Date of Meeting: 7/25/2023
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
Portage County Board of Elections representative Denise Smith presented information on the upcoming special election and described the three ways of voting (early at the BOE, absentee, and on election day). She also described the documents needed to vote early or on election day, including an Ohio driver’s license, state of Ohio ID, and military photo ID. She said absentee ballots must be put into the ballot box outside the administration building or brought to the BOE office, but anyone may turn in registration forms.
Ohio Department of Natural Resources representative Deb Green addressed the board regarding the process of implementing regulations for Lake Brady. If the trustees engage the department in this process, she will seek input from Brady Lake area residents about what purpose they’d like the lake to serve and how they want to use it by conducting neighborhood meetings. Possible regulations emerging from the process include motoring uses, boat sizes and types, motor horse-power limits, etc. Local law officials would be responsible for the enforcement of regulations. There was also discussion of establishing a lake association and resources available to help establish one.
Acting Kent Fire Department Chief James Samels introduced himself and assured township residents and the trustees that despite personnel changes, the level and professionalism of services will remain high. He described a grant the city is applying for to supplement the income of first responders, and he asked the trustees to support it. This was voted on and approved by all three trustees.
A Brady Lake resident shared concerns about the structure next door to her home, which has been deemed unfit for habitation by the county building department, the health department, and the Kent Fire Department. Mr. Russell said the state health department has been informed and is working on a solution.
A Twin Lakes resident shared a concern about high grass at a North Blvd. home; trustees and Mr. Ciccozzi will follow up.
ROAD, ZONING AND FIRE UPDATES
Mr. Ackerley reported on several trees that must be taken down since they represent a danger. Trustees suggested getting one or two more quotes for their removal and voted to move ahead with the lowest quote. All three trustees vote yes.
A resolution authorizing a lien and title search for a home on Cherry Lane was approved by all trustees.
Mr. Smith reported that there was a fire at a different address on Cherry Lane, and he will follow up
OLD BUSINESS
All trustees approved a resolution authorizing participation in the ODOT cooperating purchasing program.
Mrs. Kapusta reported that the ST RT 59 project is now in the design phase and that the township’s share of the process is $12,330. All trustees approved this expense.
CORRESPONDENCE
Road department employee Mike DeLeone will retire effective August 31; the trustees are grateful for his service and wish him well.
Mrs. Kapusta was contacted about the non-functioning activator signal located at Powdermill/Rt 59. Mr. Akerley will follow up.
FINANCES
The trustees approved expenditures totaling $122,567.23.
Which 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