Board looking for new member

By SHELLEY TERRY - Staff Writer - sterry@starbeacon.com
Star Beacon

October 13, 2008 10:48 pm

— ASHTABULA — A district’s school board makes decisions that have an impact years after members leave office.
The Ashtabula Area City School Board of Education now must select a qualified person who will make those decisions.
Responding to the Ohio attorney general’s opinion that holding two elected public offices concurrently constitutes a conflict of interest, City Solicitor Michael Franklin resigned Oct. 3 from his position on the school board. The resignation was effective immediately.
Franklin said it was a difficult decision because his service on the Board of Education was one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.
“It was a pleasure working with Mr. Franklin,” said Janine Trebuchon-Wertz, school board president.
Board member Steve Candela agreed.
Anyone interested in the seat vacated by Franklin should send or drop off a letter of intent by noon Friday at the Ashtabula Area City School Board Office, 401 W. 44th St., Ashtabula 44004.
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, and a qualified elector living in the school district. The board will interview applicants at a special meeting, set for Oct. 22 at Lakeside High School in Saybrook Township. If the board fails to fill Franklin’s seat, the Probate Court of Ashtabula County shall fill the vacancy, Donatone said.
Superintendent Joseph Donatone said the school board will be charged with filling the vacancy by a majority of votes. That means three out of four remaining board members must agree on a new member. The vote must take place 10 to 30 days following the date the vacancy occurs (Oct. 3).