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Chesterland CHESTERLAND News NEWS Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Your Community Newspaper Since 1967
County Road Levy Up for Renewal Staff Report A 2.5-mill Geauga County road and bridge levy will be up for renewal on the November ballot, after Geauga County Commissioners approved July 21 placing the measure before voters. The county Haupt has maintained a road levy since 1986, said Geauga County Engineer Andy Haupt. See Levy • Page 3
Cleveland Man Indicted After High-Speed Chase, Crash Staff Report A Geauga County grand jury indicted a Cleveland man on five charges stemming from a June traffic stop that ended in a police chase and crash in Chester Township, according to the Geauga County Prosecutor's Office and Geauga County Common Pleas Court records. Jaime G. Ornelas Soto, 44, faces two counts of failure to comply with an order, a third-degree felony and a fourth-degree felony; two counts of operating a vehicle under the influence; and one count of furnishing false information to avoid citation. The charges stem from a June 13 traffic stop conducted by the Chester Township Police Department, according to the pros-
ecutor’s office. During the stop, 4 and served the following day, acOrnelas Soto reportedly fled the cording to court records. scene, leading officers on a brief Ornelas Soto was arraigned pursuit before crashing Aug. 6, entered a not into a guardrail at the inguilty plea and had a pubtersection of Fairmount lic defender appointed and Chillicothe roads. to represent him. Bond His blood alcohol was continued at $10,000 content was reported at cash or surety, according 0.244, more than three to court records. times Ohio’s legal limit of He remains in custody Ornelas Soto 0.08. and is also being held on The Russell Township an immigration detainPolice Department assisted Ches- er and a warrant of deportation ter Township officers with Ornelas issued by U.S. Immigration and Soto’s arrest, the prosecutor’s of- Customs Enforcement, the prosefice said in a statement. cutor’s office said in a statement. The case, originally processed The case is assigned to Judge through Chardon Municipal Court, Carolyn J. Paschke and a pretrial was bound over to the Geauga hearing is scheduled for Aug. 18, County Court of Common Pleas followed by a trial management following the grand jury indictment conference Aug. 27. A jury trial is June 25. A warrant was issued Aug. set to begin Sept. 8.
Landmark Restored Nearly 2 Years After Tornado Staff Report Nearly two years after an EF-1 tornado tore through Geauga County, the steeple that once topped Mayfield United Methodist Church is back in place, restoring a familiar feature of the Chester Township skyline. "We know people have been watching and waiting for this moment," said Pastor Beth Wilterdink July 23. "The steeple has always been a landmark in our community, and seeing it return will be incredibly meaningful for so many people." The tornado struck Aug. 6, 2024, carving a 4.79-mile path through Kirtland, Chester Township and Munson Township with peak winds of 110 mph. The storm snapped power lines, uprooted trees and damaged homes, leaving more than 400,000 Northeast Ohio residents without electricity in the region's largest outage event since 1993, according to previous reporting. Mayfield United Methodist Church's steeple sustained significant damage and had to be removed from the roof, leaving a noticeable
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gap that quickly became, according to church staff, "the talk of the town," said Laurie Jackson, director of communications and administration for the church, in a press release.
The 3,600-pound steeple was rebuilt by Campbellsville Industries of Campbellsville, Ky., and returned to the church at 7747 Mayfield Road after months of reconstruction, Jackson said.
Before the steeple was lifted into place by crane July 23, congregation members were invited to sign the inside with their names, favorite Bible verses or messages of encouragement.
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Town Crier Kiwanis Summer Concert Series
Aug. 12, 7-9 p.m. The Kiwanis Club of West Geauga concludes its summer concert series at the Chesterland Community Park with No Control. Visit www.wgkiwanis.org for information.
Summer Afternoon Concert
Aug. 14, 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. The Aktion Club, an adult special needs club associated with Kiwanis, will provide a summer afternoon concert at the Chester gazebo. Free lunch food will be provided. Ki-
wanis 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.
Free Fresh Produce
Aug. 15, 9-11 a.m. Newbury Community Church hosts a fresh produce giveaway at 14916 Auburn Road. Cleveland FoodBank provides the service to lower income Geauga County residents the third Saturday of each month through October. Please bring ID and bags.
Blessing of the Backpacks
Aug. 16, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Students of all ages, along with teachers and school staff, are invited to bring their backpacks to receive a special blessing for the new school year during worship services at 9:30 and 11 a.m. on Aug. 16 at Mayfield Church, 7747 Mayfield Road, Chester Township.
Outreach Spaghetti Dinner
Aug. 20, 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.
Young of Heart
Aug. 21, 11:30 a.m. Geauga Young of Heart will meet at St. Anselm Church in Chester Township. Refreshments will be provided, and Greg Viscera will provide musical entertainment. A trip to the Aurora Atlas Movie Theater is planned for Aug. 18 at 11 a.m. The movie is to be determined. Additional trips include the Ohio Star Theater in Sugarcreek on Oct. 7 to see "Elijah, Prophet of Fire" with a buffet lunch at the Dutch Valley Restaurant, as well a trip to Vermont and New Hampshire Oct. 13-18, featuring the Trapp Family Lodge, Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream factory, Quechee Gorge and more. For trip information, call Kimber at 440668-3293.
Pinnacle in Motion
Aug. 23, 6 p.m. Pinnacle in Motion will kick off its running and walking program at the Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin track in Chardon. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in the community-focused program. For more information, email pinnacleinmotion@gmail.com.
Free Community Lunch
Aug. 26, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. All are welcome to attend a free commu-
nity lunch presented by the Women’s League of St. Mark Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township.
Bloodmobile
Aug. 27, 1-6 p.m. American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 11900 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township. Visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800733-2767 to make an appointment.
Kiwanis Hosts Leave and Take
Sept. 12 and 13 The Kiwanis Club of West Geauga will host its annual Leave and Take event at Chester Recycle Park, 12535 Chillicothe Road. Residents may drop off unwanted, usable items and take anything they would like for free from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 12. Sept. 13 will be a take-only day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Accepted items include housewares, tools, small appliances, sporting goods, toys, bicycles, chairs, tables, instruments, school supplies, books, shoes and lamps. Large appliances, upholstered furniture, mattresses, clothing, linens, televisions, desks and items weighing more than 50 pounds will not be accepted. Participants should enter the park via Seminary Lane. Items remaining after Sunday will be donated to Goodwill, with any remainder placed in Chester Cleanup Day dumpsters. The free event is provided by the Geauga-Trumbull Solid Waste Management District, West Geauga and Kirtland Kiwanis clubs, Chester Rental and Chester Township. Volunteers are also needed. For more information, visit wgkiwanis.org or call Ken Mantey at 440729-2869.
Kids’ Clothing Exchange
Sept. 15, 4-6 p.m. Mayfield Church will host a free Kids’ Clothing Exchange in Fellowship Hall, 7747 Mayfield Road, Chester Township. Families may donate gently used children’s clothing, exchange items or simply take what they need. No donation is required to participate. Donated items should be clean, stain-free and gently used. Donations may be dropped off at the church’s main entrance Aug. 24-27. Those donating 15 items or fewer may also bring them up to 20 minutes before the event begins. The exchange is open to all families in the community and surrounding areas.
Library Geauga West Branch 13455 Chillicothe Road, Chester Township, 440-729-4250. Programs require registration unless otherwise noted. Visit www.geaugalibrary.net.
All American Sips
Aug. 13, 5:30-7 p.m. Drop by for All American Sips this summer to talk with friends and sip seasonal drinks featuring native fruits and locally grown herbs. The final meeting features a taste test of elderberry lemonade. Registration is not required.
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Chesterland News
Seniors Adult Day Services
The Geauga County Department on Aging's Adult Day Services program provides a safe, structured environment for older adults with early-stage dementia while giving caregivers time for respite. Located at 8090 Cedar Road, Chester Township, the program is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.
to 2:30 p.m. Participants enjoy a nutritious lunch, cognitive stimulation, physical exercise and socialization. The program is not medically based; participants must be able to feed and toilet themselves independently. For more information or to schedule a visit, call 440-279-2149 or email vzanella@geauga. oh.gov.
Flea Market on the Greens
Aug. 15, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chesterland Historical Village will host its annual Flea Market on the Greens featuring treasures gaChesterland Historical Village lore, food trucks, music and more. Join in a great time of treasure hunting. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children. The event will be held rain or shine. The village is located on the corner of Caves and Mayfield roads in Chester Township. For information, call 440-729-1830.
Community Meetings Listed are upcoming public meetings and executive sessions. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices. Chester Township: Aug. 18, 6 p.m., Land Use Planning Meeting; Aug. 19, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; Aug. 20, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.
Levy
from page 1 If renewed, the levy will continue to fund construction, reconstruction, resurfacing and repair of streets, roads and bridges throughout the county. It would yield $3,729,532 annually and cost homeowners $21 per year per $100,000 property valuation, according to the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. “The engineer’s office road and bridge levy is approximately 27-30%, somewhere in there, of our operating budget,” Haupt said. The levy allows the county to invest in infrastructure, including providing matching dollars for federal grants, he said, adding it
Russell Township: Aug. 20, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees; Aug. 24, 4 p.m., Citizens’ Park District, Historic Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road; Aug. 26, 6 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held in the new Community Room at 8501 Kinsman Road, unless otherwise noted. West Geauga BOE: Aug. 17, 6 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted. keeps the county proactive rather than reactive in maintaining its streets. “You don’t let the pavement fail to a point where your foundation is destroyed, where you have to rebuild the whole road,” Haupt said. Without the levy revenue, the county would shift to a more reactive approach to road maintenance and downscale the number of projects completed each year, he said. “Over time, without the levy or that funding, we would see a level of service slowly taper off,” he said. “We would go into a reactionary maintenance program. We’d probably hire more highway workers, we’d do more maintenance work, repair as the deterioration over time happens.”
karlovecmediagroup Seeking Sales Rep Karlovec Media Group is hiring account representatives to sell print and online advertising in and around Geauga County, specifically in the Chesterland and Kirtland areas. Candidates must be able to manage time wisely, meet deadlines and have reliable transportation. All of our staff must be willing to work in a team environment to help grow our newspapers. The ability to understand and live with a deadline-driven business is a must. The ideal candidate would have at least two years of sales experience.
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• Copies are also available at rack locations within Chester township. • Produced by the Chesterland News, LLC. • 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. • The Chesterland News, LLC assumes no responsibility of error contained in any pre-printed material delivered with the paper as an insertion therein. • The Chesterland News, LLC reserves the right to reject or revise any advertisement or news item for publication. Letters to the Editor reflect the opinion of those signing them and not necessarily that of either the Chesterland News, LLC, its affiliates or its advertisers. All letters submitted are subject to editing, and none will be returned. • The opinions and representations contained in advertisements are those of the advertiser. They have not been verified by the Chesterland News, LLC, nor should they be construed to represent the position or viewpoint of this newspaper or its publisher. • Under no circumstances will any record filed in the county be suppressed at any time for anybody, except by order of court.
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
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Russell Teenager Spreads Wings as Eagle Scout By Allison Wilson wilson@karlovecmedia.com On March 30, August Stromann, of Russell Township, reached a milestone achieved only by a small percentage of Scouts, earning the rank of Eagle Scout. A member of Troop 150, August began his Scouting journey at a young age. “I think I was in first grade, so I think I was about 7,” he recalled. “I talked about it with my dad (Tom Stromann) and I was open to joining scouts, and I’ve made a lot of friends along the way. It’s been a great journey.” He described his first summer camp as being a “big one.” “That’s where I earned my archery merit badge,” he said, adding participants at the camp could make custom ICEE flavors, and his had ended up in the camp’s daily paper. Beyond making friends and learning outdoor survival skills, August said Scouting America helped him develop leadership abilities and similar soft skills that carried over into other areas of life, including serving on student council and as president of the German club at Benedictine High School. “Scouting has taught me how to lead in a room, kind of be able to voice myself,” he said. Those leadership skills came into play when he worked toward earning the organization’s highest rank. Prospective Eagle Scouts must meet a number of requirements, including remaining active in their troop, leading a service project, earning 21 merit badges, serving at least six months in a position of responsibility and participating in a Scoutmaster confer-
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August Stromann, right, recently achieved Eagle Scout, a rank few Boy Scouts ever make. Also pictured is his father, Tom Stromann.
ence and board review, among other items. “It takes a long time in order to earn this rank,” August said. “You can’t just fly right through it. It’s not an easy accomplishment. It took me years in order to achieve this.” August exceeded the minimum requirements, earning 28 merit badges and completing 84 nights of camping. He served his position of responsibility as a troop guide, helping younger Scouts learn skills and complete advancement requirements. “I really enjoyed the cooking merit badge,” he recalled. “I had a very fun time with that one. I’m kind of a foodie so that was
a fun one for me.” During his Scoutmaster conference, August reflected on what being an Eagle Scout means to him. “(Leadership is) helping (others) grow into future leaders, I would say,” he said. “It’s a stepby-step (process). I’m right now almost done with scouting, I’m almost 18, and then they’re the ones who will be stepping up and taking on my position, leading younger Scouts.” His love of cooking also shows in his Eagle Scout service project — building a cooking shed at Benedictine High School. “I decided to pick that because I spoke to
the leadership at my school,” he said. “I asked them (what they need help with) and they gave me some ideas. And then I thought about them on my own and I decided a cooking shed would be the thing that I wanted to do.” The project required a total of 126 hours from 12 volunteers, he said, adding the building will be used during the fall and spring for various school events. “I think it will be used for a very long time,” August said. Benedictine High School Principal Dominic Fanelli praised both the project and August’s achievements. “August's Eagle Scout project — the large outdoor structure by our gym entrance — has been a great addition for us,” he said. “It gives us a permanent, well-built space for cooking at outdoor sporting events, and it's used regularly to serve our community during games and other outdoor gatherings. “Earning Eagle Scout is one of the most significant achievements a young man can accomplish, and August's project reflects real leadership and hard work,” he added. “We're incredibly proud of him and grateful for what he built for Benedictine.” Likewise, when asked how it felt to achieve the rank after years of work, August said he felt proud. “I feel like I achieved something that’s very hard and very rare,” he said. Now preparing to enter his senior year at Benedictine, August plans to pursue a career in law. Although he has not yet applied to colleges, he said he is also considering entering the Army Reserve Officers' Training Corps to ultimately become a lawyer for the military.
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Five Measles Cases Confirmed in Geauga County Staff Report Geauga Public Health is reporting five confirmed measles cases in Geauga County connected to an ongoing statewide outbreak announced by the Ohio Department of Health July 30. The cases are part of Ohio’s third measles outbreak of 2026, which is defined as three or more related cases. ODH reported four cases in the initial outbreak announcement, including three in Ashtabula County and one in Tuscarawas County. Since then, GPH has confirmed five cases locally, officials said in an Aug. 4 press release. “ODH is working with GPH to follow up on potential exposures and promote opportunities for vaccination,” GPH said in the release. GPH is also working with the affected individuals and their health care providers to identify people who may have been exposed. Those contacts will be notified by their local health departments and provided guidance on quarantining, the release said. One known exposure occurred July 18 at the Bloomfield Livestock Auction, 2211 Kinsman Road NW, Bloomfield. Anyone who was at that location, is not immunized against measles, does not know their immunity status, or has been in contact with someone who has developed a fever or unexplained rash is encouraged to contact their health care provider for guidance, GPH said in the release.
Symptoms from that exposure could appear between July 24 and Aug. 25. Symptoms may be delayed in people with compromised immune systems, according to GPH. Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes and a rash that typically begins three to five days after other symptoms appear. “Measles can be serious, and about one out of every five people (20%) who get measles will be hospitalized with complications like pneumonia, dehydration, or swelling of the brain,” GPH said in the release. “In pregnant women who have not had the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine, measles may cause a premature birth or a lowbirth-weight baby.” The virus is highly contagious and can spread before symptoms develop. It can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area, according to GPH, which added symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after a person comes in contact with the virus, but can take as long as 21 days to appear. “Although the likelihood of getting measles is low in vaccinated individuals, it is still important to stay alert and take precautions,” GPH said in the release, noting immunizations or medications may be given after exposure in some cases to prevent illness. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against the disease, according to ODH.
“It's unfortunate that these outbreaks have become more common in Ohio over the past few years, because this disease is preventable,” ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff said in a press release. “This serves to emphasize the importance of being fully vaccinated. I strongly encourage you to protect yourselves and your children by getting vaccinated.” ODH reported 15 measles cases statewide in 2026 as of Aug. 4. The state recorded 45 cases in 2025, seven cases in 2024 and one case in 2023, according to ODH. Previous Ohio outbreaks this year occurred in Cuyahoga County in January and Franklin County in February. ODH also emphasized complications from measles can be serious. Young children,
adults older than 20, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems face higher risks of severe illness. “As many as one out of every 20 children with measles gets pneumonia, the most common cause of death from measles in young children,” ODH said in the release. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, with the first dose given at 12 through 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age. Adults who are unvaccinated or unsure of their vaccination status may also receive the vaccine. For more information and updates, visit the GPH website or the CDC’s measles information page.
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Chesterland News
Geauga Park District For more information and registration, contact the park district at 440-286-9516 or visit www.geaugaparkdistrict.org
Big Tree Hike
Aug. 22, 2-4 p.m. Join a naturalist at The West Woods, Affelder House, for a 3-mile hike along Tulip Trail to see Ohio’s state-record tuliptree, one of the tallest trees in the state. Parking is limited; carpooling is recommended. Registration is required.
Women’s Equality Day
Aug. 26, 5:30 p.m. South Newbury Union Chapel, the League of Women Voters of Geauga and Geauga Park District will dedicate a new Ohio Historical Marker recognizing the nearby Centennial Oak and Geauga County’s role in the women’s suffrage movement. The ceremony begins at 6 p.m. at South
Newbury Union Chapel, 15829 Ravenna Road. Visitors may arrive at 5:30 p.m. Overflow parking and shuttle service will be available at Faith Baptist Church, 12010 Snow Road.
Maple Town Tune Traders
Aug. 27, 7-9 p.m. Musicians and singers of all skill levels are invited to share songs and play along at The West Woods Nature Center. All musical genres and instruments are welcome. Audience members are welcome. No registration is required.
250 Years of Eagles & Turkeys
Aug. 28, 7-8:30 p.m. Celebrate America 250 at The West Woods Nature Center with a presentation on the natural history, population status and lore of the bald eagle and wild turkey. No registration is required.
Obituaries Robert Dale LaMoreaux
Robert Dale LaMoreaux, age 90, passed away July 25, 2026. He was born on April 14, 1936, in Chardon, Ohio, the son of Hazel Marian (nee Ballard) and Harland T. LaMoreaux. Bob was a 1954 graduate of the first graduating class of West Geauga High School. A lifelong resident of Chester Township, Ohio, Bob married Joyce Josephine Hill on Nov. 16, 1957. He was a lifetime member of the Chesterland Baptist Church, where he was always active and supportive. Bob began his career as the Chesterland Road Supervisor, moving on to Geauga County Road Superintendent, becoming the inspector of Geauga County Engineer’s Office until his retirement. He was in Boy Scouts of America for over 60 years, serving as a leader and many other positions during that time. Bob was also on the Chesterland Fire Department. He volunteered for many years before it became incorporated. Bob was an EMT, assistant fire chief and did fire and safety training for many years, going to businesses and schools alike to promote fire safety. He was an outdoorsman, enjoying time, hunting and fishing at his cabin in Tionesta, Pa. Bob is preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 64 years, Joyce; two sisters, Janet Nolan and Marian Lalich, and daughter-in-law, Amy LaMoreaux. Survivors include his three sons, Dennis D. (Laura) LaMoreaux, of Palmdale, Calif., Timothy A. LaMoreaux, of Chardon, Ohio, and Robert C. (Jacki) LaMoreaux, of Willoughby, Ohio; his sister Cora Martin, of Hudson, Ohio; five grandchildren, Tim, Amanda, Jennifer, and Joe, Jon; five great-grandchildren, Isabelle, Abby, Jake, Autumn and Eric; and great-great-granddaughter, Scarlett. Calling hours will be held on Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026, from 2-5 p.m., at Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home, 12524 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland. At 5 p.m., Boy Scout honors and Fire Department Last Call will be held. A memorial service was held Aug. 3, 2026, at Chesterland Baptist Church, 12670 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland. Burial followed at
Western Reserve Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Reserve Care Hospice. Share a fond memory or condolence at www.gattozziandson.com.
Vern Radomile
Vern Radomile, longtime Russell Township, Ohio, resident, passed away at age 93 with his family close by. He is survived by his wife, Dolores, of 68 years, and two children, John and Joanne, along with his son-in-law, Dave, and two grandchildren, Luke and Christa. A devoted husband and father, Vern took care of his family tirelessly. Born in 1932, he grew up in Collinwood, graduated from Collinwood High School and served two years in the U.S. Army, 101st Airborne, and married in 1958. He lived in Wickliffe, Ohio, for 10 years, then finally settled in Russell, where he lived for 56 years. Vern worked as a Union Pipefitter for 38 years. After he retired in 1995, he worked in the maintenance department at Berkshire Golf Course for another 23 years, finally retiring at 88. Quiet and laid-back, Vern made friends easily and left an impression as a really good guy who liked to say hello, too. If you knew him, you liked him and he would welcome your friendship forever. For those who knew Vern, we hope your memories of him are as nice as the ones he had of all of you. We miss you, Dad, and we love you. Your family. Notices should be sent in writing by the funeral directors and memorial societies to: Geauga County Maple Leaf, P.O. Box 1166, Chardon, OH, 44024-5166, faxed to 440-285-2015 or emailed to editor@karlovecmedia.com. The Maple Leaf charges a flat fee of $150 per obituary or death notice, including a photograph.
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County Treasurer’s Office Seeks Raise for Employees By Allison Wilson wilson@karlovecmedia.com
The Geauga County Commissioners did not vote on a proposed pay increase for employees in the Geauga County Treasurer’s Office Aug. 4, electing instead to table the matter for further discussion. The treasurer’s office is seeking raises of about $5 per hour for five employees after a wage study found their pay rates fell below average. The matter first came before commissioners July 28, at which point the board pushed the item to August in order to have more time to review data they had recently been provided. “I don’t like making a decision until I have a chance to do my homework,” Commissioner Carolyn Brakey said. The study looked at treasurer’s offices in Summit, Ashtabula, Lake, Portage and Trum-
bull counties, Deputy Treasurer Caroline Mansfield said, noting comparisons can be challenging because responsibilities are divided differently among county treasurer’s offices. Mansfield said the last wage study for the treasurer’s office was conducted in 2005, when employee wages were adjusted to what was considered fair at the time. “We don’t participate in your step increases,” she told the board. “So, that has never happened for our office. The only raises that were ever given were the 2% or 3% continually throughout the year since 2005. And our employees were extremely paid so much less than other offices.” She said there had also been review of wages in county departments with comparable positions. “It became quite evident that all of our employees were paid between $5-15 less an hour,” she said. “And then, when we looked
Real Estate Transfers Following is a list of area real estate transfers for the weeks ending July 17, July 24 and July 31, 2026, and period Aug. 3-6, 2026, provided as a public service by the Geauga County Auditor’s Office. Transfers may involve the sale of land only. CHESTER TOWNSHIP Jennifer and Greg Antoon, 11341 Willow Hill Drive, to Margarita and David Friedman, $434,000. (1.53 acres) Billie L. Heigley, 12445 Sperry Road, to Paul A. and Christine M. Cefaratti, $471,000. (6.92 acres) Stack Investors LLC, 12790 Heath Road, to Nikki and Slade Gotch, $435,000. (1.71 acres) Catherine R. Patchin, 9087 Ranch Drive, to Charles Pattison Fuller, $250,000. (1.93 acres) LFD Remolding LLC, 11251 Lake Forest Drive, to Leroy Mich and Viridiana Porte, $995,500. (5.08 acres) Three Properties LLC, 12555 Hovey Drive, to Gregory J. Murmann, $204,000. (0.69 acres) Thomas M. Bielek and Maria D. Vitulich, 11511 Caves Road, to Lisa Craker, $286,000. (1.00 acres) Sara Hall, Ted J. Zsulya and Steven M. Zsulya, 11588 East Hill Drive, to Mar and Sam 2 LLC, $200,000. (1.00 acres) Joseph S. Frankina, 8367 Kirkwood Drive, to DTI Services Inc., $238,350. (1.22 acres) Michael S. and Lisa Gibson, 11710 Sherwood Trail, to Charles O. and Molly Barnes, $625,000. (5.05 acres) George Schlabinky LLC, Mulberry Road, to Laura Ann Haas, $49,400. (5.01 acres) Angelina and Joshua Halliday, 8555 Red Oak Drive, to Richard Leasure and Bridgette Declemente, $637,000. (1.71 acres) TT Group LLC, 8564 Cedar Road, to
Joshua C. Taylor, $250,000. (0.92 acres) Mark and Trudy L. Todd, 12604 Ward Drive, to SJM Ohio Ventures II LLC, $120,100. (0.48 acres) RUSSELL TOWNSHIP Colton A. Crowl, 15225 Hook Hollow Road, to Zachary D. and Taylor A. Leffel, $425,000. (1.51 acres) Ronald L. and Gwenette M. James, 15614 Chillicothe Road, to John Rajic, $335,000. (2.16 acres) Anthony Paciorek and Christine G. Uronis, 8576 Kinsman Road, to Riley M. Davis, $416,000. (20.24 acres) Austin G. Wright, 14465 Retriever Run, to Jordan A. and Emily J. Smith, $225,000. (3.10 acres) Diane Allen, 14673 River Glen Drive, to Richard A. and Lisa L. Grimm, $1,001,000. (5.00 acres) Michael and Sarah A. Swope, 15511 Russell Road, to Alexander and Kimberly Pezzeminti, $1,396,000. (1.28 acres) Dice Properties LLC, 7981 Kinsman Road, to Jasmine Melendez and Zachary Zippert, $365,000. (1.00 acres) Thomas R. Dressler, 7969 Dines Road, to Christine G. Torrence, et al., $435,000. (1.62 acres) Windsor Road Land LLC, 14463 Chillicothe Road, to Susanne Agostinelli, $499,900. (14.99 acres) Windsor Road Land LLC, 14421 Chillicothe Road, to Maryann T. DiCarlo (trustee), $249,900. (6.98 acres) Charles G. and Donna M. Tercek, 13586 Fox Hills Drive, to Zachary and Ashley Lyzen, $590,000. (3.00 acres) Gerald Arthur and Kim C. Dixon, 15791 Hemlock Road, to Alina M. Slavik and Phillip Grimaldi, $300,000. (0.45 acres)
at what some of the newer employees in certain offices were starting at, it was absolutely, in my opinion, ridiculous compared to what we were making.” A 25-year employee of the treasurer’s office is earning $23 per hour, while another county office recently hired an employee at $47 per hour, she said. “We wanted to, as (county Finance Manager Adrian Gorton) said, true this up to what we think is fair,” Mansfield said. “(Treasurer Chris Hitchcock) could have gone higher or lower, but he took a pretty conservative approach to it, so I don’t feel that we’re asking for an outrageous amount of money for these girls to bring them up to a true and fair wage.” Even if the raises are approved, clerks in the treasurer’s office would still earn less than clerks in other county departments, she said, adding the proposed increase would also not apply to her because she received a merit raise several years ago. Hitchcock appeared before commissioners regarding the request Aug. 4. “For some time, the treasury has had the luxury of having a very large delinquent tax collection and we have done a very good job of collecting delinquent taxes,” he said. “That creates a little bit of a fund, which we can in turn use to pay for collection in the office for salaries.”
However, tax delinquencies have declined and the fund will run out in less than a year, making it appropriate to adjust salaries paid by commissioners, Hitchcock said. The office is also going to amend its policies regarding the use of delinquent tax funds to allow the fund to grow and continue supporting three salaries, he said. Brakey said, according to her calculations, the requested raises would amount to increases of approximately 23% to 33%, which she considered significant. “Those are big numbers to talk about,” she said, suggesting a phased approach instead. “I’m just throwing out numbers, for example maybe we do a 10% increase this year and then re-evaluate,” she said. Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri agreed with Brakey, saying he believed increases of that size could cause a ripple-effect across other county offices. “I just think this is one of those things that should have been looked at throughout the years,” he said. Spidalieri said he did not intend his comments as a shot at the employees, but he could not support increases of that size. He said he would support a gradual approach and would like to revisit the issue with a different plan. Commissioners unanimously passed a motion to table the item.
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Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Chesterland News
Classifieds AUTOS & PARTS
GARAGE/ESTATE SALES
2014 Lincoln MKT: third row, 7 passenger, leather interior, sunroof, heated and AC seats, CD player, Bluetooth, E-check passed. $9,000. 216-387-2999. 79 MGB $3,600. Call/text 440-413-2821. Motorcycle: 1996 Honda Gold Wing Interstate Trike. Mileage 58,011. Bub exhaust. Custom paint bloodstone red. $9,000. Call Rudy 440-749-0182.
Chardon: 10650 Calico Lane. 8/13-8/15, 9a-3:30p. Men’s 2x, women’s clothing, housewares, QVC items, Slatkin candles, dog crate, exercise equipment, furniture, tools and much more. Chardon: 197 Hilltop Dr. 8/20-8/22. New kitchen table and chairs, rocker, nightstand, 32-sq.ft. granite, housewares, kitchenware, sewing material, beads, crafts, some antiques, misc items. Moving Sale, Auburn Twp: 9731 Riverwood Lane. 8/208/22, 9a-4p. Lawn/garden hand tools, patio set, work bench, bedroom/family/dining room furniture, cookware, timber jack, luggage, carts, wagons, kerosene heater, outdoor clothes hanger, heavy chains. 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. Chesterland Estate Sale: 8/13-8/16, 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!
FOR RENT Claridon Twp: Efficiency Apartment Rental, $450/mo. Singles only. No pets. Please call 440-479-4961 after 5pm. Chardon: Burlington Oval Condo/Apt. 2BR, 1B, 1 car garage, all appliances. $1,400/mo. plus utilities. 440346-0855.
EVENTS
HELP WANTED Now Hiring Maintenance Associates! Full time position available at Legacy Village. Apply: hiring@first-interstate. com Amish lady needed to work in my Chardon home to clean house and other duties. 440-286-3380, call daytime before 6pm.
PETS & ANIMALS FOR SALE Garden Plants: lemon balm, gooseneck loosestrife, many daylilies, mint, daisy, mini hostas, raspberries, and more, all $5/clump. Call/text 440-668-8768. 200 feet kilned planed and straight edged black walnut $800. 1800’s grain fanning mill $200. Antique wheel overhead light 40” diameter $300. 440-336-2027 Power Smart 21 inch Push Mower, 2 months old, $100. 440-729-2392. HONDA EM5000 SX Portable Generator: like new, 160 hours, electric start. $2,000. Chesterland. Call 440729-7958. Vintage school desk, toys, pottery, 4-drawer bureau, sofa, large upholstered chair. 440-729-1082. 2 Premium Burial Lots: Western Reserve Memorial Garden, Old Rugged Cross area. $3,200/OBO. Will pay transfer fee. 440-477-2809. Vintage Patio Set: aqua green, 3 chairs, 1 stool, lounge chair, 48” glass table. $100. 440-591-8140. 4’x4’ Pegboard $1 each. Husqvarna & Stihl weedeaters $150 each. 440-272-5736. 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. Uniden DFR 7 radar detector. Mint condition. Uses all the latest technology. Comes with dash and visor clip. $300 brand new. Selling for $100. 440-669-2763. 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. Myers Craft 12-ft flat bottom boat w/oars; asking $400. Mac Tools and S+S motorcycle toolbox, complete with tools; asking $1,000. 440-635-1901.
135-gal aquarium, 55-gal tank, 24-gal aquarium. All three for $175. Also available, 200-gal fiberglass tub, 125-gal glass tank, 32-gal tank. 440-729-0070. “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 Ashtabula. .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.
WANTED TO BUY AM RIDES LLC: CREW TRANSPORTATION Reliable construction crew transportation serving Geauga, Trumbull & Ashtabula Counties.
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330-431-8282
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Old fishing tackle wanted: fishing lures (wood or plastic), mouse to bear traps, wooden duck decoys. Call Lee 440-313-8331. Wanted: Do you have a used wood or coal stove siting around, that you would like to sell? Stove must be salvageable. Harman, Quadrafire, Napoleon, Dutchwest, and others. Call Bill 440-636-3323. 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.
SERVICES Will do housekeeping, cleaning, and help in Air B&B, and overnight facilities. References. 440-313-1804. Handyman Doing Construction Work: Framing, siding, metal roofing, decks, and all kind of miscellaneous. 440-321-8909. Offering Junk Removal and Demolition: 440-883-9124. 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.
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