Leaf Thursday, February 13, 2025 Vol. 31 No. 7 • Chardon, Ohio www.geaugamapleleaf.com $1.25
Geauga County Commissioners
Clock Ticking On Capital Improvement Agreement By Allison Wilson wilson@karlovecmedia.com
After a previous motion to approve transferring $1.33 million to the Geauga County Airport stalled out, Geauga County Commissioners voted 2-1 Feb. 4 to rescind that motion and renegotiate a new agreement. Before casting his dissenting vote, Geauga County Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri expressed frustration about reneging their previous decision. On Dec. 17, commissioners voted yes on a motion to approve the airport authority’s request for $1.33 million to construct a new T-hangar facility and upgrade existing facilities at the airport, Acting County Administrator Linda Burhenne said. See Commissioners • Page 4
Grendell Picks Chris Hare To Fill Russell Trustee Seat
Tarkett USA Inc. will be closing its Middlefield Village distribution center at 16077 Industrial Parkway, however, manufacturing will continue there, said President and CEO Winn Everhart in a statement. The flooring and sports surfaces maker will be consolidating distribution operations in a new facility in Columbus, he said. Ninety-two workers are expected to be laid off by the end of February, according to a Jan. 28 Crain’s Cleveland Business article, which added negotiations between management and the union were underway. See Tarkett • Page 3
pages 11-13
By Emma MacNiven macniven@karlovecmedia.com
Geauga County Juvenile and Probate Court Judge Tim Grendell has spoken and Chris Hare was named the new Russell Township trustee Feb. 4. “I am very appreciative of the chance to serve my neighbors in Russell this year on the board of trustees and to work with Mr. Mueller and Ms. Port, ” Hare said in a follow-up interview. “All I can ask for is everyone’s trust, prayers and input.” See Trustee • Page 3
SUBMITTED
Geauga County Probate Court Magistrate Michael L. Hurst issued the oath of office Feb. 4 to Chris Hare after Judge Tim Grendell appointed him as the new Russell Township trustee.
Judge Trapp Partially Overturns ‘Agritourism’ Ruling page 5
Spidalieri Questions ADP Funding Request page 7
Three Contend For 2 Health Board Seats
Tarkett Laying Off 92 Workers In Middlefield By Ann Wishart ann@karlovecmedia.com
Sports
page 7
Obituaries SHERRY GAVANDITTI/KMG
Kirtland’s Tavern Six patrons Shelly and Ken Kushner listen as bartender/bar manager Alec Roberts discusses the ingredients in the tofu stir-fry and Buffalo mac and cheese dishes.
Second Tavern Six Restaurant To Open in South Russell By Sherry Gavanditti editor@karlovecmedia.com The vacated Panini’s at 540 East Washington Street in South Russell Village will soon be reincarnated as Tavern Six, a family-oriented restaurant offering a made-from-scratch menu, a rustic atmosphere and community involvement. Jim Tekavec, of 540 Property
Group LLC — part owner of the restaurant alongside Teanna and Dan Vitantonio and three others — requested to officially change the name of the restaurant to Tavern Six at the South Russell Village Planning Commission meeting Feb. 6. The commission unanimously approved it. “We're looking forward to it. Tavern Six has an even better See Tavern Six • Page 5
pages 14-15
Sheriff’s Sales & Legal Notices start on page 17
Classifieds page 20 Single Edition $1.25