Franklin County judge recuses herself from Columbus bus terminal hearing

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — Environmental Court Judge Stephanie Mingo has recused herself from the hearing surrounding the Greyhound Barons Bus Terminal, court officials said on Monday.

Mingo had previously told the plaintiffs and defense that an elected official, later confirmed to be Columbus mayor Andrew Ginther, had contacted her to pressure her to shut down the terminal.

Court documents said the conversation had taken place on October 11, and Mingo named Ginther as the source of the call on November 21.

Judge Mingo's recusal order stated her decision was based on the court having personal knowledge of a fact in dispute in the case.

ALSO |'Absolute madness,' Neighbors call on city leaders to shut down Hilltop bus terminal immediately

The hearing is now in recess, and a visiting judge will be assigned by the Ohio Supreme Court.

The Columbus City Attorney's Office said it was not aware of the mayor's actions until notified by the court. No crime was committed, the city attorney said, and there is nothing to investigate.

The city attorney also noted that a citizen filed an ethics complaint with the city’s Chief Ethics Officer, which will addressed by that impartial officer.

As for the judge's recusal, Zach Klein said in a statement:

"We have the utmost respect for all of our judges, but are not going to offer any comment while another judge is being appointed in this case. At that time, we will continue to present a strong case to the Court to shut down the Wilson Road Greyhound terminal and move it to a more appropriate location that’s safe, secure and accessible. I remain committed to abating this nuisance as quickly as possible to protect the families living in the neighborhood.”