In Brief: Residents Angered By Mailbox Ads, Historic District Approved

Tax abatement policy amended

The Board of Trustees approved changes to the township’s tax abatement policy last week. The policy will now allow the township to revoke tax abatements and demand a refund from the applicant on the savings that they realized from the abatement. Officials believe the policy change will give the township increased leverage when a tax appeal case is filed on an abated property.

Ordinance changes approved

Livestock, horses and other similar animals and poultry on lots greater than two acres in platted subdivisions will now be permitted in the township. Trustees approved amendments to “article 53 animals” within its ordinance. Such animals were not permitted in platted subdivisions prior to the adoption of the amendment.

Trustees also approved adoption of the 2009 International Fire Code Standards. In 2006, the township adopted the International Building Code. Updating the fire code allows for compatibility between the two codes and is “essential for reasonable enforcement and compliance,” according to township documents. State law also requires municipalities to update their codes to make sure latest versions are used.

Resident annoyed with advertisements

Township resident James Sullivan voiced concerns over the proliferation of hand-delivered advertisements in the Stonewater subdivision, which sits south of Seven Mile Road between Beck and Ridge roads. He told trustees the advertisements create a littering nuisance and urged them to “put teeth” into the township ordinance by fining offenders.

“It’s the only way to stop this kind of activity,” Sullivan said.

Township Manager Chip Snider said amending the littering ordinance wasn’t the answer, however. He described it as an “enforcement issue. Enforcement is the only angle that will make a difference.”

Snider said violators of the township’s ordinance can be fined up to $500 and spend 90 days in jail. Township Supervisor Mark Abbo also cautioned Sullivan, saying many people utilize lawn mowing, snow removal and painting services typically found on the advertisements.

“I don’t mind getting that stuff,” Abbo said. “A lot of times, I use their services.”

Township approves historic district

Thayer's Corners, located near Napier and Six Mile roads, is the township's first historic district. It includes a schoolhouse and cemetery dating back to the 1830s. Get the full story .