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DEAR EDITOR:
Tiffany Stanford became the duly elected city council representative for the 5th Ward of Warren following the Nov. 7 election. When she filed her candidacy, Mrs. Stanford was a certified elector of the 5th Ward, residing at 1561 Francis Ave SE, supported by utility bills indicating 3+ years of service at this address.
While she and her husband purchased a house in Bazetta, the Ohio Revised Code specifies that residency is determined by where a candidate "intends to live." Her voter registration on Election Day was valid and legal; it was only de-certified at a subsequent board of elections hearing. Updating her voter registration after signing her lease in December 2023 would have averted any violation.
Warren City Council lacks the authority to remove an elected council member unless a Council Rule is violated. No such rule exists regarding post-election residency de-certification. Warren City Council has not voted to remove Councilwoman Stanford because they lack the authority to undermine the will of the 5th Ward voters. The electorate determines their representation -- not City Council.
It's worth recalling Warren City Council's previous attempt to remove Councilman Ken MacPherson for an alleged "insult." The law director advised a private executive session, which was illegal, as council members are public servants, and removal discussions must be public. Warren City was sued and admitted illegality. Further violations included allowing the law director and council president to vote, which contravened Ohio Revised Code.
The law director now incorrectly claims that council will decide Councilwoman Stanford's fate. He hasn't charged her with a violation of council rules, delivered written charges nor scheduled a public council meeting for her removal. If he does, legal action will be taken.
The 5th Ward voters have spoken. Tiffany Stanford was chosen as representative on Nov. 7. We shall not be disenfranchised.
JAMES E. WALKER
Warren