Date of Meeting: 8/13/2024
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
Detective DeSerio addressed the board regarding parking issues around Brady Lake and watercraft without current registrations. He shared July calls for service, some of which include theft, welfare checks, premise checks, shootings, assists to other agencies, and traffic stops, among others, for a total of 316 calls. The township is still firming up a solution to ongoing complaints related to parking along the lake shore, boats parked on township-owned property, and the need for current registrations for all watercraft.
A Germaine Reserve resident asked if roads in the reserve have yet been dedicated under the township's jurisdiction. Mr. Akerley responded that they have been and that a speed limit and no parking sides will be installed after the inspection of underground utility lines.
A resident of West Shore Drive spoke to trustees about heavy stormwater runoff on her property in front of the Clubhouse. Although the road crew hand-dug the ditch to clean out debris, that has not solved the problem. Mr. Akerley will revisit the site to determine what needs to be done.
A representative of the Twin Lakes Assn recommended that a swimming sign that reads: No lifeguard on duty; you are responsible for your safety" be more effective than one that says: Swim at your own risk.
ZONING, ROAD AND FIRE REPORTS
After discussing an above-ground pool complaint on Carl Drive, the trustees suggested that Mr. Ciccozzi follow through with the owner about securing access to the pool. They also discussed how best to address the recreational marijuana issue facing Ohio communities. More research is needed before any guidelines can be established.
Mr. Akerley described a conversation with Mr. Frankhauser regarding a walking path on Lakeview between the lake and Brady Lake Park parking. Mr. Russell stated that he believes the Road Department needs a professional grade level; the trustees agreed that Mr. Akerley should purchase one.
OLD BUSINESS
NOPEC has approved the purchase of a new siren as an authorized grant expense.
Master locks will be installed at all township parks so that law enforcement and fire personnel have access to the parks at night while discouraging illegal activity.
NEW BUSINESS
A soccer coach with Kent Park and Recreation contacted the township about scheduling regular use of the soccer field in Brady Lake Park. The trustees agreed that the field in Phillips Park is a better option and will contact the coach with that suggestion.
The Lake House Kitchen received a liquor permit transfer request. The trustees will not request a hearing since it is a transfer rather than a new classification.
CORRESPONDENCE
The trustees received a letter from township residents praising the road crew’s work on ditching and culverts in their neighborhood. Another resident praised the crew for this month’s brush-chipping work.
A Sixth Avenue resident wrote about several large trees on vacant lots that seem ready to fall; since they are not on township-owned property, the township has no jurisdiction over them.
Mrs. Russell has drafted a letter to the Portager regarding Portage County fire levy information in hopes that a story will be written that addresses the surging costs of fire and emergency protection services.
FINANCES
All three trustees approved a resolution authorizing an increase in appropriations to the General Fund of $15,000 to complete basement repairs and Town Hall renovation. They also approved an additional resolution accepting the amounts and rates determined by the Ohio Budget Commission for the 2025 tax year.
After entering into executive session, a number of resolutions were considered, including salary increases for several employees.
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