Date of Meeting: 8/26/2025
Format: In-person
Meeting Summary:
PUBLIC COMMENT
State representative Heidi Workman addressed the board of trustees and guests about her focus during her term in Columbus. She discussed the issue of property tax reform, specifically universal appraisal practices and the valuation methods used for properties. She stated that part of the problem has been the trend of Wall Street investment companies purchasing real estate, which has become increasingly common in Ohio. She was asked about her position on eliminating property taxes, and answered that her response would be to educate voters on the consequences of such a change. She also responded to a question about the effect of unconstitutional school funding practices on the rise of property taxes, emphasizing that she supports diverting funds from public school funding to school vouchers. The trustees thanked Representative Workman for her time and willingness to address the trustees.
A Brady Lake area resident asked the trustees to consider approaching the four owners of the wooded area on Park Avenue adjacent to the park to extend the park. He also spoke about stormwater drainage relief by installing a new pipe and re-digging the area. Mr. Russell stated that the road department is already looking into the matter and thanked him for sharing his ideas.
OLD BUSINESS
Mr. Russell communicated with a resident who had a concern about tree removal on his property; the tree is within the township right-of-way. He explained to the resident that the prosecutor’s office recommends against the township taking responsibility for removing trees that are not in the road or posing a hazard to motorists.
NEW BUSINESS
A resolution adopting the Solid Waste Management Plan for the county Solid Waste Management District was approved by all three trustees.
The City of Kent has announced that Trick or Treat will take place on Sunday, October 26, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. All three trustees approved a motion to set the same time and date for the township.
FINANCE REPORT
A resolution accepting the amounts and rates as determined by the County Budget Commission, authorizing the necessary tax levies, and certifying them to the County Auditor for the 2026 tax year was approved by all three trustees.
The members of the board/council were present: Kellie Kapusta, Glenn Russell, 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