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Transparency and timing questioned after Forest Hills board receives treasurer resignation; search process under review
Summary
Public commenters criticized the process that led to a recent treasurer resignation and urged greater transparency in the searches for a new treasurer and a replacement board member; the board discussed search firms and moved to executive session to consider a public-officer appointment.
Public comment at the Forest Hills Board of Education meeting included criticism of the handling of a recent treasurer resignation and calls for greater transparency in the district’s hiring processes. The board also moved to an executive session under Ohio law to consider appointment of a public official.
Parent Emily Roth said the treasurer’s resignation followed what she called "a subjective and non evidence based evaluation process" and urged the board to use evidence-based evaluations and to reconsider the resignation. Jeff Nye later urged the board to provide "timely transparency" about the simultaneous searches for a board member and a treasurer, including criteria, applicants and interview status.
Board members confirmed that Mrs. Stewart submitted her resignation on March 11 and that the board has 30 days under Ohio law to fill the seat. The board reported it received 29 applicants, narrowed the field to seven, and scheduled interviews (two that night and three on Saturday) so the board can vote within the 30-day window. A board member cautioned that if the board does not appoint someone within 30 days, the probate court will make the appointment.
The board also reported it had a presentation from a search firm called K-12 at a cost under $9,000. Members said they were weighing options, including OSBA and the Hamilton County Education Service Center, and that they want an experienced treasurer given pending funding challenges.
Late in the meeting the board voted to adjourn to executive session "pursuant to Ohio Revised Code section 121.22(g)(1)" for the purpose of considering the appointment of a public employer official. The motion was seconded and the roll-call vote recorded as yes by Mrs. Jonas, Dr. Strickler, Dr. Simmons and Mr. Bibb. The board announced it did not expect to take action immediately after the executive session.
Why it matters: The treasurer position carries budgetary responsibility at a time the district is reviewing five-year forecasts and potential state funding changes. Several public commenters linked transparency and good governance to district stability and cost control.
