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Parkside council moves to appoint new leader after theft charges
Parkside Borough Council President Dominic Capobianco has resigned after being charged with stealing from taxpayers, prompting a special council meeting to address the matter and appoint a new president.
PARKSIDE, Pa. - Parkside Borough Council President Dominic Capobianco is facing charges for allegedly using a borough credit card to buy gas for personal use, leading to his resignation and the appointment of a new council president.
Special meeting draws residents and swift council action
What we know:
Capobianco is accused of misusing the borough credit card while serving as code enforcement officer, according to the Delaware County District Attorney. Investigators say video evidence shows Capobianco filling up his personal vehicle, his wife’s car and gas cans at a Brookhaven Wawa using the borough-issued card.
Council announced that Capobianco submitted a letter of resignation. Members quickly accepted his resignation and voted to appoint Douglas Bull as the new council president.
Residents packed the meeting, voicing frustration and disappointment. "I'm sure a lot of us could use a free tank of gas, but we wouldn't steal from our neighbors to buy it," said Anna Guy, a Parkside resident.
Council response and new leadership
The backstory:
Council members said they were not surprised by the allegations, with some residents expressing that concerns about Capobianco’s conduct had been raised before.
"Everybody knew this was coming down the pile. To act like we were shocked and shaken when he was unethical two years ago and continues to be so after you give him the keys to the kingdom. I'm sorry that's beyond naive," said Judy Saunders, a Parkside resident.
Council says it has put new checks and balances in place to prevent future misuse of borough funds. "These allegations, if proven true represent serious violations of the public trust," said John Wills, Parkside Borough solicitor.
Douglas Bull, the newly appointed council president, said, "I look forward to doing it with the integrity the office provides."
Residents said they are ready to move forward but expect better from their elected officials. "I expect you to do better," said Saunders.
What we don't know:
It is not yet clear if there are additional allegations or if further charges could be filed.
The Delaware County District Attorney is encouraging anyone with more information to contact its detectives.
The Source: Information from the Delaware County District Attorney and FOX 29 reporting.