Regular Meeting
Regular Meetings
The Perry Township Board of Trustees meets in Regular Meeting format on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 7:00 PM.
The meetings are held at the Township Hall located at
3111 Hilton Street NW
in Massillon. Regular Meetings include reports by Department Heads, the Law Director, and the Township Administrator. The public is welcome to offer comments during the Public Speaks portion of the agenda on township related matters.
Perry Township Board of Trustees
Regular Meeting
May 17, 2016 7:00 pm
Call to Order/ Pledge of Allegiance:
Excused absence: Mark Martin, Fire Chief; Deputy Chief Abbott here in his absence
Additions/Deletions to Agenda:
Trustee Haines stated that he has several additions to add to this evening’s Agenda:
Under Public Hearings/Invited Guests, Trustee Haines stated that he would like to add Keith Nutter from Aqua Ohio.
Trustee Haines indicated that he would like to make a motion to remove, under Road and Park Department: Consider the No Through Truck Resolution. Trustee Haines stated that Road Superintendent Masalko has more information that he needs to gather regarding this matter; Trustee Chessler Seconded the motion that we add those two Agenda items as proposed.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Trustee Haines indicated that he would also like to move the Executive Session earlier into the meeting right after the Public Hearings/Invited Guests.
Consider Opening Paving Bids 7:00 pm
Fiscal Officer Schlegel stated that we have received three (3) bids and further inquired if there was anyone in the audience who would wish to submit a bid. Seeing none, Fiscal Officer Schlegel stated that the bids submitted are:
|
Company |
Total Bid Amount |
|
Central Allied – Bid Bond |
$278,831.70 |
|
Superior Paving – Bid Bond |
$279,284.50 |
|
Northstar Asphalt – Bid Bond |
$269,344.20 |
Trustee Chessler made a motion that the Board acknowledge and accept the bids as submitted and refer them to the Law Director and Road Superintendent for further consideration and recommendation; Seconded by Trustee DeChiara.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Board Recognition of Den Leader ~ Heather Fowler and Pack #912
Trustee Haines asked Den Leader, Heather Fowler and her son and scout member, Hadden Fowler of Cub Scout Pack #912 to please come forward. Trustee Haines stated that the Board would like to present Certificates of Recognition to Den Leader, Heather Fowler and also to Hadden Fowler for their Troop’s service in planting flowers at Perry and Lynch Parks. Upon Trustee Haines request of Hadden to explain what their troop accomplished, Hadden gave a very brief explanation that he and his fellow scouts were working toward scout badges in regard to their planting efforts. Trustee Haines asked Den Leader Fowler if she would please present the additional Certificates of Recognition to the fellow scout members who could not be here this evening. Trustee Haines stated that he wanted to thank Den Leader Fowler and the members of Cub Scout Pack #912 on behalf of the Board adding their appreciation for their efforts in the parks.
Representative from Prats & Hogsette
Adam Reiger, Fire Department employee and President, IAFF Local 3960 introduced Mr. Tyler Wolff, the current representative from the Prats & Hogsette Financial Group and sponsored by the OAPFF regarding different options for the Ohio Deferred Compensation plan.
Mr. Tyler Wolff introduced himself and stated that he appreciated the opportunity to speak this evening. Mr. Wolff stated that he is from Prats & Hogsette from Mansfield, Ohio and gave a brief overview of the differences that separate them from Ohio Deferred Comp.
Law Director Hall verified of Mr. Wolff that there is no cost to the employer; Mr. Wolff indicated that was correct. Mr. Hall also inquired if the employer, through the Fiscal Office, would be expected to do this by wage deduction or does the employee pay directly through the plan. Mr. Wolff indicated that it is through payroll deduction. Fiscal Officer Schlegel verified that deferred comp is through payroll deduction. Law Director Hall inquired if Mr. Schlegel is comfortable with that should it be appropriate; Mr. Schlegel confirmed that he was.
Trustee DeChiara verified that this was a pre-tax deal; Mr. Wolff confirmed that it was adding that it could be pre-tax, post-tax or a combination of both. Trustee DeChiara verified that it would be a 1.65% expense fee for any of the plans. Mr. Wolff indicated that it would be .65 as an administrative fee and record keeping, etc.
Fiscal Officer Schlegel inquired of Mr. Wolff if their fee would come out after we send you the money. Mr. Wolff stated that was correct.
Trustee Chessler inquired of Adam Reiger: does the fact that more than 50% of the participants in this plan are firefighters mean that we are paying our firefighters too much (laughter). Adam replied no and added: we are just looking out for our retirement. Adam also stated that one of the benefits that he has seen with this proposed plan is that currently, Ohio Deferred Comp is only available to full time employees. Through this proposed plan, deferred comp would be made available to all employees, part time as well; and not just for the local; any employee of Perry Township would have access to this plan.
Trustee DeChiara inquired if you could participate in both plans, this plan as well as Ohio Deferred Comp. Mr. Wolff confirmed yes, but added that you just have to make sure that you don’t go over the annual limit of $18,000. Mr. Wolff also indicated that there is no fee or penalty to transfer your money over from Ohio Deferred Comp to the union plan; if you are not happy with this new plan, you can transfer back over without any charges, taxes or fees.
Trustee Haines inquired if Mr. Wolff has already made a presentation to the local union. Mr. Wolff confirmed yes and Adam intervened that the union does support this.
Trustee Chessler inquired if another meeting would be needed for interested non-union participants. Adam stated that he has been distributing the material that Mr. Wolff has given him. Adam stated that we will be setting up several meetings and plan to broadcast this to the entire Township employee staff.
Trustee Chessler verified that this is a rolling application meaning that you don’t have to do it within 30 days; Mr. Wolfe confirmed yes, it can be done at any time.
Trustee Chessler thanked Mr. Wolff and Mr. Wolff expressed his appreciation as well.
Trustee Chessler made a motion that based on the presentation that we have received tonight from Prats & Hogsette Financial Group that the Board of Trustees approve the OAPFF Deferred Compensation Plan for the Township employees; Seconded by Trustee DeChiara.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Public Hearings/Invited Guests:
Trustee Haines introduced Mr. Keith Nutter from Aqua Ohio.
Mr. Keith Nutter, Area Manager for Aqua Ohio stated that he was here this evening to give a brief update regarding a water project done by Aqua Ohio and added that he also had some maps available of the proposed work done on a water running project done in 2016.
Trustee Haines inquired if he could momentarily interrupt Mr. Nutter so as to give Mrs. Myers, Aqua customer here this evening (that sent the original email to Aqua with her concerns) a copy of the water project at hand. Mr. Nutter supplied Mrs. Myers a copy.
Mr. Nutter explained that they (Aqua) have tried to determine which water mains are breaking or which ones that may be undersized and put together a list for replacement purposes. Mr. Nutter indicated that normally they put the pipes in at the same time so that they age at the same time and potentially break at the same time. Mr. Nutter also explained that it helps a little bit for coordination cost-wise for the contractor to be in one area at one time. Mr. Nutter gave a brief summary of the proposed streets for 2016 and 2017 (Roxbury being one of those streets) as well as proposed cost and material information.
Mr. Nutter stated that they (Aqua) work with the Road Department and Road Superintendent Masalko on township paving projects and coordinate which roads are needed to be replaced on the water lines. Mr. Nutter also indicated that the rates that are paid to Aqua go back into replacing water lines; Aqua tries to work closely with every community to do the best that they can.
Mrs. Myers inquired of Mr. Nutter that since this is a very regular occurrence on Roxbury (water pipeline breaks), would Aqua plan to just put another band aid on this area again. Mr. Nutter briefly explained that in regard to the water pipe repair on Roxbury, this is how they do the temporary replacement; approximately seven feet of brand new pipe was replaced in that area, with clamps on either end of the pipe.
Mrs. Myers verified that Aqua would then tear this all back up next year and replace it with all new pipe. Mr. Nutter confirmed yes and added that this is how they remedy these problems in order to maintain service at all times. Mr. Nutter explained that the old pipes have to stay in service until they put in the new pipe, they then transfer all homeowner services over and any restoration is included.
Mr. Nutter also referred to Mrs. Myers’ inquiry regarding the replacement of the asphalt due to the pipe repair on Roxbury and briefly explained that what they use for repair is what they refer to as a cold patch, but would be back possibly by the end of June to add a more permanent asphalt to this area. Mr. Nutter also added that they would, as always, communicate with the township and Road Department in this matter.
A question was posed to Mr. Nutter (inaudible) in regard to surface rolling of the road. Mr. Nutter also gave a brief explanation to this question.
Trustee Chessler inquired of Mr. Nutter what the diameter size was for the service lines. Mr. Nutter briefly explained that the replacement pipes are 6 inches, the new lines are 8 inches. Trustee Chessler inquired when installing the 8 inch pipe, how wide the trench would be. Mr. Nutter stated that normally, it is approximately two feet. Trustee Chessler also inquired if Mr. Nutter found that most of the trenching done is within the existing right-of-way, but asked if this was outside of the pavement or inside the pavement. Mr. Nutter explained that they try to stay outside of the pavement, but added that in regard to some of the new streets to be done in 2016, there is just no space; referring to the right-of-way, roads, storm sewers and gas line specifics.
Trustee DeChiara inquired of Mr. Nutter in regard to the new hydrant locations, will you take the hydrant locations and conditions if needed. Mr. Nutter confirmed yes and added that they normally send a set of plans to the fire department and gave a brief explanation as to what Aqua’s procedure is in that regard.
Mrs. Myers inquired of Mr. Nutter how they can be assured of the water quality from these new pipes. Mr. Nutter gave a brief explanation and added that by standard procedure, they do chlorinate the new pipes that are put in and explained that by flushing the water, this produces fresh water.
The Trustees thanked Mr. Nutter for his time and explanation and also thanked Mr. Nutter for the email that brought this matter to the Board’s attention.
Executive Session(s):
Trustee Haines made a motion that the Board adjourn into Executive Session pursuant to ORC 121.22 (G) (1) concerning compensation to include the Board, Fiscal Officer and Law Director; Seconded by Trustee Chessler.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
The Board adjourned into Executive Session at: 7:27 pm
The Board adjourned from Executive Session at: 7:42 pm
Trustee Chessler stated that based on the Board’s discussion in Executive Session makes a motion in regard to the Board’s opportunity to look at the revised code and our neighboring jurisdictions with regard to unused sick leave; the Board has reviewed with the Law Director different provisions in different places and at this time makes a motion that the Board adopt a modified version of ORC 124.39 (B) and (C) which allows employees with ten (10) or more years of service to be paid cash for up to 25% of their accrued, but not used sick time; that is a provision that the Board would adopt under its home rule and statutory authority; Seconded by Trustee Haines.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Communications:
Public Speaks on items up for Board Approval: None.
Township Business requiring Board Action: None.
Unfinished Business: None.
New Business:
Trustee Haines made a motion to approve bills in the amount of $71,292.86 for the week ending May 10, 2016 and bills and payroll in the amount of $159,102.22 for the week ending May 17, 2016 for a combined total of $230,395.08; Seconded by Trustee DeChiara.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Fiscal Officer:
Administration:
Consider Accepting Meredith Park Shelter Quote
Trustee Haines indicated that this matter is something that has been in the works since 2012.
Administrator Fetzer stated that the Board submitted a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant application for the shelter at Meredith Park on February 1, 2012. Administrator Fetzer stated that due to the state’s fiscal budget uncertainty, the grant was selected and awarded on December 12, 2014, however the proposed amount of funding was not determined at that time. Since that approval date, the project start date had been placed on hold by LWCF.
Mary Fitch, Recreation Services Administrator confirmed in writing on April 28, 2016, that LWSF has authorized $6,500 to the Board of Trustees toward the Meredith Park Shelter. In addition, Perry Rotary donated $5,000 toward the pavilion, if awarded (or other playground equipment if no award) on April 12, 2012. Joe Newsome, President of Perry Youth Soccer, has committed to writing a check in the amount of $5,283.32 which covers the remaining portion of the pavilion costs. The LWCF grant is a reimbursable grant. The state of Ohio has authorized a project start date being June 1, 2016.
Administrator Fetzer indicated that three (3) quotes were obtained for this shelter construction: Riggs Construction, Allen Keith Construction and Ohio Outdoors Structure; Riggs Construction was the most reasonable and complete quote that the Board received. Administrator Fetzer indicated that Riggs Construction has done all the preparation work and will obtain all the needed permits; these matters were not considered in the other quotes submitted. The Land and Conservation Fund Program is a State/Local project agreement and was previously provided to Law Director Hall for his review and approval. Administrator Fetzer indicated that if the Board chooses to accept this, page 3 would require the Board President’s signature. In addition, attached before the Board is a letter from Perry Youth Soccer President, Joe Newsome, confirming their partnership with the Board of Trustees; we have already received Perry Rotary’s donation back in 2012 as well as the proposed structure of the 20 x 30 Meredith Park Shelter.
Trustee Haines verified that the Board will need to make a motion to accept the quote; Administrator Fetzer stated that was correct and indicated that page 3 will accept it for us upon the Board President’s signature for the State of Ohio.
Trustee Chessler made a motion that the Board authorize the Board President to enter into the Land and Water Conservation Fund Program Agreement to accept the Grant Funds; Seconded by Trustee Haines.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Trustee Haines stated that at this time, we have two members from the Perry Youth Soccer Board that we would ask to please come forward, Joe Newsome and Scott Baker. Trustee Haines presented a Certificate of Appreciation for Joe Newsome, Jr. President of the Perry Township Youth Soccer Club in appreciation of the Perry Township Youth Soccer Club’s donation for the Meredith Park Pavilion. Trustee Haines stated that on behalf of the Board thanks them for everything they have done.
Trustee Chessler made a motion that the Board gratefully and graciously accept the donation from the Perry Township Youth Soccer Club in the amount of $5,283.32 for the Meredith Park shelter project; Seconded by Trustee DeChiara.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Consider PUCO Renewal Application for Electric Governmental Aggregators
Administrator Fetzer stated that the Board is in receipt of certification renewal with PUCO as our electric aggregator; this is the renewal application that we submit every two years to them. Administrator Fetzer indicated that the proper documents have been mailed to us, attached before the Board, signature required on Page 3.
Trustee Chessler verified of Law Director Hall that this was a continuation of what we had started several years ago wherein we are an aggregator to solicit quotations for an aggregated price for electric as we do in gas; this continues this status. Law Director Hall confirmed this was correct.
Trustee Chessler made a motion that the Board authorize executing the renewal application for our electric governmental aggregation program; Seconded by Trustee Haines.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Fire Department:
Consider the Disposal of Unsafe/Damaged Fire Hose
Deputy Chief Abbott stated that the Fire Department is requesting that the Board of Trustees authorize the disposal of obsolete/damaged/unfit fire hose that is unable to be used for firefighting purposes. Disposal of hose is acceptable under Ohio Revised Code 505.10 (7) “If the Board of Trustees determines that township personal property is not needed for public use, or is obsolete or unfit for the use for which it was acquired, and that the property has no value, the board may discard or salvage that property.”
The Fire Chief’s memo to the Board, supporting documents attached before the Board, listed the specific hose information determined by the fire department to be unsafe, damaged, unfit or obsolete; also determined to have no resale value.
Trustee Chessler made a motion that pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 505.10 (7), the Board hereby determines that the fire hose is not needed for public use or is obsolete or is unfit for the use and the Board further authorizes that it be donated as the Fire Chief sees fit to wit: to the Myers Lake Boat Club; Seconded by Trustee Haines.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Police Department:
Consider Approval of MOU for Uniform Allowance for Patrol/Detective/Sergeants
Police Chief Pomesky stated that attached before the Board’s review and consideration is a copy of two Memorandum of Understandings for the Patrol Officers/Detectives and Sergeants bargaining agreements. If approved, the MOU’s will adjust the way uniform allowance is currently handled within the department. The remainder of the uniform allowance balance would be paid to the individual employee covered under the bargaining agreement for 2016. In years 2017 and 2018, a separate check would be issued to the employee covered under the bargaining agreement at the beginning of years 2016 and 2017. Chief Pomesky indicated that both MOU’s were sent to the Law Director for review.
Trustee Haines verified of Law Director Hall if this is how we have been doing the Fire Department for the last several contracts. Mr. Hall stated that he would recommend this and confirmed that this is what has been done in the Fire Department for the past several years.
Trustee Chessler stated that in years past, he has been a barrier and an opponent of which there were instances in the past where there have been occurrences that he felt it necessary to provide that kind of oversight and accountability. Trustee Chessler indicated that Chief Pomesky has pointed out that the officers are expected and mandated by policy to come to work in uniform with properly functioning equipment and added that this is a leap of faith to an honor system. Trustee Chessler stated that Chief Pomesky thinks that this is something that the officers can abide and as a show of good faith, added that he is willing to allow this on an individual basis.
Trustee Chessler made a motion that the Board adopt and approve both of these Memorandum of Understandings with regard to the payment of the uniform allowance; Seconded by Trustee DeChiara.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Road and Park Department:
Consider Meredith Park Timbering Extension Change Order
Road Superintendent Masalko stated that back on August 16, 2015, we signed a contract to enter into an agreement for logging to be done by Troyer Lumber, LLC on the back side of Meredith Park. Mr. Masalko indicated that because of the mild winter and lack of deep frost along with the market decline of cherry wood, Mr. Roy Miller of Troyer Lumber would like to extend his contract another year. Mr. Masalko stated that he had indicated to Mr. Miller that he would bring this matter before the Board for recommendation and approval to extend for one year.
Trustee Chessler stated that to revisit this topic, in regard to Mr. Drake, the arborist going through our Perry Park and identifying trees that, in his professional opinion, may pose an imminent risk of branches falling or the tree falling. Trustee Chessler stated that we went through and identified a number of trees in the various parks that were subject to this agreement. Trustee Chessler inquired if this was the same matter. Road Superintendent Masalko indicated that this was a separate agreement.
Trustee Haines stated that this matter began when a resident repeatedly experienced a number of trees fall near her property on the back side of Meredith Park near the woods and railroad tracks. Trustee Haines indicated that they had walked through the woods with a representative from Troyer Lumber to assess this situation. Trustee Haines explained that this will be twofold; thin out some of these woods in addition to giving the Township a little bit of revenue for the wood as well as allowing the woods to prosper.
Trustee DeChiara indicated that his initial concern was to not have the woods disappear, but become healthier.
Trustee Haines indicated that they are planning to take out one hundred and forty-two (142) trees in this area; the trees were marked sporadically throughout the woods. Trustee Chessler verified that there is no harm in this extension. Trustee Haines stated that was correct.
Trustee Haines made a motion that the Board extend the contract with Troyer Lumber, LLC to extend for one (1) year to July 16, 2017 to start and finish the project at Meredith Park with all other terms and conditions of the agreement to remain the same; Seconded by Trustee Chessler.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Law Director: None.
Zoning:
Consider Zoning Inspector’s Letter of Resignation
Trustee Haines stated that we have a letter of resignation from Zoning Inspector Weckbacher stating that he will be retiring from the position of Zoning Inspector for Perry Township; his last day of work will be May 31, 2016. Trustee Haines stated that after almost 15 years with the Township, he will be missed.
Trustee DeChiara stated that the Zoning Inspector (position) is a thankless job at times and added that he appreciates all the work Scott has done and all the effort and dedication he has given us. Zoning Inspector Weckbacher stated his thanks. Fiscal Officer Schlegel added that they don’t come any better than Scott. Law Director Hall stated that he hopes that whomever the Board hires to take Scott’s place, that they have big feet — to fill his shoes.
Trustee Chessler briefly described the individual temperament of past zoning inspectors, adding that Scott has always struck the right balance, always helping people get their projects done which has always reflected well on the Township and the Board; this is the thing that Scott deserves the most gratitude for.
Trustee Haines made a motion that the Board accept the resignation for retirement for Scott Weckbacher, effective May 31, 2016; Seconded by Trustee Chessler, with regret.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Department Matters Not Requiring Board Action:
Administration: None.
Fire Department: None.
Police Department: None.
Road Department: None.
Parks/Recycling: None.
Zoning: None.
Law Director: None.
Upcoming Events:
~Ohio Division of Liquor Control ~ R Snack Pop Store LLC 3050 Lincoln Way E., Perry Twp., Massillon, Ohio – Requesting a new liquor permit # 7151715 ~ Responses must be post marked no later than 06/02/16.
~Operation Flags of Freedom ~ Memorial Day Weekend Hosting free concert on Saturday, May 28th at 6:00 pm featuring Nashville Country Recording Artist Ricky Lee ~ Remote Broadcasting K-105 (12 to 2 pm); Visit www.perrytwp.com for event details.
~Perry Township Fire Department ~ HERO 5K Run-Walk on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30th beginning at 8:30 am. Run for the HERO in your life! Register at www.runsignup.com.
~Perry Township Party in the Park! (formerly Taste of Perry) Saturday, July 9, 2016 – Noon to 8:00 pm at Hartwick Park ~ Enjoy All Day Events and Entertainment – Special Features: Mix 94.1 Remote Broadcasting and the Blues Band—TRIPPER from 5:00 to 7:00 pm. Sponsored by Aqua. Additional event details at www.perrytwp.com.
Public Speaks-Open Forum:
Christian Walton, 2944 12th St. NW, Massillon – stated that he wanted to say thank you for looking into several complaints that he had previously brought to the Board’s attention regarding the drainage problem on 12th Street. Mr. Walton stated that he spoke with the Commissioner’s office and they will finally be getting some progress on that matter sometime in June. Also, he wanted to say thank you in regard to the speed monitoring on 12th Street adding that we are finally seeing some progress on this. Mr. Walton stated that he appreciated all the efforts. Trustee Haines thanked Mr. Walton for his input.
Patrick Gardner – 3853 Georgia St. NW, Massillon – stated that several years back we had a flooding issue that came through; Mr. Gardner stated that Trustee DeChiara came by earlier today to look at his back yard. Mr. Gardner stated that this is a county easement that belongs to Stark County. Mr. Gardner explained that there is a 3 to 4 foot pipe that runs underground in his backyard. Mr. Gardner added that this has been a 12 year battle with the county commissioners, the county engineer and Gary Connor. Mr. Gardner stated that everybody has looked at the issue, but nothing has been done to address it. Mr. Gardner stated that he needs help from the Township to do something with this issue; it’s a safety hazard and it has also caused flooding to his house twice. Mr. Gardner stated that he is up to approximately $23,000 with out-of-pocket expenses because of this flooding; his homeowner’s insurance will not cover outside flooding.
Trustee Chessler inquired of Mr. Gardner if Mr. Connors or anybody from the Commissioner’s office ever proposed a solution or a fix for the problem that is affordable, or any possible solution. Mr. Gardner explained that nobody had ever proposed any solution and had been told there was no funding.
Trustee Haines inquired of Mr. Gardner if it had recently been expressed (that there was no funding), adding that currently there are monies available. Mr. Gardner explained that he gave up the fight three years ago after many years of trying to get some resolve or repairs. Mr. Gardner stated that Scott Ferguson, Gary Connors and Anna Capaldi have all been out, but it has always been the same thing, no funding available. Mr. Gardner explained that downstream near Roxbury Avenue, the ditch was cleared out and rocks were put in and they got rid of the sediment; this helped to a point because it let some of the pressure out of the pipe system. Mr. Gardener stated that the problem is that the pipe was installed in 1976 and it’s corrugated steel pipe that has corroded and rusted. Mr. Gardner explained that one hole is large enough for a man to fall through and the hole that he is contending with right now is a good 18 inches in diameter; not to mention that there are a few fishing holes cropping up through the neighbors’ yards as well as his. Mr. Gardner stated that when it rains, it literally looks like a geyser squirting out of the ground. Mr. Gardner stated that he cannot let his children in the back yard to play for fear they will fall into this pipe.
Trustee Haines relayed that he has worked with Commissioner Regula on several projects in the past acknowledging that there are monies available because of the county sales tax. Trustee Haines stated that he would be happy to reach out to Mr. Regula and County Engineer, Keith Bennett regarding this matter. Trustee Haines explained that Gary Connors is the Hydraulics Engineer who works at the county engineer’s office, but added that he would try to arrange having them meet at Mr. Gardner’s property to see if they could look at this situation. Trustee Haines briefly indicated that in the past there really were no monies available, but since the county sales tax passed in the last three years, they are putting money back into the system. Trustee Haines inquired if Mr. Gardner would leave his contact information after the meeting and he would reach out to these gentlemen to meet at Mr. Gardner’s property.
Trustee DeChiara indicated that Mr. Gardner should get the ditch drainage form filled out and get it back to the county as soon as he can to get this process started. Trustee Haines indicated that he had that form available for Mr. Gardner and encouraged him to fill that out and send in right away indicating again that he would reach out to Mr. Regula and Mr. Bennett to schedule a meeting at Mr. Gardner’s property possibly next Tuesday.
Trustee Chessler also indicated to Mr. Gardner that along with the form, he should reference that he has gone through this process before so that they know this is not a first-time problem.
Trustee Haines explained to Mr. Gardner that the form will ask for the drainage easement and added to please indicate that as it would be helpful information as well. Road Superintendent Masalko also indicated to Mr. Gardner that by submitting this form to the Commissioners on-line, it would speed the process.
Adjournment:
With nothing further to come before the Board, Trustee Haines made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:10 pm; Seconded by Trustee DeChiara.
ROLL CALL: Mr. Haines, yes. Mr. Chessler, yes. Mr. DeChiara, yes.
Doug Haines, President Joe Schlegel, Fiscal Officer