Joe Lupo raises some interesting questions concerning the appointment of more than one STRS Board member

From Joe Lupo

May 20, 2023

FirstEnergy, DeWine's Election Interference In Attempting To Remove Wade Steen Has Put Life Back Into Present And Previous Concerns Regarding Other Appointees

We all have pretty much figured out that Bill Neville lobbied either directly or indirectly for his friend Claudia Herrington's appointment to the STRS Board in 2020. She is appointed by the Ohio Speaker of the House and Senate President. She was appointed by individuals no longer in those leadership positions. As a point of information, two legislators have stated that she can't be removed during the term of her appointment and replaced. I mention this only because it directly conflicts with DeWine's statement that appointees serve at the pleasure of the governor. Clearly, somebody is confused.

A question that remains unanswered is, was the appointment of Alison Lanza Falls by the Ohio State Treasurer also a result of Neville and/or the STRS outside lobbyist exerting their influence/pressure for her appointment? This issue has raised concerns of many members that feel her performance and her voting record, much like Claudia Herrington's, is because of an obvious allegiance to Bill Neville.

That brings us to DeWine's illegitimate appointment of Brent Bishop, now known as "The $100,000.00 Man". We have a very good idea on why and how he was able to sit at the Board table last Thursday. Because we as members have had only one opportunity to witness his performance. Any judgement regarding Bishop would be premature. A verdict will be held in abeyance until a later date based on the legal challenge to this Board-appointed seat.