Thursday, December 09, 1999
Quoted words turn township meeting ugly
Outgoing clerk: Remarks 'unfair'
BY KEVIN ALDRIDGE
The Cincinnati Enquirer
DEERFIELD TWP. — What began as a routine request by the township's clerk-elect erupted into a finger-pointing shouting match.
Township Clerk Ben Dotson angrily charged that his successor-to-be, Kristin Spiekerman, recently made unfair statements about his job performance.
In a Dec. 3 Enquirer story, Mrs. Spiekerman said “improving the business efficiency of the clerk's office” will be her top priority when she takes office April 1 and that “financial statements and documents need to be accessible to both the public and township officials at a moment's notice.”
“When have I ever not provided documents on time to trustees or residents?” challenged Mr. Dotson at Tuesday night's meeting.
“I agree,” interrupted Trustee Bill Morand. “I thought those were some very unfair statements made in the paper about Ben.”
Mrs. Spiekerman, who had taken the floor to request training expenses, told trustees her comments had not been meant to belittle Mr. Dotson's job performance.
But she added that she had experienced delays in getting financial information from the township.
All she wants to do, she said, is make a smooth transition into the clerk's office and get some support from the trustees.
Mrs. Spiekerman said that if anyone has been treated unfairly during the past few weeks it has been her, not Mr. Dotson.
“Who up there (on the board) has congratulated me or welcomed me since winning the election?” Mrs. Spiekerman said.
“I didn't know that was a requirement,” replied Trustee Larry Backus.
“It's common courtesy,” she countered.
“Was it common courtesy when I was ... accused of burning (campaign) signs and trying to destroy the township?” Mr. Morand fired back.
Former township trustee Joe Mettey, who managed Mrs. Spiekerman's campaign, jumped in:
“Suck it up, guys — the election's over,” he said. “She won.
“It's time to put this other stuff aside and get on with doing the business of the township.
“This lady came up here in good faith tonight to ask you guys to work with her and this is how she's treated,” Mr. Mettey continued. “Why don't you guys give her a chance?”
“Kristin, you'll have every opportunity to be the best clerk this township has ever had,” Mr. Morand said.
“Well, quit slamming me then,” she said angrily.
“Well, I don't think we are doing the business of the township by arguing this right now,” Mr. Backus said. “Let's move on.”
Later, trustees offered an apology to Mrs. Spiekerman for any hard feelings.
“I'm sorry, Kristin,” Mr. Morand said. “Congratulations is due to you, and you are welcome.”
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