CUYAHOGA FALLS: Ward 5 will be up for grabs following councilwoman Diana Colavecchio's appointment to fill Lisa Zeno Carano's unexpired term as Stow Municipal Court Clerk.
Colavecchio won't take over the position until the appointment is certified by the Ohio Secretary of State's office, she is bonded and she resigns from her council seat.
She has already submitted a letter of resignation, and it will be come effective the day she receives confirmation from the Secretary of State.
“It could be Friday or it could be Monday,” Colavecchio said.
Megan Moreland, executive director of the Summit County Democratic Party, said the new council member will be chosen by Democratic precinct committee members in Ward 5.
There is no word yet on when or how to apply.
According to the Cuyahoga Falls charter, the Democrats have 30 days from the date the seat is vacated to choose a replacement.
On the outside chance that doesn't happen, the 10 remaining council members -- five Democrats and five Republicans -- will have 30 days to choose their new colleague.
And if they can't make a decision, the choice would be up to Mayor Don Robart.
Colavecchio and whoever is appointed to the council seat will have to campaign this year to keep their elected offices.
There could be two Colavecchio candidates on the November ballot.
There is speculation among those in Falls political circles that Colavecchio's husband, Paul Colavecchio, will replace her on City Council.
Diana Colavecchio would not confirm the rumors.
"I hope Paul will apply," she said.
