DUBOIS – DuBois City Council on Monday night voted, 3-2, to terminate the employment of suspended City Manager John “Herm” Suplizio.
Voting in favor were new council members Jennifer Jackson and Elliot Gelfand with Mayor Pat Reasinger. Council members Jim Aughenbaugh and Shane Dietz opposed.
This concludes Suplizio’s termination process, which council initiated on March 11. At that time, he was afforded 30 days to request a public hearing before council.
But, neither Suplizio nor his legal counsel requested a hearing, Interim City Solicitor Thomas Breth advised council on Monday night, meaning council was now able to take official action.
Gelfand said while the “wheels of justice” can turn slowly, it was time for the city to move forward with its new City Manager, Shawn Arbaugh.
On Nov. 16, Suplizio, 63, was indicted by a federal grand jury on five counts of conspiracy and federal program fraud, along with Roberta Shaffer, 58, a now former city employee.
Council also voted, 3-2, to terminate the employment of Police Chief Blaine Clark. Voting in favor were new council members, Jackson and Gelfand, with Reasinger. Aughenbaugh and Dietz opposed.
Breth reported that Clark was placed on paid administrative leave on Feb. 16 following the city’s receipt of a complaint against Clark. Breth then “attempted” an investigation.
But, Breth said Clark declined response through his legal counsel, William A. Shaw Jr. He did interview other city employees concerning the matter. For legal reasons, no further information could be given.