Reaction to Mayor McNally's plea deal is mixed

YOUNGSTOWN

Many Mahoning Valley and city leaders breathed a collective sigh of relief upon learning that John A. McNally would remain Youngstown’s mayor, but some called for his resignation and griped about a dysfunctional political system.

Councilwoman Basia Adamczak, D-7th, said she’s been working with McNally for only a short time, but she’s pleased he’s staying in office and will be able to seek re-election.

“We have a lot of positive things going on in the city of Youngstown,” she said. “I’m glad to be able to work under him and that we can continue the momentum we have going.”

McNally pleaded guilty Friday morning to four misdemeanor counts related to the Oakhill Renaissance Place criminal-corruption case. The pleas allow McNally to remain in office. He has agreed to cooperate with prosecutors. The case stems from McNally’s time as a Mahoning County commissioner.

Michael Sciortino, former county auditor, also pleaded guilty Friday to one felony and two misdemeanors in the case.

Both men will be sentenced March 28.

The corruption trial was to start Monday in Cuyahoga County.

Not everyone is so quick to forgive.

Atty. David Betras, Mahoning County Democratic Party chairman, wants McNally to resign.

Read the complete story in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.