“We have done a lot, but there is so much more to do,” was how Board of Trustees Chair Connie M. Goodman described the state of Genoa Township in a speech given March 5.
Genoa, in southeastern Delaware County, is one of the more populous townships, with more than 25,000 residents. It was established in 1816.
While the construction of a new police station at the northwest corner of state Route 3 and Big Walnut Road may be the most visible project in the township, that’s not all that’s happening with the Genoa Township Police Department.
“The police station is big news, however, everyday business continued, including the settling of a two-year police union contract,” Goodman said. “In 2019, the police department responded to over 5,000 dispatched calls for service and conducted 3,500 traffic stops. They also conducted 11,300 house checks. Community outreach included graduating a Citizen’s Police Academy class, conducting a women’s self-defense class, hosting scouts for merit badges, providing K9 demonstrations, and meeting with citizens at Coffee with a Cop. Their generosity to the community has been shown by the Cram the Cruiser events that provide much needed items to Delaware County People in Need, and the donation of 24 unclaimed bicycles to Bikes 4 All People.”
The police Department’s neighbor, the Genoa Township Fire Department, exceeded 2,000 runs in a year for the first time ever. Goodman said they settled a two-year union contract and ordered a medic vehicle and fire engine. In addition, they assisted in developing a Delaware County Pre-Hospital Care Board with other mutual aid entities. The fire department also increased its community outreach through programs such as “Roper Boxes” and “File of Life” programs.
“Zoning and Development has seen the most activity since 2015, having processed 10 zoning applications through the Zoning Commission and adjudicated 14 cases at the Board of Zoning Appeals,” Goodman said. “The Development and Zoning Office issued 310 zoning permits, the most since 2017, and investigated 49 complaints related to zoning and/or nuisance abatement.”
The trustees approved revisions to the Comprehensive Plan and amendments to the Zoning Resolution to “establish greater consistency” and “create more robust design and buffering requirements for planned residential neighborhoods,” Goodman said. The trustees also approved three rezonings, and “litigation continues for the 43-plus acres at the corner of Tussic and Oxbow roads. The Zoning Commission continues to review the Zoning Resolution to ensure legal compliance and clarity.”
Goodman went on to mention improved communications in the township, as well as examples of about $400,000 in savings from Genoa’s Human Resources Department. She thanked township staff; Fiscal Officer Patrick Myers; fellow trustees Renee Vaughan and Karl Gebhardt; and former Trustee Frank Dantonio.
“Without a supportive community, none of these accomplishments would be possible,” Goodman said. “Residents not only provide financial support, but they also boost morale as they offer a friendly wave in passing or deliver snacks to our hardworking employees. Many residents serve on committees or volunteer to assist with events. We appreciate their support and extend our sincere thanks.
“Together, we have already set in motion another productive year,” she continued. “We thank you all for your dedication and support and for keeping Genoa Township a ‘nice place to live.’”
