Sheffield Lake Finance Director resigns, cites leadership concerns

Corey Rummell resigned as Sheffield Lake Finance Director, citing concerns about the "pace of decline" of the city's administration. In a letter bearing Friday's date, Rummell formally resigned from his post effective June 12, saying that he would remain until that date to ensure a smooth transition to a new finance director. In Sheffield Lake, the finance director is appointed by the mayor subject to the approval of City Council. "This decision reflects my assessment that the current leadership approach and direction of the city do not align with my expectations for effective financial governance, accountability and strategic leadership," Rummell said in the letter. "Additionally, I have growing concerns about the broader operating environment and the pace of decline within the current administration. As a result, I believe it is the right time for me to step away from the role." Rummell, who was sworn in on Oct. 8, 2024, according to the city website, did not provide specific details about his concerns in the letter, and could not be reached for further comment Friday. In a statement shared via text message on Friday afternoon, Sheffield Lake Mayor Rocky Radeff said he was confident in his administration's leadership of the city. "We have a strong administration and have achieved a lot," Radeff said. "We will continue to work hard for the citizens and start the process to identify a person (finance director) who will help us to continue to achieve our goals." "I am proud of the contributions made during my tenure, including strengthening financial processes and supporting initiatives," Rummell said in his letter. "Although there have been many trials and tribulations along the way, I also value the experience gained and certain relationships developed. I will ensure a smooth transition by documenting responsibilities, continuing progress for the ongoing financial audits and supporting continuity within the finance function over my remaining time." Rummell's letter was posted online to the Sheffield/Sheffield Lake Ohio Community Page group on Facebook by resident Barbara Peck. Earlier this month, Peck formed a political action committee seeking to recall Radeff from office due to what she told The Chronicle was a lack of transparency regarding the use of city funds. According to Sheffield Lake's city charter, a recall petition must collect the number of signatures equal to at least 25 percent of the number of voters in the last preceding regular municipal election. If the threshold is met and the petition delivered, Radeff would have five days to resign, or City Council would be tasked to set a recall election within 30 to 45 days of the petition's delivery. Contact Owen MacMillan at (440) 329-7123 or omacmillan@chroniclet.com.