Township of Chardon

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and the approval of the January 13, 2026, minutes. Department reports were submitted by the Road Department, Zoning Inspector, Fiscal Officer, and Administrative Assistant. New business included recognizing the efforts of the Chardon Fire Department and surrounding departments in containing a house fire on Auburn Road, reporting on the Fire Department's call volume for December and year-to-date 2026, and scheduling a discussion regarding cable fees with a representative from GTV. The meeting concluded with motions to adjourn.

The meeting included a review of medical insurance options, where Aaron Marinelli from Magis Advisory Group discussed Anthem Insurance quotes, while noting that quotes from the current agent, Acrisure, were also requested. The Board entered and exited an executive session to discuss matters required to be kept confidential by federal law. A resolution was adopted approving the 2026 Anthem contract, which included agreement to a 100% HRA contribution. Trustees decided not to pursue the Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program Grant for the property at 8974 Ravenna Road.

The meeting included an executive session concerning the compensation of public employees. Key resolutions approved were for wage increases for several employees effective January 2026, which included 3% or 4% increases and specific salary/bonus allocations for administrative staff. The board also approved Amended Resolution #65, 2025, formalizing these compensation changes. Furthermore, Resolution #1, 2026, was adopted, establishing the legal level of control and appropriation budget reallocation limits for the Fiscal Officer for 2026. Resolution #2, 2026, approved the organizational chart for 2026. Residents inquired about the removal of a ring camera and future township projects for 2026, which include road work and park improvements. Reports were received from the Road Department, Zoning Inspector, and Fiscal Officer, including updates on year-end closing and cyber security network upgrades.

The key discussions during the meeting included a presentation by the Geauga Mental Health representative regarding mental health services, suicide prevention coalitions, and a request to support placing 988 signs in township parks and cemeteries. The Road Department report included updates on snow plowing, vehicle maintenance, insurance claims, and asset sales. The Board also approved the printing of a township newsletter, not to exceed $2,700, from Shetler Office Solutions. Furthermore, the Trustees entered an executive session to discuss compensation of public employees, followed by the approval of wage increases effective January 2026 and a $2,000 bonus for the administrative assistant, along with $100 gift cards for each park committee member.

The meeting proceedings included resident comments regarding the little free library update. Key discussions involved Old Business topics such as the approval of the 2020-2022 recycling contract and tabling the Medical Mutual Renewal for further pricing information. New Business included a decision not to sign the Aqua Doc 2020 contract after a request for a fish survey was denied. Financial actions included the approval of a line item transfer and requesting an amended certificate for settlement funds to be placed in the general fund. Further discussion covered the potential hiring of an assistant fiscal officer and clarification on fund restrictions, such as EMS billing money not being transferable to the general fund.