Party: Let Betras serve on board
YOUNGSTOWN
The Mahoning County Democratic Party’s executive committee is recommending party Chairman David Betras serve on the county board of elections.
Betras was the only candidate seeking the recommendation at a Saturday meeting at party headquarters.
Michael Morley, who’s served on the board since 1996, resigned Friday to allow Betras to take his place. Morley, a former county Democratic Party chairman, said he resigned to give Betras time on the board before the 2012 presidential election.
Betras’ name will be sent to Ohio Secretary of State Jon Husted, a Republican, who gives final approval for all board of elections appointments in the state’s 88 counties.
“While I cannot envision a reason why he would not accept our suggestion, it is solely within his discretion to make the actual appointment,” Betras said. “The secretary of state is the person entrusted with this decision, and I believe Mr. Husted will consider our suggestion.”
Four-member boards of elections in each county in Ohio include two Democrats and two Republicans.
The remainder of Morley’s term runs through February 2012. Betras’ re-appointment to a full four-year term also would have to be confirmed by Husted.
On the Republican side, former county Chairman Clarence Smith, a board member since 1998, wants to be re-appointed when his term expires in February. Husted also would have to confirm that re-appointment.