No Investigation Into Councilman’s Residency

There will not be an investigation into Hancock Councilman Ted Belej’s residency at this time.

Fellow Councilman John Haeussler questioned whether Belej actually lived in the city at their regular meeting last week.

Haeussler contends that Belej should not be allowed to continue serving on the city council if he is not a resident.

The opinion from the city’s attorney was considered when the council took up the issue once again at their special meeting Wednesday.

There was some discussion on the definition of the term “resident”, which is not clearly defined in the city’s charter.

Belej’s legal and voting address is 100 Forest Street and he says that is his primary residence, though he admits to living at least part time at his wife’s house in Atlantic Mine.

The Atlantic Mine house is currently up for sale. Belej’s mother is living in the Hancock home.

Haeussler argued that “resident” means spending at least 50 percent of the nights at a location, which he does not believe Belej does in Hancock.

The discussion became heated at times with Belej finally demanding Haeussler “put up or shut up” by making a motion.

Haeussler’s motion calling for an investigation into Belej’s residency was defeated soundly 5-1, with Belej abstaining and only Haeussler voting in favor.

Councilman Paul LaBine supported the motion but voted against it as well.

The final word on the matter was spoken by Haeussler to Belej, saying “Welcome back to Hancock.”