By Linda Dillman
Staff Writer
Madison Township Police Chief Gary York wants to take advantage of a chance to purchase two new 2023 cruisers from Byers Ford by submitting a non-committing letter of intent.
“Each year I look at the budget and needs for the department,” York said during an Aug. 18 Madison Township trustees meeting. “With supply chain issues, we’re seeing the delay (in vehicles). It (letter) secures our place in line. We’re not the only agency impacted by this. This could have a snowball effect if we skip another (purchasing) cycle. The cost has gone up as well. We’re looking at $122,234 total, including new equipment.”
York said the Grove City Police Department ordered new vehicles in January and has yet to receive them. He said a Byers Ford representative said vehicle costs have increased $5,000 to $6,000.
“We want to make sure we want to have the equipment we need and also be fiscally responsible,” added Trustee Chairwoman Michele Reynolds.
York asked the trustees to approve a shared vehicle agreement with other Franklin County departments that are part of OTARMA insurance. Cruisers would be shared on an as-needed basis for coverage and protection when vehicles are out of service. The agreement is similar to one shared by the fire department with neighboring municipalities
Other Madison Township news
•Madison Township Public Works Superintendent Dave Watkins reported on efforts to slow down drivers who ignore the speed limit and pose a threat to pedestrians crossing at the Dunloe and Hatfield roads intersection.
“We have quotes that unfortunately came in double what I was budgeting,” said Watkins. In response, he explained a “quick build” plan for the intersection.
“I thought it would be a good fit for the area,” said Watkins.
Township crews are installing a four-inch raised crosswalk on the north side of the intersection, along with ramps and striping. The same improvements are planned for Dunloe Road and Dunloe Place next year.
•Madison Township Administrator Susan Brobst reported on a resolution to request dropping the speed limit on Swisher Road to 35 miles per hour. The Ohio Department of Transportation—through the Franklin County Engineer and after years of discussion—determined the criteria reducing the speed limit was met.
“This is something the county engineer has been looking into,” said Brobst. “It seems like it’s been a long time coming. We’ll send it (the request) to the engineer’s office and they’ll take it through the rest of the process.”
•Additional security cameras are being installed in the police department, public works, and administrative buildings after the trustees approved a purchase agreement with EPS. While the cost for the project was higher than expected, Brobst said the township hopes to have the cameras installed prior to the end of the year.
“All of the material is available and not on backorder,” said Brobst. “We have a camera at the front door at the community center. With our system, we’ll be able to monitor from cell phones.”
•A fall tire collection is scheduled for Sept. 27 at Brobst Park from 1-7 p.m., or until dumpster capacity is reached. The collection is for residents of Madison Township, including Groveport and Canal Winchester. Up to 10 rimless tires, passenger vehicle sized or smaller, can be accepted.
Residents must bring a driver’s license or a utility bill to show residency eligibility.
