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2017 Muskingum Township Minutes

Jan-Dec 2017 Mtg. Minutes

JANUARY 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
JANUARY 5, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on January 5, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building after the 2016 Re-Organizational meeting and 2017 Records Commission meeting.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell.
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: 1 resident in attendance.
MINUTES:
The December 29, 2016 End of year meeting minutes were approved. Ed Fell approved as read. Hittle seconded. All ayed.
Checks were approved and signed for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
There was no old business to discuss since the End of the year meeting held on December 29, 2016.
NEW BUSINESS:
There was no new business to discuss since the End of year meeting held on December 29, 2016.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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2017 RE-ORGANIZATION MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
January 5, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in special session on January 5, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building for the purpose of the 2017 Re-Organizational Meeting.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell.
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: 1 resident in attendance.
Nomination of President:
· Fell nominated Mike Maniaci for President, Hittle seconded. Maniaci ayed.

Nomination of Burial Committee:
· Maniaci motion to have Matt Hittle and Ed Fell on the Burial Committee. Hittle seconded. Fell ayed.
Emergency Labor:
· Maniaci motion that emergency labor paid as following:
· $14.00 per hour with a CDL license and $12.00 per hour without. Hittle seconded. Fell ayed. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
Public Records Policy:
· Maniaci made motion to adopt a change to our current township public records policy.
· Public records will be provided in a timely manner.
· Charge will be: first 10 copies free, $.10 per page, going rate of a flash drive or CD copy. Fell seconded. Hittle ayed.
Credit Card Policy:
· Maniaci made a motion to continue and accept our current credit card policy.
· All three trustees, fiscal officer, township maintenance workers will have access to the cards.
· The limits for all cards will be $150 per transaction. If over that amount, permission must be obtained by township trustees. Hittle seconded. Fell ayed. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
Township Equipment:
· Maniaci made the motion that the Township equipment can be operated by all road crew and trustees or any other person who has been authorized by the trustees or road crew to do so. Hittle seconded. Fell ayed.
Annual Inventory:
· Maniaci stated the inventory is complete and have received confirmation of receipt from County Engineer per O.R.C. 505.04.

Records Commission:
· The Records Commission, according to O.R.C. 149.42 will consist of a Chairman of the Board; this being Mike Maniaci and the Fiscal Officer, Jason Baughman will be the Records Commission. Maniaci made the motion, seconded by Fell. Hittle ayed.
Mileage Reimbursement:
· Maniaci motion that employees/elected officials who are authorized to use their private vehicles for township business such as conferences, training, etc. will be reimbursed at the standard mileage reimbursement rate established by the I.R.S. of 54 cents per mile which is allowable under the O.R.C. Fell seconded. Hittle ayed. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
Township Meetings:
· Maniaci moved to keep the regular monthly township meetings the first Thursday of every month.
· Notice will be posted in the newspaper once, on the website and posted monthly on the sign in the front of the township.
· Special meetings will be posted on the website, sign out in the front of the township hall and newspaper at least 24 hours before the meeting. Fell seconded. Hittle ayed.
Personal Files Policy:
· Maniaci motioned to appoint the fiscal officer to have control of all storage and distribution of personnel files and information.
· All personnel files will be in a locked filing cabinet maintain request log, if there is a question of what can or cannot be released, fiscal officer is to contact legal counsel, Bud Chess. Violation may result in written reprimand issued from the prosecutor’s office and could lead to termination depending on the situation.
· Hittle seconded. Fell ayed. Roll Call: Manaici ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
2017 Temporary Appropriations:
· Maniaci motioned adoption of the Annual Temporary Appropriations Resolution for fiscal year December 31, 2017 (per O.R.C. 5705.38) until the Amended Official Certificate of Estimated Resources is adopted and received from the Office of Budget Commission, Muskingum County, Ohio. Carryover of $168,925.16, 2017 Estimated Resources $592,870.19 for total budget of $761,795.35. Temporary appropriations of 25% for total of $190,448.84 until permanent appropriation approved. Fell seconded. Hittle ayed. Roll Call: Manaici ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
Maniaci moved to adjourn. Seconded by Hittle. All ayed.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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2017 RECORDS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
January 5, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Records Commission met on January 5, 2017 following the 7 P.M. Re-organizational meeting held in the Fire Building.

ATTENDANCE:
· Chairman Mike Maniaci and Fiscal Officer Jason T. Baughman were present.
BUSINESS:
· Fiscal Officer Baughman stated that he had no records at the present time to get rid of.
· Maniaci made a motion, that the commission has no records to discuss at this time and no records to dispose of at this present time.
· Fiscal Officer Baughman seconded motion, all ayed.
· All other records will remain as they are at the present time.
Maniaci moved to adjourn. Seconded by Baughman. All ayed.


_______________________________ _____________________________
Mike Maniaci Jason T. Baughman, CPA
Chairman Fiscal Officer

FEBRUARY 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
February 2, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on February 2, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 2 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The January 5, 2017 Re-Organizational Meeting minutes were approved as read.
The January 5, 2017 Records Commission Meeting minutes were approved as read.
The January 5, 2017 Regular Meeting minutes were approved as read.
Fell moved to accept as read, Maniaci seconded.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
ROAD GRADER:
Maniaci indicated that Blue Rock Township is interested in purchasing our old road grader. They have meeting this Saturday and will make decision. The county is not interested in the grader. Curtis indicated that there may be a township up north that is interested in the grader.
FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci indicated that at the State Township Conference they discussed fire districts and levies. Our existing fire levy is up this year and will need to pursue a renewal this year. With a levy like ours we get some sort of a credit against our taxes. This credit does not carryover to townships with replacement levies. There is also a levy that is called a renewal levy with an increase. Fell also indicated that we still need Falls to explain to us the soft billing issue that had been discussed at previous meetings. Fell indicated we need to address this in our next contract. Fell indicated that we still need to look at a contract or liability agreement with the Coon hunters with them using our township hall for their meetings. Maniaci will follow-up with Brady regarding the fire contract renewal and soft billing and require them to follow-up with us before we proceed with any contract renewal with them.
SALT SPREADER:
Curtis presented trustees with a v-box salt spreader that Cass Township has for sale. Curtis will get and estimate from Cass Township.
SALT STORAGE BUILDING:
Curtis and Jared is still looking into estimates for a salt storage building.
SALT:
Maniaci indicated that we are good on our salt supply. We received 3 loads from Cargill. With the light winter so far we have only used about 4 truckloads of salt this year.


COLE RYAN PROPERTY:
Hittle indicated that the trustees still need to look at and discuss with Cole Ryan regarding his ditch options on his property due to the water back-up. Maniaci indicated that all we told Cole he could do was cut a ditch in front of his property and we cannot go onto his property with any ditching.
NEW BUSINESS:
TERA SHORES:
Fell indicated a complaint was received from a gentlemen on Terra Shores regarding a school bus using the road near his property as a turn-around . Maniaci indicated that we own the roads and as long as we take care of the roads, plow the roads and as long as the road is wide enough for the school bus to turn-around the school bus can use.
EMPLOYEE PAY:
Hittle motioned to approve a 5% increase to hourly rate effective February 1, 2017 for Jared and Curtis. Fell seconded. Maniacia ayed. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.

FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
January Fire ER 1 ART 7:14 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 3 ART 11:04 (dispatch to scene)
 Other 1 ART 10:01 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS 34 ART 8:59 (dispatch to scene)

ONLINE CHECKBOOK:
Fiscal Officer Baughman indicated that when filing the 2016 Annual Report with the Auditor of State our township elected to take part in the Treasurer of State, Josh Mandel, transparency project and the on-line checkbook project for our township. Townships that partake in the online checkbook can be found on OhioCheckbook.com.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Fell.
_________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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MARCH 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
March 2, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on March 2, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniac, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 2 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The February 2, 2017 minutes were approved. Correction to read Terrace Shores.
Maniac moved to accept as corrected, Fell seconded.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
MOWING BIDS:
Bids were opened for mowing of 5 cemeteries and township hall. Burke Lawn care bid was $5,770 / $824 per month for 7 months. Twin Hills Landscaping bid $3,248 / $464 per month for 7 months. Maniac motioned to accept Twin Hills Landscaping bid. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniac ayed, Fell ayed.
OLD BUSINESS:
2017 MILEAGE CERTIFICATION:
Maniac motioned to accept the Ohio Department of Taxation mileage certification of 47.625 miles. Maniac ayed, Fell ayed. Roll Call: Maniac ayed, Fell ayed.
ROAD GRADER:
Maniac indicated the county is not interested in purchasing our grader. Blue Rock Township is interested for $20K but still is waiting to hear back from them. Bill Purcell of Monroe Township has bid $25K for our grader. Maniac motioned to sell the grader for $25K to Monroe Township. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniac ayed, Fell ayed. Fiscal Officer will send Monroe Township invoice for $25K.
FIRE LEVY:
Maniac indicated he has been trying to get with Brady about the levy and soft billing. Maniac indicated that Wednesday, March 8th he is meeting with Brady and Falls to discuss the levy and billing issues.
HEALTH DEPARTMENT MEETING:
Fell indicated that he will attend the health department meeting on Wednesday, March 8th.
SALT SPREADER:
Maniac indicated that we purchased a salt spreader from Cass Township for $500.
SALT STORAGE BUILDING:
Maniac indicated that we are still looking into estimates for a salt storage building. Fell presented salt bin option of 56x40, 21 3/16 high for $12K plus cost for concrete poured wall, plus additional $3K for fabric cover, plus cost for installation, 20 year warranty on cover and 50 year warranty on frame.
FIRE CONTRACT:
Fell indicated he is still waiting to hear back from Fred Buck of Zanesville regarding fire contract options.
NEW BUSINESS:
LTAP SIGN GRANT:
Maniac indicated that LTAP changed the qualifications for the sign grant program from the first 100 "at risk" township rates by accidents and fatalities to the first 200. Our township ranks 184 and now qualifies for the grant.
FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
February Fire ER 4 ART 10:25 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 0 ART 0:00 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS 22 ART 9:37 (dispatch to scene)
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH:
Maniac indicated that Curtis was selected for our Quarterly drug testing.
CULVERT:
Fell ask if the culvert on Terrace Shores/Belleview is townships. Maniac indicated that this is the counties culvert.
CHARDONN:
Fell indicated that the water is still running down Chardon Road near the Storage Buildings. Fell indicated he spoke with Dana about it.
MUSKINGUM PRESBYRTIAN:
Fell indicated that the new water line installed is causing water issues and they ask if we could put some additional dirt on limestone where they park. Maniac indicated that the trustees will look at options for them.
FRIENDLY HILLS ROAD:
Maniac indicated he received call from Cindy Cameron regarding Friendly Hills Road. Maniac indicated that this is a county road and not township road.
Maniac moved to adjourn. Seconded by Fell.
Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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APRIL 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
April 6, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on April 6, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 2 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The March 2, 2017 minutes were approved. Maniaci motioned to approve. Fell seconded. All ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
MONROE TWP. ROAD GRADER:
Fiscal Officer Baughman indicated that we received check for $25,000 from Monroe Township for sale of our old grader.
FIRE DEPT. LEVY:
Maniaci read motion for 3.75 mil Fire/EMS Levy per O.R.C. 5705.19, 5705.191, 5705.25, 5705.26. The levy is a renewal of 1.25 mil and an additional levy of 2.5 mil for total of 3.75 mils for 5 years to be submitted to the electors on November 7, 2017 to be placed on tax list commencing in 2017 first due in calendar year 2018. Fiscal officer to submit to county auditor to certify the total tax valuation and dollar amount to be generated from the 3.75 mil levy. Hittle Seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed. Adopted the 6th day of April 2017.
Fell indicated that with this levy, we will be required to bid out the Fire/EMS contract due to the amount totaling over $50K. Fell indicated our contract with Falls expires December 31, 2017. Fell indicated that we need to address staffing of our fire house with our next contract and levy. We need to have people here at our Fire Station. Fell indicated if we are paying the same percentage of tax we should get the same amount of coverage. Fell indicated we should have a provision in the contract that we don't have to pay them the full contract if they don't agree to staff our township. Fell indicated we should have a short term contract. Maniaci indicated we cannot use the levy money for anything other than Fire and EMS. Maniaci indicated Falls said that they staff Ritchie 24 hours and Dillon Falls 12 hours. Maniaci indicated that for them to staff our township we would need a bunk house. Hittle indicated concern with the renewal and additional levy and possibility of losing the entire levy and losing the credit with both levies on the ballot. Maniaci will speak with the auditor regarding two separate levies vs. combined levy of renewal and additional levy. The two levies amounts to approximately $130.20 per year / little over $10 per month for $100K of property value. Fiscal Officer Baughman indicated that the reality is that regardless of the type of levies submitted to the electorate, if the people don't pass this levy they have NO Fire/EMS protection with anyone.
SALT STORAGE:
Maniaci indicated we are still waiting and working on estimates with the salt storage building.

ST. MARY'S ROAD:
Maniaci met with Doug Davis about St. Mary's road. Davis performed watershed assessment. Davis indicated a 48"culvert will work. The culvert is $3,000 plus the cost of stone. We can use issue II money for the project. Maniaci motioned to fix St. Mary's road. Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci will be attending the April 19th Sign Grant meeting. Maniaci completed the 50 page application for the sign grant.
ELECTRIC FOR FLAG:
Maniaci indicated he contacted Rick Thomas for electric for the flag pole.
ZEMBA BROS.
Maniaci indicated Zemba Bros. is suppose to come next week to repair the culvert on Jones Road.
NEW BUSINESS:
JAMES CLEGG:
Mr. Clegg expressed concern about water issue on Lisa Kim Lane next to Dave Sowers property. He indicated it's not a water line. He wanted to make the trustees aware of the water issue and is concerned with possible damage to the road or sink hole. Maniaci indicated that he would have Curtis contact OUPS and take a look at the road.
OAKWOOD NORTH SPEED LIMIT SIGNS:
Maniaci indicated we received request from Troy Hindel on Oakwood North for some speed limit signs.
HEALTH DEPT REPORT:
Hittle indicated he attended the Health Department Meeting.
CULVERTS:
Maniaci indicated we need to bill for the following culverts. Lester Vanderbark for 20' culvert $100. Lester's daughter Cindy for 40' $200.
CHUGG RUN SIGN:
Fell indicated the Chugg Run Road sign has been stolen again.
FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
March Fire ER 0 ART 0:00 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 0 ART 0:00 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS Runs ART 15:15 (dispatch to scene)
ROCK CUT RUN CULVERTS:
Curtis purchased culverts for 3 places on Rock Cut Road.
GORSUCH ROAD CATCH BASIN:
Maniaci indicated resident next to Ed Wilson's old house said she would pay for catch basin and we can install .
TREES:
Maniaci indicated Kevin West from Oakwood North indicated that the tree on the corner is getting bad. Maniaci will get with Doug Davis about it.

SQUIRLL LANE:
Fell indicated that Ron Wilson on Squirrel lane indicated that there were some trees we need to take a look at.
GORSUCH CULVERTS:
Fell indicated that we need to take a look at a culvert near the Muskingum Presbyterian Church.
CHARDONN ROAD CULVERTS:
Fell indicated that Curtis needs to look at a culvert on Chardon Road and may need to clean out.
WELCH ROAD:
Hittle indicated that the county fixed the ditch for Lisa Finnell on Welch Road. Hittle indicated that he told her we cannot install a pipe if it isn't affecting our roads. Curtis indicated that there is a backflow preventer on the bottom of the basement drain that prevents the water from backing up. Her pipe coming out of her basement is lower than the bottom of the culvert. The driveway culvert is higher than her basement culvert.
THEN AND NOW PO:
Fiscal Officer Baughman presented Then and Now Purchase Order for the down payment of the 2013 Case Road Grader for 17,530. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
2017 ANNUAL PERMANENT APPROPRIATIONS:
Maniaci motioned adoption of the Annual Permanent Appropriations Resolution for fiscal year December 31, 2017 (per O.R.C. 5705.38). 2016 Carryover of $165,184.65, 2017 Estimated Resources $592,870.19 for total budget of $758,054.84. Hittle seconded. Fell ayed. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
POWELSON TREES:
Curtis indicated that there are some trees on Powelson to cut before the state comes out and reclaim the road. Trustees agreed to have Curtis and Jared cut the trees.
Fell moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
_________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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MAY 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
May 4, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on May 4, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 0 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The April 6, 2017 minutes were approved. Fell motioned to approve. Maniaci seconded. All ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
ZEMBA BOS.
Maniaci indicated that Zemba Bros. came to fix the culvert on Jones Rd. but brought the wrong backhoe and would have to come back again.
ELECTRIC FOR FLAG:
Maniaci indicated that we need to find another electrician as Rick Thomas has not been able to help us out with the electric on the flag pole. Hittle will contact Rick again or find alternative.
LISA FINNELL:
Hittle indicated the issue with Lisa Finnell is resolved.
CULVERTS:
Trustees discussed culverts and ditches. 2 on Georgia, 1 on Welch, 1 on Harper, 2 on Gorsuch and 2 on Bridle trail and 1 steel culvert on Coachlite Circle
Fiscal Officer Baughman to send invoices for culverts.
OAKWOOD NORTH SPEED LIMIT SIGNS:
Two speed limit signs has been installed in Oakwood North.
FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci indicated that he will send out the signed Fire Levy for Fiscal Officer Baughman to submit to County Auditor to determine the amounts generated from the fire levy for the November ballot.
NEW BUSINESS:
DEPOSITORY AGREEMENT CNB:
Fiscal officer Baughman presented trustees with uniform depository agreement under the O.R.C. 135.18 from Century National Bank for signatures and approval. Insured period covers 5/1/17 to 4/30/2022. CNB secures our deposits up to $5 million. Maniaci motioned to approve. Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
April Fire and EMS runs not available at time of meeting.
SIGN GRANTS:
Maniaci attended the meeting regarding the available $50K sign grants. Maniaci indicated that the reflectors on the sign post are not mandatory. Once the signs are received we have up to 1 year to get them installed. We are only allowed to order signs we need and cannot order extras. We need to measure the speed of our curves before we order our signs. We need to get this done by June and complete the online application.
ENGINEERS MEETING:
Trustees discussed topics to discuss with Engineer at our annual meeting. Trustees to discuss Type 1 and 1 funds, St. Mary's Rd, Oakwood North, Tree Removals, Chip Seal, and speed limit signs. Maniaci to schedule the meeting with the County Engineer and let Ed and Matt of date and time. Looks like our balance in Type 2 funds is approximately $20K.
2017 ASPHALT PAVING:
Trustees discussed asphalt paving for 2017. We need to do some prep work on Georgia and Carolina. Birkheimer is to finish paving of Georgia. Maniaci will get Matt Russell to run us some estimates on these roads. Fell made motion to bid out paving of all of Stonehenge and the hill to Wilshire. Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
GORSUCH ROAD HOME:
Fell indicated received complaint about Gorsuch Road home with open basement. There is liquid coming out of the yard that we need to get someone to check this out. Fell called the fire department but is waiting to hear back. If he doesn't hear back he will contact the state fire marshal.
SALT BID RESOLUTION:
Maniaci indicated we have 50 tons salt left to get from our salt agreement and we need to determine our Winter Salt Bid Agreement by May 10. Maniaci motioned to agree to purchase 150 tons with our winter salt bid agreement. Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.

CENTURY LINK:
Maniaci received letter for trustees to approve for Century Link regarding a work authorization on Fawn Drive. Maniaci motioned to approve. Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
_________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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JUNE 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
June 1, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on June 1, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 2 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The May 4, 2017 minutes were approved. MM motioned to approve. Fell seconded.

CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
FIRE LEVY:
Fiscal Officer indicated he is waiting on County Auditor to return the resolution declaring necessity to levy a tax with the amount of tax dollars.
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated the sign grant is due June 9th. Maniaci presented sign inventory and will get the grant submitted by June 9th.
CULVERT/DITCHES:
Maniaci indicated Curtis ordered 48", 3 section culver for approximately $3,000 for St. Mary's repair.
TREES:
Maniaci indicated that we need to discuss and coordinate trees to be trimmed along St. Mary's.
COUNTY ENGINEER:
Maniaci indicated had annual meeting with county engineer. Maniaci indicated that we will use some of our funds available toward St. Mary's culvert and tree trimming. Maniaci indicated tree removal on Oakwood North and Kenlo woods was discussed and will also get with Kroft to discuss removal options.
GORSUCH ROAD:
Fell indicated nothing new to discuss on Gorsuch Road property and has not called fire marshal yet.
FLAG POLE:
Maniaci indicated Matt got John Derwacter to fix the electric on the flagpole therefore we can proceed with flag raising ceremony.




NEW BUSINESS:
VANDERBARK
Mr. Dunfee from Licking Township discussed with trustees chip seal of Vanderbark this year and reimbursement for our township portion of the road. Maniaci indicated we would take care of prep work for our side and motioned to approve reimbursement of Licking Township for our portion of the chip seal. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Fell ayed.
FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
April Fire ER 1 ART 6:10 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 1 ART 6:43 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS Runs 28 ART 8:38 (dispatch to scene)
May Fire ER 2 ART 10:44 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 3 ART 0:00 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS Runs 24 ART 9:45 (dispatch to scene)
GENESIS DRUG/ALCHOL SCREEN TEST:
Maniaci indicated that Jared was selected this past month for random testing under our drug/alcohol testing.
HEALTH INSURANCE:
Fiscal Officer Baughman presented trustees with Aetna renewal Health insurance policy effective July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. Todd Johnson was unavailable to attend meeting. Fiscal Officer will try to get Todd to come to next meeting. Policy will automatic renew July 1 with new plan and rate unless we elect an alternative plan. Our existing plan vs. our renewal plan with $500 deductible will increase approximately 23%, $930 per month. Trustees also discussed (HSA) Health Savings Account options. Deductibles for the HSA plan increased from $4K to $18K since the last time we looked at HSA.
WELCH ROAD:
Fell indicated there was a culvert on Juanita Road off of Welch Road to look at and replace.
STOP SIGNS:
Fell indicated he had to replace a stop sign last week. Maniaci and Curtis discussed sizes of post and bolts used to install a stop sign.
MOWING:
Maniaci indicated Curtis and Jared has about two weeks of mowing left before they can start patching roads.
GORSUCH ROAD:
Maniaci indicated a catch basin needs installed on Gorsuch. Maniaci indicated that Litho will install it for us for $1,200. Maniaci motioned to allow Litho to install our catch basin when Litho installs culvert for a lady on Gorsuch Road, assuming we find comparable pricing. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Fell ayed.









VACATIONS:
Curtis reminded trustees he would be on vacation June 8th and 9th and August 4th through 12th and Eldora in September.
EMPLOYEE POLICY:
Curtis indicated he has a torn rotator cuff and bicep tendon and needs surgery but due to the policy cannot accrue and carry over enough sick time to get it taken care of. Curtis and trustees discussed employee handbook policy regarding sick time pay allowed and accrued. Curtis was unhappy about only allowed to earn 15 days of sick time. Trustees also discussed other options such as "paid time off" category vs. multiple categories used for vacation and sick time. Trustees also discussed other options available to look into such as short-term and long-term disability policies that can be used to cover long periods of time off when employee sick time available runs out.
Fell moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.


Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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JULY 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
July 6, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on July 6, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 0 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The June 1, 2017 minutes were approved as amended to change Welch Road to Welsh Road and there was not a culvert on Juanita Road but instead to state Welsh Road culvert. Maniaci motioned to approve. Fell seconded. Hittle ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
FLAG POLE:
Maniaci indicated that the light and flag has been fixed.
Hittle indicated he would get John out to look at lights around the rest of the buildings. Hittle forwarded Fiscal Officer the invoice to be paid for the electric install on the flag pole.
ST. MARY'S:
Maniaci indicated that we will get the culvert and trees taken care of ASAP.
NEW BUSINESS:
FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci read and motioned to approve resolution declaring the necessity to levy a tax in excess of the ten-mill limitation per RC 5705.19, 5705.191, 5705.25, 5705.26 for the purpose of providing fire and EMS services, equipment, etc. for Muskingum Township to be submitted to the electors on the November 7, 2017. Hittle seconded the resolution. Roll being called resulted in Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
June Fire ER 4 ART 5:34 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 1 ART 10:00 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS Runs 18 ART 11:44 (dispatch to scene)
Hittle indicated that Falls was doing some inspections last Thursday at the station.
Fell stated that Falls has been out at the station on Wednesdays and Fridays.
WELSH ROAD:
Fell indicated that a resident on Welsh Road asked about extending 30' culvert by 10'.
GENESIS OCCUPATIONAL DRUG TESTING:
Maniaci indicate that Jared passed his testing.
HYDRANT CHECK:
Fell stated Don Madden checked the fire hydrants on Belleview, Dresden, My Drive, Kenlo, Maplecraft and Oakwood North.
GEORGIA ROAD:
Maniaci will check to see if Georgia Road patching has been completed before Fiscal Officer was to mail check.
WEBSITE:
Hittle stated that we need to change his contact information on the website.
CHRIS LUTHI:
Hittle indicated that Chris Luthi said he doesn't need culver and catch basin work done.
HAMPTON COURT:
Fell indicated that there was a hole in the road on Hampton Court due to sewer catch basin sliding over. The sewer department has repaired.
BOOM MOWER BATTERY:
Maniaci indicated that Curtis had to get new battery for the boom mower as the old battery was stolen.
HEALTH INSURANCE:
Maniaci ask Fiscal Officer Baughman to see if Todd Johnson from Rankin could attend meeting to discuss insurance.
SALT BIN:
Maniaci indicated that we are still looking into bids and pricing for salt bin building.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Fell.


Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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JULY 2017 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
July 26, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in special session on July 26, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building for the purpose of a resolution determining to proceed with the submission to the electors of the question of levying a tax in excess of the ten-mill limitation under RC 5705.19, 5705.191, 5705.25, 5705.26.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 2 residents in attendance.
RESOLUTION:
Maniaci read and moved the adoption of a resolution determining to proceed with the submission to the electors of the question of levying a tax in excess of the ten-mill limitation under RC 5705.19, 5705.191, 5705.25, 5705.26.
The board adopted the resolution determining to submit to the electors of Muskingum Township, the question of levying a tax in excess of the ten-mill limitation. The county auditor has certified to this board that the total current tax valuation of Muskingum Township is $96,962,780.00 and the dollar amount of revenue that will be produced annually by the millage at a rate not exceeding three and seventy-five hundredths (3.75) mills for each one dollar of valuation, or thirty-seven and one-half cents (37.5c) for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for five years will be $346,134.00. The levy is a renewal of an existing levy of one and twenty-five hundredths (1.25) mills and an increase of two and five-tenths (2.50) mills for total tax of three and seventy-five hundredths (3.75) mills.
Ed Fell seconded the resolution and the roll being called upon its adoption, the vote resulted as follows: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
Trustees discussed and addressed residents in attendance questions and concerns. Trustees indicated that we need the levy to pass regardless of who the next contract for services is with. The levy will help with staffing at the township station. The levy is for Muskingum Township. Our existing contract with Falls expires at the end of 2017 and the trustees are exploring options for contracting Fire and EMS service and protection. The trustees stated Falls is working on a flyer to discuss the upcoming levy and the trustees would also look into putting together some information to send to the residents and schedule some open meeting over the next few months to discuss the levy with the residents of Muskingum Township.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Fell.
 _________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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AUGUST 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
August 2, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on August 2, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 0 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The July 6, 2017 minutes were approved as amended to read Water Department checked fire hydrants and not Don Madden. Fell approved. Hittle ayed.
The July 26, 2017 Special Meeting minutes were approved. Fell approved. Hittle ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
Then and Now PO was approved for fire truck payment of $42,722.66. Maniaci motioned to approve, Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
OLD BUSINESS:
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated that the sign grant has been approved.
CHRIS LUTHI:
Hittle indicated that Luthi took care of his catch basin and culvert.
PEACHTREE/FORREST DRIVE:
Maniaci indicated Jim Waymer called about the trash man going across the circle and in grass area. Maniaci indicated that we would dig out and put in stone in the circle area the next time we pave we will consider paving the circle.
ST. MARY'S CULVERT:
Maniaci indicated St. Mary's culvert has been completed and looks good.
GEORGIA PATCHING:
Maniaci indicated Georgia patching was completed.
SALT BIN:
Maniaci indicated nothing new to report on salt bin pricing.
WEB SITE:
Maniaci indicated Matt Hittle contact information has been updated.



NEW BUSINESS:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT REVENUES:
2018 Local government revenue of $8,233.07 was approved from the county auditor.
FIRE & EMS RUN REPORTS :
No report at time of meeting.
FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci and Fiscal Officer Baughman stated the Fire Levy has been timely filed with the board of elections to be placed on this November ballot.
PAVING SPECS:
Maniaci indicated received paving specs from Matt and will get posted in paper and website.
The estimate from Matt for Wilshire entrance was with 3" thick for $30K. Trustees will first do some ditching and change estimate to call for 1 1/4 inch base plus 1 1/4 paved.
CHIP SEAL:
Maniaci indicated roads we have chip sealed in past: Squirrel, Dutch School, McCaslin, Fawn, Prior, Welch, Kenlo, Back of Fulton, New Riley, Schneider.
Maniaci recommended to chip seal this year is: Welch, Kenlo Tarkman and Denwood, Dresden Beech run to Rock Cut, Fawn, McCaslin, Dutch School, Squirrel, back of New Riley, and if any left over Chugg Run. Total of 7.8 miles. Trustees also will look into motor pave vs. asphalt.
GRAVEL:
Maniaci indicated we don't need a lot of gravel. Hittle will call Matt Ross at Shelly to get pricing on gravel.
EMULSION:
Maniaci indicated we should need about 4 loads of emulsion.
VERN DOR:
Maniaci indicated received call from Bob Thompson on Vern Dor Drive about 4 groups of ash trees to cut down in our right away. Maniaci indicated would get county out or AEP.
FIRE LEVY MEETINGS:
Maniaci discussed with trustees about scheduling Fire Levy meetings on our own. Fell indicated we should get Falls involved with the meetings.
PRIOR ROAD TREES:
Fell indicated that there was some trees on Prior Road to look at to cut down that are on the phone lines.
Fell moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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SEPTEMBER 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
September 7, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on September 7, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 2 residents in attendance. Sheriff Matt Lutz and Brady Johnson from Falls Fire Department were in attendance.

MINUTES:
The August 3, 2017 minutes were approved. Hittle approved. Fell ayed. Maniaci ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
PAVIN BIDS:
Bids for paving were opened at 7pm. The following bids were received.
Smalls Asphalt: Wilshire, Water Cress $89,179
 Baabs, Georgia, Virginia $66,250.60
Shelly Company: Wilshire, Water Cress $93,972
 Baabs, Georgia, Virginia $72,960.30
Shelly & Sands: Wilshire, Water Cress $103,061
 Baabs, Georgia, Virginia $76,965.65
Spires: Wilshire, Water Cress $94,598.70
 Baabs, Georgia, Virginia $73,373.25
After discussion with Smalls Asphalt history and experience, Fell Motioned to accept Smalls Asphalt bid for Wilshire, Water Cress of $89,179. Hittle seconded. Maniaci ayed. Roll Call Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed. The trustees agreed to revisit Baabs, Georgia and Virginia next year. The budget won't allow for us to pave at this time.
SHERIFF MATT LUTZ
Sheriff Matt Lutz was in attendance to discuss upcoming Muskingum County Jail levy. He discussed why a new jail was needed, the size, the benefits of the new jail in our community, the state mandated facility, safety of the new jail, cost savings, rehab and treatment center possibilities, and the location of the new proposed jail. The proposed levy is 1 mil levy for 30 years. The commissioners will put in another 5 mil. On a $100K home the tax would be $35-$38 per year.
OLD BUSINESS:
FALLS FIRE DEPARTMENT:
Brady Johnson was in attendance to discuss and update on Falls Fire Department.
Richie road station #2 expansion is underway.
New ambulance in station #1.
Levy meetings are underway and preparing a mailer with information from auditor's office on values and tax amounts for the levy.
Falls Fire Department budget for 2018 includes 12 hours a day of staffing at Muskingum Township fire station if the new levy passes.
Purchase of levy signs underway and mailers and they plan on going door to door discussing the levy.
Brady provided update on embezzlement case. The defendant filed guilty. 8 counts of forgery, 1 count of theft, 1 count of telecommunication fraud, restitution of $568K.
Brady indicated financial controls are in place. Quarterly reviewed financial statements are in place. Fell recommended audited statements.
Maniaci motioned to approve 50 to 100 signs to match Falls Fire Department purchase of levy signs. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated that we are still waiting on purchase order from the vendors for our signs.
CHIP SEAL:
Maniaci indicated that our stone order for chip seal was 14.5 miles and not 8.5 miles therefore we ordered more stone to cover the chip seal.
FORREST CIRCLE:
Maniaci indicated Forrest Circle is complete. Fell indicated he received a small complaint form resident.
ST. MARY'S:
Trustees to get pricing on patching of St. Mary's and Baabs patching. Maniaci to call Jan Crawmer to get reasonable estimate.
VERN DOR/PRIOR TREES:
Maniaci indicated he is waiting on Matt Russell for pricing on tree removal on Vern Dor and Prior.
Matt Hittle to contact Frontier telephone about some tree trimming.
STORAGE BUILDING:
Trustees discussed pods for salt storage building. Trustees will look into pricing and storage options for storage building.
LEVY MEETINGS:
Trustees reiterated that Muskingum Township needs our Fire Levy renewed regardless of if we had our own fire department or regardless of who we contract with. Our existing levy will expire and we need the levy renewed.
The trustee will wait until signs go out and explore levy meetings leading up to the election.
Maniaci indicated that he is running for trustee but his #1 goal during re-election is to get our levy passed. Ed Fell also reiterated this sentiment.
NEW BUSINESS:
WEB SITE:
Maniaci is looking into the web site issues.
INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT:
Maniaci indicated per the attorney general ORC, the township can continue to reimburse health insurance to its employees. When affordable care act came into effect and to comply with the act we suspended reimbursing the health insurance reimbursement. The new ORC and per attorney general Mike Dewine we can if we choose to reimburse health insurance benefits.

CERTIFICATE OF ESTIMATED RESOURCES 2018:
Fiscal Officer Baughman presented the tax budget for 2018 for approval. Maniaci moved the adoption of the resolution accepting the amounts and rates as determined by the budget commission and authorizing the necessary tax levies and certifying them to the county auditor. The amount inside the 10 mil limitation of $307,903.42. Maniaci motioned, Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed. Fell ayed. The certificate of estimated resources for 2018 does not include the proposed fire levy at this time as we have to wait until the election. Once the levy is passed the fiscal officer will have to re-submit an amended estimated tax budget to the budget commission for adoption.
FIRE TRUCK PAYMENT:
Trustees discussed fire levy and fire truck payment. If levy fails we need to payoff fire truck with our existing fire levy funds before we pay any remaining levy funds to Falls Fire Department. We have one more payment left on the fire truck.
FIRE RUN REPORTS:
No fire fun reports were available at the time of the meeting.

Fell moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
 _________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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OCTOBER 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
October 5, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on October 5, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 4 residents in attendance. .

MINUTES:
The September 7, 2017 minutes were approved. Fell approved. Hittle seconded. Maniaci ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
MUSKINGUM COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT LEVY:
Bonnie Kirch from Muskingum County Health Department was in attendance and was visiting townships to discuss the Health Department renewal levy and asking for everyone's support. The Health Department provides environmental health and safety services, education services, drug rehab services, and flu shot clinics. Maniaci inquired to Ms. Kirch and asked about Sherriff Lutz Jail Levy and proposed rehab center with the jail and maybe something they could work together on.

OLD BUSINESS:
TOWNSHIP FLAG:
Mrs. Cohagen ask about hooks for the flag pole and flag and indicated the flag should be at half staff today. Mrs. Cohagen presented the trustees with a state of Ohio flag for the township flag pole.
FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci discussed the Muskingum Township Fire Levy renewal of 1.25 mill and 2.5mill additional levy with the residents in attendance. The cost per month on $100K home with existing levy is $3.11 per month per household. The additional levy would be an additional $7.29 per month. We currently contract with Falls Fire Department. Our contract is expiring at end of year. We look to continue our relationship and contract with Falls but we can look at options. The additional levy will allow for 12 hours per day of staffing of Fire and EMS personnel at our township station. If contracted with Falls again, the contract will provide for this staffing. The levy funds are also used for the fire truck payment. We have one more payment remaining on the fire truck of $42K. Trustees will be working with Falls to get the word out about the levy and explain the importance of the levy renewal and that it is a Muskingum Township Fire/EMS Levy and regardless of who we contract with we need the levy to provide Fire and EMS coverage for our township.
Mrs. Cohagen indicated they have had to use Falls Fire/EMS service multiple times and has excellent reviews and received excellent service and response times with Falls Fire/EMS Department.

MOTOR PAVING:
Trustees discussed motor paving and indicated that Powelson was motor paved 3 years ago and still in good shape. They discussed the cost vs. asphalt and will explore motor paving options down the road.
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated he has paperwork for the sign grant. Maniaci indicated we received some 25 and 35mph signs.
PAVING/PATCHING:
Fell and Maniaci indicated that the asphalt paving on Wilshire from Smalls was going over about 30 tons and they approved to use the extra on Tunis road and trustees will get with Jan Crawmer to finish the remaining lanes on Tunis
TREES:
Maniaci spoke with Matt Russell about the tree trimming on Vern Dor. Mat will get back to the trustees.
Trustees indicated they will get estimates for some tree removal on Prior and Conn Road.
SALT BIN:
Trustees discussed the salt storage bin options. The trustees will discuss the budget with Fiscal officer Baughman at the next regular meeting.
WEB SITE:
Maniaci indicated that the annual fee was paid and the web site is back up and working again.
CNB DEPOSITORY AGREEMENT:
Fiscal officer Baughman provided Trustees with the Century National Bank depository agreement as required per ORC to be signed and approved every 4 years.
FIRE LEVY MEETINGS/SIGNS:
Maniaci indicated that we cannot provide money for political signs to support the levy. Maniaci retracted the motion to buy signs for the levy for Falls as previous months resolution. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed. Only the Fire Levy Committee is allowed to provide. The trustees agreed to have Special Fire Levy meetings on October 19th and 30th at 6pm and get the sign updated and posted in the newspaper. The trustees reviewed and discussed the flyer provided by Falls Fire Department.
NEW BUSINESS:
FIRE RUN REPORTS:
September Fire ER 5 ART 9:01 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 1 ART 6:07 (dispatch to scene)
 Other 1 ART 9:24 (dispatch to scene)

EMS Runs 28 ART 7:53 (dispatch to scene)
Fell moved to adjourn. Seconded by Hittle.
 _________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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OCTOBER 2017 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
October 19, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in special session on October 19, 2017 at 6:00 P.M. in the Fire Building for the purpose of discussing the Muskingum Township Fire Levy.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Falls Fire Dept: Chief: Brady Johnson
· Residents: There were 12 residents in attendance. .

FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci opened the meeting.
Maniaci stated the Muskingum Township Fire levy is expiring at the end of the year.
The Muskingum Township Trustees have placed on the ballot a Fire Levy renewal of 1.25 mill and 2.5mill additional levy and asking for support of the levy to continue Fire and EMS protection in our township.
The cost per month on $100K home with existing levy is $3.11 per month per household. The additional levy would be an additional $7.29 per month.
We currently contract with Falls Fire Department. Our contract is expiring at end of year. We look to continue our relationship and contract with Falls but we can look at options.
The additional levy will allow for 12 hours per day of staffing of Fire and EMS personnel at our township station. If contracted with Falls again, the contract will provide for this staffing.
We are holding 2 Fire Levy meetings to help answer questions that residents may have with the Fire Levy that has been placed on the November ballot. We will be having another special meeting like this evening to discuss the Fire Levy on October 30th at 6pm.
Hittle indicated that the first step is to get our levy passed so we can provide Fire and EMS protection in our township. Without our levy we cannot contract or provide Fire and EMS protection to our township. The only other options would be mutual aide and or trying to provide or contract services out of funds from our general fund which in insufficient to do so. Hittle indicated that we are going to do what is in the best interest to our township when it comes to Fire and EMS protection.
Maniaci indicated that that the correct answer would be to utilize our available funds from our general fund to provide Fire and EMS protection however, the true answer and legal answer per the ORC is that we are not legally required to provide Fire and EMS protection within our township.
Fell indicated that it is our goal to provide the best Fire and EMS protection to the township. The levy renewal and additional levy will bring us up to par with other townships in the area and allow us to contract for better service which includes Fire and EMS staffing at our township facility. We know what we have with Falls Fire and our existing contract but there is no guarantee that we will contract with them. We will explore all our available opportunities and contract the best available Fire and EMS services we can get.
The Trustees and Chief Brady Johnson answered questions pertaining to the following:
How to arrive at levy mill:
The current levy millage data is from the county auditor. The current 1.25 mill levy generates $3.11 per month per $100K of property value. The additional 2.5 mill levy will generate $7.29 per month per $100K of property value. The total cost per month would be $10.41 per $100K of property value. The levy is for 5 years. The original 1.25 mill levy began back in 2002. The existing renewal and additional levy will be used to provide staffing of Fire and EMS personnel at Muskingum Township fire station.
Why 1 levy instead of 2 separate levies:
Maniac indicated that the trustees agreed to one levy. We felt due to the previous levy fail tries that this was the best option available for the levy to pass and for us to provide the best possible Fire and EMS coverage for our township. Our fire levy money goes toward Fire and EMS service for Muskingum Township. The money does not go toward Falls Township. We currently contract with Falls Fire/EMS. The goal is and new contract will provide for staffing at our station. 2 paid staff at 12 hours per day. 2 Fire Fighter EMT's. With additional modifications to Muskingum Township Fire Station, with additional levy monies, potentially could staff 24 hours per day.
How much to run fire department out of our township
Chief Brady indicated that in 2016 the Muskingum Township Fire Levy brought in $105,346. The additional $2.5 mill levy will generate $206,174. For the past 8 years $42K has went to pay for the fire truck. Approximately $63K per year was paid to Falls Fire to contract Fire and EMS services to Muskingum Township. The renewal and additional levy is for 5 years. The levy funds would be used to budget for modifications to Muskingum Township station in order to staff the station for 12 hours minimum per day, payroll, insurance, benefits, new equipment, additional Fire and EMT vehicles, and maintenance on equipment. The cost to outfit a basic firefighter/EMT is approximately $5,375 per person. In 2016 there were 68 Fire runs and 266 EMS runs in Muskingum Township. Falls operates as a private corporation and funds to provide the Fire and EMS service and above mentioned equipment, staffing, maintenance are provided out of the private company's general operating funds. Muskingum Township Station is ISO 5 certified with Falls Fire Corporation. Falls Fire Corporation employs part-time paid, volunteers at all three fire stations. Since the inception of the existing fire levy, Muskingum Township has been receiving Fire and EMS protection from Falls Fire Corporation for less than $65K. The existing contract called for Fire protection only. Since the inception we have been also receiving EMS protection also for no additional cost. Falls Fire also received Grants from FEMA in 2013-2016 of approximately $664K of equipment for an out of pocket cost of $84K used to provide Fire and EMS service and use to Falls Township and Muskingum Township.

How many stations and How would we arrive at hours of coverage.
Brady indicated that we provide Fire and EMS service. The hours arrived are statistic based. The anticipated hours would be 8am to 8pm or 9am to 9pm. We have mainly part-time, volunteer staffing. The goal and with the help of the levy renewal would provide at least 12 hours of coverage at our township. Falls Fire has 3 stations, Station 1 at Dillon Falls, Station 2 at Ritchy Road and Station 3 would be Muskingum Township. Falls Fire/EMS has 60 personnel of which 36 are part-time, on-call staff.
Existing Fire and EMS Contract
Maniaci indicated that our existing contract is with Falls Fire Department. We have a fire truck and EMT truck at our township. Falls does make runs out of our station. We have a good relationship and experience with Falls coverage of Fire and EMS protection and would like to continue. Our contract expires at the end of the year. The trustees are exploring contract options with Falls Fire Department and will entertain other service providers with the passing of the renewal and additional levy.
Are we bringing back fire department
The trustees stated that they were not bringing the fire department back with the levy and are looking to contract with Falls or explore other contract options for Fire and EMS protection with the renewal and additional levy.
How many Fire and EMS runs in Muskingum Township
2016 there were 68 Fire and 266 EMS runs
2015 there were 44 Fire and 279 EMS runs
2014 there were 59 Fire and 252 EMS runs
2016 Total Fire runs in Muskingum County by Falls Fire Corporation totaled 334 and 1,296 EMS runs.


Falls Township Volunteer Fire Department Corporation
Falls Fire Department is not a government entity. They are a private corporation. They employ part-time, volunteer employees at all there fire stations. Falls contracts and receives monies from Falls Township and Muskingum Township for Fire and EMS protection service. Falls other income includes charges for EMS transport only. Falls Fire provides the same Fire and EMS service to both townships. Falls Fire Department is not part of Falls Township. Muskingum Township levy monies are not going toward Falls Township. Falls Fire Corporation has approximately 60 personnel, 36 which are part-time and on-call personnel.
Fire District
In order to be a fire district the township mileages has to be comparable. With the passing of the 1.25 renewal levy and the additional 2.5 mill levy will get Muskingum Township in line with Falls Township which would be one of the first steps toward becoming a fire district. Falls Fire Department has explored and hired a group to study and determine fire district requirements. Before any district can be created the prosecuting attorney would have to come up with the levy ballot language and the trustees of the townships would have to approve. The fire district would be its own government entity with its own elected board.
Homeowners Insurance
Failure to pass the renewal and additional levy could increase your homeowners insurance. Muskingum Township Fire Station is ISO 5 certified with the contracted services from Falls Fire Corporation.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
 _________________________________
 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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OCTOBER 2017 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES

BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
October 30, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in special session on October 30, 2017 at 6:00 P.M. in the Fire Building for the purpose of discussing the Muskingum Township Fire Levy.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Falls Fire Dept: Chief: Brady Johnson
· Residents: There were 1 residents in attendance. .

FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci stated the Muskingum Township Fire levy is expiring at the end of the year.
The Muskingum Township Trustees have placed on the ballot a Fire Levy renewal of 1.25 mill and 2.5mill additional levy and asking for support of the levy to continue Fire and EMS protection in our township.
The additional levy will allow for 12 hours per day of staffing of Fire and EMS personnel at our township station. If contracted with Falls again, the contract will provide for this staffing.
The Trustees and Chief Brady Johnson answered questions pertaining to the following:
· This is only one levy.
· The levy is not 2 individual levies. It is a all or none levy.
· Currently the existing levy and the renewal and additional levy includes a tax break to residents.
· Existing levy of $1.25 mill levy ends at end of the year.
· The trustees are asking for $1.25 renewal with a 2.5mill additional levy.
· Current arrangement is for Fire protection only.
· New contract to include and renewal levy and additional levy to include Fire and EMS service.
· Fire and EMS runs were made out of Muskingum Township station but not all.
· There is no new contract with Falls Fire Corporation to date but trustees are in talks with Falls regarding a new contract.
· Part of the contract will stipulate that at minimum 12 hours per day. With the renewal and additional levy plans are to staff 2 Fire Firefighter EMT personnel for 12 hours per day with goal of 24 hours. By staffing Muskingum Fire station would provide for more centralized location and would lead toward better and more efficient service to other parts of our township.
· New contract with Falls Fire Corporation or any other Fire and EMS service contract will contain more accountability, communication and audited financial reports submitted.
· Falls Fire Corporation currently staffs approximately 60% of time at Station #1 Ritchie Road.
· Current staffing is 2 at Ritchie road station #1 and 2 people at Dillon Falls. Chief Brady Johnson is in process of hiring and looking for additional staffing at other stations. Ritchie Road is main centralized station.
· Muskingum Township has 2 Fire Trucks. We have one remaining payment on the fire truck for $42K.
· We do not have EMS vehicle. Falls houses and EMS vehicle at Muskingum Township station.
· Falls Township and Muskingum Township is billed the same for EMS transport.
· Failure to pass the renewal and additional levy could increase your homeowners insurance.
· With the passing of the 1.25 renewal levy and the additional 2.5 mill levy will get Muskingum Township in line with Falls Township which would be one of the first steps toward becoming a fire district. The mill will put us on par with the other district townships and should be the same if a fire district is created.
How much to run fire department out of our township
In addition to the contracted services with Falls Township and Muskingum Township Falls, Falls Fire Corporation receives approximately $328,000 of EMS billings in 2016. In 2016 Falls Township paid Falls Fire Corporation $777K vs. Muskingum Township of $61K. Since the inception we have been also receiving EMS protection also for no additional cost. The levy funds would be used to budget for modifications to Muskingum Township station in order to staff the station for 12 hours minimum per day, payroll, insurance, benefits, new equipment, additional Fire and EMT vehicles, and maintenance on equipment. From the auditor the renewal and the additional levy would generate approximately $311,000. Staffing 12 hours a day for 2 people would cost approximately $113,880 payroll alone at $13 per hour. Fire truck payment of $42K. This leaves approximately $157K for capital improvements, apparatus, maintenance, benefits, insurance. By staffing 24 hours per day for 2 people would cost $227K leaving only $43K for capital improvements, apparatus, maintenance, benefits, and insurance.
Falls Township Volunteer Fire Department Corporation
Falls Fire Department is not a government entity. They are a private corporation. Falls contracts and receives monies from Falls Township and Muskingum Township for Fire and EMS protection service.
Fire Levy Ballot:
Mr. Williams indicated based on the wording of the levy ballot Falls cannot legally charge for EMS service. Mr. Brady indicated that the wording language only eludes to EMS. Transport charges are billable. The wording on the levy placed on the ballot is from the board of elections and not from trustees. Maniaci read the wording of the levy to be placed on the ballot. Copy available upon request.
If Levy Fails:
Mr. Williams ask about what happens if levy fails. Maniaci indicated that we pay remaining $42K on fire truck and Falls would not receive any or very few monies remaining from the fire levy for services rendered for 2016. Mr. Brady indicated that he has mutual aide agreements with Fire chiefs and safety director of city and not townships. Falls Fire Corporation has a contract with Falls Township and Muskingum Township to provide Fire and EMS service. Without a contract for Fire and EMS service we do not have to provide. Failure to pass the renewal and additional levy could also increase your homeowners insurance. If Falls Township levy fails and Muskingum Township passes nothing would change in regards to Falls Fire Corporation service to Muskingum Township. The contract will govern the service and requirements to provide to Muskingum Township Fire and EMS.
New Contract:
Mr. Williams ask if new contract is up for bid. Maniaci and trustees indicated that they will entertain contract bids. The terms of the contract will govern. Mr. Williams asked about splitting contract. The trustees do not feel this is the best option or in our best interest. Mr. Brown indicated that the contract, to be determined by trustees, would include requirements to staff our station and any deviation would lead to a breach of contract.
The trustees have explored and entertained interest from other Fire departments including Zanesville and Zanesville.
Who and how came up with the additional levy mill:
The current levy millage data is from the county auditor. Maniac indicated that the trustees agreed to one levy. Our fire levy money goes toward Fire and EMS service for Muskingum Township. The money does not go toward Falls Township. We currently contract with Falls Fire/EMS. The goal is and new contract will provide for staffing at our station. 2 paid staff at 12 hours per day. 2 Fire Fighter EMT's. With additional modifications to Muskingum Township Fire Station, with additional levy monies, potentially could staff 24 hours per day.
The trustees along with Chief Brown determined the necessary levy mil. The new contract will be approved and drawn up by the trustees. The existing renewal and additional levy will be used to provide staffing of Fire and EMS personnel at Muskingum Township fire station. The levy funds would be used to budget for modifications to Muskingum Township station in order to staff the station for 12 hours minimum per day, payroll, insurance, benefits, new equipment, additional Fire and EMT vehicles, and maintenance on equipment.
Levy Tax Increase:
Mr. Williams indicated there was cheaper ways out than increasing everyone's taxes. Maniaci indicated that we don't need to nickel and dime Fire and EMS protection. We are looking toward future. By contracting with someone like Falls we know what we get and will contract to get. We get up to date equipment and squads. Falls has spent more money for service to our township than what we have had to pay them. We are looking to grow and make our Fire station better.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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NOVEMBER 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
November 2, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on November 2, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 0 residents in attendance. .

MINUTES:
The October 5, 2017 regular minutes were approved.
The October 19, 2017 special minutes were approved.
The October 30, 2017 special minutes were approved.
Maniaci motioned to approved. Hittle seconded. Fell ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
FIRE LEVY:
Trustees felt the fire levy meetings went well and were beneficial and informational and that the Fire Levy campaign has had good response.
Maniaci presented trustees with ORC 505.37 section discussing Fire Protection Services. When the estimated cost to purchase fire apparatus, mechanical resuscitators, equipment or other fire equipment, fire alarm, etc. exceeds fifty thousand dollars, the contract shall be let by competitive bidding.
Maniaci indicated that he spoke to Chief Brady regarding providing us with quarterly reports regarding the Fire and EMS service.
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated we have received bolts and nuts but have not received our signs yet from the sign grant.
TREES ON VERN DOR:
Maniaci indicated that the county removed the tree on Vern Dor.
SALT BIN:
Trustees discussed salt bin storage units idea and Curtis didn't agree with idea. The trustees are still looking into salt bin storage options.
NEW BUSINESS:
FIRE RUN REPORTS:
October Fire ER 6 ART 7:22 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 0 ART 0:00 (dispatch to scene)
 Other 0 ART 0:00 (dispatch to scene)
EMS Runs 41 ART 9:05 (dispatch to scene)
FORREST CIRCLE:
Maniaci indicated that he spoke with resident on Forrest Circle and Mr. Wymer complaint regarding the cul-de-sac on Forrest Circle. Maniaci and the resident came to a compromise regarding the issue of the trash truck and our trucks turning around in the circle on Forrest Circle. We are keeping the grass in the middle of the circle but will make it smaller so we can expand the road to help with the trucks getting in and out of that area with better ease.
NEW EMPLOYEE:
Maniaci indicated Jared has taken another job. The trustees will look for a replacement. Fiscal Officer will put an employment ad in the newspaper.
LETTER FROM THOMAS:
Trustees received letter from Ron and Betsy Thomas on Stonehenge thanking us for the work done in their subdivision.
ZEMBA LETTER:
Maniaci agreed and motioned to sign Zemba's mining permit expansion at their Rock Cut Road premises received from Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
JONES ROAD:
Zemba indicated that they would be up at Jones Road November 10th at 9am to discuss with the trustees the plan to work on the ditches.
Fell moved to adjourn. Seconded by Hittle.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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DECEMBER 2017 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES:
BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
December 7, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in regular session on December 7, 2017 at 7:00 P.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 1 residents in attendance.

MINUTES:
The November 2, 2017 regular minutes were approved.
Fell motioned to approved. Hittle seconded. Maniaci ayed.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
FIRE LEVY:
Maniaci indicated that the Fire Levy passed.
FIRE LEVY CONTRACT:
Maniaci and trustees discussed items to include in new fire contract. Trustees discussed number of days for staffing commitment at our station, length of contract, payment schedule, staffing, annual audit requirement, quarterly reports, voluntary billing. Trustees will have Bud Chess, county attorney for review.
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated signs and post are still coming in.
TREES ON VERN DOR:
Maniaci indicated that the county removed the tree on Vern Dor.
DRUG TEST:
Maniaci indicated that none of our employees were selected this quarter for testing.
NEW BUSINESS:
FIRE RUN REPORTS:
November Fire ER 3 ART 12:12 (dispatch to scene)
 Non-ER 2 ART 12:37 (dispatch to scene)
 EMS Runs 31 ART 10:17 (dispatch to scene)
NEW EMPLOYEE:
Trustees interviewed Tom McGlade for position of maintenance worker as replacement for Jared who left for another job. Trustees offered position to Tom at a rate of $15.50 with a 90 day probationary period. Maniaci motioned to hire Tom, Fell seconded. Roll Call Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell ayed.
END OF YEAR MEETING:
Trustees will hold annual end of year meeting on December 30, 2017 at 8am.
RE-ORG MEETING:
Trustees will hold the 2018 re-organization meeting and records commission meeting on January 4, 2018 at 7pm.
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETINGS:
Trustees will hold regular monthly meetings on the first Thursday of the month. The next monthly meeting will be January 4, 2017 at 7pm.

Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Maniaci.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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DECEMBER 2017 SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES:
BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
December 19, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee met in special session on December 19, 2017 at 6:00 P.M. in the Fire Building for the purpose of interviewing applicants for the position of township maintenance worker.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 0 residents in attendance and 3 applicants.


THOMAS MCGLADE:
The trustees held special meeting for the purpose of interviewing applicants for the position of township maintenance worker. The previous offer at the December 7th meeting to Tom McGlade was declined by Mr. McGlade.
NEW EMPLOYEE APPLICANTS:
The following applicants were interviewed individually by the trustees during special session:
*Mark Border
*Tim Marshal
*Troy Fitz
The trustees discussed their previous work experience, township maintenance worker job description, wages and benefits.
After interviewing the applicants the trustees discussed each applicant and decided to make offer to Mr. Mark Border. Maniaci moved motion to hire Mark Border at rate of $15 per hour, Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Fell ayed.
Maniaci motioned to provide reimbursement for CDL training for Mr. Border. Fell seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Fell ayed.

Maniaci moved to adjourn. Seconded by Fell.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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DECEMBER 2017 END OF YEAR MEETING MINUTES:
BOARD OF MUSKINGUM TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES
December 30, 2017
PURPOSE OF MEETING:
· The Muskingum Township Trustee held the end-of-year meeting on December 30, 2017 at 8:00 A.M. in the Fire Building.
ATTENDANCE:
· Trustees: Mike Maniaci, Matt Hittle, Ed Fell
· Fiscal Officer: Jason Baughman.
· Residents: There were 1 residents in attendance.
MINUTES:
The December 7, 2017 Regular minutes were approved.
The December 19, 2017 Special minutes were approved.
Hittle motioned to approve, Fell seconded.
CHECKS:
Checks were signed and approved for payment.
OLD BUSINESS:
SIGN GRANT:
Maniaci indicated signs will be delivered Tuesday.
FIRE CONTRACT:
Maniaci presented Fire Contract. The contract term begins January 1, 2018 and expires December 31, 2022. The contract includes staffing requirements, payment terms, services provided, quarterly activity reports. Bud Chess reviewed the contract and indicated it was written in the townships favor. Maniaci moved motion to accept contract terms, Hittle seconded. Roll Call: Maniaci ayed, Hittle ayed, Fell, no.
YEAR-END INVENTORY:
Maniaci indicated Curtis has completed the annual year-end inventory and will get it submitted to the county engineer.
SALT BID:
Maniaci indicated that we didn't get the bid under the state salt agreement. They indicated the email was not received. Maniaci did submit the bid via email with copy to trustees and fiscal officer at the time of submission. We can get our salt supply from Cargill and Morton. The cost is $62.75 vs the state bid of $48 per ton.
RE-ORGIZATIONAL MEETING:
Maniaci reminded everyone of the 2018 re-organization meeting, records commission and regular meeting is scheduled for January 4, 2018 at 7pm.
Hittle moved to adjourn. Seconded by Fell.
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 Jason T. Baughman, CPA, Fiscal Officer
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