An update on Margaretta Township

During the pandemic, Margaretta Township continued to function smoothly with our fire department, road department and zoning department, adjusting as needed. Our parks department hosted a record number of softball and baseball tournaments. Last year, 2021, was a record year for our fire department as we responded to over 880 calls. We also had a record level of training hours, as our department continues to learn, update and build their knowledge and professionalism to serve the township. Working with Groton and Oxford townships over the past few years, our road department has completed nearly $1 million in road maintenance, utilizing Ohio Public Works Commission grant dollars of nearly $300,000. Last year our road department did a great job with construction on Miller Road. We are in the process of replacing a backhoe that we have used for over 20 years. Our annual tire recycle day collected nearly 60 tons of tires again last year. With the help of the Erie County commissioners and Erie County Soil and Water grants, we have combined with the village of Castalia, Groton Township and Oxford Township to clean up tires that would potentially end up in ditches or in barns and become fire hazards. The township shored up approximately 300 yards of the deteriorating south wall next to our 150-year-old Castalia cemetery. Water lines have been added throughout the cemetery. We continue to update and improve our web-based cemetery records system. With the help of an $80,000 Community Development Block Grant, the township is in the process of completing updates to the restroom facilities at Lions Park. This project is well on its way to being completed before our spring season begins. Going forward, the goal will be to maintain the high level of services that the residents of Margaretta Township have come to expect. We will keep an open line of communication with the residents and be proactive in resolving any issues. Joe BiasMargaretta Township trustee If you want to submit a Local Voices column, please email it to brandonaddeo@tandemnetwork.com. Columns should be 500-750 words and include the writer's headshot, or other photo.