BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—A residency challenge has been formally submitted to the Crawford County Board of Elections, questioning the residency status of Bucyrus Law Director Brandon Gobrecht. The challenge, initiated by Bucyrus City Council President Kurt Fankhauser, alleges that Gobrecht does not reside at the address registered with the Board of Elections, but instead at the residence of another elected city official.
Fankhauser has presented utility records from the Bucyrus Water Department, indicating that water service to Gobrecht’s listed residence has been voluntarily disconnected. The records show that Gobrecht is currently only being billed for stormwater and stormwater separation services.
In response to the challenge, the Crawford County Board of Elections has scheduled a hearing for June 16 at 9 a.m. in the courthouse’s lower level, as mandated by law.
In a statement provided to Crawford County Now, Gobrecht addressed the residency allegations, stating, “Of course my water is shut off. I am renovating the downstairs, and the water had to be shut off to move some lines and break up concrete. While I’m at it, I am also making adjustments to the upstairs, which is the part I actively live in. I don’t believe that renovating your domicile requires you to change your address. It should be noted that my house does not have a separate shut-off for the upstairs and downstairs. I received a quote of over $6,000 to make this happen.”
During the upcoming hearing, the Crawford County Board of Elections can issue subpoenas to witnesses, who will testify under oath. All parties involved have the right to appear, testify, present witnesses, and have legal representation.
It’s worth noting that Fankhauser himself recently faced a residency challenge from a Bucyrus resident. That proceeding was rendered unnecessary after Fankhauser updated his voter registration form to accurately reflect his current residential address.