VFW Electronic Sign Variance Approved After Community Compromise
Board of Zoning Appeals grants variance with strict conditions
The Northfield Center Township Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance request for the VFW Post to install an electronic message sign after extensive negotiations between the organization and nearby residents.
The variance allows a 12 square foot size increase and permits an electronic sign in the business residential district, specifically recognizing the VFW’s status as a non-profit organization. The approval came with strict conditions including brightness controls at 50 percent during daytime and 30 percent during twilight hours, dark backgrounds only, and message changes limited to one-hour intervals.
The decision followed three public hearings where VFW representatives and neighbors worked together to address concerns. A demonstration was held where the VFW showed the sign at 30 percent brightness, which neighbors found acceptable.
Board member concerns about setting precedent for other electronic signs in residential areas were addressed by specifically noting the VFW’s non-profit status in the approval conditions.
Zoning Commission Advances Text Amendments
Changes focus on assisted living definitions and recreational vehicle storage
The Northfield Center Township Zoning Commission moved forward with text amendments affecting residential districts. Key changes include removing “frail and elderly” language from assisted living facility definitions and requiring paved surfaces for recreational vehicle storage.
The amendments, which received approval from Summit County Planning, also clarify vehicle definitions to include any device titled or registered by the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Commission members discussed broader zoning concerns for the Route 82 corridor, noting the area contains multiple zoning classifications within just 1.1 miles. Chair suggested considering mixed-use zoning to streamline development standards.
Industrial District Shooting Complaints Addressed
A resident raised concerns about firearms use on industrial property, citing noise and safety issues. The property owner operates under state law allowing shooting in townships, but the resident argued zoning regulations prohibit the activity due to noise restrictions and proximity to residential areas.
The zoning inspector received permission to investigate the property and will review applicable regulations. The commission noted potential conflicts between state firearms law and local zoning ordinances.
Community Mural Contest Proposed for Town Center Building
Local property owner seeks community input for artistic enhancement
Building owner Larry Homolak announced plans for a mural design contest for the Ohio Time Building in the town center district. The proposed contest aims to add beauty and energy to the area while celebrating community pride and enhancing visual appeal.
The competition would be open to all participants, with submissions tentatively due June 30. Entries would include a digital copy or sketch of the proposed mural design along with a brief description of the artwork and artist’s concept. The Historical Society of Northfield Center would select the winner, who receives community recognition.
Trustees acknowledged the initiative but noted they are not part of any formal agreement. Some details about the submission process and final approval requirements remain under discussion.
Homolak plans to patch, tuck point and paint the entire building as part of the enhancement project. Sherwin-Williams was approached about donating paint for the initiative. The effort builds on a 2003 enhancement plan developed by the Historical Society that sat unused for over 20 years.
Trustee Meeting Highlights New Hires and Infrastructure Projects
Road projects advance, new staff added to township workforce
Trustees approved hiring Dawson Brown as a part-time road worker at $18.21 per hour and authorized Scott Peters as the new Zoning Inspector at $22.00 per hour. Peters previously served as alternate on the Board of Zoning Appeals.
The township waived the $100 fee for the VFW’s electronic sign installation, supporting the veterans organization’s community outreach efforts.
Infrastructure projects received attention with approval of pavement maintenance contracts. Pin Oak Circle, Pebble Brook Court, and Brookside Lane will receive mill and fill treatment through Summit County’s regional program at a cost of $197,122.50.
Comprehensive Planning Discussion Emerges
Trustee Russell Mazzola advocated for hiring an architectural firm to develop a comprehensive township plan, noting current discussions about zoning, walkability, and development occur in silos. The township’s last comprehensive plan dates to 1994.
Discussion included potential partnerships with Miami University’s Center for Public Management and Regional Affairs, which assisted other communities with planning initiatives.
Parks and Recreation Events Scheduled
The township scheduled summer programming including music at the gazebo on July 13 and August 10. Palmer House will provide ice cream at the July event as a fundraiser. A movie in the park is planned for September 13.
Park security improvements include installation of Verkada cameras providing 360-degree coverage of Beacon Hill Park at a cost of $5,610.70.
Safety Concerns Raised Over Memorial Day Parade
Residents report dangerous behavior during community event
Multiple residents reported safety violations during the Memorial Day parade, including a youth performing wheelies on a lawnmower and an ATV carrying six people despite a two-person capacity. Officials witnessed children nearly falling over handlebars during the incidents.
The problems extend beyond the parade, with ongoing issues involving youth racing vehicles on residential streets. Trustees discussed installing enforcement cameras after residents reported repeat violations despite police patrols.
Sheriff’s department representatives said they would follow up on the incidents and consider increased enforcement measures.
Major Infrastructure Projects Move Forward
Multi-million dollar drainage and road improvements planned
The township is advancing several major infrastructure projects with significant financial commitments. The Bayberry Road project carries a $1.2 million price tag, with 50 percent grant funding secured.
Two major drainage projects are in development. The Doorway ditch project, estimated at $1.8-1.9 million, will be funded through ARPA money. The Norwood Lake drainage project faces a $600,000 cost with limited funding options through the stormwater management program.
Officials expressed concern about Spring Creek road conditions, where pavement is failing despite repairs completed in consecutive years by the same contractor.
Property Violations Include Illegal Rentals
Zoning enforcement targets unauthorized short-term rental operations
Zoning Inspector Scott Peters reported issuing 14 violation letters in his first month, with 10 addressing tall grass violations. Seven properties achieved compliance while three remain pending.
Enforcement actions include a property where the owner illegally rented out a swimming pool and operated an unauthorized camping operation that was shut down by the Health Department for human waste violations. The property also has multiple unpermitted structures including a patio and shed.
Current regulations allow only one Airbnb unit for 30-day rentals. Senate Bill 104 may limit the township’s ability to regulate short-term rentals in the future.
Emergency Services Report Activity Levels
Fire and police statistics show community safety trends
The Sheriff’s Office reported 794 calls for service in May, bringing the year-to-date total to 3,021 calls. The fire department handled 39 squad calls and six fire calls in May, returning to normal activity levels after an unusually busy start to the year.
Infrastructure improvements include completion of the annual hydrant flushing program and ongoing replacement of fire hydrants. More than 200 hydrants have been replaced district-wide over the past two years.
The fire department’s drone demonstration proved popular at recent community events. The Sheriff’s department is planning coffee with police events at local businesses to increase community engagement.
Parks and Recreation Events Scheduled
The township scheduled summer programming including music at the gazebo on July 13 and August 10. Palmer House will provide ice cream at the July event as a fundraiser. A movie in the park is planned for September 13.
Park security improvements include installation of Verkada cameras providing 360-degree coverage of Beacon Hill Park at a cost of $5,610.70.
Refuse Collection Contract Bidding Authorized
Trustees authorized Director of Services Tim Black to begin competitive bidding for refuse collection services. The current contract with Rumpke expires, prompting the need for new proposals.
Discussion included potential options for weekly versus bi-weekly recycling pickup, with trustees requesting both alternatives in the bidding process.
