3/12/2026 - Solon Township | Budget Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Solon Township Board held a budget meeting on March 12, 2026, where they finalized the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026-2027. Key outcomes included the approval of various budget allocations and a proposed increase in the Fire and Ambulance Operation Millage. There were no public comments recorded during the first public comment period, though some public feedback was provided at the second.

Public Comments

During the public comment segment, Jim Johnson suggested ways to be proactive with Assessment Districts, recommending that the Drain Commissioner could assist. Kelly Claar mentioned that the two Drainage Districts were established prior to the implementation of existing ordinances.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

(Section omitted as there was no discussion on affordable housing.)

Parks and Recreation Matters

- The budget for parks received significant attention, including proposed allocations for Vlack’s Park, benches, and Solon Park. - A motion was passed to pay Parks Committee members $75.00 per diem, supported by a vote of 4-0 with Kelly Claar abstaining.

Infrastructure Projects

- A proposal was made for a Fire and Ambulance Operation Millage to be increased to 3.00 mills for the August Primary ballot, set to raise approximately $460,000 in 2026 and $480,000 in 2027. This motion passed unanimously (5-0). - An allocation of $24,000 was budgeted for a District Assessment.

Other Business

- The board approved amendments to the 2025-2026 budget to cover expenses exceeding their budgeted amounts, and the proposed budget for 2026-2027 was approved with a unanimous vote.

Financial Summary

- The township projected total anticipated income for 2026-2027 at $1,447,278.71. - Estimated receipts from various sources were reviewed, with significant adjustments in several areas, including the Fire and Ambulance Operation Millage, which was raised to a budgeted amount of $460,000. - Operating expenses were estimated at $855,098.74, with various budgeted line item changes detailed in the meeting.

Action Items

- Follow up on the proposed Fire and Ambulance Operation Millage for the August Primary ballot. - Monitor the budget adjustments as the final budget will be prepared after all bills are received and paid. - Kelly Claar will explore the proactive measures suggested by the public regarding the Assessment Districts.