By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Gorham Township Trustees held their meeting on July 20 and approved the July 6 meeting minutes, along with warrants and payroll totaling $27,373.57.
Fire Chief Tom Franks reported the department continues to experience shortages of both paramedics and EMTs, adding that a former paramedic has expressed interest in returning to the department. Trustees later unanimously approved rehiring Alexander Lampkin at his previous rate.
Franks also reported Engine 309 remains at Auto Images for repairs to door damage, annual ladder inspections were scheduled later in the week, and additional department hours are expected following the recent gas well fire.
Trustees also indicated they would like to continue requiring Firefighter I certification rather than adopting the state’s 36-hour firefighter standard.
The chief also updated the board on a recent meeting with Fulton County commissioners, along with representatives from Fayette, Lyons and Metamora, regarding the future of EMS coverage and funding.
He said the department’s backup squad had been loaned to Swanton and would be inspected after it is returned due to reports it pulls to the right while braking.
A request from the Bull Thistle Committee to allow Bull Thistle Citizen of the Year Ox Meller to ride in an antique fire truck during the parade was denied because Ohio Township Association Risk Management Authority (OTARMA) insurance does not permit non-employees to ride on fire apparatus.
Maintenance Worker Tyler Miller reported township crews continued ditch mowing, replaced stop signs at the intersection of County Roads T and 20, and repaired a mower bearing.
He also reported dirt bike damage at the old cemetery, said Gerken has completed drainage work but has not yet begun road work on County Road R, and noted Bryan Excavating is nearing completion of the village waterline project, although stonework around the catch basins remains. Tree trimming along the west side of County Road R will also be needed before winter.
Fiscal Officer Lauren Lester then reported that the township has been invited to meet with Fulton County commissioners July 30 to discuss a new EMS contract before the current agreement expires at the end of 2026.
She also reported the township earned $553.25 in interest on its Huntington certificate of deposit during June, provided updates on employee health insurance planning and shared communications from OTARMA and State Farm regarding township insurance matters.
Trustees also reviewed potential projects for a MORE grant, including building repairs and traffic safety equipment, and voted to table an Ohio Public Works Commission application for the County Road T project this year.
In other business, trustees noted Tracy Sanford has applied for OPERS retirement, quarterly reports were filed, Franklin Township’s quarterly fire contract payment was received, and Resolution 2026-31 was approved, accepting a $6,618.75 Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Safety Intervention Grant.
Trustees also authorized signatures on the Ohio Public Works Commission agreement for the County Road R/Gamble Road project before adjourning at 8:54 p.m.
