On December 13, Brookville is set to hold a special election on January 7, during which voters will have the opportunity to decide whether to recall Mayor Chuck Letner and Vice Mayor James Zimmerlin. Early voting has already commenced, allowing residents to cast their ballots at the Montgomery County Board of Elections office until January 5, or at a designated polling location on election day. The sole polling site will be at Golden Gate Park, open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Additionally, absentee ballots, including those for military personnel, are available upon request, ensuring access to the electoral process for all constituents.
The push for the recall stems from dissatisfaction with the current administration, as expressed by the Brookville Citizens for Keep It Rural committee. Formed in October, this political action committee, helmed by Treasurer Jaime Iaquinta, claims that Mayor Letner and Vice Mayor Zimmerlin have lost the trust of the community due to their perceived dismissive attitudes toward resident inquiries during council meetings. The committee points to increasing development concerns within Brookville—an area with a population of just under 6,000—as a catalyst for their actions. Iaquinta emphasized the urgency of sending a message that leadership accountability is paramount in order to prioritize residents’ issues and enhance community respect.
In response to the recall efforts, both Letner and Zimmerlin have refuted the claims made against them, describing accusations of disrespect as “totally false.” They contend that development is essential for maintaining the financial stability of the city, which has faced challenges in the past, such as the rejection of various tax levies by voters. Vice Mayor Zimmerlin highlighted the necessity of new commercial and residential projects for sustaining the municipality and supporting local businesses without burdening residents with higher taxes.
The financial implications of the upcoming special election were addressed by City Manager Jack Kuntz, who indicated that it would cost the city approximately $16,000. If the recall succeeds, the city council would be responsible for appointing successors to Letner and Zimmerlin to complete their unexpired terms, which would run until the end of 2025. Kuntz clarified the electoral implications, noting that Zimmerlin is term-limited and cannot run again, making his position a priority on the ballot for November 2025 alongside the remaining term of Letner.
Despite attempts to legally challenge the recall proceedings, Letner and Zimmerlin’s efforts were largely thwarted. They initially filed appeals with the board of elections and subsequently with the city, both of which were rejected. Kuntz stated that Brookville’s charter does not allow for a protest hearing to be held by the city council. Letner and Zimmerlin then escalated the situation by filing for declaratory judgment against the Board of Elections in Montgomery County, claiming that the recall petitions were illegally circulated by individuals not residing in Brookville.
In court, their request for a temporary restraining order to delay the election was denied by Judge Mary Montgomery, who also indicated her intention to dismiss their complaint, finding it insufficient to establish a valid claim. The situation remains dynamic, as Letner and Zimmerlin’s attorney has until December 20 to supplement their argument to prevent dismissal. The outcome of this legal struggle and the forthcoming election will be pivotal for the future leadership and direction of Brookville.