OTTAWA, Ohio -- Because of Mayor Kenneth Maag's arrest for soliciting a prostitute, Ottawa Village Council voted yesterday to withhold the mayor's pay while he takes a leave of absence.

Mr. Maag, 61, entered a written plea of not guilty Tuesday in Lima Municipal Court to soliciting, a third-degree misdemeanor. He was arrested Monday afternoon by Allen County sheriff's deputies at the Econo Lodge on Neubrecht Road.

Mr. Maag's attorney, Matthew Cunningham, submitted a letter to the village Tuesday that said Mr. Maag, who has been mayor 20 years, was temporarily unable to perform the duties of his office.

"Mr. Maag's leave of absence will continue until Mr. Maag is able to perform the duties as mayor of Ottawa," the letter stated.

Council agreed yesterday to make his leave unpaid. The mayor is paid $15,320 a year. Mr. Maag's term ends Dec. 31.

Council President J. Dean Meyer will be acting mayor as spelled out in the village charter. He read a statement at yesterday's meeting that things would be "business as usual" in the village.

Council member Deb Bauer said she believes the mayor ought to resign.

"Knowing Kenny, I believe he will do the right thing," she said.

Mr. Maag did not attend the meeting.

First Published September 1, 2011, 4:52 a.m.