The Allen County Sheriff's Office is now investigating a report made by Fort Shawnee's mayor that signatures to put an issue on the ballot to dissolve the village were illegally obtained.
Mayor Pete Mariotti says he first heard about a possible problem with the signatures three weeks ago from a concerned resident, but he says he waited to make a report until more residents came to him about the alleged irregularities.
"The word started spreading as people talk to each other, and before you know it other people are coming forward with knowledge. It was initially hard to believe when they came to me," said Mariotti.
Mariotti wouldn't specify what he believes is wrong with the petitions, but the sheriff's department is now investigating.
Chief Deputy Jim Everett says the investigation is moving quickly, considering early voting begins Tuesday.
"There's some witnesses to talk to, and that's what they're doing right now is talking to the witnesses to see exactly what they've got to say," said Everett.
However, the man who led the petition drive says those collecting signatures were overly cautious during the process.
"We were actually making contact with the board of elections several times," said Craig Bradford, who calls himself a concerned resident.
"We took it seriously."
The Allen County Board of Elections certified the petitions on August 27th, and the issue is already printed on the ballot.
"It will definitely be on the ballot. It will take some sort of court action to invalidate the issue. Either way, it will be on the ballot for the election," said Ken Terry, elections director.
So what happens if the investigation proceeds, and the issue is taken to court?
"If it is ruled invalid then it would be on the ballot, but we wouldn't count the race," said Terry.
That means Fort Shawnee would remain incorporated. However, Mayor Mariotti says this is not a ploy to keep Fort Shawnee intact.
"Ohio revised code dictates the method of obtaining signatures, and we don't think that was followed."
However, Bradford maintains his stance.
"I'm 100 percent confident this is the will of the people. Nothing illegal was done."
