Michael J. Hovis

The zoning commission held a public hearing regarding a proposed zoning map amendment to change the classification of a vacant property from residential R1 to commercial C3. The petitioner argued that the change would align the parcel with the surrounding commercial corridor and correct an inconsistent zoning designation. Opponents, including nearby residents and a business representative, expressed concerns regarding light and sound pollution, potential water damage and drainage issues affecting their properties, loss of a natural buffer between residential and commercial areas, and increased traffic concerns.

The board discussed administrative updates, including financial reports and county correspondence. Key actions included the authorization of payments for outstanding invoices, the adoption of new cyber security policies, and the approval of new multi-function copiers for various departments. The Fire Department received approval for a permit fee schedule and event standby. The Road Department secured approval for paving projects, a township-wide cleanup event, and personnel changes. The Zoning Department reported on permit activity and upcoming hearings. The Park and Recreation Board obtained approval for several community events, including an Easter egg hunt, a basket raffle, and an America 250th birthday celebration, alongside authorization for necessary park infrastructure upgrades, specifically electrical work and video cabling. Additionally, a presentation was given regarding the potential for curbside recycling and waste services for township residents.

The public hearing was held to receive public comment and testimony regarding the map amendment to the township zoning resolution and proposed updates to the official Bazetta Township zoning map. The zoning commission recommended the approval of the proposed updated official Bazetta Township zoning map amendment to the township zoning resolution. There was discussion regarding a change at Timber Creek Heights and clarification that the builder developer intends to keep building the same exact villas that are there now. A member of the public raised concerns about eminent domain and the use of railroad property for commercial purposes.

The board discussed administrative updates including the township financial report, community announcements regarding the fire department's senior watch program, and upcoming community events. A representative from the Trumbull County Engineer's office provided details on the salt supply program, including potential storage and delivery optimizations, and gave updates on ongoing bridge and road resurfacing projects. The board approved resolutions authorizing payment of outstanding invoices, amendments to 2025 appropriations, and a request for real estate tax advances. Personnel actions included the conditional offer of employment and promotion of a firefighter/EMT. Additionally, the board approved an invoice for the Mahoning Valley Crisis Response Team and reviewed monthly reports from the fire and police departments.

The Bazetta Township Trustees meeting included discussions and resolutions on various topics. These included the fiscal officer's monthly financial report, updates on the Trumbull County Auditor's failure to deposit tax money, and the senior watch program by the police and fire departments. Resolutions were passed to authorize payments, approve water improvement projects, amend the certificate of estimated resources and appropriations, and renew contracts with Delta Dental Plan and Medpair. The fire department reported on monthly activities and expressed gratitude for the renewal levy's passage. The police department also thanked residents for passing their renewal levy and announced an upcoming food drive. Road department updates included enforcing snow band parking, progress on paving approaches, OPWC meeting outcomes, and the arrival of a crack seal machine. The park's closure for the season was announced, and discussions were held regarding a communication board installation at Imagination Station. Additionally, the board approved the baseball field defense banner fundraising program and the Imagination Station commemorative ornament fundraiser program. A public comment was made regarding the need for loudspeakers at the meetings.