By Linda Dillman
Staff Writer
Madison Township Police Detective Keith Mallory was named the department’s Officer of the Year by his fellow officers on Feb. 17. and recognized during the monthly trustees’ meeting.
“Detective Mallory exemplifies all the criteria for this award, which includes his professionalism, attention to duty, enthusiasm, service to the community and fellow officers and work ethic,” said Capt. James Dean. “The level at which he displays these attributes makes him a positive role model for other officers. He does not complain when he has to stay over at the last minute. He even missed a father/daughter dance because of a last minute call.”
According to Dean and a nomination letter from fellow Detective Nate Schiffel, Mallory’s networking with the Columbus Police Department lead to a multiple count arrest of a robbery suspect who held a clerk against her will at a convenience store.
Last summer, Mallory opened 16 cases in the span of a month and a half and completed five warrants during the same time. He also discovered a marijuana grow operation in a burglary suspect’s home and felony level 2 possession of heroin in a safe in a repeat offender’s home safe.
“To be recognized by your peers is a great honor, a true compliment,” said Dean. “His level of sacrifice is high as well. This guy volunteers for the Santa parade and puts his heart into his work.”
Other township news
•Fire Chief Robert Bates said year-end statistics show calls for service finished above 6,500 for both medic and engine runs. Medic 181 was the most active with 3,065 total incidents.
Ten years ago, the fire department responded to 3,569 EMS runs and 758 fire runs. In 2015, medic runs reached 5,664 and fire responses totaled 906. The most calls for service occurred in the Blacklick Estates area.
Billing for EMS resident runs was $1.1 million and $1 million for non-residents, but the department only received $394,106 from resident claims and $352,132 from non-residents.
•Trustee John Kershner presented images of derelict properties in the township in need of attention and said zoning enforcement could be a valuable tool to help residents living near blighted homes.
“I believe we might be actually overlooking code regulations to help our neighbors,” said Kershner. “There’s an opportunity, maybe, to expand what we’re doing through code enforcement. It’s something we can shine a light on.”
Resident Gary McDonald said while he understands Kershner’s concerns, he opposes creation of a zoning board and that homeowners want to maintain their properties, but some are hindered for one reason or another by fixed incomes and taxes.
McDonald wanted to clear up any misconceptions the trustees did not address the blight and stressed the public needs to understand the process can be lengthy and not without problems.
“Other government agencies put up roadblocks,” said McDonald. “It’s not our fault.”
Township Administrator Susan Brobst said a Franklin County Zoning Department representative will attend the March 16 trustee meeting to discuss possible remedies available through the county.
