By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Clinton Township Board of Trustees held their meeting on Thursday, May 21, 2026. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance before trustees approved the minutes from May 7, approved the May 21 agenda, approved bills for payment, and reviewed reports from the fiscal officer.
Fulton County Auditor Brett Kolb met with trustees to discuss zoning and levy matters. Kolb said he had spoken with county and regional planning officials about the possibility of assisting the township with parts of its zoning work. The discussion was preliminary, with trustees and Kolb agreeing that a future meeting would be needed to better define what the township would want handled and what the county may be able to provide.
Kolb explained that the possible arrangement would not involve building inspections but would instead focus on zoning administration and enforcement matters such as permits, setbacks, complaints, and violations. Trustees discussed the benefit of having an office available during regular business hours for residents who have questions, while also noting that responsibilities, costs, and procedures would need to be reviewed before any decision is made.
Kolb also reviewed upcoming levy matters with the board. He said the township has a current expense levy and a cemetery levy that will expire at the end of the year if not renewed by voters in November. The current expense levy brings in around $72,000, while the cemetery levy brings in around $33,000. Kolb also explained that replacement levies are no longer available, meaning trustees would need to look at renewal or other available ballot options depending on what they decide to pursue.
Under old business, trustees discussed the proposed addition to the salt storage building. The project is still being reviewed, with questions raised about lighting, egress requirements, and plumbing requirements. Trustees indicated they are trying to keep the project as simple as possible and avoid unnecessary additions if possible.
Fire Chief Phil Kessler reported that the department has been recognizing EMS Week and that recent fire and EMS responses have gone well. He said the department responded to a structure fire and that equipment operated properly. He also noted that the Memorial Day parade will take place at 9:30 a.m. Monday, May 25. Chief Kessler also said the department has also been working with trucks now that warmer weather has arrived, and he has followed up on equipment items that are still scheduled to ship.
Zoning Inspector Jason Fisher then updated trustees on several zoning related matters. One issue involved property near County Road 14 and County Road H, where concerns were raised about a fuel tank, possible commercial activity, and whether proper permits had been obtained. Fisher said he is not approving anything at the property at this point and that further action may be needed if construction begins without the proper zoning approvals.
Trustees also discussed a separate issue involving a person reportedly living in a camper on a property, along with concerns about sanitation and whether the arrangement violates township zoning rules. Fisher said he would look into the matter, contact the neighboring property owner for additional information, and may also involve the health department if needed.
Road Superintendent Eric Eyer reported that he marked several areas for DuraPatching, including spots on County Road 17, County Road AC, and County Road C. He said repairs are intended to help address problem areas and keep roads in better condition. Eyer also reported that rods for the roadside mower have been received and the mower is ready to go, with roadside mowing expected to begin soon depending on weather.
Eyer also discussed tile repair work, including an area damaged by fiber work, and said information has been submitted for possible reimbursement. Trustees also talked about fiber company work in the township and the movement of small utility boxes along township roads. Eyer said crews have been moving the boxes back by hand digging in several areas.
The cemetery report included discussion of a water leak that had been repaired, although another leak was discovered after the water was turned back on. Officials said water access is currently limited in the cemetery, and additional work is expected later. Trustees also said cemetery mowing has been going well, with mowing being kept on a regular schedule.
Fiscal Officer Nancy Yackee reported that the township’s medical insurance start date had to be changed to June 1. Trustees approved changing the township’s insurance contribution amount to $43,935.72 for the year, which includes medical and dental coverage.
Trustees also agreed to change the first June meeting to Monday, June 1, at 1 p.m. The board also discussed upcoming community events, including a pancake and sausage breakfast being organized by the Fulton County Township Association during the National Threshers Association event on Saturday, June 27, and the Zion Church ice cream social on County Road 11, scheduled for Thursday, June 4, at 5 p.m.
With no further regular business, trustees adjourned the meeting at 2:46 p.m. After the adjournment, Wauseon Mayor Kathy Huner and Wauseon Law Director Thomas McWatters joined trustees at the table, and trustees then stated they would be entering executive session, despite the regular meeting having already been adjourned. The Village Reporter has reached out for clarification regarding the session.