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Falls OKs Lynch’s $113K severance

Recalled councilwoman takes part in 5-0 vote to accept manager’s resignation

NEWTON FALLS — Village council by a 5-0 vote at a special meeting Thursday accepted the resignation of village Manager David Lynch, effective Aug. 8.

The unanimous council vote, which has been a rarity in recent months, also included a stipulation that Lynch will receive a $113,000 severance payment as well as $23,848 in accrued sick leave and vacation time. Lynch has served more than three years in the position.

Council met in executive session for 90 minutes on Lynch’s contract before returning for the vote on his resignation based on a revised agreement.

Attorney Gil Blair and village Law Director Joseph Fritz met in executive session along with Mayor Ken Kline and the five council members.

Kline and Lynch said a joint statement will be released today explaining more of the decision and what was agreed upon by both sides.

Second Ward Councilman John Baryak said council wants to do what is best for the residents of Newton Falls.

“In order to move forward, we have come to a mutual agreement which will be the best for us to move forward. With Mr. Lynch’s resignation, we will start to move forward,” he said.

All five council members attended the meeting, including Fourth Ward Councilwoman Sandra Breymaier, who on Tuesday was recalled in a 110-12 vote from residents in her ward.

The recall goes into effect after the Trumbull County Board of Elections certifies the vote.

Council on July 19 voted 3-1 to terminate Lynch’s contract, but Fritz stated the matter did not pass since a super majority of council was needed because the motion was placed as an emergency on the agenda.

After the vote, residents had different opinions with some supporting the decision and others against.

Resident Catie Karl said she was saddened to see Lynch’s resignation accepted.

“He has done a lot for our community. I hope there is a plan in place for this council to work for a better tomorrow for our community,” she said.

Resident David Hanson said Lynch “did more in three years, including in the middle of a pandemic,than anyone has gotten done in 40 years.”

Hanson said after Lynch leaves, he wonders if council will try to get rid of other officials.

Resident Brenda Persino said while she and Lynch may not have always agreed on issues, she said she is sorry to see him leave.

“I am sorry to hear this and sorry to see you go,” Persino said.

Resident Julie Lemon said if council plans to get another village manager to strongly consider selecting someone from the community.

Kline said according to the charter, a village manager must be hired.

Councilman-at-Large Brian Kropp said council will focus on working together as a whole to make changes for the betterment of the community.

“We will all work hard together to make changes,” he said.

Kline said a transition period will occur after Lynch leaves, likely with a temporary village manager.

He said a committee will be formed for the process of filling the village manager position.

Also, Kline announced they were removing from the agenda a motion regarding police Chief Gene Fixler’s contract and possible termination.

This decision prompted applause from many of the more than 50 people at the meeting, including several police officers and police department employees.

“Council felt afterwards that the item did not need to be addressed due to the circumstances at the time,” Kline said.

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