Mentor council adopts resolution condemning Councilperson Scott J. Marne and calls for resignation; vote 5–1 with one abstention

Mentor City Council voted March 4, 2025 to adopt Resolution 25‑R‑103 condemning Councilperson Scott J. Marne for conduct described in the resolution and requesting that he resign. The resolution cites two incidents on Sept. 7, 2024: attendance at an unsanctioned event the resolution identified as a "pimps and hoes party" at the city‑owned Mentor Marina, and a later tavern incident that resulted in a felonious‑assault criminal case in which councilperson Marne was a victim. The resolution states councilperson Marne’s conduct raised questions about his judgment and fitness for office and calls on him to resign; it also directs the city manager to review policies and regulations to prevent unsanctioned events on city property.

The resolution’s preamble notes the council relied on publicly disclosed information and specifically references the oath of office found in the city charter (cited in the resolution as Charter §8.05). The resolution states that while courts adjudicate criminal matters, the council is addressing conduct it considers inconsistent with the public trust. The resolution also references open‑meeting and statutory considerations in its final sections.

Several members of the public spoke during the hearing on the resolution. Haley Holben told council she believes councilperson Marne "thrives off the power" of his office and urged his removal. Jean King, a former police officer and registered nurse, described a pattern of alleged misconduct and urged decisive council action. Other speakers raised related concerns about harassment and racial language. Portions of the publicly reported criminal case were withheld at the meeting to protect victim rights, but the resolution quotes public statements and media reports describing the events.

During debate, Law Director Zeman told council the resolution is not itself a binding removal order. He explained the charter’s removal process requires filing charges, service of those charges at least 15 days in advance, a hearing where evidence is taken, and that the council member charged may present counsel and witnesses; final removal, under the charter, would require a specified council vote after that process. Council President Blake led the reading of the resolution on the floor. Councilperson Marne addressed the chamber and denied violating the charter; he apologized for a specific phrase he said during the incident, stating it "was the wrong thing to say," but refused to resign and said he would continue serving.

A roll call recorded five yes votes, one no vote and one abstention, and the resolution passed. The resolution directs the city manager to report back to council on policies and recommendations to prevent unsanctioned events on public property.