Trustees approve major planning initiatives at May 5 meeting
Bath Township trustees took significant action on long-term planning during their May 5 meeting, adopting a new comprehensive plan and extending a business development moratorium.
The board unanimously approved the 2025 Bath Township Comprehensive Plan through Resolution 2025-20. The plan represents an update to the township’s previous 2011 comprehensive plan and was developed with input from a 16-member citizen review committee working alongside consulting firm Envision Group.
The updated plan aims to maintain Bath Township’s high quality of life while providing recommendations for areas facing potential commercial development pressures. Public meetings and workshops were held throughout the planning process to gather community input.
Trustees also established a Comprehensive Plan Implementation Committee to oversee future implementation of the plan’s recommendations until the next comprehensive review.
Business District Moratorium Extended
In a separate action, trustees approved Resolution 2025-21, extending a one-year moratorium on new construction permits in the Gateway Business District (B-1). The moratorium, which replaces a previous June 2024 version, prohibits new construction except for remodeling projects under 50% of existing building value.
The pause will allow the zoning commission and planning department adequate time to complete amendments to the township’s zoning resolution in coordination with the new comprehensive plan.
Personnel Changes and Hiring
Fire Chief Rob Campbell received approval to hire Christopher Markley as a part-time firefighter/paramedic, effective May 5. Markley will serve a one-year probationary period.
Service Director Caine Collins gained authorization to hire three seasonal employees: Joshua Guthrie returning for his seventh year at $20 per hour, and Davis Pickett and Aaron Sommers returning for their fourth year at $16.50 per hour.
Administrator Vito Sinopoli recommended a $1 hourly wage increase for Linda Cornell, effective March 6, corresponding to the completion of her one-year probationary period.
Memorial Donations Accepted
The township accepted several memorial donations totaling $700. In memory of George Goodrich, the township received $100 from Don and Kathy Sidaway and $200 from Linda and Rege Dauk for Bath Community Park renovations.
Memorial donations honoring Gay Powers included $100 from John Hawes and Emily Barclay and $300 from Molly Cornell for Bath Nature Preserve improvements.
Technology and Infrastructure
Trustees approved a contract renewal with Revize Web Services for website design and hosting services, including ADA compliance scanning and remediation to meet April 2026 accessibility guidelines.
The board also authorized amendments to appropriations, including $185,500 for the general fund to address internal financial system expenses.
Upcoming Events
Administrator Sinopoli announced the annual Spring into Nature with STEM event scheduled for June 8 from 1-4 p.m. at the University of Akron Field Station in Bath Nature Preserve. The free, family-friendly event will feature hands-on activities connecting nature and STEM education.
Community volunteer Renee Flynn updated trustees on upcoming events including the ninth annual Bath Art Festival scheduled for June 1 at Bath Community Park.
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