Morgan Township Trustees approve fire tax renewal and community park budget

The Morgan Township Trustee Meeting held on April 14, 2025, addressed several key issues, including community events, a tax levy renewal for fire and emergency services, and budgetary resolutions.

The meeting began with a report on the fire department's performance, highlighting an average turnout time of one minute and 51 seconds, significantly below the target of two minutes and 58 seconds. The department also conducted nine business inspections in March and logged 116 hours of training for its members.

Trustees discussed an upcoming community event, with preparations underway for an Easter egg hunt scheduled for Saturday morning. The event will involve setting up for a photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny, and volunteers were encouraged to arrive by 9:30 AM to assist with final preparations.

A significant agenda item was the introduction of Resolution 034-2025, which proposes the renewal of a tax levy for fire protection and emergency medical services. The resolution seeks to renew an existing tax of 2.75 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which is necessary to maintain adequate fire and emergency services in the township. The levy, if approved by voters, would be in effect from 2026 through 2030. The trustees emphasized that this is a renewal and not an increase in taxes, clarifying that it is essential for sustaining current service levels.

Following a discussion on the resolution, a motion was made and seconded to approve it. The trustees voted unanimously in favor, ensuring that the question of the tax levy will be presented to voters in the upcoming election on November 4, 2025.

The fiscal officer then presented several budgetary resolutions, including a supplemental budget of $85,000 for the Morgan Township Community Park, which will cover salaries, contracted services, and maintenance. The trustees approved this motion, along with a renewal of an insurance policy and a pay increase for an employee.

In conclusion, the meeting effectively addressed community engagement through events and ensured the financial stability of essential services through the tax levy renewal. The trustees expressed confidence in the support of the residents as they move forward with these initiatives.