DEAR EDITOR:

The conviction of former Vienna fiscal officer Linda McCullough represents a significant step forward in the healing process of our community. The conviction represents a real consequence for those who try to rip off taxpayers. While we’re not the first township to experience something like this, hopefully we will be one of the last.

Several people deserve a “thank you” for the work put in to secure this conviction. So, to Trumbull County Prosecutor Dennis Watkins, Assistant Prosecutor Chuck Morrow, Judge Cynthia Rice, Auditor of State Keith Faber and staff members Angie DeNunzio, Tisha Turner, Rick Kridler, and Cara Yoder, and to the various faces behind the curtain who worked tirelessly to protect taxpayer dollars, thank you for your work.

As one of your trustees and fiscal officer, we are working every day, in front of you and behind closed doors, to get our township back on track. The road to recovery is not easy, nor will it always be fun, but it will make us stronger than ever before, with communication and safeguards that the township needs.

To the Cafaro Foundation, Starr Manufacturing, the Vienna VFW, Willie’s Auto, HF Everett, and the various other businesses and foundations that have worked so hard to support and assist with our recovery, thank you. Your kindness and care for our community is appreciated more than these words can express.

To the residents of Vienna Township, know that we will continue working every day to be accountable to you, transparent, and honest with your taxpayer dollars. As a reminder, we are always able to be reached via phone or email. For contact information, make sure to visit viennatownship.com.

MICHAEL HADDLE

Township trustee

JASON MINER

Fiscal officer

Vienna