Muskingum Twp. Trustee Lawsuit

A lawsuit was heard in Muskingum County Common Pleas Court involving the removal of two township trustees. Court officials says visiting Judge James Luse of Fairfield County heard testimony in a lawsuit filed in 2010 by John Benson and Troy Lowe asking for the removal of Muskingum Township trustees Jerry Miller and Steve Fusner for neglecting to perform their official duties. The main issue is the purchase of a fire truck in 2008 as well as some other issues. Benson and Lowe allege the purchase of the truck was illegal since the township was not a member of the State of Ohio Purchasing Program and therefore needed to take part in a competitive bidding process. In testimony Thursday from an official of the Finley Fire Company – where the truck was purchased – it was revealed that it was purchased $17,000 dollars below the state bid price which was a savings to the township. And the state did get its required payment. Judge Ruse asked attorneys for closing arguments to be made writing. No word when he will make a decision in the case.