By Amanda Ensinger
Staff Writer
The Franklin Township Board of Trustees approved a measure asking residents to approve a 7.4-mill permanent police levy. Residents will vote on the issue this November.
This will be the fourth time in two years that the township has asked voters to approve a police levy. In May, the township asked voters for a 7.3-mill permanent police levy. In the fall of 2021, the township asked voters to approve a 7.1-mill levy, and in the spring of 2021, the township asked for a 7.37-mill levy.
All the permanent levies have been rejected by voters.
The department currently collects from two other levies, bringing in approximately $700,000 a year.
Residents asked the trustees how many times they would try to pass a levy.
“As many times as it takes,” responded Franklin Township trustee John Fleshman.
Recently the department laid off three part-time police officers and eliminated the third shift. The department staff only responds to calls on first and second shift.
Residents have said they have seen a difference with reduced patrolling.
“There are drug houses in this township and issues continue to grow,” said Jan Legge. “It is getting to the point where it is a 24/7 issue.”
Legge also reported ongoing issues with four wheelers and motorized scooters in the township.
Franklin Township Police Chief Byron Smith said they are doing the best they can with the limited resources they have.
