MEZZ GOES DOWN IN HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

(11/03/2004)

West Virginians may be getting their fill of school consolidation. Former House Education Chairman Jerry Mezzatesta has been defeated for his Hampshire County house seat, after state education czar Lloyd Jackson lost his bid as a candidate for governor in the primary. Mezzatesta and Jackson have been major shakers for school consolidation. Mezzatesta, a Hampshire County Democrat, is accused of improperly securing money for his employer, the Hampshire County Board of Education. Teacher Ruth Rowan defeated Mezzatesta 54 percent to 46 percent. Mezzatesta has been challenged over a series of alleged violations regarding his role as head of the education committee, including the faking of memos. Speaker Bob Kiss removed him from his long-time role as chairman, but now Mezzatesta will not be returning to Charleston. The delegate had long-time support in Hampshire County because he "brought home the bacon," which locals called "Mezz Money."

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