The Vermilion Township Board of Trustees held its regular business meeting on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 6:32 p.m., addressing a comprehensive agenda that included departmental reports, a key resolution, and public feedback. The meeting saw the participation of Chair Kenn Baughman, Vice Chair Don Rowe Sr., Trustee Kurt Johnson, Fire Chief Frank Triana, Financial Officer Stephanie Johnson, Township Administrator Joe Baxter, and Roads Department head Steve Young.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the board quickly moved to approve the amended agenda, the minutes from the previous meeting, and the warrants and treasury report.
Departmental Updates Highlight Operational Matters
Fire Department Report: Fire Chief Frank Triana provided a detailed account of the department’s activities for May 2025, which included 54 EMS runs, two motor vehicle crashes, one commercial fire alarm, a fuel spill, two residential carbon monoxide alarms, and one natural gas odor incident. The year-to-date run total stood at 296.
Chief Triana reported that hose and ladder testing was complete, resulting in the removal of six sections of hose due to test failure, with replacements already ordered. A significant point of discussion was the decision not to pursue the SAFER grant, citing new federal requirements for four personnel on an engine prior to departure, a staffing level currently unfeasible for the department. Updates on equipment included the replacement of two foam eductors and repairs to a Sensa G24 gas meter, with plans to train a firefighter for in-house servicing. Squad 812 is also undergoing repairs.
The Chief also clarified guidelines for open burning in Erie County, emphasizing adherence to ODNR and fire marshal regulations, particularly regarding timing and proximity to residences. He reiterated the allowance for ceremonial burns, such as flag disposals.
Road Department Report: Steve Young, the Roads Department Foreman, informed the trustees that road mowing was completed before the recent holiday and is scheduled again before July 4th. The department has been actively engaged in cleaning ditches and tiles on multiple roads, a task set to continue throughout the summer. Both backhoes were serviced in-house, and dirt patching across township roads is slated to begin next week, starting on the west side. Cleanup efforts were extensive, involving five 40-yard dumpsters, one 80-yard scrap dumpster, and the collection of 331 tires.
Township Administrator Report: Township Administrator Joe Baxter presented updates on ongoing administrative initiatives. He is currently gathering estimates for new road department equipment, including an excavator and a wheel loader. The board also considered and approved an estimate for West Roofing to wash and seal the township hall’s skylights for $1,400.
Baxter detailed improvements in IT and software, noting a new refurbished computer and recent training on the LBRS system and I-Works permitting software. He reported the resolution of issues with the online portal, specifically deactivated email notifications and visibility problems for zoning permits. The administrator also highlighted the need to update outdated scheduled fees in the system.
A significant proposal from Mr. Baxter involved considering a contractor licensing fee with proper insurance compliance. He stressed the importance of this measure in protecting residents, particularly senior citizens, from unlicensed contractors. He also noted that he is seeking estimates for tree work and is working to make storm permit and zoning applications available online. Baxter concluded his report by stating that 11 permits were issued, generating $790 in revenue, and confirmed successful efforts to address high grass issues on Kneisel Road and Lake Road.
Fiscal Office Report: Financial Officer Stephanie Johnson presented the proposed records retention schedule form 2 (RC2) for approval. Upon approval, this document will be submitted to the Ohio History Connection Local Government Records Program for further review. The motion to approve the RC2 was made and seconded, passing unanimously.
Resolution 2025-13 Regarding North Cherry Road Tabled A notable discussion centered on Resolution 2025-13, which sought to declare a health and safety emergency on North Cherry Road due to potential flooding, thereby authorizing the board to exercise emergency powers for up to six months. While Chair Baughman advocated for its immediate adoption to affirm the board’s statutory responsibility for public safety, Vice Chair Don Rowe Sr. and Trustee Kurt Johnson voted to table the resolution. Their decision was driven by a desire to gather more information regarding the referenced Ohio Revised Code sections and potential litigation. Chair Baughman cast the sole dissenting vote, and the resolution was tabled with a 2-1 vote.
Executive Sessions Approved The board approved two executive sessions, which were scheduled to be conducted after the conclusion of new business. These sessions were slated to confer with an attorney on matters of pending litigation (per OC 121.22 G3) and to discuss personnel matters, including appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion, or compensation of a public employee or official, or investigation of charges or complaints (per OC 121.22 G1).
Public Commentary Addresses Community Concerns During the open public commentary session, Mr. Rob Dunn of Cherry Road addressed the trustees. He expressed strong support for the proposed contractor licensing fee, sharing observations of unlicensed handymen potentially taking advantage of residents. Mr. Dunn also offered to provide contact information for utility district representatives and suggested exploring the possibility of purchasing fire hoses from local fire department auctions as a potential cost-saving measure for the township. He concluded by commending the new township officials for their diligence, specifically acknowledging a compliance letter regarding his agriculturally zoned property.
Old Business: Fire Station Door Delays The ongoing issue of building maintenance and door replacement/repair at Fire Station One was discussed as an old business item and subsequently tabled once more. Trustees are continuing to gather and compare estimates for eight garage doors, aiming to make the most informed and cost-effective decision, particularly given concerns about the existing doors’ age and condition, including water damage.
Next Meeting and Adjournment
The next Vermilion Township Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for June 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM. The public portion of the meeting concluded around 9:30 PM, after the discussion of old business items, with the board then adjourning.
