Minutes

March 18, 2014 Trustee Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Meeting

March 18, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM. Trustees William Yates, Doug Leith and Terry Horn were present. Fiscal Officer Kraner was absent.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve checks 24253 through 24270, after being certified that funds are available and appropriations have been made by Fiscal Officer Kraner. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Comments from the Floor

Bobby Slater asked if the trustees knew when the AEP project will be completed. Trustee Horn stated he has made inquiries and needs to find the project manager’s name so he can contact. Horn will complete his letter before the next meeting for all to review. Trustee Yates said to go ahead and send the letter. The project manager’s name is Roger Haack; he stated the project should be completed by August 2014. Last estimate to repair is $206,380.80

Department Reports

Thurston Walnut Fire Department – Jamie Carroll reported – There are four prospective new firefighters – Daniel Goodfleisch, James Springer, Matthew Kimbleton and Jeffrey Poling. There are several maintenance issues that are being addressed on the trucks. The house across from the fire station is scheduled to be burned on April 12th. There are letter of liability that need to be signed. Thurston fire money does not agreed with what has been received by the Village of Thurston. The Chief has not been able to get answers from Aaron Reedy.

Zoning – Trustee Horn presented Anne Cyphert’s report. A zoning check register is needed. Need employment records.

Recycling – Mike King – He has received nice comments about the recycling site.

Parks and Roads – Tim Morris – Soccer has started. Tim Levacy regarding Little Lakers diamonds. Need to order the Porto-Jon’s for the two parks; Fairfield Beach through October; New Salem May through September. The cost is $70/month and a delivery fee of $20. Trustee Yates made a motion to approve the Porto-Jon’s. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The patching of the roads is complete.

Waste Management came back with a fee of $53/month for 3 years with no fuel surcharge. Trustee Horn made a motion to use Waste Management. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Truck #4 needs the water pump fixed at a cost of approximately $340. Trustee Leith made a motion to approve the repair. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

There was a discussion regarding purchasing salt for the coming year. Of the 269 tons that were on hand, approximately 100 tons have been used. Tim estimates that 1900 tons were used this year at $48.84/ton. It is predicted that next year the cost of salt will rise to between $90 and $100/ton. Trustee Horn made a motion to contract for 700 tons of salt for next year. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

There was a discussion regarding the drainage on Cattail Road. Amy from Soil and Water recommends using 2,300 feet of 12” tile, with an approximate cost of $10,000. The County Engineer’s office will look at the site on Thursday.The Township can only protect the roadways, not private land. There is 8” tile there now.

The Cedar Road project through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) has been approved by the Prosecuting Attorney. There is a letter coming for the trustees to sign. Trustee Yates made a motion to name the Project Supervisor. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Tim has completed four applications to submit for grants to the CDBG this year.

Old Business

No letters had be sent by Billy Phillips to the owners of 13050 Shell Beach Rd regarding the cleanup; however it does appear there has been progress.

Trustee Horn has received no response from Mike Rogers, Ohio Department of Agriculture, regarding the lion at 13748 Queen Rd.

Trustee Leith discussed the Township Boat Docks. Applications need to be returned to the township office for signatures by 4/21/14; and are due to ODNR by 4/30/14. There are 2 docks that are not paid and will not be approved by the Trustees. It is the responsibility of the lessee to maintain the docks to the standards of the ODNR.

There are 43 docks; one dock needs to be excavated, weather permitting.

Trustee Horn provided an update on the MOF properties. The property at 3320 Lakeside Dr and 13577 Gearhart St have both been condemned. No consent forms have been received from the property owners.

Cox Paving is working on the current MOF project.

There are three separate issues on the ballot for Electric Aggregation – Thurston, Millersport and Walnut Township.Bill Raddish will be presenting information about the Electric Aggregation at the April 15 meeting of the Trustees.Millersport and Thurston will be invited to attend and there will be notices in the paper. This will only be for AEP customers, however all registered votes will be able to vote on it. Fairfield County will have a public meeting on April 1, 2014.

Thanks to Bill and Carol for the County Trustees Quarterly dinner, many compliments were received. Thanks to the Millersport school for use of the facilities.

New Business

Public Records requests were reviewed. For case 2014CV00157, all the copies have been gathered; a copy needs to be sent to Jason Dolan, Prosecuting Attorney.

The BZA Appeal has requested meeting minutes.

The third request is a court request for salary information for a firefighter.

The outstanding dental bill needs to be paid.

The Zoning minutes need to be in a narrative format so that it can be posted to the website. Trustee Horn will be meeting with Sandi Wagner to copy the hard drive on the Zoning laptop; a copy will be downloaded to the township computer. Trustee Horn made a motion that the Zoning Minutes be in a narrative format. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

There was a discussion regarding the job description and compensation for the new Zoning Inspector. Trustee Leith made a motion to approve the Job description and compensation. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to hold a Special Meeting on March 25th for the sole purpose of interviewing and hiring a Zoning Inspector. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes. Trustee Yates will place an ad in the Lancaster Gazette and send an email to the notification email list.

There was discussion regarding the zoning at an Elm Rd property. Jeff Porter suggested using a B1 zone as an R zone. The permit was issued in error. Regional Planning has been consulted.

There was a discussion about the repairs on Blacklick Road.

John Albers, attorney for the township, has been asked to attend the meeting on April 1, 2014 to discuss Economic Development. Trustee Horn will obtain a property map for the discussion. The question was raised as to what is the recourse if not all the trustees agree?

There will be a meeting with the Fairfield County Engineers office on 4/4/14 from 2 – 3 PM to discuss the drainage on Cattail Rd.

Some of the catch basins at Fairfield Beach have been identified.

10:50 pm, Trustee Leith made a motion to adjourn. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

 

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith

March 4, 2014 Trustee Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Meeting

March 4, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM. Trustees William Yates, Doug Leith and Terry Horn were present.

The minutes for February 11, 2014 were submitted for approval. Trustee Leith made a motion to accept the minutes with changes. Trustee Horn seconded the minutes. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The minutes for February 18, 2014 were submitted for approval. Trustee Leith made a motion to approve the minute.Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Fiscal Officer Kraner stated that the permanent appropriations and information for the 2014 certifications of funds been submitted to the Fairfield County Auditor.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve checks 24242 through 24251 and EFTS 114-2014 through 143-2014, after being certified that funds are available and appropriations have been made by Fiscal Officer Kraner. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the Road Mileage Certification for 2014 from the Fairfield County Engineer.Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Comments from the Floor

There were no comments from the floor.

Department Reports

Roads and Parks – Tim Morris – Tim would like to continue with cracksealing for 2014. He would like two skids this year at an approximate cost of $4000. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve budgeting $4,000 for cracksealing.Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The replacement of the Chestnut culvert, by Fisher Marina, is scheduled for next Monday, weather permitting.

The gates were closed on the Buckeye Lake spillway today; the lake level should raise one inch per week.

The CDBG Hearing to discuss the requirements for submissions for 2014 will be held on March 11th. Tim will be attending for the township. Projects to be considered are King Rd, Fairfield Beach Rd to Lake Rd, Hawthorne Rd north to the deadend, Narcissus Rd, Lakeshore south to the deadend, Dahlia Rd and Ivy Rd east to the deadend.The completed application is due by April 15th. Tim will be submitting the proposal from the township by April 5th in order to earn additional points.

Tim and Mike would like to attend a Highway Safety program sponsored by Keith Taylor Trucking and presentations will be presented by the PUCO and the Highway Patrol, on March 7th. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve Tim and Mike attending this program. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Tim has been collecting quotes on Dumpster Service as Waste Management’s new contract was for $125/month, an increase of over $25/month.

  • Big O quoted $50/month for 36 months with a 3% cap on an increase at the end of the term. Extra dumps would be an additional dumps
  • Rumpke quoted $43/month with a 15.5% charge for fuel.

After discussion, Trustee Horn made a motion to use Big O for the township dumpster service. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

There is currently 100 tons of salt and 100 tons if mixed remaining in the barn. There is 120 tons remaining on the current salt contract. Trustee Horn made a motion to purchase the remaining 120 tons on the contract. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Tim will attend Pesticide training on Thursday, March 6th.

Trustee Horn moved to pass Resolution 05-14 to reduce the Weight Limit on Blacklick Rd by 50% from today until the latest allowed date as set by the Fairfield County Engineer. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Health Department – Doug Leith – Trustee Leith attended the Health Department where they discussed their budget request for 2015. Walnut Township’s portion would go up to $38,123.94.

Old Business

Trustee Horn discussed the clean-up of 13050 Shell Beach Rd; at this time it is too wet to move anything. Horn would still like the 10-day letter sent regarding the removal of the vehicles and the camper and the completion of the cleanup by April 15th. This might be challenging for the property owners, however, the Trustees need to see some progress.

There was a discussion regarding the procedure to mail information about docks out to residents on Leib’s Island.The resident needs the signed form from Trustee in order to purchase a dock permit. Trustee Horn would like to put the form on the website, send out a letter this year notifying that next year it is on the website.

Trustee Leith has completed an updated Boat Dock Rules for those docks at Leibs Island that are on the township property, he is working with Rachel at ODNR to ensure that also meets all their requirements. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the updated Dock Rules and to approve Doug making any revisions needed. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The contract has been signed for the Moving Ohio Forward demolitions; the Notice to Proceed has been sent to the contractor.

As a result of the article in the Beacon, four additional properties have been identified for demolition – 3320 Lakeside, 13577 Gearhart St, 13591 Richards St and 3900 South Bank. Jennifer Valentine from the Health Department will check the other three properties; Bobby Price will have no problem condemning the property on Gearhart. The property on South Bank has mold. The only expenditures that the township might have would be possible title searches. Then county is doing a land bank which in the future could generate funds that would be available for demolition of properties. The article will also appear in the Lancaster Eagle Gazette and the Towne Crier.

It is possible that a representative from the Electric Aggregation program could attend the March 18th meeting. The county is promoting the program the week of March 16th.

New Business

The Zoning minutes need to be in a narrative format so that it can be posted to the website. Trustee Horn will be meeting with Sandi Wagner to copy the hard drive on the Zoning laptop; a copy will be downloaded to the township computer.

The financial reports on UAN are in a pdf form; in the previous version, many documents were available in an excel format.

Trustee Horn requested that the updated minutes be available to post within one week, he suggested that the minutes be updated at the meeting.

There is a balance outstanding for Delta Dental that needs to be paid by the end of the month.

Snow removal policies of Violet, Liberty, Pleasantville townships were reviewed for suggestions on creating a policy for Walnut Township. Trustee Horn will add to the township website.

Trustee Horn has created several forms in regards to Public Record requests. The first form is the creation of Generic letterhead without official names. The second form is a Fulfillment Guidelines – with dates on all pages. The third form is the Acknowledgement Letter which would include an estimate of the number of days to comply with the request.

A letter regarding Blacklick Road repairs to the Engineer’s office. The estimate to repair is $206,380. Eric, Jeremiah and Jeff Send to Prosecutors and legislators.

The budget for Road Repairs for 2014 is approximately $150,000.

An email address for the fiscal officer was added to the walnuttownship.com. Fiscal Officer Kraner will begin transferring all contacts from walnuttwpfiscalofficer@yahoo.com.

A letter was received from the Village of Baltimore regarding annexation of 5.287 acres. They are using the Expedited Annexation procedure.

At 9:04 PM, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Pending Litigation. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 9:12 PM, Trustee Horn made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Billy Phillips will move forward on the zoning violation at 13748 Queen Rd with one more inspection with the measurements of the fence with photos and forward the information to Kyle Whitt Lancaster City Prosecutors.

At 9:21 pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss a Compliant against a Public Employee and an Appointment. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 9:36 PM, Trustee Leith made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to accept the resignation of Zoning Inspector of Billy Phillips effective immediately. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn called Anne Cyphert, Zoning Inspector in Bloom Township. She agreed to cover Zoning in Walnut Township until the Trustees can recruit a new Zoning Inspector. The salary will be the same as the previous zoning inspector. The two pending applications will be mailed to Anne. Trustee Horn made a motion to appoint Anne Darling Cyphert as the interim Zoning Inspector. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.Trustee Horn made a motion to use the Bloom Township Zoning Inspector job description. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn will measure the fence at the Queen Rd lion enclosure.

The permit for Elm Rd should not have been issued for a double-wide as the area is zoned residential. Holly from RPC has recommended re-zoning the area to Residential at no cost to the property owner.

An ad will be placed in the Beacon and the Lancaster Eagle Gazette for the open Zoning Inspector position.

10:35 PM, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Economic Development. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

11:01 PM, Trustee Yates made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

11:01 PM, Trustee Leith made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss confidential matters. Trustee Yates seconded the notion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

11:11 PM, Trustee Leith made a motion come out of Executive Session. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

11:11 pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

 

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith

February 18, 2014 Trustee Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Meeting

February 18, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM. Trustees William Yates, Doug Leith and Terry Horn were present.

Fiscal Officer Kraner asked for approval for attendance of the UAN conference in March. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the conference. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

There was a discussion of comp-time versus overtime payment. Historically, the trustees have requested that the roadworkers take time off later in the week to avoid overtime. The employees have the option to receive comp-time or overtime pay in the event that it is not possible. There was a discussion regarding having part-time help available on an as needed basis.

Trustee Leith made a motion to approve permanent appropriations for 2014 based on the temporary appropriations and the approved budget. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve checks 24219 through 24237 and EFTS 79-2014 through 113-2014, after being certified that funds are available and appropriations have been made by Fiscal Officer Kraner. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Tim Morris checked with several waste haulers for prices on weekly dumpster service. Fiscal Officer Kraner will find out what his recommendation is.

Comments from the Floor

Ray Sowers, Fairfield Beach, commented on what a good job the township has done on the snow removal this year. He asked if there was any new information regarding the vacation of Decker Rd at Fairfield Beach.

Zoning Interviews

There are three positions that need to be filled – Zoning Commission an alternate position, Zoning Board of Appeals, a regular seat and an alternate position. There are three candidates for the positions – Mark Helms, Randy Quillian and Greg Groves, all who are n attendance. The Zoning Inspector will provide an update on the terms of the positions. A regular term is 5 years.

Greg Groves lives on St Rt. 37 and has been a resident for over 25 years. He is retired from the Post Office.

Mark Helms lives on North Bank and is a field supervisor for a commercial construction company in Columbus.

Randy Quillian has lived on Canal Rd since 1979. He worked with the Thurston Fire Department for 18 years.

After discussion, Trustee Horn made a motion to appoint Randy Quillian to the BZA regular seat for the term of 2014 through 2018. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Leith made a motion to appoint Mark Helms as the BZA alternate. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to appoint Greg Groves as the ZC alternate. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Copies of the Zoning Resolutions will be distributed by Billy Phillips, they are also available on the website in a searchable format.

Old Business

Trustee Horn discussed the clean-up of 13050 Shell Beach Rd with Billy Phillips. Horn requested that a 10-day notification be given to have the RV and camper removed from the property. At this time, they are still on the property. Chet Irvin is willing to assist in the cleanup of the property and it was recommended that he work directly with the homeowners.

Trustee Horn suggested sending a letter to the homeowners setting a date to have the property cleaned up. After discussion, it was agreed that a completion date of April 15th be set. This letter will be a precursor to a 10-day letter to be given if there is no progress. Trustee Horn made a motion to send a letter of warning to 13050 Shell Beach Rd to clean-up the property by April 15th or they will receive an official 10 day letter and for Billy Phillips to issue 10 day letter for removal of the RV & camper and any other vehicle in violation immediately. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The lion is still at 13748 Queen Rd and the application is still within the 90 day window for approval by the Ohio Department of Agriculture. Trustee Horn has informed the ODA that the Walnut Township Trustees are not in favor of the approval of this application. Trustee Horn suggested contacting Troy Balderson, the author the Dangerous Wild Animals Bill, to share items that the Trustees would like to see addressed as an amendment to the law.

New Business

A Public Records request for any documents related to 3765 North Bank Rd was received. After discussion, it was decided that Fiscal Officer Kraner would send an email to Zoning Inspector Billy Phillips and Zoning Secretary Sandi Wagner regarding gathering the following information

– The terms of the Walnut Township Trustees from 2007 – present

– The Zoning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals from 2007 – present , including length of terms

– Trustee minutes and Zoning minutes pertaining to 3725 N Bank Rd from 2007 – present

– All emails pertaining to 3725 N Bank Rd

Trustee Horn reminded everyone that emails are not to be deleted.

Trustee Horn made a motion to dispose of the light bulbs in the upstairs as they are of zero value. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 8:24 pm Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss pending litigation. The motion was withdrawn.

Comments

Bobby Slater suggested that the Trustees write a letter to AEP to request they pay to repair Blacklick Rd. He doesn’t feel that the residents should have to bear the cost of repairing the road.

Trustee Horn moved to pass Resolution 05-14 to request the Fairfield County Engineer to reduce the weight limit on Blacklick rd. as soon as allowed and through the allowed period. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 8:44pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss pending litigation. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 8:51pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn moved to pass Resolution 06-14 in regard to the zoning violation at 13748 Queen Rd as notified by the cease and desist letter dated 11/1/13, since no action has been taken; to forward to the County Prosecutor for review and processing. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 8:54 pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session for the purpose of discussing a complaint against a public employee. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 9:11 pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 9:11 pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Economic Development. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

9:36 pm, Trustee Horn made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Action Items –

– Trustee Horn will contact John Carlisle & work on Blacklick Rd

– Trustee Leith will work on Dock Rules for Leib’s Island

– Fiscal Office will contact Billy Phillips and Sandi Wagner

9:39 PM Trustee Leith made a motion to adjourn. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

 

Respectfully submitted –

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith

February 11, 2014 Trustee Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Meeting

February 11, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM. Trustees William Yates, Doug Leith and Terry Horn were present.

The minutes for the January 17th were presented for approval. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the minutes with changes. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The report of the purchase orders and Blanket Certificates for 2014 was distributed for review by the Trustees. Fiscal Officer Kraner stated that there is approximately $150K appropriated for road projects in 2014.

There was a discussion regarding the allocation of the cost of the 2012 – 2013 audit. Trustee Horn made a motion that the cost of the audit will be allocated based on the percentage each fund is of the total as of 12/31/13. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve checks 24178 through 24230 and EFTS 53-2014 through 75-2014, after being certified that funds are available and appropriations have been made by Fiscal Officer Kraner. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The Bank Reconciliation for December 2013 was presented for approval. The current value is $1,640,766.11. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the Bank Reconciliation for December 2013. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Waste Management sent a new contract for the dumpster at the Township office. It appears that the monthly fee will be around $125/month. Tim Morris will check around to see if he can get a better price.

An additional representative is needed for the Tax Incentive Review Council. Trustee Yates nominated Doug Leith to fill the position. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. Y – Y, L – abstain, H – Y. The motion passed with 2 yes votes.

Comments from the Floor

There were no comments.

Departments

Chief Hite, Thurston Walnut Township Fire Department – Chief Hite asked for a trustee to fill the vacant spot on the Dependency Board. David Burke is a new volunteer firefighter. Mitch Klosterman has resigned due to taking a fulltime position on the west side of Columbus. The issues with Claypool Electric have not been resolved and Chief Hite will be looking for a new electrician. Chief Hite has applied for a training grant of $2,880, equipment reimbursement of $38,727 and a revolving loan with a 5% payment.

Trustee Leith volunteered to accept the appointment to the Dependency Board. Trustee Yates seconded the motion.Y-Y, L-abstain, H – Y. The motion passed with 2 yes votes.

Mike King, Recycling – The pad is down and there has been little to pick-up around the containers.

Tim Morris – Parks & Roads – Tim spoke with Jason at ODNR about reinforcing the docks at Lieb’s Island that are on township property. He will waive the permit fee for the project that is being discussed. Walnut Township is only responsible for the organizing the assignment of the docks, not the maintenance. He will check with Jason at ODNR regarding using abated cement for dock reinforcement.

Tim has ordered 600 tons of salt this year and will order the balance of 120 tons. Currently there is approximately 150 tons on hand. The Villages have purchased 175 tons of salt this year. Tim has ordered 239 tons of grits and used them successfully throughout the township.

The snowplow blades are still on order. The back lights on Truck 6 are out and being replaced. The range inhibitor on the big trucks are malfunctioning and need to be repaired.

Tim is requesting approval to complete crack sealing again this year, two skids at approximately $4,000.

The application for the Community Development Block Grant was received. There are new standards this year and the total available is approximately $142,000. Tim will work on completing the paperwork.

The culvert at Fisher Marina was tentatively scheduled for February 24th.

Old Business

Trustee Horn stated that Billy Phillips will provide a recommendation for completion of the cleanup for the property at 13050 Shell Beach Rd.

As an update to the Lion at 13748 Queen Rd, Tessa Compton has applied for the permit to be issued for the Queen Road address. Billy Phillips has been working with Jeff Porter at the Prosecutor’s office due to the failure to correct violations. There was a question as to whether the landowner was aware of the violation. Trustee Horn will check with Jeff Porter regarding notification of the landowner. The Trustees would like to have the Ohio Department of Agriculture notify the local government whenever there is an application.

The Trustees have confirmation that we are on the ballot for Electric Aggregation. There will be community meetings at the County Courthouse in March and April. Trustee Horn stated that Thurston and Bern Township also have it on their ballot and wants to confirm if Millersport also does.

Tim Morris was told that the AEP project on Blacklick Road is to be completed around the first of June. Trustee Horn would like to send a letter to AEP to request they pay a percentage of the repairs. Tim requested copies of all the violations on Blacklick Rd due to trucks being overweight.

The Fairfield County Engineers have not released their price for Chip & Seal for 2014.

Trustee Horn requested that when the annual meeting is scheduled with the Fairfield County Engineers that it is scheduled for a Friday afternoon.

Tim will talk with Shelly regarding Blacklick Road and what needs to be done to repair it.

Trustee Leith will update the Dock Rules for Lieb’s Island.

As an update on the Moving Ohio Forward demolition, the property at 8920 Lancaster-Thornville Rd contains asbestos and will need to be abated before it can be demolished. The contract with Cox Paving for the demolition will be signed on February 21st. There is still $42k available for demolition if anyone knows of another property.

There was a discussion regarding who received copies of emails sent to contact @walnuttownship.com; the three trustees, fiscal officer and Tim Morris.

The invoice was sent to Don Bender for the asbestos testing on his properties at Shell Beach Rd.

New Business

The website is in the process of being updated.

The Township County meeting is March 15th at 6:00 pm.

The trustees and fiscal officer are putting an ad in the Corn Festival brochure at their own expense.

There are three interested parties for the opening for the Zoning Commission – an alternate position and the Board of Zoning Appeals – regular seat and an alternate position. They are Matt Helms, Greg Groves and Randy Quillian.Trustee Horn will clarify terms of office with Billy Phillips.

8:53 pm Trustee Horn moved to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Economic Development. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

9:47 pm Trustee Horn made a motion to return from Executive Session. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

9:49 PM Trustee Leith made a motion to adjourn. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

 

Respectfully submitted –

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith

January 21, 2014 Trustee Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Meeting

January 21, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM. Trustees William Yates, Doug Leith and Terry Horn were present.

The bids for the Demolition Project were opened by Trustee Horn and recorded by Fiscal Officer Kraner.

All bids were reviewed for the required information and bid amounts were announced –

  • Ashbaugh Trucking, all paperwork received, bid $27,100
  • Spohn Excavation, all paperwork received, bid $19,730
  • Cox Paving, all paperwork received, bid $19,441.53
  • Ricketts Excavating, all paperwork received, bid $24,750
  • Seals Construction, addendum #1 received was not indicated, bid $40,9000

The low bidder was Cox Paving. Trustee Horn made a motion to award the contract for the demolition of three houses in Walnut Township to Cox Paving. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Donna Fox-Moore, Head of Housing in Fairfield County, stated that the asbestos inspection was done on January 15th, and it will be three to four weeks for the work to proceed.

The minutes from December 17, 2013 were presented for approval. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the minutes with changes. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The minutes for the December 30th Special meeting were presented for approval. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the minutes. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The minutes for the January 2nd Re-Organizational meeting were presented for approval. Trustee Leith made a motion to approve the minutes. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The minutes for the January 2nd regular Trustee meeting were presented for approval. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the minutes with corrections. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The Resolution from Vinton County bank to update the signatures on the checking account was executed by the Trustees and Fiscal Officer. Trustee Horn made a motion to add Trustee Yates as the second signature on the Safety Deposit box at Commodore Bank. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Leith made a motion to approve checks 24175 through 24176 and EFTS 26-2014 through 51-2014, after being certified that funds are available and appropriations have been made by Fiscal Officer Kraner. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Comments from the Floor

There were no comments

Departments

Chief Hite, Thurston Walnut Township Fire Department – Chief Hite would like to add Luther Tate as a part-time Basic EMT. He has completed his 240 hour requirement. The issues with Claypool Electric and fixing the light pole continue. Chief Hite confirmed with the Trustees that the demolition of the property at 8721 Lancaster Thornville Rd had been cancelled.

Jason Smith asked that the Trustee Yates sign-off on the resolution from MED3000 to increase the charges for EMS services to the Medicare allowed amount.

Larry Neeley, RPC – Mr. Neeley thanked the Trustees for allowing him to continue on the RPC board as the representative for Walnut Township. He mentioned that there is a controversy on the North Bank Road regarding a lot split. The lots would both be .12 acres. It will be discussed further at the RPC February 4th meeting.

Mr. Neeley stated that the EPA is doing studies on what is flowing into Buckeye Lake. It is his understanding that the EPA is considering changing the feeders into wetland ponds. It was suggested that Buckeye Lake for Tomorrow would be the group to contact regarding additional information.

Old Business

Trustee Horn received the final minutes for November 11th and December 3rd. The final appropriation report for December is not available yet.

Trustee Horn stated that Billy Phillips had stated there is an individual who has equipment and has offered to assist in the cleanup of the property at 13050 Shell Beach Rd. Horn checked with the insurance carrier and as long as the Township drafts a resolution stating everyone is volunteer, then the township does not have any liability. Cold weather is hindering the cleanup by the owner, as soon as the weather allows, it can be cleaned up.

The owners of the lion at 13748 Queen Rd have applied for a permit to house the lion at another location. The ODA has 90 days to approve.

Trustee Horn had a discussion with Tim Upp regarding the Cattail Road culvert. Potentially, on the east side of the road, they may be able to extend the ditch toward the creek. Flood water potentially could make its way down there before flowing over road. Eric McCrady will look at the elevations and see if that would help. Horn suggested that they discuss this further with the County Engineers at the February Yearly meeting. There are about 90 acres going into the 24 inch culvert that crosses at Cattail Rd.

Trustee Horn asked about the Licking County Wastewater payment. A replacement check will be cut and mailed.

There was a discussion regarding the paper for the official minutes. Fiscal Officer Kraner will present her suggestion on the Minutes book.

The township will be sponsoring the county-wide Township meeting on March 15th at 6:00 pm. Trustee Yates confirmed that the Walnut Township High School commons is available for the gathering. The Township Association will provide the speaker. The cost of the gathering will be paid out of the General Fund.

New Business

Trustee Horn made a motion to appoint Trustee Leith to be the township’s representative on the Health Department District Advisory Council. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn provided additional information regarding the Electric Aggregation program. If passed, the public will receive a letter giving them 21 days to opt out of the program. Trustee Horn has requested that the consultant consider a 6 month grace period for residents. Palmer Energy is the consultant, retained by the county, for the program. They will request bids from several electric companies. This program will only be available to AEP customers and they can expect a 10 to 15% savings.

The Electric Aggregation program would last for 2 – 3 years. The Board of Elections will invoice the township and the County Commissioners will reimburse the Walnut Township. Two public hearings will be required. The trustees will encourage Charlie Prince to attend so that he can include information about the program in the Buckeye Lake Beacon. Trustee Leith moved to pass Resolution 04-14 to allow the residents of Walnut Township to vote on adopting the Electric Aggregation program. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Yates made a motion to approve Luther Tate as a part-time firefighter for Thurston Walnut Township Fire Department. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn is requesting that the township website be upgraded from JOOMLA to WordPress software. Wordpress will be easier to update and it will help prevent hacking. The cost for Chad to complete the conversion will be from $300 to $600 and take approximately 12 hours.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve Chad Myers moving the township website from JOOMLA to wordpress with a budget of $600. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Mr. Bender submitted an additional payment toward his debt for the asbestos testing for his properties on Shell Beach Rd. Fiscal Officer Kraner will send monthly invoices for $40 to Mr. Bender at his Westerville address.

There was discussion regarding the AEP project on Blacklick Road. The project is expected to be completed in May or June. The Trustees will discuss the road situation with the Engineers at their yearly meeting in February.

The Fairfield County Engineers have asked if the township would like to participate in their chip and seal contract.Last year their cost was $1.70/sq. yd. and Shelly was $1.46/sq. yd.

The Trustee asked what is built in the budget for Road Work in 2014. Fiscal Officer Kraner will have the budget available at the next meeting.

Trustee Leith and Yates attended the Lieb’s Island Road meeting with ODNR and the County Engineers. They discussed the next five years for the road; ODNR wants to know who owns the road.

There was a discussion regarding the Township Dock Rules. A resident of Lieb’s Island has questions about who is responsible for the repair of the docks that are on township land. Trustee Leith will go over and look at dock and find out who owns the dock.

The Community Theater asked if the Trustees want to place an ad in their flyer. The Trustees and Fiscal Officer have previously placed ads at their own expense. Trustee Leith made a motion to place the ad with personal funds.Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The CAUV is up for renewal for the 6 acres the township leases to Mike Wolfe. Trustee Horn will obtain the information for the application.

The furnace went out and had to be replaced. Trustee Horn made a motion to create a purchase order to Capital City for the replacement of the furnace. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn will follow-up with the bidders who were not selected for the demolition contract.

There was a discussion about firefighters insurance. At this time the requirement is for 50 fulltime firefighters, so the department is not required to provide insurance.

9:00 pm Trustee Leith moved to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Economic Development. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

10:05 pm Trustee Horn made a motion to return from Executive Session. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

10:05 PM Trustee Yates made a motion to adjourn. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

 

Respectfully submitted –

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith

January 2, 2014 Trustee Re-Organizational Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Re-Organization Meeting

January 2, 2014

The meeting was called to order by Fiscal Officer Lynn Kraner. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Doug Leith took his oath of office.

Trustees Doug Leith, William Yates and Terry Horn were present.

The Fiscal Officer called for nominations for Chairman for 2014. Trustee Horn nominated Trustee Yates for Chairman.Trustee Yates accepted the nomination. There were no other nominations. Trustee Leith seconded the nomination.The appointment passed with 3 yes votes.

At this point the Fiscal Officer turned the meeting over to Chairman Yates.

The Chairman called for nominations for Vice Chairman. Trustee Leith nominated Trustee Horn for Vice Chairman.Trustee Horn accepted the nomination. Trustee Yates seconded the nomination. The appointment passed with 3 yes votes.

The Chairman called for nominations for the Representative to RPC. Trustee Horn nominated Larry Neeley, with a second from Trustee Yates. The appointment passed with 3 yes votes.

The Chairman called for nominations for the Representative to Block Grant Board/CDBG. Trustee Yates nominated Trustee Horn, with a second from Trustee Leith. The appointment passed with 3 yes votes.

The Chairman called for nominations for the Representative for FEMA Program. Trustee Horn nominated Trustee Yates, with a second from Trustee Leith. The appointment passed with 3 yes votes.

The Chairman called for nominations for the Representative for Issue II Funding. Trustee Yates nominated Trustee Horn, with a second from Trustee Leith. The appointment passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made the motion – If township needs to hire any additional roadworker help in an emergency situation, they will hire them at $12.00/per hour, if any additional office help at $9.00/per hour. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Leith moved to pass Resolution 01-14 to set meeting dates for the Walnut Township Trustees for 2014 as the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7:00 PM at the township office. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes. The meetings will not coincide with any of the meeting dates of the Villages in Walnut Township.

Trustee Horn made the motion that the township meetings will be advertised in the Lancaster Eagle Gazette as required by law, in a local paper if time permits, and on the sign. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn moved to pass Resolution 02-14 – Emergency Meeting Procedure – If an emergency arises; the trustees can call an emergency meeting with 24 hour notice and will post it on the front sign, the bulletin board and the doors of the township office and garage. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn moved to pass Resolution 03-14 – Procedure for calling in employees for overtime will be: the current procedure for the sheriff’s office call order is, Morris, Yates, King, Horn, Leith. Tim has authorization to call in Mike K. for emergencies such as high water, down trees, and snow & ice removal. The procedure for calling employees for overtime is any one of the trustees can call an employee in for overtime. If plowing snow and it is 3:30PM and there is more to be done, employees are to continue working. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made the motion that the Records Commission will consist of the Fairfield County Auditor, Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer and Terry Horn, Trustee. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Leith made the motion to allow the IRS rate of $.565 for travel expenses outside of township, and to pay for all State and National conferences, parking, taxi expense, and for any other expense for training school held for trustees and fiscal officer. Trustee Horn seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made the motion that no records will be destroyed from 2013. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The Chairman called for nominations for the Representative for Health Board for 2014. This was tabled to the second meeting in January.

Trustee Horn made the motion to reimburse Zoning Commission & BZA Members at a rate of $35.00/per meeting.Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Yates nominated Trustee Horn to be the Website Administrator for the township. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Leith nominated Chad Myers as Website Consultant at a rate of $25/hour. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn nominated Trustee Yates as the EMS Billing Authorized Official and Primary Contact for Med3000.Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn nominated Trustee Yates as being in charge of information systems. Trustee Leith seconded the motion.The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to re-appoint Billy Phillips as Walnut Township Zoning Inspector at an annual salary of $13,500. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to use Sandi Wagner as a contractor in the position of Zoning and BZA Board Secretary at a rate of $20/hour for 2014. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

At 7:35 PM, Trustee Leith made the motion to close the Re-Organization Meeting, seconded by Trustee Horn. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Respectfully submitted –

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith

January 2, 2014 Trustee Meeting Minutes

Walnut Township Trustees Meeting

January 2, 2014

The meeting was called to order at 7:40 PM. Trustees William Yates, Doug Leith and Terry Horn were present.

It was announced that Bobby Price is the new Millersport Fire Chief.

Old Business

The pre-bid meeting for the demolition project is January 10th.

The lion appears to be gone from the property at 13748 Queen Rd.

The owners of the property at 13050 Shell Beach Rd do not have the funds to continue the clean-up. Billy Phillips stated that it is possible to issue a Hazard Notice due to no permanent foundation under the house. Phillips will make a recommendation at the next trustee meeting.

The items that the trustees would like to see addressed by the Zoning Board in the zoning regulations are – definition of substantial completion, dangerous wild animals in I2, and permanent foundations.

Trustee Yates asked if the county did the original Cattail Road culvert project. Trustee Horn made a motion to put the Cattail Road culvert on the Fairfield County Engineer’s project list. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The meeting regarding Energy Aggregation, between Palmer Energy and the County Commissioners is January 7th.Thurston is on board and Millersport is probably on board with the Energy Aggregation program.

The meeting schedule for 2014 will be published in the Eagle Gazette.

Trustee Horn made a motion to cancel the meeting on January 7th. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

The bonding of the two newly elected Trustees has been submitted.

The OTARMA renewal application has been submitted.

New Business

As an update on the Zoning Board and the BZA – Elizabeth Groves’ term has been completed and she does not wish to remain on the board. Clay Lattimer has moved from the township. Trustee Horn will place an ad and request letters of interest and resumes by the first meeting in February.

There was a question regarding liquor permits for 2014.

Trustee Horn requested the updated minutes for November 19th and December 3rd. Additionally, he is requesting that the minutes be received prior to Tuesday. Fiscal Officer Kraner requested that the official copies of the minutes be kept on 8 ½ x 11 paper to keep costs down and simplify printing.

Trustee Horn will contact Donald Bender about the reimbursement for the asbestos testing on his property.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve checks 24147 through 24174 and EFTS 932-2013 through 968-2013 and 1-2014 through 24-2014, after being certified that funds are available and appropriations have been made by Fiscal Officer Kraner. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

There was discussion regarding the Township Quarterly Meeting. It is Walnut Township’s turn to host the meeting.Trustee Yates will confirm the date with Dianna Russell or Gail Ellinger. He suggested that the school might be a good location for the meeting.

The November Bank Reconciliation was presented for approval. The current balance is $1,809,913.47. Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the November Bank Reconciliation. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to approve the Temporary Appropriations as approved in the 2014 Budget. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn will email the calendar that has important dates for 2014.

Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Economic Development. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn to Executive Session to discuss Employee Compensation. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn made a motion to promote Tim Morris to Road Supervisor. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Leith made a motion to increase the roadworker’s hourly rate by 3% effective January 1, 2014. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Trustee Horn moved to pass Resolution 4-14 to adopt the Health Insurance Resolution as dated 1/2/14. Trustee Yates seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

9:44 PM Trustee Horn made a motion to adjourn. Trustee Leith seconded the motion. The motion passed with 3 yes votes.

Respectfully submitted –

 

Lynn Kraner, Fiscal Officer

 

William Yates, Chairman Terry Horn Doug Leith