BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The Bucyrus City Council is facing challenges as several elected officials have been absent from their duties, leading to a slowdown in city business. To add to the stress on the city’s budget, the city continues to pay Law Director Brian Gernert as he seeks treatment following his most recent arrest on suspicion of OVI. Gernert was arrested on August 10 in Tiffin and checked into a treatment facility immediately following the charges.
In an effort to address the issue, an interim law director has been appointed to handle administrative matters. However, this has resulted in the city having to rely on the prosecutor’s office to handle legal cases on its behalf.
Interim Law Director Brandon Gobrecht is billing the city $100.00 an hour for his services. The prosecutor’s office is billing the city $100 per day (not to exceed $3,000 per month).
Despite his absence, Gernert continues to receive full pay, benefits, and retirement from the city. His bi-weekly pay before deductions amounts to $3,956.38.
Crawford County Now reached out to Mayor Bruce Truka and Council Clerk Miranda Wise for updates on Gernert’s status with the city, particularly inquiring about access to information stored in Gernert’s computer related to pending legislation. However, no updates or communication have been provided by the city.
Gernert appeared for a pretrial in Tiffin on Thursday, where he waived his right to a speedy trial and was fitted for a SCRAM bracelet. His next pretrial is scheduled for October 18, 2024, at 9AM in Tiffin.
Crawford County Now will continue to follow this story as it develops.