The Vermilion Township Board of Trustees met on September 3, 2025, for a lengthy session that covered zoning disputes, infrastructure projects, funding requests, and department updates. Trustees Kenn Baughman, Don Rowe Sr., and Kurt Johnson were present along with Fiscal Officer Stephanie Johnson, Fire Chief Frank Triana, and Township Administrator Joe Baxter.
Fire Department Report
Fire Chief Frank Triana delivered the department’s monthly update, detailing recent emergency calls, equipment status, and ongoing maintenance. Repairs continue on Squad 813 and the township’s brush truck, while Squad 812’s sirens have been replaced using spare units.
Road Department Updates
Road Supervisor Steve Young reported on ongoing maintenance projects, including crack sealing and preparation for upcoming resurfacing work. Trustees also discussed repair options for Dayton Road and confirmed that Junk Day will be held later this month, with details to be announced.
Administrator and Zoning Reports
Township Administrator Joe Baxter discussed technology upgrades, including the rollout of a new ArcGIS system designed to map township roads, zoning, and infrastructure in real time. He also reported on recent zoning activity and noted that township policies related to rebuilding on fire-damaged sites may require updates.
Sidewalk Project Tabled
Resolution 2025-21 proposed awarding a $25,000 contract to ADT Construction for new sidewalks around the township hall at 1907 State Street. After discussion, trustees tabled the project. Trustee Kurt Johnson raised concerns about project scope, including why the sidewalks would not extend to the nearby church and how liability and snow removal would be handled. Trustees agreed to request revised bids and additional details before moving forward.
Road Study Approved
Trustees unanimously approved Resolution 2025-20, awarding a $5,500 contract to National Pavement Analysis LLC to conduct a township-wide road inventory. The findings will be integrated into the ArcGIS system to guide future road maintenance and planning.
Public Participation
During public commentary, a resident raised concerns about the proposed 5-mill fire levy, calling it the largest in township history. Trustees clarified they placed the levy on the ballot but are legally prohibited from endorsing or opposing it.
Other concerns were raised about township cemetery boundaries and ongoing issues with sewer odors in the Orchard Beach area. Trustees agreed to investigate both matters further.
Main Street Vermilion Funding Divides Trustees
Trustees considered a $2,500 contribution to Main Street Vermilion to support advertising in the Shores & Islands Tourism Guide, which distributes 175,000 guides annually. The contribution would help offset listing costs for local lodging businesses.
Trustees Don Rowe and Kurt Johnson voted in favor, while Kenn Baughman opposed, saying he wanted more time and financial details before making a decision. The measure passed 2-1.
Brandt Zoning Dispute Leads to Administrator’s Exit
One of the most contentious discussions of the night centered on John Brandt’s request for assistance regarding a proposed agricultural storage building. Township Administrator Joe Baxter maintained that a zoning permit was required, while Brandt argued that his project qualified for an agricultural exemption.
Debate escalated over whether state exemptions, CAUV designations, or income thresholds applied. Chair Kenn Baughman directed Baxter to leave the meeting, and Baxter exited without returning. Trustees agreed to seek a legal opinion from the county prosecutor before taking further action.
Road Damage Caused by Construction
Trustee Kurt Johnson reported that heavy construction vehicles have damaged North Joppa Road and North Lake Road. County engineers are preparing a developer liability letter to require repairs at the developer’s expense.
Next Meeting
The next regular business meeting of the Vermilion Township Board of Trustees is scheduled for Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
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