Minutes of the Meeting of the Rootstown Township Zoning Commission
September 20, 2010The Rootstown Township Zoning Commission met in regular session on Monday, September 20, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. at the Rootstown Town Hall.
Present:
Karen Henry
Amanda Lewis
AnneMarie Mullenix
George Tishma
Helen VariAbsent:
Van-Note BlackAlso present:
Jim Mahood, Zoning Inspector
Judy Adamson, secretaryChair, AnneMarie Mullenix, called the meeting to order.
Everyone stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
The floor was given to Christine Craycroft, Director of the Portage Park District, as she was present to give an overview of the Portage Park District and inform the group of the present status of the hike and bike trails in Portage County. The zoning commission is exploring the feasibility of obtaining funding opportunities and considering what types of trails might be possible for Rootstown Township.
Ms. Craycroft handed out maps showing existing and proposed parks, trails, etc. The Portage Park District’s mission is to conserve Portage County’s natural cultural heritage. They are focused on conservation. Their funding began in the late 1990’s; although a levy has never been passed. They rely mostly on grants and donations. The county commissioners provide operating support for the organization, but the economic times have shown a cut in their budget. It also gets local government funds from the state, donated property, and a non-profit organization helps with raising money.
The park district is now responsible for over 1200 acres of land and 14 miles of hike and bike trails. They try to partner with local communities as they expand and they have recently obtained grants to construct a trail at Berlin Lake on a former railroad corridor. This project will also need more local funds as they proceed next year.
There are still large parcels which might be available in the county for potential opportunities. Our township has some trail opportunities that could be tapped. As we pursue the possibilities for adding or connecting trails many things are to be considered including cost, public support, feasibility, opposition, etc.
Subdivision regulations are being revamped by the Portage Regional Planning Commission that may help by considering open spaces that might connect with other usable open areas. Park districts comply with local zoning regulations. Design standards are very basic and trail areas are considered public right of way. The township already has a parks and recreation plan in place and coordination is essential.
The group will be able to study the information presented and continue more discussion next month. Mrs. Mullenix thanked Ms. Craycroft for the wealth of information she presented.
Jim Mahood, Zoning Inspector, shared with the group a discrepancy that he came across when issuing a permit for an above-ground swimming pool. The part regarding fencing might need to be revised since it was a gray area. The intent of the resolution was unclear and may need a reference note. Mr. Mahood also reminded the group to let him know ASAP if they wish to go to the Oct. 29th Zoning workshop in Cleveland. The township will cover registration expenses and members are encouraged to attend.
Trustee Brent Housley was present and wants to keep in contact at least quarterly to make sure he’s available to contribute and be aware of current issues with which the zoning commission is dealing.
Karen Henry made a motion to approve the August 1, 2010 Zoning Commission meeting minutes as presented. Helen Vari seconded the motion and all ayes were heard.
Karen Henry made a motion to adjourn. George Tishma seconded the motion and all ayes were heard.
The next regularly scheduled meeting will be October 18, 2010.
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Ann Marie Mullenix, Chair
Rootstown Township Zoning CommissionJudy Adamson, secretary