Broomfield Township faces salt shortage as winter storms strain resources and logistics

The Brimfield Township Board of Trustees held a regular meeting on January 24, 2025, addressing several key issues, including road dedications, winter salt shortages, and preparations for the upcoming BrimFest.

The meeting began with the acceptance of road dedications for Brimfield Ridge Circle, with trustees unanimously approving the motion. This road runs north of Aldi's and has been a point of concern due to truck parking issues in the area.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on the township's ongoing challenges with salt supply for winter road maintenance. The township received 200 tons of salt at the beginning of January, but the supply has quickly diminished, leading to concerns about road safety during winter storms. The township is currently working with trucking companies to secure additional salt, but delays have been common. Officials indicated that they may need to limit salt application to main intersections and hills until more supplies arrive. The board discussed the importance of communicating these challenges to the community to manage expectations regarding road conditions.

In addition to winter maintenance, the board reviewed plans for BrimFest, scheduled for September 12-13, 2025. The Parks and Recreation department presented quotes for carnival rides and discussed potential partnerships with food vendors. The trustees emphasized the need to engage the community more effectively during the festival, as attendance has been a concern in recent years.

The meeting also touched on the opening of Maguire Park, tentatively set for May 30, 2025. The board discussed necessary preparations, including the removal of a dilapidated barn and other safety measures. While there was a consensus on the importance of opening the park, trustees agreed to avoid public announcements until all preparations are confirmed.

Lastly, the Information Technology department reported on a recent cyber risk assessment, highlighting the need for improved record management and cybersecurity training for employees. The board acknowledged the importance of these initiatives to ensure the township's data security and compliance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the township's commitment to maintaining safe roads during winter, enhancing community events, and improving infrastructure and cybersecurity measures. The board plans to continue monitoring the salt supply situation and will keep the community informed about any changes to winter maintenance strategies.