Date of Meeting: 5/27/2025
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
The property owner of a fishing lot in Twin Lakes addressed the trustees with a request to allow him to access his parcel, which is landlocked. A paper road, owned by the township, is the land that prevents access. The owner cleared some of the property, which belonged to the township. Several residents expressed concerns about the precedent that such approval would set.
Mr. Russell suggested tabling the issue to await communication from the prosecutor’s office.
Mike Bowerman of Parkside Church, located on Rhodes Road, introduced himself as a new neighbor in the township; he hopes to be able to hold services at the church soon.
A Westshore Drive resident requested an update regarding drainage issues on her property. Mr. Akerley explained that he has some solutions that may help, but emphasized that the township cannot legally perform work on private property.
A resident of Germaine Reserve thanked Mr. Akerley and the road crew for installing no-parking signs in the allotment.
ROAD, ZONING AND FIRE UPDATES
Mr. Akerley submitted a quote from Daniels Fence to close the pickleball courts at Phillips Park. All three trustees voted to approve the amount of $28700.00
There was a discussion of DEI signs in the township. The trustees stated that the signs should be left alone, as they represent a political message, and that the trustees should remain neutral on political issues. Additionally, Mr. Russell requested that Mr. Ciccozzi follow up on a fence on Ravenna Road, which is non-compliant with the zoning code.
Mr. Smith reported that a hazmat spill occurred at Schneller, which was effectively handled. Additionally, Mr. Russell met with an electrician at Brady Lake Park to obtain an estimate for the installation of an AED.
OLD BUSINESS
In the 2025 Memorial Day parade in Kent, Franklin Township was represented with two plow trucks. Thank you to the road crew employees for driving the trucks in the parade.
NEW BUSINESS
A resolution approving the county engineer’s schedule for advertising and bidding on the Hudson Road project was approved in a vote of all three trustees.
FINANCES
All three trustees approved payment of bills totaling $242,126.14.
The members of the board/council were present: Glenn Russell, Kellie Kapusta, 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