Marlboro trustees approve police hire, road projects and fire grants

Police Chief Ron Devies reported that in August there were 141 calls, with one criminal arrest made for an open container violation and 14 citations issued. Police patrolled 8,173 miles and used 515.1 gallons of gas. Devies also reported that the Police Department will take firearms qualifications the week of Sept. 15.

Devies read a letter recommending the appointment of Robert Leon Dortch as an auxiliary police officer, with the option to move to part time upon completion of field training. Dortch, a 2025 graduate of the Kent State Trumbull Police Academy, resides in Alliance and has worked full time as a security officer for the Ninth District Court of Appeals in Akron for the last eight years. He interviewed with Devies, Sgt. Kelly and Capt. Faudree. Trustees approved a motion to hire Dortch, who will be sworn in Sept. 29.

Devies also noted that the September 2025 issue of the Ohio Township Association Grassroots Clippings reported townships can now register and obtain “Township” license plates for vehicles with no fee, versus the former “County” plates. Fiscal Officer Tracy Ferrett said she had previously filled out Bureau of Motor Vehicle Form 4501 Registration Applications for the County plates and added that original titles must be sent with applications.

Ferrett recommended supplemental receipts and appropriations for the Fire District Fund related to $27,600 in grants for the Fire Department: the 2024 Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant for $10,000 and the 2025 Multi-Agency Radio Communication System Grant for $17,600. Trustees approved a resolution to forward the funds to the department.

Road Superintendent A.J. Battershell reported that grader patching was completed on Preston Avenue to prepare for chip and seal by Carroll Asphalt and Sales, with Lexington Township assisting with asphalt hauling. Marlboro assisted Lexington with grader patching in return. The chip and seal program was also completed on German Church Road, Tyro Street and Breck Street.

Ahead of the Osborne Avenue paving project by Northstar Asphalt, the Road Department replaced a crossover pipe, eliminated some ditches and began prepping the road for paving scheduled to begin the week of Sept. 22. Crews also spread stone and scraped alleys in the Village of Marlboro and mowed a nuisance property on Wade Drive.

Two culverts, on Lynnett Street and Byers Avenue, also need replacement. Battershell said Byers will need to be closed for one or two days, and an estimate will be obtained.

Zoning Inspector Marty Joseph reported 23 to 24 permits have been issued so far this year. He also said Pegasus Farm Properties plans to build a new building and should not be charged for the permit since it is a nonprofit.

The Russell Baseball Training Center project spans three parcels, and the Stark County Regional Planning Commission (SCRPC) said the project has two years to complete procedures. The plan also includes running a septic system through residential property, which requires approval. Trustee Wayne Schillig said SCRPC gave conditional approval, requiring all conditions to be met before the project moves forward.

Cutty’s Sunset Camping Resort is seeking approval for a digital sign to ensure compliance with size and lighting requirements.

Trustee Ken Eddleman said he contacted the Stark County Educational Service Center, which provides insurance for Nimishillen Township. The center can provide information or meet with Marlboro Township if interested.

The trustees agreed to send letters to Zoning Board of Appeals member Sue Bugansky and Zoning Commission member Tim Cognata to ask if they wish to continue their service when their terms expire at the end of the year.

Schillig reported that Jay Sell from Aspen Energy will attend the next meeting to discuss new electric aggregation rates. He also noted the Marlboro Township Historical Society is seeking a permit for an 18-by-48-inch sign. Trustees waived the $50 fee since the nonprofit is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Trustees approved a motion to pay bills totaling $64,198.57.

Two residents expressed concerns about shooting and riding 4-wheelers in the alleys of the village. Devies emphasized that shooting requires a proper backstop and is not permitted after dusk or before sunrise. He said there is no noise ordinance but recommended residents call police if issues occur.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Marlboro Township Hall.