Franklin Township Trustees
Date of Meeting: 02/24/2026
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
Doug Fuller, representing the Kent Historical Society and Main Street Kent, presented a proposal as part of the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the State of Ohio. A week-long event in July will include a history of music in the city, visits to the Kent Historical Museum and the Kent State Museum, and other activities. The event will also feature tours of landmark buildings, including the Carnegie Library building (1902), the former Congregational Church (now Bell Tower Brewery, 1858), the Unitarian Universalist Church (1860), and the Township Hall, occupied in 1840. Trustees expressed enthusiasm about participating.
Sheri Meacham of the Twin Lakes Association reported that residents are concerned about the property tax elimination petition drive and requested that trustees participate in an upcoming public meeting to explain potential impacts. Mrs. Kapusta indicated the trustees would attend and are also planning their own public meeting.
A North Boulevard resident shared information about recycling flyers received at the Ohio Township Association conference. Mr. Swan suggested adding the information to the township website and sharing it with The Portager. He also noted that the color-coded pickup information is not ADA-compliant and should be updated.
ROAD, ZONING AND FIRE REPORTS
Mr. Akerley reported that road department trucks are operating well and being properly maintained. He is obtaining quotes to replace the 2019 Terrastar truck. The cost to repair the damaged light at the Powdermill Road roundabout is estimated at $16,000, and all three trustees approved the expenditure. Replacement of the Hodgman Road guardrail has begun with support from the county engineer. A new historical sign has been installed at the Township Hall, and roof repairs will begin when the weather permits.
Nine security cameras have been installed in township parks. Once a new light is installed at Brady Lake Park, the final camera will be activated, along with signage notifying the public of camera use. The road crew is also performing cold patching, maintaining equipment and trucks, and handling mailbox repairs and replacements. Mr. Akerley plans to present intergovernmental agreements in the spring to formalize shared service arrangements for township roads.
Mr. Ciccozzi reviewed a mylar request involving property on the north side of Tower Street. A proposed lot split was not recommended because Tower Street is not a dedicated road; instead, a lot combination was approved. He also advised coordination with Portage County Regional Planning to add a link to the township’s comprehensive land use plan on the website and will follow up.
Mr. Ciccozzi attended a planning commission meeting where data centers were discussed. Mr. Russell requested that the Zoning Commission address the issue promptly. The proposed township language has been forwarded to the Portage County Prosecutor for review and is modeled on a current moratorium in Shalersville.
A First Avenue resident raised concerns about vehicles parking in front yards where gravel has been placed. The township will review its code, though residents are generally permitted to establish driveways on their property.
James Armstrong has been introduced as the new Assistant Prosecutor for township matters.
Applications have been received for signage at Eagle’s Green. Mr. Smith noted that street signs have not yet been installed in new development areas, which is necessary for emergency services.
Mr. Smith presented the February fire report and a breakdown of 2025 calls to the Kent Fire Department, noting that the township’s share of calls increased from 12.5% to 16%.
OLD BUSINESS: None
NEW BUSINESS: Repairs at Township Hall were previously discussed.
CORRESPONDENCE
Mrs. Kapusta reported receiving a call from a resident on Ferguson Road complimenting the road crew's work.
FINANCE REPORT
Payment of bills totaling $131,801.16 was approved by a unanimous vote of the trustees.
The following members of the board/council were present: Kellie Kapusta, Glenn Russell, Scott Swan
If any members were absent: None noted
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