THE BELMONT County Democrat Central Committee met Monday at Undo's in St. Clairsville and the situation facing Commissioner Matt Coffland was not on the agenda.
The membership did not discuss Coffland's recent arrest for an alleged assault on a liquor control officer and disorderly conduct while attending last week's Jamboree In The Hills. He was not called upon to step down as commissioner or withdraw from his bid for re-election.
"I am still the candidate," Coffland said.
Democrat Party Chairman Gordie Longshaw said as long as Coffland isn't charged with a felony, he can continue to hold office as a commissioner.
The majority of the meeting was to discuss fund-raising efforts for the upcoming election.
On Sunday, Sept., 9, from 1-5 p.m., the Democrats will hold a picnic at the Polish Club in Fairpoint. The annual Jefferson-Jackson Dinner has been scheduled for Oct. 4 at Undo's West in St. Clairsville. Committee members were urged to purchase tickets for both events and to take out an ad in the program for the annual dinner.
Belmont County Auditor Andy Sutak, who also serves as treasurer for the Democrat party, told members there is $11,646 in the account.
Another candidate has thrown his hat into the ring to seek the Belmont County Western Division Court judgeship being vacated by Judge Harry W. White.
Attorney Todd Kildow said he will seek the seat in November. He reminded committee members if he is elected he will have to step down as a member. He said it won't be easy since a member of his family has been on the committee since 1946 and he has been a member since 1996.
Also addressing the members was Mark Hanni, Democrat nominee for the 7th District Court of Appeals judgeship.
Longshaw said he spoke with Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) who is seeking re-election. He said that Brown needs to raise $250,000 a week to be competitive in his bid for re-election. A fund-raiser will be held from noon to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 18, at the Spradling residence on Winding Hill Road in Bellaire. Those interested in attending should call Ed Good for more information at (740) 312-8411.
The Democrats will host a 51st birthday party for President Barack Obama at 6 p.m. on Saturday, at the West Texas Roadhouse in St. Clairsville. Cake will be provided, but those attending must pay for their own dinner.
