Date of Meeting: 11/12/2024
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
Detective DeSerio reported 294 calls for service during October, including but not limited to the following: disorderly conduct, hit-skip accidents, assistance to rescue squad and other agencies, larceny/theft, suspicious events, and traffic stops. Trick or Treat in the township was successful; the patrol cars were assigned, and they also gave out candy.
A Lake Brady area resident asked for a status update on a Lakeview Drive house violating several zoning regulations; Mr. Ciccozzi responded that he is waiting on a communication about the matter from Brett Bencze at the prosecutor’s office. Another question related to a traffic study for the new development on Powdermill Rd. Such a study has been completed, and it has determined that the roads adequately handle the expected extra traffic.
Another Lake Brady area resident presented the trustees with a petition signed by residents asking for increased traffic control at Lakeview and Leonard. The petition suggests additional stop signs, speed bumps, or increased patrols. Mr. Russell responded that the county has determined that more stop signs are unnecessary and that speed bumps pose a hazard to motorists and service vehicles. Mr. Swan thanked the resident for gathering signatures and assured him that feedback would come.
ROAD, ZONING AND FIRE REPORTS
Mr. Akerley mentioned that the road crew is replacing old field tiles and collapsed piping throughout the township.
Mr. Smith discussed replacing the emergency warning siren at Phillips Park, which would cost approximately $37,000. A motion was made and approved to use NOPEC grant money to pay for it now and then next year to use similar funds to pay for security lighting at township parks.
OLD BUSINESS
Mrs. Kapusta gave an update on the alleged fish dumping into Lake Brady. ODNR told her that a permit must be issued for such dumping; she informed residents who were alleged to have taken part in such dumping. The residents were happy to receive the information.
Mr. Russell addressed the possibility of standard keys for the sheriff and fire departments at township parks to comply with the required installation of AED devices in parks.
NEW BUSINESS
Jamie Samels, City of Kent Fire Chief, shared information with the trustees about budgeting for the pending replacement of a new hook and ladder truck, at an estimated cost of $2-2.3 million dollars. He has been seeking funds through grant applications and help from the state, and he has also been in communication with the university. He wants residents to be aware of the need for approximately $4 million dollars in replacement costs over the next five years.
A resolution appointing Scott Swan as the Kent/Franklin representative to the JEDD board was approved by all three trustees.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mr. Swan noted a post regarding a broken and raised metal grate on 1st Ave.; Mr. Akerley will follow up.
Mrs. Kapusta has had communication regarding traffic concerns in the Lakeview/Leonard area of Brady Lake.
Mr. Russell received communication about a water runoff issue on Rootstown Rd. We await hearing from the Portage County Engineer’s office about jurisdiction.
Mr. Ciccozzi noted a call from a resident about excess gravel along Spell Rd from chip and seal maintenance this summer.
FINANCE REPORT
Mrs. Russell reported that 67% of the funds appropriated had been spent as of the end of October. Additionally, Mrs. Russell stated that township representatives are very grateful for the passage of the fire replacement with an increased levy that voters passed.
All three trustees approved the payment of bills totaling $282,408.58.
After a suspension of the regular sessions to discuss compensation, the regular session was resumed. All three trustees approved bonuses for four employees.
The members of the board/council were present: Glenn Russell, Kellie Kapusta, and Scott Swan.
Was there a public notice of the meeting that included the time and place of meeting: Yes
Was an agenda of the meeting or handouts available to visitors: Yes
Are minutes from previous meetings posted/available: Yes
https://www.franklintownshipohio.org/minutes
Name of Observer: Anne Reid