BRIMFIELD, OH — The Brimfield Township Board of Trustees meeting on October 16, 2025, featured routine departmental updates and financial approvals but was dominated by heated public discussion over transparency, ethics, and zoning administration.
Trustees Sue Fields and Nicholas Coia were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. The Board tabled approval of the October 11 meeting minutes pending the return of Trustee Mike Kostensky.
Residents Question Transparency and Leadership
Several residents voiced frustration about the township’s direction, connecting their concerns to the upcoming November election.
Bill Anderson began public comments by stating that “true transparency” is missing in township operations. He encouraged residents seeking “documented facts and truth” to a local Facebook group, claiming some community discussions had been removed from other social media platforms due to “political pressure.”
Tom Johnson followed, explaining that his Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request revealed what he described as evidence of a “hostile work environment” and possible ethical conflicts within township administration. Johnson questioned how public funds have been used for legal settlements and asked whether audit results tied to fraud or retaliation had ever been made public. He urged voters to elect “two new trustees” on November 4th to bring “fresh voices” and “real positive change.”
James McKe addressed an earlier allegation from Mr. Koya, who claimed McKe had “publicly accosted him while with his daughters.” McKe denied the claim but acknowledged a brief conversation at Walmart regarding a zoning change Koya had supported. McKe criticized Koya’s vote allowing “unlimited outdoor storage,” saying the decision harmed a 90-year-old widow of a Korean War veteran.
McKe also questioned Zoning Inspector Michael Hlad’s salary, alleging it exceeds other townships’ zoning pay by $50,000 annually, and asked whether the Board planned to renew his contract before the new administration takes office.
In response, Hlad defended his compensation, explaining that his duties include economic development and that he does not take medical benefits. He said his total package, including a take-home vehicle, was arranged because the township “couldn’t afford to hire” him outright. Hlad added that he has faced harassment, including being followed while performing township inspections.
Department Reports and Board Actions
Zoning Enforcement
The Board approved Hlad’s request to refer the property at 2280 Tallmadge Road to the prosecutor’s office. The case involves a resident who refused to remove large banners from the road right-of-way despite repeated notices. Officials said the signs created a safety hazard by blocking a neighbor’s view.
Police Department
Captain Ed reported continuing HVAC and plumbing problems, including recurring sewage backups reaching the lobby floor drains. The cause is believed to be a settled pipe beneath the building. The department is reviewing repair options but expects significant expenses.
Fire Department
The Fire Chief updated trustees on the proposed traffic-light preemption system for emergency vehicles. Because the state does not fund this technology, the township would need to apply for grants. With costs ranging from $4,500–$10,000 per vehicle, the department decided not to pursue the project for now.
The Fire Department also announced that three new entry-level firefighters will graduate from the Ohio Fire Academy on October 31.
Road Department
Dave from the Road Department reported that road striping, the Sherman Wood paving project, and the chip-and-seal work are complete. Beginning October 20, the team will shift back to eight-hour days, expanding to seven days per week once snow season begins.
Dave also announced a temporary closure of Howe Road near Pleasant Lakes from October 22–24, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., to install new water and sewer lines for the Parks District. The road will reopen nightly.
He confirmed the township’s new salt contract with Morton Salt through ODOT at $47.84 per ton and said the 2006 Chevy 4500 dump truck will be replaced due to frame rot.
Fiscal Updates
Fiscal Officer Jasmine presented a resolution to increase revenue budgets across seven township funds—including the General Fund, Road and Bridge, and Special Levy Fire Fund—reflecting higher-than-expected income.
The Board also renewed employee medical coverage with SummaCare and dental/vision plans with The Standard for 2026. Medical premiums will rise only 2%, well below the 10% requested last year.
Executive Session and Adjournment
The Board entered an executive session with the Fiscal Officer and Police Captain to discuss labor negotiations and employee compensation.
Upon returning to open session, trustees approved an agreement extension for all Brimfield Police Department bargaining units and scheduled a fact-finding hearing for April 28, 2026. Any wage adjustments from that hearing will be retroactive to January 1, 2026.
The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.
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