By 1808Delaware
At the first meeting of 2025 for the Orange Township Board of Trustees, key updates were shared on infrastructure projects, fire department staffing, and fiscal concerns. The discussions focused on addressing immediate needs and planning for the township’s growth.
Road and Infrastructure Updates
The board reviewed progress on key infrastructure projects, particularly the Bale Kenyon Road project.
- Bale Kenyon Road Project Phase II
Work is set to continue on the much-anticipated Phase II of the Bale Kenyon Road widening project. This phase will extend from East Powell Road to just north of Pine Ridge Drive and includes the construction of a new recreational trail on the west side of the road.- A grant of $87,500 from the Delaware County Board of Commissioners will help fund the trail portion of the project.
- The board approved resolutions required by the Ohio Revised Code to move forward, including notices of public improvement and necessity.
- Updates on this project will be shared at future meetings.
- Road Maintenance Shortfall
A sobering discussion revealed that Orange Township’s current 0.5 mil road levy, which generates $688,000 annually, is no longer sufficient to meet growing maintenance needs.- Township Administrator Michelle Bonnie and Director of Operations Silas Bowers reported that in 2024, the township had to cut 21 streets from the annual road improvement plan due to funding constraints.
- With over 120 roads rated “six or worse” on a scale of 1 to 10, many roads are now in dire need of repair.
- The board considered placing a new 0.5 mil levy on the May ballot to bridge the funding gap but ultimately decided to postpone the decision to the November general election to allow for more public input.
Fire Department Updates
The fire department honored long-time members while making new hires to maintain service levels.
- Retirements and Resignations
- Lieutenant David Martin retired after 25 years of service. Notably, Martin commuted two hours each way from West Virginia, amassing over 33,000 miles annually during his tenure.
- Firefighter/Paramedic Brad Belville resigned after 12 years, having accepted a promotion to battalion chief in another department.
- New Appointment
- The board approved the hiring of Josh Hagen as a full-time firefighter/paramedic. A lifelong Orange Township resident, Hagen was praised for his enthusiasm and lifelong dream of joining the department.
Fiscal Challenges and Future Planning
The township’s fiscal health remains a critical focus, with the board discussing long-term funding needs for road improvements and other services.
- Road Levy Proposal
Township officials proposed an additional 0.5 mil road levy to address a funding shortfall for road maintenance and repairs. If approved in November, the levy would generate $1.1 million annually, nearly doubling current road maintenance funds.- The proposed levy would cost residents $17.50 per $100,000 of property value annually.
- The township plans a robust outreach campaign, including social media and newsletters, to educate residents on the need for additional funding.
- General Fund Contributions
The township has been supplementing road projects with money from the general fund, which has increased due to recent property valuation adjustments. However, officials stressed that relying solely on the general fund is unsustainable in the long term.
Looking Ahead
The board emphasized the importance of transparent communication with residents about upcoming projects and funding needs. By deferring the road levy proposal to the November ballot, trustees aim to ensure residents fully understand the necessity of additional funding. The next trustees’ meeting will provide updates on ongoing projects and plans for 2025.
