By Amanda Ensinger
Staff Writer
At a recent Prairie Township meeting, the trustees discussed an increase in criminal activity.
According to Prairie Township Administrator Rob Peters, there has been a spike in theft from both retail stores and private residences.
“Recently there were 592 calls for service and several of those included breaking and entering, aggravated robbery and theft of a motor vehicle,” Peters said. “All residents are encouraged to make sure that their vehicles are secure, park in well-lit areas if possible and not leave valuables in their vehicles.”
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office patrols the township and officials hope to see criminal activity decline as the weather turns cooler.
With the colder months approaching, the board also discussed snow and ice removal plans with the city of Columbus. This annual agreement is a partnership with the city for the township to remove snow and ice on Columbus streets that are within the township.
“In exchange for the township maintaining, during snow and ice events, 11.58 lane miles of road, the city of Columbus will compensate the township $953 per lane mile for a total of $11,035,” Peters said. “The township maintained these same roads last year. As in the past, township roads will have priority.”
Peters said that partnerships like this ensure township residents are protected when they drive from township to Columbus roads.
In other news, as township employees return to the office, the board discussed the need for further COVID-19 safeguards to protect employees. The township will install hands-free electrical and plumbing devices at some township facilities.
“It includes COVID-19 guards at 25 Maple Drive for protection of workers and residents while interacting with the staff,” Peters said. “The work would also involve extending a glass opening for resident service at entryway at 23 Maple Drive.”
The cost for this work is approximately $47,500. The work will be paid for from the CARES Funds that the township has received for COVID-19 related expenses.
