Antonini challenged by Shultz for treasurer

YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County Treasurer Lisa Antonini, who is also the county’s Democratic chairwoman, will face opposition in the March 4 Democratic primary.

John F. Shultz of Boardman, a long-time Democratic precinct committeeman and defense attorney, filed petitions today to challenge Antonini, appointed to the job about nine months ago.

Shultz said he was running because he’s “upset” with how Antonini handles the sale of tax liens to an out-of-state company and her support of the Cafaro Co. in the Oak Hill Renaissance lawsuit.

“The incumbent is nothing more than a lobbyist for the Cafaro family,” said Shultz, who will be running for his first political office outside of Democratic precinct committeeman.

Also, Shultz has been a longtime critic of Antonini as the head of the Democratic Party.

“Obviously, I’m not a fan of Lisa Antonini,” he said. “Her regimes both politically and publicly have been catastrophic and it’s time for a change.”

Antonini of Austintown said she has no problem with Shultz, and the only reason the Boardman attorney is challenging her in the primary is “at the end of the day John Shultz doesn’t like me. This satisfies his urges to get back at me. I have no ill feelings toward him.”

As for tax liens, Antonini said the sale of them has led to numerous people paying their delinquent property taxes and many others establishing a payment plan. She also said she’s “not in bed” with the Cafaros and has stood up for what’s right for the community.

Antonini still plans to temporarily relinquish her responsibilities as party chairwoman to concentrate on her election. A decision on how that will be done will be made next week, she said.

Also, Mahoning Democrats will hold an endorsement meeting later this month, she said.

For the complete story, read Saturday’s Vindicator or vindy.com