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West G Superintendent Urges Kindergarten Registration Now

By ValeRie S. ClauSe editoR@kaRloVeCmedia.Com

At the June 13 West Geauga Schools Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Richard Markwardt reported registration for kindergarten is very low right now, with only 88 students registered for the 2022-2023 school year so far.

“That’s not a topic for rejoicing because we know we’re going to have many more than 88 students — I should say I assume we’ll have many more than 88 students by the time we get to August,” Markwardt said.

Kindergarten registration started on Feb. 15. Incoming students must be 5 on or before Aug. 1 to be eligible to attend kindergarten. There are early admissions regulations on the district’s website for students with birthdays between Aug. 1 and Dec. 31.

“We typically run around 120 in kindergarten,” Markwardt said. “I expect we will have similar enrollment this year, but parents are late registering because they have the ability to do so online rather than in-person on designated days.”

Markwardt is asking parents to register their kindergarten children as soon as possible.

“If parents have kindergarten students and they have not yet registered, then I would urge them to do so now because it really helps us with our staffing,” he said.

Markwardt also reported while the last day of classes for the 2021-2022 school year has been completed, there is still much work that goes on in the schools before the 20222023 school year starts.

“This begins the time period we have a lot of summer projects going on,” Markwardt said. “People aren’t aware of how much happens here in the summer.”

He explained once people are out of the buildings, there is a lot of labor that goes into work on the facilities. He also said this is time where a lot of hiring decisions are made, due to the need to replace staff that have retired or resigned.

“The district offices remain open,” Markwardt said. “We’re open throughout the summer, so I think sometimes people think that we shut down, as well, because a lot of people tell me, ‘Have a nice summer!’ And I do have a nice summer, but most of it is spent here.”

In other business, board members agreed not to reconsider their position regarding the former Newbury Schools property. The discussion was prompted by a letter from Newbury Township Trustees, which asked that “negotiations be recommenced.”

“Last week, we received a letter signed by Bill Skomrock on behalf of the board of trustees for Newbury Township,” Leavenworth said. “It’s worth noting, that even though the letter came from the board of trustees, I do not believe Mr. Skomrock’s proposal has the unanimous support of the Newbury trustees. Regardless, the letter requested that we reconsider our previous action and instead vote on a new lease agreement that would contain provisions closer to what we originally proposed.”

In an attempt to be more aligned with what the school board had proposed, the letter said “the (Newbury trustees) will withdraw all of its substantive revisions in the last draft except with respect to the mechanics of the board’s exercise of the purchase option … Specifically the language that states that if the (Newbury trustees) exercises the purchase option (as defined therein), the parties will negotiate the terms of a purchase agreement and, if such terms cannot be agreed upon, the purchase option will lapse.”

The letter went on to explain the need for Newbury to protect its interests if, during a lease, they were to expend funds to repair the roof and then lose the right to purchase the property. To eliminate this loss, Newbury proposed “to attach a form purchase agreement to the lease, eliminating the need for negotiations when the purchase option is exercised.”

Leavenworth reiterated she still supported the school board’s decision to end discussions with Newbury Township, however, she did ask board members for their input.

“As you know, the board of education’s current position is to end discussion with the Newbury Township,” Leavenworth said. “I also do not believe that we should suspend our current plans and revisit the lease agreement with Newbury, however, if any of you had a change of heart and now want to reopen a discussion with Newbury, you will need to make a motion that will need to be seconded and a vote can be taken.”

No board members chose to further the discussion or make a motion. The next school board meeting is June 27 at 7 p.m.

“I always take the approach that the lawyer/attorney works for you,” said Radtke. “(Benza’s) here to follow what our request is — which is to aid and guide us with the process — not to speak in favor or opposition of the proposed zoning amendment.”

The trustees are also considering engaging Alan Weinstein, a Cleveland State University law professor, for advice on the matter. Although Weinstein is not licensed to practice law in the State of Ohio, he is well-versed in land use regulations, zoning and community planning.

“I liked Alan Weinstein because he had a history and experience with planning and brought up an issue when I was having a conversation with him,” Radtke said.

Using the example of drug rehabilitation centers, Radtke explained the concern about using proper wording in responses and amendments because certain situations may fall under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The trustees had spoken with seven attorneys before selecting Benza and Weinstein.

In other business, trustees looked ahead to July 4 celebrations, with several residents asking about how the township will manage the state change to the legal use of consumer-grade fireworks, which begins on July 1.

Township administrator Mark Purchase explained the township has to follow the Ohio Revised Code when it comes to fireworks.

“Cities can create ordinances, so the City of Chardon could create an ordinance and make that a different time and control the state law a little bit,” Purchase said.

As a township, Chester does not have the ability to create ordinances or resolutions like cities and municipalities can, Purchase explained.

The new law (House Bill 172) permits individuals to set off certain fireworks on their own property or on other’s property with permission. Fireworks that remain illegal include M-80 cherry bombs, M-100 ash cans, M-250 quarter sticks and M-1000 half-sticks.

Fireworks are limited to certain times of the year — New Year’s Eve and Day, Chinese New Year, Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day, Juneteeth, Labor Day and Diwali. Fireworks may be used over the July 4 weekend to include July 3 and 5, as well as Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays before and after the holiday. Hours permitted are between 4–11 p.m., with the exception of New Year’s Eve, which allows fireworks also between 12-1 a.m, according to the bill.

It is illegal to set off fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

“Just because the law changes to allow it, people are going to interpret that to be they can shoot off anything — four sticks of dynamite are not included in the law — it’s very specific, so if you’re uncertain, we still want you to call the police department. Chief (Craig) Young and his staff are still going to go check,” said Purchase.

Purchase said residents should call police dispatch at 440-729-1234 if they have concerns. Police will respond to make sure residents are acting safely and after 11 p.m., they have the authority to cite any instances as a disorderly offense.

Purchase also reported he attended the park board meeting on June 15 and he inspected Parkside Park.

Purchase listed a number of items that needed attention in the park, including a broken playground slide, lamp poles, electrical problems and damaged fence posts. The park board has started taking action to remedy those issues.

“The fences and light poles and electrical problems have been fixed,” Purchase said. “Playground mulch has been ordered and they were able to get the slide warranty, so we’re making some progress.”

The park is also looking to add a pickle ball and bocce court.

The township is looking at what repairs are needed to the gazebo. The park board and trustees said they will consider whether it is more prudent to repaint the gazebo or replace building components with Trex, vinyl or aluminum siding for longer life and reduced maintenance costs.

Trustees continue to review the township’s 2023 budget, which is due to the Geauga Budget Commission by July 20. The county’s budget hearing for the township will be on Aug. 15 at 11 a.m., at the Courthouse Annex, 231 Main Street, Suite 1A, Chardon.

The Chester Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting at 4:30 p.m. June 9 to discuss selection of counsel to advise the Chester Township Zoning Commission and trustees on the process and issues related to Zoning Amendment Z-2022-3, Congregate Care Facilities proposed for Chester Township’s commercial district. There was a review and discussion, with a decision postponed until June 13.

Ken Radtke explained to the public that because it was a special meeting and discussions can only be about the topics that were advertised, public comments specific to the proposed zoning amendment could not be accepted at the meeting.

The board accepted the resignation of township administrative assistant Laura Klendworth and approved advertising for the full-time position, with applications due at town hall by 4 p.m. June 27.

A motion recognizing the Eagle Scout accomplishment of Aidan Mann was approved and trustees congratulate Aidan on his significant accomplishment.

A motion was approved to postpone the public hearing for the proposed change to the zoning resolution regarding accessory buildings from June 16 to a special meeting set for June 20 at 6:30 p.m.

The June 13 special meeting began at 7:30 a.m. with a discussion about selection of counsel for the congregate care zoning amendment. Lorrie Sass-Benza was selected along with Alan Weinstein. Ms. Benza is a former Bainbridge trustee, past zoning commission member, board of zoning appeals member and Geauga County Planning Commission member and assistant prosecutor. She will aid the township with the amendment process. Alan Weinstein, a professor at Cleveland State University with an extensive background in planning, was retained to help identify issues and questions associated with the proposed zoning amendment. Both Ms. Sass-Benza and Mr. Weinstein’s hourly rate is $250. A motion to create purchase orders for their services will be forthcoming.

Next, Police Chief Craig Young provided a review of the 2023 police department temporary appropriations followed by the road department with Superintendent John Onyshko and then Chief Bill Shaw of the fire department.

The general fund will be reviewed June 20 and a date established for the public hearing for Chester Township’s 2023 temporary appropriations. The public hearing date will be advertised in the Geauga Maple Leaf as well as the Chesterland News and on the township website. Submitted by Ken Radtke Jr., Chester Township Trustee

Campus News

Francesca Garofalo, of Russell Township, was named to the dean’s list at Lehigh University in the spring semester.

Kyle Gallagher, of Chester Township, earned a bachelor of arts in management from Marietta College in May.

Steven Hensley, of Russell Township, was named to the dean’s list at University of Alabama for the spring semester.

Cesca Garofalo, of Russell Township, graduated from Lehigh University with a bachelor of science in biology with high honors.

Molly Gallagher, of Chester Township, graduated from The Ohio State University summa cum laude with a bachelor of arts in communications and a bachelor of science in sports industry.

Daniel Hartman, of Chester Township, was awarded a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Youngstown State University during spring commencement.

Nicholas Velotta, of Chester Township, was named to the spring dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Education.

Gardening

Garden Club Earns Multiple Awards

Aquilegia Garden Club, a member of the Garden Club of Ohio, was presented multiple awards at the 94th annual GCO Convention in April. The club earned a first place in Floral Therapy for creating and distributing arrangements to clients of the Geauga County Department of Aging’s Home Delivery Meals; a second place Garden Therapy Service award for floral arrangements created and delivered to residents of Blossom Hill Care Center in Huntsburg Township; and third place in Community Enrichment Project for creating and delivering floral arrangements to Geauga Park District’s Big Creek Nature Arts Festival. The arrangements decorated café tables and the reception desk. In addition, six garden photography awards in various categories were given to Aquilegia members Sue Congdon, Aggie Sojka Sperry and Anita Morman.

The Aquilegia Garden Club meets monthly April through December with presentations on various garden and plant related topics. In July, members will take the South Side Tour – a leisure walk through historic Mather’s wild garden to see how Lucy Weller is refurbishing the gardens. For information, visit the club on Facebook.

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Chester Township Police Department June 2-19, 2022.

CITIZEN ASSIST June 7 3:42 p.m., Westchester Trail. Caller is not able to contact contractors after they’ve been paid. After speaking with complainant, issue is a civil matter between the two parties. Advice given.

CITIZEN DISPUTE June 8 11:40 a.m., Kenyon Drive. Neighbor is draining a pool but the water is coming into her yard. Tried asking neighbor to move the drainage, but they refused.

Officer responded. Male moved the hose to the other end of his property.

No further action needed. Cleared without incident.

June 9 6:21 p.m., Ward Drive. Caller reports he has a no contact order of 500 feet with neighbors and the neighbors keep coming close and taking photos and caller is requesting an officer speak to them. Neighbors are not outside. See report.

PURSUIT June 6 11:55 p.m., Mayfield Road. Attempting to stop a vehicle 322 westbound/Caves, 70 mph. Chevy Impala, early 2000s. No plate. See report. SUSPICIOUS June 6 12:42 a.m., Chillicothe Road. SUV in parking lot. Driver said she was driving and was upset about an event in her life. She began to cry and pulled over to compose herself. Checks OK.

June 8 11:46 a.m., Mayfield Road. Strong smell of alcohol in the area outside coming from the back of her neighbor’s property. Officer advised of call. Checked area at rear of property. No odor detected.

THREATENING June 4 4:45 p.m., Woodcrest Lane. Caller stated an employee, upset because he didn’t get a promotion he wanted, making post on

LinkedIn. Making posts about “how hard the company will fall.” Report taken.

TRAFFIC CRASH June 9 11:33 a.m., Mayfield Road. Car on Caves

Road, crashed and driver seems in a daze.

Male is bleeding but conscious and walking. Driver of vehicle called, swerved to miss a deer and crashed into ditch. Bleeding from face and having chest pain from air bag.

TRAFFIC HAZARD June 4 5:31 p.m., Sperry Road. Male called Kirtland dispatch and said there is a large pothole that he bottomed out when he struck it. Said it was the biggest pothole he ever saw. Kirtland checked their side and did not locate such hole, asking if we can check our side. Officer checked Sperry north of Wilson Mills. Multiple potholes that already appear to be surveyed with spray paint on pavement. No pothole caused patrol car to bottom out. Road is passable within speed limits.

The following is a sampling of the calls handled by the Russell Township Police Department June 1-20, 2022.

ANIMAL MISC. June 12 8:17 a.m., Pekin Road. Officer dispatched to

Pekin Road for a snapping turtle in complainant’s yard. Turtle was relocated to a nearby pond.

ILLEGAL DUMPING June 2 11:45 a.m., Chillicothe Road. Officer received a complaint on station regarding illegal dumping at the recycling center. Complainant provided officer with the subject’s vehicle information. Officer made contact with the subject who returned to the recycling center to retrieve the improperly disposed of items. Subject stated he was not aware of the types of items allowed to be dropped off in the recycling dumpsters. INFORMATION RECEIVED June 13 3:35 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Complainant called station advising he owns a parcel on Hideaway Trail and he wanted us to know he has a wild animal causing damage to his property that he needs to put down this evening.

SUSPICIOUS June 4 12:28 p.m., Chillicothe Road. Dispatch advised they received a call from a concerned motorist who said there is a sign with obscene language on it, on Chillicothe Road near West Geauga Commons.

Checked area UTL.

TRAFFIC HAZARD June 14 2:08 a.m., Chillicothe Road. Officer responded for a complaint of a large black dead animal in the middle of the road. Upon checking area, officer found part of a blown tire in middle of road and removed it.

WEAPON OFFENSE June 9 11:49 a.m., Galloway Trail. Officer dispatched for report of complainant’s neighbor outside walking with a gun, shooting chipmunks. Upon arrival, officers met with subject who was walking with a BB gun and had not shot any chipmunks yet.

Subject advised he will stay away from the complainant’s property. Officers informed complainant.

By fiRe Chief William J. ShaW & poliCe Chief CRaig t. young

For many, July 4th is the highlight of summer fun and family relaxation. Barbecues, swimming, parades and family gatherings are synonymous with the mid-summer holiday. To add to the celebrations, many use fireworks to liven up the day.

Unfortunately, all too often the use of fireworks turns a relaxing, enjoyable summer day into an unwanted tragedy. For example, if not handled properly, something as innocent as a sparkler can cause a burn injury. Did you know that sparklers burn at temperatures between 1,800-3,000 degrees?

According to the 2020 fireworks annual report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 15,600 people treated in emergency rooms for fireworks injuries along with 18 fatalities. Additionally, there were 1,600 injuries from firecrackers and 900 injuries from sparklers. Bottom line: fireworks are dangerous.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates there were 19,500 building fires, 500 vehicle fires and 17,100 outside and other fires started by fireworks in 2018, the latest year statistics are available. More than one-quarter occurred on July 4th. Even when you think you are handling fireworks safely, unintentional fires can be started.

If you are going to discharge legal, consumer grade fireworks, remember: • Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. • Only use them a safe distance away from people, pets, buildings and flammable material. • Never point or throw fireworks at another person. • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off.

Beginning on July 1, 2022, adults in Ohio can begin using consumer fireworks while celebrating the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Chinese New Year, Cinco De Mayo, Memorial Day weekend, Juneteenth and July 3, 4 and 5, as well as the Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays before and after Labor Day weekend, Diwali and New Year’s Eve.

Important things to note about the new fireworks law:

• According to Ohio law, a licensed manufacturer can sell 1.4g fireworks (firecrackers, roman candles, bottle rockets) to consumers on a year-round basis. • You can only set off fireworks on your own property or another private property with the owner’s permission. Communities and local municipalities can opt out or restrict the dates and times that fireworks can be used. • Use is prohibited while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances. • In order to discharge commercial grade fireworks in Ohio, you must be licensed. This step was taken after many tragedies and unintended accidents involving fireworks.

Safety tips to follow while using fireworks: • Never allow children to play with fireworks or be in close proximity to where they are being ignited. • Make sure that they are set off in a relatively secluded area, away from houses, dry leaves or other flammable materials. • Keep a bucket of water in close proximity in case of emergencies. • Do not hold fireworks while they are being ignited. • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place and keep unused products aware from where you are igniting them. • Do not light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container. • Never experiment with homemade fireworks. • Be considerate of your neighbors and other residents.

The police department investigated 24 fireworks related complaints in 2021. It is important to note that the discharge of fireworks may cause serious injuries as well as significant property damage, especially in residential and business areas.

On behalf of the men and women of both the Chester Township Police Department and the Chester Township Fire Rescue, we encourage residents to leave the fireworks displays to the professionals. Those involved in professional shows receive training in the safe handling and discharge of fireworks so people can safely enjoy their holiday.

If you ever have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact either of us directly.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend.

Community Meetings

Listed are public meetings and executive sessions for the coming two-week period, unless otherwise noted. These meeting notices are NOT legal notices.

Geauga County: June 22, 5 p.m., Board of Health, at 470 Center St., Bldg. 8; June 23, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners; June 27, 1:30 p.m., Family First Council, at 13244 Ravenna Road, Munson; June 28, 9:30 a.m., Geauga County Commissioners. All county commissioners meetings are held at 470 Center St., Bldg. 4, Chardon, unless otherwise noted.

Chester Township: June 30, 6:30 p.m., Board of Trustees; July 6, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission. All meetings are held at the Township Hall, 12701 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted.

Russell Township: June 22, 7 p.m., Zoning Commission; June 23, 6 p.m., Board of Trustees, rescheduled meeting from June 16, with budget hearing at 6:15 p.m.; July 7, 2 p.m., Board of Trustees, rescheduled meeting from June 16 All meetings are held at Russell Town Hall, 14890 Chillicothe Road, unless otherwise noted. (NOTE: Trustees new meeting dates are first and third Thursdays.)

West Geauga BOE: June 27, 7 p.m., regular meeting; July 6, 7 p.m., regular meeting. All meetings are held at the BOE Community Room, 8615 Cedar Road, unless otherwise noted.