BCan you believe that the year is half over plus, already? The MRTA Board Meeting was held on July 29, 2026, at the boardman Library. We discussed the following topics:
Diana Vrabel talked about how hard it was to get information about current retirees from the school districts. They tell her that they cannot release that information. Phil Butto told her it was public information, and available via board minutes on district websites, or through a formal public records request. Diana said she would investigate.
Debra Mettee provided the financial report. The 50/50 is helping to offset the cost of the lunches, but t is not enough to cover what we pay ($18) as opposed to what we are charged ($20). We are okay for now, but don't know if Drakes Landing will raise prices again next January.
In our Community Service report, Kim Pontuti said the September meeting contributions will go to the YWCA Young Women with Bright Futures Program. The November meeting will benefit the Canfield VFW Women's Auxiliary, and the December donations will go to the Salvation Army. Kim also reported that MRTA members logged 3,276 hours of community service volunteer work from January through June.
June Logan next presented the Legislative report. Attorneys for Wade Steen and Dr. Rudy Fichtenbaum filed an appeal with the Court of Appeals on July 22, 2026. The hope is that the unfavorable decision rendered by the lower court will be overturned on the appeal.
Regarding the MRTA Scholarship, the Executive Board voted to have the scholarship application be included on YSU 's Scholarship Web Page, and the YSU Foundation will handle vetting applicants and selecting winners.
Phil Butto is working on getting speakers for the fall meetings. We already have Dr robin Rayfield coming in December, as well as an ORTA Board member. The Boardman Jazz Band will entertain.
Darlene Fusco continues rehabilitation following the car accident she was in earlier this year. Cards can be sent to Darlene Fusco c/o Hunter Oliva, 547 Squirrel Hill, Boardman, OH 44512.