Board also schedules budget work session, hears road department and police updates
Fiscal Officer Tracy Ferrett reported that the paperwork for the township’s road levy renewal has been filed with the Stark County Board of Elections.
The township also received an email from the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control regarding October 2026 retail permit renewals. The notice, which was forwarded to Police Chief Ron Devies, stated that objections to Class C and D liquor permit renewals are due by Sept. 1.
Ferrett reported that the copier in the trustees’ and fiscal officer’s office has again been experiencing problems. After contacting Visual Edge, she received a quote of $99.95 per month to lease a commercial copier. The proposal includes parts, toner, service, labor, delivery, setup, installation and training. Copies of the quote were provided to the trustees and Kyle Devies for review.
Ferrett also asked whether a work session was needed for the 2027 Alternative Tax Budget, which is due Aug. 20, and distributed June 30 financial reports. The trustees agreed to schedule a work session. Ferrett said she will need input from department heads before the meeting.
Chief Devies distributed a proposed cybersecurity policy required by the Ohio Township Association Risk Management Authority and state law. He said the policy complies with the Ohio Revised Code, the Law Enforcement Automated Data System and the Criminal Justice Information System. Because Trustee Ken Eddleman was absent, the trustees tabled action until their next meeting.
Devies also reported that officers Martincic, Hay and Sheese completed Emergency Medical Responder training and passed their state examinations. Once their licenses are received, they will be eligible for pay increases and EMS accommodation bars.
Road Superintendent Andrew “A.J.” Battershell reported that the township completed paving on Tudore Street with Nimishillen Township, using about 140 tons of asphalt, including 110.82 tons on the Marlboro Township portion. The trustees approved Marlboro Township’s share of the project, totaling $8,782.51.
The road department also completed ditch elimination work on Graening Street, where the roadway was slipping, and has begun roadside mowing.
Battershell presented quotes for a new truck body from Henderson Products and Concord Road Equipment. Although Henderson submitted the lower quote at $118,261.04, the estimated delivery time was about 1½ years. Concord’s quote of $120,176.17 included a three- to four-month turnaround after delivery of the truck chassis, allowing the vehicle to be completed before winter.
The trustees approved a resolution accepting Concord Road Equipment’s quote. Battershell said the total project budget is $250,000, with the truck and body expected to cost about $232,000. The existing truck will be retained as a backup.
The trustees also approved the sale of a 2007 John Deere 6330 tractor and a 2007 Alamo 18-foot boom mower to Jackson Township in Highland County for $42,000.
Trustees discussed complaints from residents about thistle and mosquitoes in local wetlands. Residents near Tope Road and Swamp Street reported thistle seeds blowing across the roadway. Trustee Schillig said balancing noxious weed laws with protected wetland regulations can be challenging. Trustee John Battershell said the Stark County Health Department advised that mosquito spraying is not permitted in protected wetlands, although neighboring property owners may purchase and apply treatment themselves.
Schillig also updated the board on efforts to seek grants for restoration work at St. Peter’s Cemetery and St. Paul’s Reform Church Cemetery, also known as Fox Cemetery. He met with township resident Don Troyer of Restored Memorials, who estimated the cost to level about 20 headstones at St. Paul’s Cemetery at approximately $1,500. Information has been provided to Marlboro Township Historical Society President Vondea Sheaffer, who may pursue funding through the Daughters of the American Revolution. Ferrett noted the township Cemetery Fund currently contains about $2,000.
The trustees approved payment of bills totaling $49,956.55.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Aug. 31 at the Marlboro Township Hall.
