Trustee Corner

by David DePasquale

On Aug. 17, Trustee Paul Schweikert and I were able to attend a Summit County Council meeting on behalf of all elected officials in Sagamore Hills. After a house exploded in Twinsburg Township, we were there to discuss horizontal directional drilling.

We were alarmed to find that this is not covered by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. We discussed our concerns with Summit County Council and then passed a 90-day moratorium until we can get some safety regulations for a resolution in place.

When I met with Police Chief David Hayes in August, he shared a case where a home remodeling contractor ripped off a Sagamore Hills couple on an unfinished job that was over $100,000. The builder, who is now in prison, walked away with half this amount. Hayes praised officer Ryan Shelby for taking the initial report and turning it over to Det. Victoria Miavitz. The thief had multiple company names and was wanted in Cuyahoga, Stark and Summit counties, and may be wanted in another county.

The contractor was over 70 years old with a history of deceiving homeowners for uncompleted construction work. He is now serving seven years and may receive more time as new victims are found.

Hayes stated this serves as a reminder to do a background check on those with whom you do business. The internet, Better Business Bureau and references will help in making a sound decision. Two big red flags are “act now” demands or excessive advance payments for materials. If something doesn’t sound right, keep looking.

Please be careful on the road as school is back in session and our children are getting on and off buses or walking to and from school!