By MARK TODD - Staff Writer - mtodd@starbeacon.com
Star Beacon
April 29, 2008 08:13 pm
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CONNEAUT — Owners of a Conneaut auto repair shop, upset because they have been excluded from the police department’s tow rotation, have consulted an attorney, City Council learned at Monday’s regular meeting.
Stephanie Baumgardner, of Community Auto Center, said she and her husband have become frustrated in their unsuccessful efforts to secure a spot on the tow list. They have talked to an attorney to discuss possible restraint-of-trade issues, she said.
Community Auto wants a shot at some of the towing business generated by the police department. The city has resisted, saying four businesses already are involved, one for each week of the month. That schedule eliminates confusion and makes it easier for dispatchers, Police Chief Jon Arcaro has said.
Ward 1 Councilman Dave Campbell, who has championed the Baumgardners’ cause at council meetings, said the business has been “wronged” by the city.
“You are asking very little of us,” Campbell told Baumgardner. “We are betraying you.”
Councilman-at-Large Jacob Chicatelli defended the city, saying the tow rotation policy in effect for years has worked well, minimizing conflicts among tow operators.
Campbell said the city will try to assist Community Auto, although it may “take until Election Day next year,” when at-large member and council president’s seats are up for grabs.
“Mr. Campbell wants to change policy, like he would me, on City Council,” Chicatelli said, earning laughs from the audience.
City Manager Douglas Lewis said there has been some movement on the tow rotation situation and recommended the matter return to council’s public safety committee.
The meeting featured some 80 minutes of public participation, including an exchange between Ward 2 Councilman Charles Lewis and a visitor shortly after a long emotional exchange on the poor condition of Conneaut’s secondary roads. Resident Mike Skufca tried to point out that budget problems hamper the city’s repair efforts. Skufca’s comments led to lively dialogue involving Campbell, Charles Lewis and other audience members. Lewis became irritated at Skufca’s comments.
“You’re starting to get on my nerves a little bit, “ Charles Lewis said.
Skufca in turn urged council to show more civility toward the audience and one another.
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