VERMILION TWP. — The Vermilion Township Board of Trustees voted 2-1 on April 1 to terminate the employment of Building and Zoning Inspector Joe Baxter following an executive session that lasted nearly two hours.
Vote follows failed probation extension
Trustees entered executive session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22(G)(1), which allows for discussion of personnel matters, including dismissal.
After returning to open session, Trustee Don Rowe made a motion to extend Baxter’s probationary period by 30 days, citing support from residents and a desire to allow additional time. That motion failed on a 2-1 vote, with Rowe in favor and Chair Kenn Baughman and Trustee Keith Sexton opposed.
The board then voted on the original motion to terminate. On roll call, Baughman and Sexton voted in favor, while Rowe voted against.
Township cites performance concerns
During discussion prior to the vote, trustees said the township needed to “change directions” and that the department was “not up and running right now.”
According to a termination letter dated April 1, Baxter’s employment was ended because his performance as full-time building and zoning inspector was “deemed unsatisfactory” during his probationary period. The letter states Baxter had been appointed Jan. 2 and that his 90-day probationary period was set to expire April 2.
Baxter had previously served as Vermilion Township administrator and was tasked with helping establish the township’s building department following a transition away from using the City of Vermilion for those services.
The position oversees building permits, inspections, and zoning compliance within the township.
Baxter was not present during the meeting. Township officials indicated the position is expected to be filled, though no timeline or replacement was discussed publicly during the meeting.
Questions emerge over roles, communication
Baxter said he had emails documenting a lack of response to some of his requests during his time in the role and showed examples to Vermilion Daily.
Township officials, however, said the issue was not whether emails were sent, but that there was disagreement over who was responsible for parts of the building department’s setup and operation during its early formation.
The difference in expectations may have contributed to communication challenges during Baxter’s probationary period.
Baxter thanks residents, responds
Baxter took a measured tone following the decision.
“I thank the residents for the opportunity to serve. I’m a Vermilion taxpayer, and I’ll continue to be around to help the people in this community,” he said.
He also disputed criticism raised during the meeting about the status of the department.
“The building dept. was fully compliant with the Board of Building Standards and 100% open for business!” Baxter said.
What the vote will mean for the township’s building department going forward was not discussed in detail during the meeting.