The Washington Township Board of Trustees approved a major security upgrade for its township center and appointed a new trustee to fill a board vacancy during a busy meeting on June 2. Officials voted unanimously to award a $13,260 contract to TK Audio & Visual for a comprehensive security camera and door lock system, choosing the local vendor for its 24/7 service. For more details on the security project, see the full story.

The board also welcomed Teresa Peterson as its newest member after appointing her to fill a vacancy. Additionally, trustees passed the township’s 2025-2026 budget following a public hearing. More information on these items is available in separate articles.

Township Considers Reducing Office Hours
The board is considering a reduction in public office hours at the Township Center to save taxpayer money. Officials discussed potentially cutting the schedule from five days a week to three or four, noting the office is not always busy. The office was originally open daily when it housed a multi-township Dial-a-Ride service, which ended years ago. The board will discuss the matter further at its July meeting.

Electrical Upgrade for Signage Approved
The board approved a $1,468 proposal from M3 Electric to add photocells to the exterior lighting at the Township Center. This solution is approximately $1,000 less than a previous quote that involved running a new electrical line. The photocells will allow the exterior lights to turn on and off automatically, while the new LED sign can remain powered 24/7 without requiring a separate circuit.

Pay Raise Request Tabled
A request for a pay raise from the Transportation Coordinator was not considered by the board at this time. Officials indicated that any discussion about compensation would be tied to the upcoming review of office hours and potential changes to the work schedule for township employees.

New Trustee Goldrick Welcomed
Supervisor Mike Stanula formally welcomed newly elected Trustee Paul Goldrick to the board. Goldrick’s first meeting as a seated trustee was on Monday. He fills the seat previously held by George Obradovich, who did not seek reelection.

Landscaping and Signage Updates
Supervisor Mike Stanula reported that a new flagpole has been delivered and will be installed by the Road District after underground utilities are marked. He also noted the new topper for the LED sign has been ordered and has a six-week lead time. Stanula is also reviewing a $1,700 quote to refresh landscaping around the signage on Indiana Avenue.

Road Work Season in Full Swing
Highway Commissioner Mike Smith reported that crews are actively working on tar and chipping projects throughout the township. Larger projects are underway on Offner Road and on Church Road between Ashland and Western. In his written report, Smith added that crews are also performing spray patch work, prepping roads for treatment, and completing the first round of seasonal mowing.

May Bills Approved
The board unanimously authorized the payment of all bills for the month of May. Approved payments included $77,566.19 from the Road & Bridge Account and $30,562.28 from the Town Account. The funds cover payroll, insurance, fuel, materials, and other operational expenses. There were no General Assistance payouts in May.