Summary
The Solon Township Board held a regular meeting where they addressed various matters, including the approval of minutes, the Landscape Ordinance, and the Parks Ordinance, as well as updates on financial reports and committee activities. A significant concern was raised about the newly proposed Parks Ordinance, particularly regarding permit fees, enforcement, and its impact on community events such as the Polka Fest and Nachazel Tournament. The board made appointments to several commissions and approved a service agreement for planning and zoning services.
Public Comments
During the public hearings on the Landscape and Parks Ordinances, several concerns were raised:
- **Renee Lemcool** (Cedar Chamber of Commerce) emphasized the need for a clear fee schedule and expressed concerns about the enforcement of provisions regarding motorized vehicles and hunting in township properties.
- **Lisa Rossi** questioned the lack of a fee schedule in the Parks Ordinance and suggested event costs be published.
- **Melinda Lautner** supported hunting at Vlack's Park only and expressed concerns over fees and restrictions impacting local events.
- Other attendees, including **Mike Sheffer** and **Jim Greene**, worried about the effect of the ordinance on community events, specifically the Polka Fest. They felt that the township’s focus on compliance was disrupting the community’s traditional practices.
The board acknowledged these concerns but decided the ordinance needed further work before adoption.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The Parks Ordinance faced many critiques, primarily its undefined permit fees, motorized vehicle use restrictions, and proposed weekend hours. Key discussions points included:
- Concerns over fees that had not been publicized, which attendees felt could negatively impact the Polka Fest and other events.
- Suggestions to define exceptions in the ordinance for motorized vehicle use needed for event setups.
- Decisions made include a consensus that the ordinance was not yet ready for adoption and would require further refinement regarding the fee structure and event regulations.
Other Business
The board appointed members to the Planning Commission and Parks and Recreation Committee, including Kim Smith, who received broad support for her appointment. Christina Deeren's resignation as the Zoning Administrator was accepted, and a service agreement with Beckett & Raeder for zoning services was approved.
Financial Summary
- **Treasurer's Report:** Funds accessible were summarized as follows:
- Total General Savings: $235,914.51
- Total Current Assets: $527,697.98,
- Road Improvement Fund: $30,643.05
- Fire Sinking Fund: $163,305.09
- Parks Improvement Fund: $20,000.00
- Approval of voucher payments (16187-16219) totaling unspecified amounts was motioned and carried.
- An invoice of $1,350.00 for the Lake Bluffs Drainage District maintenance assessment was acknowledged, as well as anticipations for future assessments.
Action Items
- Further development of the Parks Ordinance and fee structure is necessary; a formal proposal is to be clarified in upcoming meetings.
- The township to send a cease and desist to the property owner violating zoning regulations concerning R-5 property.
- Follow-up tasks to refine the services with Beckett & Raeder and ensure clear communication with the community regarding upcoming events and permit processes.