City of St. Clairsille, Ohio
City of St. Clairsille, Ohio

Council Information

Council
President		Jim Velas jvelas@stclairsville.com740-695-9552 (H)
740-395-0697 (C)
1St WardDon Vincenzodvincenzo@stclairsville.com740-312-2662(C)
2nd WardJ.C. Thrashjthrash@stclairsville.com740-359-3135(C)
3rd WardKristi Lee Lipscombklipscomb@stclairsville.com740-695-1256 (H)
740-391-1629 (C)
4th WardMike Kaspermkasper@stclairsville.com740-359-4836 (C)
At-LargeLucien Murzynlmurzyn@stclairsville.com740-695-0581 (H)
At-LargeAudrey Brahlerabrahler@stclairsville.com740-827-1807 (C)
At-LargeMike Smithmsmith@stclairsville.com740-695-9331 (H)
740-310-4247
Council
Clerk		Jacob DeBertrandjdebertrand@gmail.com740-359-7761 (C)

St. Clairsville City Council Information

​The City Charter of St. Clairsville, Ohio, serves as the fundamental governing document outlining the city’s structure, powers, and the roles of its officials. Originally approved by voters on November 7, 1978, it has undergone several amendments to adapt to evolving needs. ​American Legal Publishing

Key Aspects of the St. Clairsville City Charter:

  1. Form of Government:
    • St. Clairsville operates under a Council-Mayor system. The Mayor serves as the chief executive officer, overseeing daily operations, while the City Council functions as the legislative body, enacting laws and ordinances. ​
  2. Roles and Responsibilities:
    • Mayor:
      • Elected for a four-year term.
      • Holds veto power over Council decisions.
      • Appoints key administrative officials, including the Director of Finance and Director of Law, subject to Council confirmation.
    • City Council:
      • Consists of a President and seven members.
      • Responsible for legislative functions, including passing ordinances, approving budgets, and confirming mayoral appointments.
      • Meets bi-monthly to discuss and vote on city, not administrative, matters.
  3. Administrative Structure:
    • Director of Public Service/Safety:
      • Appointed by the Mayor with Council confirmation.
      • Oversees city departments related to public service and safety.
      • Involved in budgeting, reporting, administrative, and strategic planning for city projects.
    • Planning and Zoning Administrator:
      • Appointed by the Mayor with Council confirmation.
      • Manages zoning codes, conducts inspections, and liaises with developers.
    • Charter Review Commission:
      • Established to review and recommend amendments to the Charter periodically.
      • Proposed amendments are presented to voters for approval.
    • Operational Procedures:
      • The Charter outlines procedures for introducing and adopting ordinances, emergency measures, and the publication of legislative actions.​
      • It also details the process for filling vacancies in elected positions and the roles of Council officers.