MICHAEL PADULA - HOMELESS CANDIDATE

This is a followup to my previous post on the homeless man, Michael Padula, who is attempting to run for Painesville City Council even though he doesn't have a defined legal residence. His petition to be placed on the ballot requires certification by the Lake County Board of Elections which meets next Tuesday (September 9). The incumbent, William Horvath, filed the complaint regarding the residency of Padula.

The way this is projected to play out is Horvath will present his case that, since Padula doesn't have a residence that requires him to pay property taxes either directly or via a rent payment, he isn't a legal resident of Painesville Ward 2 by definition. On the other side, Padula is expected to produce testimony and affidavits from people who have seen him in the ward.

It appears that the determination by the Board of Elections will depend on how liberally they interpret the residency requirements. It's generally recognized that Padula hangs out in the ward, but it's not clear that this will be sufficient for the board.

On a different note, Mike Trivisano, the WTAM Cleveland radio personality, interviewed Mr. Padula today and committed to help with fundraising if the Elections Board rules in his favor. It was also mentioned on the program that Mr. Padula is homeless because he having a streak of bad luck with the downturn in the economy and he has been unable to find work as a carpenter. Padula also stated he doesn't drink or smoke.