Marlboro Township trustees address levy steps, budget and spring projects

The March 30 meeting was called to order and began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by guest scout Eben Van Eeden, who attended as part of his Eagle Scout Troop 50 project.

Fiscal Officer Tracy Ferrett stated that the first step in placing a road levy on the Nov. 3, 2026, general election ballot is for a “resolution of necessity” to be passed asking the Stark County auditor to prepare a “certificate of estimated property tax revenue” and certify the total current tax valuation of Marlboro Township as a subdivision and the revenue that would be generated by a specified number of mills.

Road Superintendent A.J. Battershell reported that the township is ready for spring cleanup. Republic Services will bring in dumpsters, and Broadway Iron and Metal will provide scrap dumpsters.

Permanent appropriations are due to the Stark County auditor’s office by April 1. Trustees approved permanent appropriations for 2026 totaling $2,991,165.33, including $215,515 for the general fund, $50,500 for the motor vehicle license tax fund, $350,000 for the gasoline tax fund, $326,470 for the road and bridge fund, $1,000 for the cemetery fund, $6,750 for the lighting assessment fund, $839,055 for the police district fund, $870,504 for the fire district fund, $304,000 for the road district fund and smaller amounts across additional funds.

Battershell said the cost estimate for the summer paving program from the county was in line with expectations, and bids for road materials are expected soon. Other work included a driveway culvert and grading Preston Avenue and Graening Street.

Ferrett also said the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System annual conversion plan resolution must be submitted by March 31. Trustees approved a resolution continuing the plan, which allows conversion of unused sick and vacation leave to cash as earnable salary, with specific limits and calculations for each type of leave.

The township received the 2026 community update titled “Evolving Epidemic – Historical Roots and Emerging Challenges” from Stark County’s Board of Mental Health and Addiction Recovery.

Zoning Inspector Marty Joseph reported processing three building permits and four land splits.

Trustee Wayne Schillig provided an update on an issue involving Google Maps and tax maps showing a section of St. Peters Church Road as Clayton Street. The Stark County Engineer’s Office confirmed it is St. Peters Church Road, and steps are being taken to correct the mapping. Battershell was asked to install signage at the intersection with Cedarwood Avenue.

Trustees approved payment of bills totaling $74,364.08.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 27, at 7 p.m. at the Marlboro Township Hall.