Struthers to pick treasurer by secret ballot

By William K. Alcorn

There are at least three candidates for the city treasurer’s job.

STRUTHERS — City Democratic Precinct committeemen, of which there are a potential 15, are scheduled to select by secret ballot a new treasurer at a July 17 meeting at City Hall that begins at 5:30 p.m.

There are at least three candidates for the position of city treasurer, which became vacant when Constance Shaffer resigned, effective July 1.

Lisa Antonini, Mahoning County treasurer and chairwoman of the Mahoning Democratic Party, said Mark A. Sandine, Matthew Rhoads and William Minchin have expressed interest in the office.

Antonini said Thomas Sweder, former city treasurer and president of the Ohio Association of Public Treasurers, whom Mayor Terry Stocker appointed interim treasurer, asked to not be considered for the job on a permanent basis.

Sandine, former 2nd Ward councilman, said he enjoyed his time on council and believes he has the experience and knowledge to do a good job as treasurer.

“I understand how the city works and I know I can be a good steward of city funds,” he said.

Rhoads, former member of the Struthers Board of Education, has been an accountant for 30 years. He sees the treasurer’s position as an opportunity to continue his tradition of community involvement, which includes being treasurer of the Struthers Baseball League and former treasurer of the Mahoning County Habitat for Humanity.

“It’s a position of straight accounting. I just fit. I can help,” he said.

Minchin, owner of Minchin Carpet in Struthers for 35 years, ran against Shaffer in 2005. He graduated from Youngstown State University with a degree in computer technology and handles all the finances associated with his business.

Shaffer, in her letter of resignation, dated June 3, said cited “additional personal and professional challenges and responsibilities” as reasons for leaving. She is executive director of the Youngstown YWCA. She has volunteered her services to help the new appointee transition into the job.

alcorn@vindy.com