Franklin Township Trustees
Date: 10/13/2026
Format: In-person
Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
A Merrill Road resident shared concerns from some Twin Lakes area residents about the increased number of deer and asked whether the township trustees have considered any intervention. Mr. Swan responded that the Portage Park District allowed extra hunting permits this year to address the problem, but he also explained that residents would likely push back if the trustees took action to eradicate deer in the township.
A Walnut Road resident updated trustees regarding the implementation of disc golf at Chase and Phillips Parks. He placed markers in each park where he would like the course baskets. The trustees asked him to provide a map to each trustee and the road superintendent; he said he would be happy to do so. He also asked whether red, white, and blue would be acceptable for the baskets, and the trustees replied in the affirmative. There will be three locations at the two parks mentioned above and a plan for a course at Brady Lake Park next year.
ROAD AND ZONING REPORTS
Mr. Swan moved to hire Matthew Reger as a road crew employee at a pay rate in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement between the Teamsters and the Township. All three trustees voted yes.
Mr. Ciccozzi reported that at last evening’s BZA hearing, both variance applications under discussion were approved.
OLD BUSINESS
After researching lake water maintenance options for Brady Lake, Mrs. Kapusta presented a proposed fishing agreement drafted by the Fisheries Management Supervisor for the Ohio Division of Wildlife, District Three. If approved, this agreement would give ODNR jurisdiction to oversee and enforce water regulations and guidelines. The agreement would include no fees, would not take away owning municipality rights or control, and would not alter private landowner/property rights. The trustees will consider the proposed contract and invite the supervisor to attend a public meeting to explain what the agreement would encompass and how it would impact residents.
The group discussed residents’ requests to be notified about upcoming paving operations, since road maintenance can interrupt landscaping or other contracted property services. The group decided the website will include basic road maintenance plans for the season by street name or area, with a suggestion that residents call the office for information about specific plans.
The group continued discussing security camera installation at parks since the originals were removed due to performance failure. Additional electrical work will be needed at Chase and Phillips parks; Mr. Akerley will provide quotes for the proposed work.
NEW BUSINESS
The township trick-or-treat was set to mirror the city of Kent from 4-6 pm on the 25th. All three trustees voted yes.
The following meetings will be canceled because they fall close to Thanksgiving and Christmas: November 24th and December 22nd, by a vote of all three trustees.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mr. Russell reported that he spoke with the Edmund Drive resident about signage indicating where the township has authority to plow or improve roads at the ends of her property line.
FINANCES
All three trustees approved payment of bills totaling $74,620.47.
Trustees Present: Kellie Kapusta, Glenn Russell, Scott Swan
Public Notice: Yes
Agenda: Yes
Minutes: Yes
Observer: Anne Reid