Zoning Inspector
Sam Abell – 330-678-0888
The Franklin Township Zoning Inspector is responsible for issuing zoning certificates for signs, structures, additions and buildings that conform to the Franklin Township Zoning Resolution. The Zoning Inspector also issues zoning use certificates for uses permitted by the Zoning Resolution and conditional use certificates that have been approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals. Signs, structures, additions, buildings and uses not permitted by the Zoning Resolution may be appealed to the Board of Zoning Appeals.
The Zoning Inspector is also responsible for investigating alleged violations of the Zoning Resolution, representing Franklin Township on the Portage County Regional Planning Board and working with the Portage County Prosecutor’s Office regarding litigation associated with zoning.
The Franklin Township Zoning Resolution which details the zoning regulations is available at the town hall for $10. Maps depicting the zoning districts are available free of charge.
Board of Zoning Appeals (Meets monthly. Call Town Hall for exact dates.)
The Board of Zoning Appeals is responsible for hearing and deciding applications for variances to the Franklin Township Zoning Resolution. In granting a variance, the Board may impose such conditions as it may deem necessary to protect the public health, safety, and morals and in furtherance of the purposes and intent of the Zoning Resolution. The Board is also empowered to grant conditional zoning certificates for the use of land, buildings or other structures.
The Board consists of five Franklin Township residents appointed by the Township Trustees.
Meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. on the second floor of the Franklin Township Hall, 218
Gougler. The Board generally meets on the first Monday of each month, if there are applications submitted for a variance or conditional use certificate. Contact the town hall to verify meeting dates.
Current Board Members are:
| Margaret Chandler | Term Exp. 02/19/09 | 330-678-3518 |
| David Hansford | Term Exp. 02/19/10 | 330-678-0427 |
| James Henry | Term Exp. 02/19/11 | 330-678-0309 |
| David Sommers; Chair | Term Exp. 02/19/12 | 330-673-8892 |
| Michael Weiss | Term Exp. 02/19/12 | 330-673-1220 |
| Dustin Laflin; alternate | Term Exp. 02/19/11 | 330-673-5811 |
| Glenn Russell; alternate | Term Exp. 02/19/12 | 330-678-4546 |
Zoning Commission (Meets as needed)
The Zoning Commission is responsible for reviewing and analyzing proposed changes to the Zoning Resolution or Zoning Districts and recommending approval or denial of such changes to the Franklin Township Board of Trustees. The Zoning Commission follows a defined process that ensures the involvement of the public and the appropriate governmental agencies.
The Board consists of five Franklin Township residents appointed by the Township Trustees. The Zoning Commission meets on an as needed basis.
Current Board members are:
| Judy Spencer; Chairman | Term Exp. 02/19/09 | 330-673-4098 |
| John Gunyula | Term Exp. 02/19/11 | 330-673-8090 |
| Douglas Hiestand | Term Exp. 02/12/11 | 330-677-4314 |
| Jim L. Jackson | Term Exp. 02/19/10 | 330-673-1825 |
| Patrick Ray | Term Exp. 02/19/12 | 330-673-4478 |
| Stephen Hudkins; alternate | Term Exp. 02/19/12 | 330-677-9856 |