NEWTON FALLS Mayor: I'll quit if my powers are cut

Proposed legislation would limit the mayor's voting to breaking council ties.
NEWTON FALLS -- Mayor Patrick D. Layshock says he will resign if council changes the charter to limit his role in city government.
"Council's feelings are that my presence is a hindrance here and if they pass [the ordinance], I will tender my letter of resignation," Layshock at Monday's council meeting attended by a standing-room-only crowd.
Some council members believe the charter gives the mayor too much power.
The proposed legislation would limit the mayor's role to voting only to break a tie council vote and prohibits him from making or seconding motions.
First reading: Layshock told council members he wanted them to withdraw the change, but members passed the first reading of the legislation. It takes two readings to approve legislation.
In response, Layshock read to council the following excerpt from Robert's Rules of Orders:
"One who is consistently raising points of order and insisting upon a strict observance of every rule in a peaceable assembly in which most of the members are [unfamiliar with] these rules and customs, makes himself a nuisance, hinders business, and prejudices people against parliamentary law," he read.
The room erupted in cheers and applause.
Another meeting on the proposed charter amendment is set for 7 p.m. April 1.
Street improvements: Layshock put his tie-breaking vote to use Monday by voting not to retain bond attorneys for financing about $300,000 in streetscape improvements. The issue is part of a $2.5 million "cityscape" project that's been wallowing in council debate for two years.
Council rejected an ordinance that would have hired a law firm to represent the city in negotiations with the police union. That responsibility now falls to Robert C. Eberhart, city manager.
Negotiations involve three separate units in the police union. The firm would have been paid an hourly rate of $105 per hour, not to exceed $15,000.
Council approved legislation prohibiting unlicensed vehicles from being parked or stored outside on private property for more than 30 days.
Members also agreed to put $27,000 toward equipment for a community skate park.