Northfield Center Township officials are addressing a growing feral cat crisis while advancing multiple zoning updates and a major water infrastructure project, according to recent meeting transcripts.
Feral Cat Crisis Sparks Action
The township’s biggest challenge involves residents feeding feral cats, creating what multiple homeowners describe as an overwhelming neighborhood problem. During July and August meetings, residents from Lowell Lane detailed how feeding stations at one property have attracted approximately 40 cats.
Jennifer Succi of 8970 Lowell Lane told officials the neighboring property at 8986 Lowell Lane operates three feeding stations that have drawn cats, raccoons and skunks throughout the area. Residents report dead animals on patio furniture, window wells being used as litter boxes, and property damage from the animals.
The zoning commission developed new maintenance code language during an August work session prohibiting “leaving food on the ground or in an open container outside to feed wild animals.” The proposed amendment includes exceptions for pet feeding and bird feeders, with penalties up to $150 per day.
Zoning Inspector Scott John compiled a list of humane deterrent methods for affected residents, including motion-activated sprinklers and specific plants cats avoid.
Zoning Code Updates Address Multiple Issues
RV Parking Changes The township removed gravel as acceptable surface material for recreational vehicle parking. New RV pads must use concrete or similar hard surfaces, though existing gravel installations will be grandfathered. Officials noted enforcement complications when grandfathered properties are sold, with potential repaving costs reaching $100,000 for properties with long driveways.
Driveway Requirements A regulatory gap allowing houses to be built without driveways prompted proposed amendments requiring “one dwelling and one driveway” per residential lot. The issue emerged during a recent house reconstruction project when officials discovered no specific driveway mandate existed. Commercial properties would need “at least one driveway in accordance with applicable code.”
Pool Hardscape Discussion Commission members began preliminary discussions about cement requirements around in-ground pools after a resident inquiry. Current regulations only specify three-foot property line setbacks. Officials noted enforcement challenges since pool construction typically occurs in backyards not visible from public areas.
Definition Updates The commission approved modifying the “assisted living facility” definition to replace “frail and elderly” with “older individuals and individuals that need additional supportive services.” New definitions were added for “vehicle” and “zoning inspector.”
Water District Proposes $1.3M Infrastructure Project
North Hills Water District representative Jeff Snell presented plans for water main replacements on Surrey, Morningside and Fairhaven roads during the August trustees meeting. The district wants to partner with the township on concurrent road work to secure 30-year loan terms instead of typical 20-year paybacks.
The project would address frequent water main breaks in the area that cause dirty water problems for neighboring developments. Snell noted coordination benefits for residents: “When we put a water main in and there’s a trench in the road, I think most residents are not going to be happy with us.”
The district plans to apply for District 8 funding in 2026 for the project.
Administrative Updates
During a special August meeting, trustees authorized several operational improvements:
- $3,000 for computer equipment upgrades to Windows 11
- $5,000 for road condition assessment of recently completed Benedetti construction projects
- Educational signage placement by Tinkers Creek Watershed Partners
- Participation in Summit County’s surface water management district program
Legal Actions
Trustees approved a second amended consent decree requiring the owner of 99 West Highland Road to post a $50,000 bond ensuring completion of required property improvements by December 31.
The township formally objected to Summit County’s preliminary Dorwick Ditch improvement plans, citing concerns about proposed maintenance easements affecting private property without compensation.
Looking Ahead
Officials are seeking proposals to update the township’s comprehensive plan, which hasn’t been revised since 1998. The updated plan would guide future zoning decisions and development patterns.
Regular trustee meetings occur the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. Zoning commission meetings are held monthly on the second Monday at 7 p.m. All meetings take place at 8484 Olde Eight Road.
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