davis said he has been working to move the project forward for quite some time.
“It was already abandoned and
deteriorating and … it's just continued to deteriorate and collapse,” Davis said. “There's holes in the roof.”
The property also contains asbestos, he said.
Loreto Development Co. purchased the property in 2024 through a sheriff's sale, owner Lo-
reto Iafelice Jr. said in January.
“The problem is there was a lot of stuff that we did not have knowledge of because we bought at a sheriff’s sale, including the environmental remediation that needs to be done, which is why (we applied) for the grant,” Iafelice added.
Iafelice said he expects demo-
lition to take place later this year, although the timeline depends on completion of the remaining paperwork.
“We envision sometime in the fall and the summer or fall this year before winter time, but we still have some paperwork stuff that we don't
See Buckstop • Page 5
Chester Township Audit Finds No Compliance Issues
Cash Balances up over $6.4 million
Staff RepoRt
Chester Township closed out 2025 with more than $6.4 million in cash on hand and no reported instances of noncompliance or internal control weaknesses, according to a regular audit released by the Ohio Auditor of State's office.
The audit, conducted by the Independence, Ohio-based firm Charles E. Harris & Associates, Inc., covered the township's finances for the years ended Dec. 31, 2025, and Dec. 31, 2024. Auditor of State Keith Faber's office reviewed and accepted the report in lieu of
a full state audit, as allowed under Ohio law, though the state does not express an opinion on the underlying financial statements.
Auditors issued an unmodified opinion on the township's finances under the regulatory cash-basis accounting method Ohio law permits for local governments — the standard, expected outcome for townships that don't use full accrual-based accounting. The report also carried an adverse opinion under generally accepted accounting principles, a routine and expected distinction stemming from that same basis-of-accounting differ-
ence, not a finding of financial trouble.
Critically, auditors reported no material weaknesses in internal controls and no instances of noncompliance with laws, regulations or grant agreements that would require disclosure under government auditing standards.
Financial Highlights
The township's combined governmental funds took in $9,511,689 in cash receipts during 2025 against $9,326,868 in disbursements, leaving total fund cash balances of $6,464,854 at year's end — up from $6,280,033 at the start of the year.
The general fund alone collect-
ed $2,169,872 and spent $976,430, ending 2025 with a balance of $1,725,102. The township's special revenue funds, which include its road and bridge, police and fire departments, took in $7,341,817 and disbursed $8,225,446, closing the year with $4,303,976 on hand. The capital projects fund ended the year with $435,776.
Property and other local taxes remained the township's largest revenue source, generating more than $7 million in 2025.
Debt
The township reported $294,547 in outstanding debt at the end of See Audit • Page 4
The interior of the former Buckstop property at 8491 Mayfield Road in Chester Township.
Community Meetings
Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.
Chester Township: July 15, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; July 23, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Russell Township: July 15, 4 p.m.,
Citizens’ Park District, Historic Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road; July 16, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; July 22, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held in the new Community Room at 8501 Kinsman Road, unless otherwise noted.
West Geauga BOE: July 20, 6 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.
Town Crier
Outreach Spaghetti Dinner
July 16, 6-7 p.m.
Christ Presbyterian Church offers free drive-thru spaghetti and meatball dinners the third Thursday of each month. Salad and dessert are included. The church is located at 12419 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township.
Kiwanis Summer Concert Series
July 15, 7-9 p.m.
The Kiwanis Club of West Geauga continues its summer concert series at the Chesterland Community Park with Ted Riser.
Then, on July 22, come out to enjoy The DB Project.
Visit www.wgkiwanis.org to view the summer concert schedule.
Summer Afternoon Concert
July 17, 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
The Aktion Club, an adult special needs club associated with Kiwanis, continues its summer afternoon concert at the Chester gazebo. Free lunch food will be provided. Kiwanis will also have parking for vans and buses.
For more information, visit wgkiwanis. org. Donations will be accepted; call Bonnie Veleba at 440-708-3578 for information.
Young of Heart
July 17, 11:30 a.m.
Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Refreshments will be provided, and Ron Papaleo will provide musical entertainment.
Upcoming trips include a luncheon cruise aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler in Marietta followed by a two-hour safari at The Wilds on Aug. 12; "Elijah, Prophet of Fire" at the Ohio Star Theater in Sugarcreek on Oct. 7; a trip to Vermont and New Hampshire on Oct. 13-18; and Nashville's Opryland Country Christmas on Dec. 13-16. For trip information, call Kimber at 440-6683293.
St. Mark Lutheran VBS
July 20-24, 9:30 a.m. to noon
Children ages 3 (potty trained) through those entering fifth grade are welcome to register for “The Best Gift Ever” vacation Bible school at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road in Chester Township. Follow PackRat on a worldwide adventure exploring the Christmas story and learning why Jesus is the best gift ever. Camp is free and includes games, snacks, crafts and more. Registration is available online at tinyurl. com/BestGiftEver2026. For more information, contact St. Mark Lutheran Church at 440-729-1668 or mail@stmarkchester.org.
Free Community Lunch
July 29, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All are welcome to attend a free community lunch presented by the Women’s League of St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.
GCRTA Potluck Luncheon
Aug. 4, 11:15 a.m.
The Geauga County Retired Teachers Association will hold a potluck luncheon at Veterans Legacy Woods, Freedom Hall, 14085 Ravenna Road, Newbury Township. Social time begins at 11:15 a.m., followed by a business meeting at 11:30 a.m. and lunch at noon. Attendees are asked to bring a dish to share, along with a plate and silverware. Pulled-pork sandwiches and water will be provided. The program will feature updates from this year's education grant recipients. Register by July 28 by calling Jean Paine at 440-823-4019 or Cheryl Sekura at 440-2238711. Attendees are also encouraged to bring school supplies, including notebooks, folders, pencils and markers, for Geauga Job and Family Services, and to invite a newly retired teacher, school employee or guest.
Community Clothing Closet
Aug. 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Community Church of Chesterland will host a Community Clothing Closet at the church located at 11984 Caves Road. Clothing and accessories for all ages and genders will be available. Items are free to anyone in need. Donations are welcome but not required.
Everyone is welcome.
County Extends Real Estate Tax Deadline to Aug. 4
Staff RepoRt
Geauga County Treasurer Christopher P. Hitchcock has extended the due date for second-half 2025 real estate tax bills to Aug. 4, citing delays tied to state-level adjustments.
Hitchcock said the Ohio Department of Taxation granted permission for the extension after updates related to House Bill 186 and inflation cap credit adjustments delayed delivery of the second-half tax figures to the county.
"Taxpayers deserve to be given as much notice as possible to plan payment of one of the largest bills they receive every year, their real estate tax bill," Hitchcock said. "As the tax bill mailing depends on numerous factors outside our control, I have asked the Ohio Department of Taxation and received permission to extend the tax collection due date to August 4, 2026."
Hitchcock said he chose to act early rather than risk a late change affecting taxpayers.
"Last minute changes when such large amounts of money are involved just aren't fair, so I decided to act now rather than later," he said.
Amended tax bills will be sent to the printer and mailed within the next 20 days, according to a June 24 press release from the treasurer's office.
Taxpayers who do not want to wait for their bill by mail can access duplicate bills online at www.geaugatax.com or by calling or visiting the Treasurer's Office.
Payments may be made by cash, money order, check or credit card. Credit card payments can be made by phone at 1-855-7823909 or online at www.geaugatax.com. A convenience fee applies to credit card transactions.
Taxpayers unable to pay their bill in full are reminded that payment assistance programs are available. For more information, call the Geauga County Treasurer's Office at 440-279-2000.
Back to School Help for Geauga Kids
Registration is now being accepted for Help Me Learn Day, a school supply distribution program for low-income children sponsored by Geauga County Job and Family Services.
The 20th annual Help Me Learn Day will be held Aug. 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Morning Star Friends Church, 12555 Ravenna Road in Chardon. Pre-registration is required to participate. Identification in the form of a food stamp
card, Medicaid card or photo ID is required.
Free clothing, student haircuts, dental screenings and eye exams will also be provided compliments of Morning Star Friends Church, Square Up Barbershop, Northeast Ohio Neighborhood Health Services, LaBarberia Institute for Hair and Chardon Family Eye Care.
For more information or to register by July 31, call 440-285-9141, ext. 1263.
8389 Mayfield Road, Suite B5
Chesterland, Ohio 44026
Phone 440-729-7667 FAX 440-729-8240 ads@karlovecmedia.com editor@karlovecmedia.com
OFFICE HOURS 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
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Clinton Sestak, Sales Representative
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• Editorial submissions are printed as space is available, at the publisher’s discretion, and may be edited for length, clarity and grammar. All submissions are due by noon on the Friday prior to the Wednesday publication date for consideration for that edition.
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• The Chesterland News is distributed for free to homes and businesses in Chester Township. It is mailed through the U.S. Postal Service.
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• In case of error, we will re-print that portion of an advertisement that was in error. Notification of error should be made within three days of published date.
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Obituaries
Donald Sulhan
Donald Sulhan, 85, of Chester Town ship, Ohio, devoted father of Julianne (Craig) Lisicki, Scott (Robyn) Sulhan; grandfather of Blake, Mason, Spencer and Sydney; brother of William Sulhan (Diane); preceded in death by loving wife, Elaine; grandson, Johnathan; sisters, Fran and Sue; brothers, Kenneth and Terrence; loving uncle and friend to many, passed away on Thursday, June 25, 2026.
parents, Leonard and June Matthews, and Harold and Maxine Sobeck.
Pam was born in Mayfield Heights, Ohio, on Jan. 27, 1974, and went on to graduate from West Geauga High School in 1992. She also attended Kent State University.
She devoted 37 years of service at Giant Eagle in Chester Township, Ohio, where her helpful and energetic attitude made her a customer favorite.
Her greatest joy in life was being a mom. She loved spending special moments taking them on new adventures like nearby parks, the zoo and especially their happy place, Disney World.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Saint Anselm Catholic Church, 12969 Chillicothe Road, Chester, on July 8, 2026.
Burial followed at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon Township, Ohio.
Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home assisted with the arrangements. Share a fond memory or condolence at www.gattozziandson.com.
Pamela L. Obratil
Pamela L. Obratil (nee Sobeck), age 52, beloved wife of Mi chael; loving mother of Brady and Luke; cherished daughter of Beverly (nee Mat thews) and Charles Sobeck; cherished sister of Melanie Pasalaqua (husband, Ran dy); devoted aunt to Lane and Ali Mills; trea sured daughter-in-law of Karen (nee Syktich) and Richard Obratil; dear sister-in-law of Richard and Julie Obratil; dearest niece of Michael Sobeck, Jeffrey and Becky Sobeck. Beloved cousin of many.
She was preceded in death by her grand-
Audit
from page 1
2025, all of it interest-free. That includes $185,466 owed to the Ohio Department of Commerce for a 2024 pumper truck purchase, along with two Ohio Public Works Commission loans — $15,748 for embankment stabilization on Old Mill Road and $93,333 for resurfacing County Line Road, both undertaken jointly with the village of Gates Mills.
Other Notes
The audit noted the township is a defendant in a pending lawsuit, though management told auditors it does not expect the matter to materially affect the township's fi-
You could always find her cheering on her boys at all their sporting events and enjoying their talent at every band concert.
She had a spirit of volunteerism and was very involved with the Cub Scout and Boy Scout committees and an avid member of the West Geauga schools PTO and Band Boosters.
She always put everyone else first.
Pam could also be found cheering on the Indians (Guardians) or enjoying a fun day out shopping the mall or outlets, but her favorite place to be was spending time with her kids and husband.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and friendship to all who knew her and she will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Pam to a fund to be used for Pam's children. Please contact the funeral home for information.
Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., at the funeral home.
Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Pam at The DeJohn Funeral Home & Celebrations Center of Chesterland, 12811 Chillicothe Road, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 4-8 p.m.
nancial condition. No further details on the litigation were disclosed in the report.
The audit also detailed the township's membership in several outside organizations, including the Ohio Township Association Risk Management Authority for liability coverage, the Lake County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team, the Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council and the West Geauga Joint Recreation District.
Chester Township is governed by a three-member Board of Trustees and provides road and bridge maintenance, cemetery upkeep, police and fire protection, and emergency medical services to residents.
The independent auditor's report is dated May 20, 2026. The Auditor of State's office certified the report for release June 23, 2026.
Buckstop
page 1
know how long that will take,” Iafelice added. “We're feeling pretty darn good right about now, it took longer than everyone expected, but we got it through and that was a huge milestone.”
He said plans for redevelopment have not yet been finalized, but the company hopes to tap community members for feedback on what they would like to see.
“I don't know what’s gonna to come of it. We do local developments around here, residential, commercial, industrial, so we have our fingers in a lot of different things,” Iafelice said. “So, we're looking to get something here that is accepted by Chesterland and is what the market — what the people want.”
Iafelice thanked Chester Township Trustees and the community and economic development department for helping move the project forward.
“(Davis) was fundamental and this happening without his efforts, I don't think it would happen, and also Gina and Elaine from Geauga County community development were crucial, too,” he said. “They've all been good to deal with and it was truly a partnership, and all of us working together, so it was pretty exciting.”
In a statement provided to the Maple Leaf, Davis said the project reached an important milestone after months of work.
“There have been stall outs, some nudging to our state government at times, and so on, but in a short (in government terms) eight months, we have reached this milestone which is a major step in the beautification and eventual re-development of the former Buckstop property,” Davis said. “This is just a step in the journey. We have to keep
pushing this across the finish line, including the site’s redevelopment, and we need to continue to support our commercial district
SUBMITTED
efforts in general. It feels good, but (there’s) more to do. I want people to know Chester’s commercial district is ‘open for business.’”
Help Support the Chesterland News and Local Journalism
The Chesterland News and newspaper journalism are critically important and essential in protecting the vibrant community in which we live.
The Chesterland News stitches the communities we serve together. From news to in-depth articles on topics that deeply affect the community, the Chesterland News strives to bring you complete coverage.
The cost of publishing this newspaper — editorial, printing, mailing and other production costs — is accomplished primarily through the support of generous advertisers. These advertisers are community leaders who understand the value of a strong local newspaper. We appreciate each and every one of them.
To help us continue to invest in the community, we invite readers to show their support through a voluntary newspaper
subscription. If you value strong community journalism, please consider helping us with a voluntary subscription. The amount is entirely up to you. Simply complete the subscription form in this edition or call 440729-7667 ext. 500.
For any donation of $50 or more, we’ll even toss in a free gift in appreciation:
1. FREE one-year online-only subscription to the Geauga County Maple Leaf, a six-time winner of Ohio Newspaper of theYear, OR
2. Five FREE 25-word classified ads over the next year.
As always, we greatly appreciate the support you give us, whether it’s financially or simply by continuing to be a loyal reader of the Chesterland News.
Jeff and John Karlovec
The deteriorating roof of the former Buckstop property in Chester Township shows extensive damage as the site awaits demolition.
Russell Trustees Appoint Interim Deputy Fiscal Officer
Staff RepoRt
Russell Township Trustees appointed Susan Skrovan-DeYoung as deputy fiscal officer July 9 following the resignation of
former Fiscal Officer Karen Walder in early June.
Trustees voted 2-0 during a special meeting to appoint Skrovan-DeYoung, who will serve until Geauga County Juvenile/Probate
Court Judge Tim Grendell appoints a fiscal officer to fill the remainder of the unexpired term.
Trustee Amy Heutmaker was absent because she was out of town.
“What we prefer is a permanent, full-time fiscal officer, but we're also allowed, in the meantime, a deputy fiscal officer,” Trustee Chris Hare explained during the meeting.
Trustees had previously appointed Nick Cashier as deputy fiscal officer. However, Cashier has since withdrawn his bid for the position, Hare said.
“Ultimately, he didn’t take interest anymore,” he said.
Skrovan-DeYoung, of Windham, previously served as fiscal officer for the Village of Hiram.
Hare noted deputy fiscal officers are not required to be township residents.
“I've been around the government offices and involved in that since like 1998,” Skrovan-DeYoung said.
Hare said he has worked with Skrovan-DeYoung on the Russell Township park board.
“I appreciate that she's extended the of-
fer of standing as a deputy fiscal officer,” he added.
Skrovan-DeYoung will remain deputy fiscal officer until Grendell appoints a permanent fiscal officer.
Grendell’s court administrator, Kim Laurie, distributed an application for the fiscal officer position July 9, following the meeting. Applicants selected by the probate court will serve the remainder of the current fouryear term.
Duties include:
• Completing initial and ongoing state training;
• Keeping accurate records of all township accounts, transactions and proceedings;
• Managing daily fund accounts;
• Preparing payroll and processing financial transactions;
• Notifying the Geauga County Board of Elections of vacancies or boundary changes;
• Performing other duties under Ohio law. Interested applicants should submit a letter of interest and resume by email to bglavic@geaugapjcourt.org or by mail to Grendell, Geauga County Probate Court, 231 Main St., Second Floor, Chardon, OH 44024.
Geauga Public Library
Geauga West Branch
13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 440-729-4250. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.
Daring Through the Decades
July 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Meet Stephanie Bohnak, director of education and curatorial services at the National First Ladies' Library & Museum, to explore how First Ladies have shaped American history through war, peace and social progress.
Shopping for Life Insurance
July 22, 2-3 p.m. • Virtual
Explore the newest resource, Weiss Financial Ratings, with the Weiss Financial Ratings team. This webinar helps guide those thinking about getting life insurance but unsure where to start through the decision-making process.
Topics include the different types of life insurance, how premiums are determined, how to save money on premiums and more.
Annual Middlefield Community Yard, Trunk & Craft Sale is July 18
SuBmitted
Mark your calendars for the annual Middlefield Chamber of Commerce Yard, Trunk and Craft Sale, set for Saturday, July 18, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The main site will be Harrington Square, 15561 W. High St., Middlefield, but this sale is too big to contain to just one location. Shoppers can pick up a printed map at Harrington Square or download one from the Middlefield Chamber of Commerce website. The map highlights additional yard sales nearby at pri-
vate homes and local stores offering tent and sidewalk sales, as area residents share treasures from their Middlefield Village homes. Food will be available and all the shops at Harrington Square will be open.
The Middlefield Chamber of Commerce thanks the sponsors who made this event possible: presenting sponsor Karlovec Media Group (Geauga County Maple Leaf, Middlefield Post, Chesterland News and Kirtland Chronicle) along with Schlabach Printing, Middlefield Bank, Willow Wash and Harrington Square for supplying the perfect venue.
Commissioners Seek End to Grendell Legal Fees Lawsuit
By alliSoN WilSoN WilSoN@kaRlovecmedia com
There is no legal reason for taxpayers to pay Tim Grendell’s legal fees, Geauga County Commissioners said in a motion for summary judgment filed July 6.
In November of 2024, the Geauga County probate and juvenile court judge asked commissioners to appropriate $300,000 to cover legal fees related to his disciplinary case with the Ohio Board of Professional Conduct and Ohio Supreme Court. He also requested commissioners appoint the law firm Roetzel & Andress to represent him in his appeal at a
rate not to exceed $300 per hour.
Commissioners denied the request in January of 2025, prompting Grendell to take the matter to the Eleventh District Court of Appeals.
Grendell argues Ohio law entitles him to the funding and appointment of counsel. Commissioners contend the statutes he cites impose no such obligation and asked the appellate court to rule in their favor without a trial.
“As a matter of law, (Grendell) cannot establish a clear legal right or clear legal duty that would compel (commissioners) to authorize payment of his legal fees for defending
Geauga Park District
For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
Night Sky Viewings
July 25 and Aug. 22, 9-11 p.m.
Geauga Park District will host Nassau Night Sky Viewings at Observatory Park’s Nassau Astronomical Station, where visitors can observe the night sky through the historic 36-inch Nassau telescope, one of Ohio’s largest public research-grade telescopes.
Additional telescopes will be available outdoors, and astronomy naturalist Chris Mentrek will be on hand to answer questions and guide observations.
The Nassau Astronomical Station is locat-
ed at 10350 Clay St., just north of Observatory Park’s main entrance. If skies are cloudy, a planetarium presentation will be offered on the park’s main campus.
Moth Madness
July 26, 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Using special lights to attract these night-flying insects, spend an evening together at The West Woods’ Deer Run Shelter to observe and explore a variety of species that are rarely seen in the darkness. Drop in anytime during program hours to discover the many species of moths and other nocturnal insects that call Northeast Ohio home. Bring a flashlight and camera for some great photo ops. No registration is required.
Real Estate Transfers
Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending July 3 and July 10, 2026, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only.
CHESTER TOWNSHIP
Bruce J. and Lisa N. Borcziak, 11905 Sandgate Circle, to Derek K. and Rachel Zaharewicz, $557,000. (3.61 acres)
James B. Austin, 11490 Kristine Drive, to Tyransky Property Investments LLC, $214,000. (3.11 acres)
Janet Ruh (trustee), Mayfield Road, to 9246 Mayfield Road LLC, $363,200. (65.14 acres)
Janet Ruh, 9448 Mayfield Road, to 9246 Mayfield Road LLC, $296,600. (26.95 acres)
Janet Ruh, 9426 Mayfield Road, to 9246 Mayfield Road LLC, $62,279.07. (5.66 acres)
Daniel R. and Marnie L. Nice, 8585 Carmichael Drive, to Timothy and Virginia Wenzel, $430,000. (1.03 acres)
Carolyn J. Herman, 7678 Oak Hill Drive, to Timothy James and Jade Alexander Helton, $265,000. (1.50 acres)
Jay F. (TOD) and Susan M. (TOD) Fine, 8628 Cedar Road, to Emily Smagola, $387,500. (0.92 acres)
Susan J. Gear, 13041 Dorothy Road, to Ryan Mulvaney, $299,000. (1.20 acres)
Nadine Mikula, 9330 Winchester Valley, to Alicia Luciana Magda and Ted Magda, $315,000. (5.00 acres)
Mary H. Moriarity, 7866 Mulberry Road, to Pucella Home Improvement LLC, $226,000. (1.23 acres)
RUSSELL TOWNSHIP
David Willbrand and April Miller Boise, 7565 Runnymeade Trail, to Ann and Todd Kooken, $2,050,000. (7.60 acres)
Mary Beth Dale (trustee), 14741 Chillicothe Road, to Douglas J. and Emily Anne Cross, $375,000. (0.98 acres)
Gregory P. Borkowski (trustee), 14745 Stonehedge Drive, to Katrina Renae Redmond, $1,300,000. (5.02 acres)
Brian Waldron and Danielle Baskin, 14661 Hillbrook Lane North (Unit 10), to Brian Waldron and Danielle Baskin Waldron, $240,000. (0.00 acres)
his personal law license in a disciplinary proceeding after he had already chosen his counsel and incurred the vast majority of the fees without prior approval, and has now been conclusively found to have violated serious provisions of the code of judicial conduct,” said Frank Scialdone, attorney for commissioners, in the motion.
Scialdone argued the statute cited by Grendell, Ohio Revised Code 305.14(A), does not authorize taxpayers to pay attorney fees incurred by a judge defending disciplinary proceedings before the OBPC.
He noted the Ohio Supreme Court “affirmed the serious violations of the (Code of Judicial Conduct)” and suspended Grendell from the practice of law for six months.
“There is nothing that hints the legislature intended to have taxpayers fund the defense of a wrongdoing judge,” Scialdone said. “This court should not create an exception to the long-established presumption that parties to a legal proceeding pay their own way. Had the General Assembly intended to permit judges who commit wrongdoing to recover attorney fees incurred in a disciplinary proceeding, it certainly would have said so.”
Scialdone also argued Grendell's petition is barred by the legal doctrine of laches.
According to Cornell Law School, laches is a legal doctrine under which a court may deny relief if a party waited too long to bring a claim, causing prejudice to the opposing party.
Scialdone said laches requires an unreasonable delay, no valid excuse for that delay, knowledge of the alleged injury or wrong, and resulting prejudice to the opposing party.
He argued Grendell was represented by privately retained counsel throughout the 13-month disciplinary proceedings and did not request outside legal representation during that time.
“(Grendell) had no legitimate excuse for delay and did not request the commissioners to approve representation for him or fix compensation for his chosen representation before he incurred the vast majority of fees,” he said.
As a result, commissioners had no opportunity to review those fees or Grendell’s choice of counsel before the costs were incurred, Scialdone argued.
The Ohio Supreme Court has also previously held judges are not entitled to reimbursement of attorney fees when they did not follow the statutory process for obtaining outside counsel, Scialdone said.
Grendell did not seek appointment of counsel until after the disciplinary proceedings concluded, retained his own attorneys throughout the case and requested reimbursement only after the fees had already been incurred.
“(Grendell’s) mandamus claim for seeking attorney fees after he had incurred them is meritless,” Scialdone concluded, asking the court to grant summary judgment in favor of commissioners and dismiss Grendell’s claim.
“The county commissioners’ motion is as baseless as their previously filed motion to dismiss, which was unanimously rejected by the appellate court,” Grendell said in response July 7.
AUTOS & PARTS
75 Corvette $7,000. 440-298-3423, leave message.
FOR RENT
Chardon: Burlington Oval Condo/Apt. 2BR, 1B, 1 car garage, all appliances. $1,500/mo. plus utilities. 440346-0855.
Claridon Twp: Efficiency Apartment Rental, $450/mo. Singles only. No pets. Please call 440-479-4961 after 5pm.
For Rent: Auburn warehouse. 30x50. 12x14 overhead door. electric. concrete floor. no water or sewer. $550 per month. Call 440-552-0228
CHESTERLAND: 4BR, 1BA, updated ranch, $1,500/mo. Maintenance free. No pets. Security Deposit. References. 440-247-5597, or 216-406-2545, call after 5pm.
EVENTS
Rubber Stamp & Craft Supplies Sale: Sat. July 25, 9amNoon, Montville Community Center, 9755 Madison Rd. 30 Tables, Gently Used & New Rubber Stamps, Craft Supplies, Great Deals! Contact: rav4linda@gmail.com.
FOR SALE
LATHEM TIME RECORDER CLOCK, RECORD ALBUMS, Old Cameras, large granite counter-top pieces, fresh/ salt water aquariums, old clocks, kerosene lamps. Inquire. 440-338-3563. Russell.
SuperHandy Mobility Scooter: $1,000. Call daytime before 6pm. 440-286-3380.
2 Premium Burial Lots: Western Reserve Memorial Garden, Old Rugged Cross area. $3,500/OBO. Will pay transfer fee. 440-477-2809.
For sale: Cordless self-propelled Toro electric lawn mower $150. Battery and charger included. 440-670-4207.
2 in 1 Cemetery plot: Western Reserve/Old Rugged Cross. $4,000 includes $1,800 towards headstone, vault, or opening/closing. Transfer fee paid by seller. 814-333-4697.
For Sale: Myers Craft 12 foot flat bottom. With oars. Registration is good until March 2027. Asking $400. Small potbellied stove asking $150. Call 440-635-1901
Classifieds
Moving Sale at Troy Oaks. Entertainment Center $20. Couch w/matching love seat, GC $50. Dark stained oval dining room table w/6 chairs, GC $75. Dark stained 2-glass cabinets $25/ea. Brand new Magnavox record player stereo $75. Contact 440-834-1753, Cash Only.
Antique Malodian $100. 26” 10-speed girls bike $35. Records: 78’s, 45’s, 33’s. Elvis, 60’s & 70’s artists, Big Band, Classical; $25 for all. 440-352-6953.
Anchor Brand Folding Bench Wringer Floor Stand: 48” tall, Patent 1896, $240. 440-554-5731.
HONEY: local, raw, bottled. 1-lb $9; 2-lb $17; 12-lb (1-gal) $75. Mesquite and Buckwheat honey available. 440-567-2586.
House Plants: reasonable prices at roadside stand, daily 9a-8p, 13042 Taylor Wells Rd, Chardon (Claridon Twp.)
Two double-hung Provia replacement windows: combined dimensions 75 7/8 X 53 5/8. Perfect for a front window, $475. 440-336-5044 George. Custom sizes & shapes available.
Motorcycle: 1996 Honda Gold Wing Interstate Trike. Mileage 58,011. Bub exhaust. Custom paint bloodstone red. $9,000. Call Rudy 440-749-0182.
Stihl garden tiller, little used, $45. Football table soccer game, good condition, $30. 440-338-3039
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES
Chesterland Estate Sale: 7/23-7/26, 9a-3p, 12105
Privacy Lane. Antiques, collectibles, furniture, glassware, china, books, decor and quality household items. Great selection, reasonable prices. Don’t miss this Sale!
Chagrin Falls: Hemlock Hills Community Garage Sale July 17-18, 9:30am-1pm.
UNIQUE WEEKLY SALES: Something for everyone! All items priced low. Monthly drawings too. Thurs-Sat 9am5pm. 9098 Old State Rd, (Rt 608, Chardon). More info 440-940-4020.
Lake in the Woods Annual Garage Sale: Saturday, July 18, 9am-4pm. Featuring multiple homes throughout the community! Lake in the Woods, 16432 Haskins Rd, Bainbridge Township. Follow signs throughout the neighborhood. Come early for the best selection.
Middlefield: Nantucket Cove Community Garage Sale, July 16-18, 9am-4pm. Weslo Crosswalker Treadmill in-box, brand new. 36” stainless steel 5-burner griddle in-box, brand new. Jewelry. Twin bed. Longaberger baskets. Cookware. Lot of tools. And much, much more!
MIDDLEFIELD Woodsong Community Condos Garage Sales: July 15-18! Lots of great stuff: furniture, antiques, crafts, housewares, vintage records, tools, toys and clothes!
SALE: Tools, Men’s Items, Household, Kitchen, Microwave, Mini-Refrigerator, Books, Glassware, Toys, Furniture. July 17-18, 9a-4p. 18071 Tilden, Troy, close to Rt.700 and Rt.422.
HELP WANTED
Help Wanted: Brush Hogging, small pasture. 1-1.5 acre. Chardon area. 440-286-3840.
PETS & ANIMALS
Dog Boarding Day Care: in-home. Call John 440-5338870. www.happyhoundhouse.com
135-gal all glass aquarium, 55-gal breeder tank, 24-gal all glass aquarium. All three for $175. 440-729-0070. For sale: 2-year-old chihuahua male. Very friendly, very energetic. Up-to-date on shots. $250. Call or text 440563-1797.
5-month-old pygmy goat buck. $75. 440-321-8152. “Franklin,” 4-6 year old gray tiger cat needs an indoor home. He’s 14 pounds of pure sweetheart! Neutered, vaxxed, and good with other cats. Call Rebecca 440321-2485.
REAL ESTATE
Investment properties with current long term tenants. Each property has 4 bedroom house. Three properties to choose from. Cash Only. $89,900 each. Call 440563-8195.
.34-acre Bainbridge lot on 306, part of Lake Lucerne community with amenities. Tap into utilities: gas, electric, sewer, private community well. SAVE BIG! 75k. 440-574-1599.
Private Investor paying cash for homes/land in any condition. Call or text Brian today at 440-346-0161 for a No-obligation offer. No repairs needed. Fast closings.
SERVICES
Caregiver will come to your home. Personal care and light housekeeping. Certified with references. 440-313-1804. Offering Junk Removal and Demolition: 440-883-9124.
ED’S PAINTING, PLASTERING & POWER WASHING: Quality Work. Reasonable Rates. Interior and Exterior. Call Ed today at 216-323-6744. Free Estimates!
Taxi Driver: 2022 F350 Super Duty, extend cab, 6 seats, tows any trailer. Local or long distance. Call Brian Morgret 440-650-9385.
Buckeye Landscaping looking for new clients for upcoming season. Services including mowing, mulching, pruning, spring/fall clean-ups, also snow plowing. Call 440 883 9124.
Wanted: Storage garage/barn for RV. 33l/9w/11h. Chardon area. 845-987-0079. WANTED TO BUY
Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331.
Looking for an Electric Roaster. The bigger, the better. Call me at 440-636-2853.
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. Also, scrap cleanup and removal.
Deadline: Friday at Noon