The Madison Township Board of Trustees received a legislative update, heard details on proposed regional park improvements and approved routine business during its Feb. 24 meeting.
Legislative Update and Playground Grant Highlighted
State Sen. Michele Reynolds, R-District 3, addressed the board to provide an update on the state’s capital budget and pending legislation.
Trustees thanked Reynolds and former state Rep. Brown for their support in securing a $200,000 grant to upgrade and expand a township park playground. The completed project includes soft turf surfacing and ADA-accessible equipment.
Reynolds said the Ohio Senate is reviewing 65 proposed bills related to property tax revisions. She cautioned that eliminating property taxes entirely would significantly harm township funding and could jeopardize local fire, police and road services. She added that school funding issues should be addressed separately from township revenue discussions.
City Outlines Regional Trail Expansion
Bradley Westall of the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department presented proposed improvements to the southeast area that would extend a walking path and nature trail through multiple park properties.
The plan would connect Winchester Pike near Daglow, continue through city-owned property behind Edgewater Park to Helsel Park via a bridge, then cross Hamilton Road and follow Big Walnut Creek north to Nafzgar Park at Refugee and Noe Bixby roads.
Under the proposal, Helsel Park would be repurposed from soccer fields to include playground equipment, a dog park and other amenities. Phase one of the project is expected to begin in fall 2026.
Current design plans show pedestrian and bicycle entrances from Hott Road and Katherine Road in Edgewater Park, with vehicle parking for trail access located at Helsel Park. Trustees expressed concern about the selection of Katherine Road — a township-maintained road — as an entrance point, noting that Hott Road is maintained by the City of Columbus. Board members requested further discussion with city officials.
Trustees also noted that several residents have raised concerns as survey crews have begun work in the area.
Annexations Announced
Township Administrator Brobst announced the township has received two annexation requests to the City of Groveport. The requests involve a 3.18-acre parcel on Ebright Road and a 1.07-acre parcel on Sims Road.
Fire Department Evaluates Cost-Saving Ambulance Options
Fire Chief Robinson reported that two new ambulances, ordered in January 2024 using encumbered budget funds, are expected to arrive later this year. The vehicles will replace two frontline ambulances that are nearly six years old and will be moved to reserve status.
The department is testing two cost-saving concepts to address rising vehicle prices. One new unit will utilize a gasoline engine rather than diesel, which officials said offers lower upfront and maintenance costs. The second approach involves refurbishing an existing rear patient module by transferring it to a new chassis — a move expected to save nearly $160,000 compared with purchasing a fully new unit.
The refurbished ambulance is scheduled to arrive in October, with the new unit expected in December. Officials said the department will evaluate both options over time to determine whether they are viable for future purchases.
Officer to Complete Advanced Training
Police Chief Vic Boyd announced that Officer Hall will complete Subject Control Instructor training through the Ohio Police Officer Training Academy in London, Ohio. Upon completion, Hall will train other department officers in advanced subject control techniques aimed at improving safety for both officers and the public.
Bridge Ratings and Park Updates
Interim Public Works Superintendent Jeff Fields reviewed the latest bridge inspection report from the Franklin County Engineer’s Office. Berger Road over Big Run was rated “Good,” Rager Road over Georges Creek was rated “Satisfactory,” and Braun Road over Snyder Ditch received a “Very Good” rating.
Administrator Brobst also reported that new playground equipment for children ages 5 to 12 has been installed at the park, with mulching to be completed soon. A small play area for children under 5 has been installed near the back shelter, with fencing planned for later this year. Several pieces of fitness equipment are scheduled for installation along the walking path in 2026.
Shelter house reservations will open Tuesday, March 3. While there is no rental fee, residents must reserve shelters through the administration office to receive confirmation paperwork.
Financial Report and Board Action
Fiscal Officer Laurie Vermeer reported total cash on hand of $9,560,887.51. Department totals include $4,282,201.94 for Fire, $3,629,632.01 for General operations, $575,225.63 for Public Works and $592,614.39 for Police. She noted that minor discrepancies between the reported total and combined departmental funds reflect several smaller, specialized accounts not listed individually.
No public comments were offered during either comment period.
All resolutions presented during the meeting were approved by the board.
