Township seeks $800K loan approval for fire department project cost overruns

In a special meeting held on May 2, 2025, the Brimfield Township Board of Trustees addressed significant financial concerns related to the ongoing construction of the fire administration building. The meeting primarily focused on the need for an $800,000 loan from Huntington Bank to cover unexpected project overages, which have escalated from an estimated $8.1 million to approximately $8.9 million.

Trustee discussions revealed that while the worst-case scenario for the project’s final costs could reach $800,000, projections suggest that the actual amount needed may be closer to $500,000 to $600,000. The board emphasized the importance of securing the higher loan amount to ensure that all outstanding bills can be paid promptly, avoiding further financial strain on the township's general fund, which has already been impacted by unanticipated expenses.

The trustees highlighted the role of QCI, the owner's representative, in negotiating outstanding change orders and managing the project’s financial projections. They noted that several factors contribute to the cost overruns, including delays and errors attributed to contractors and architects. The board is currently reviewing these change orders to determine which costs should be absorbed by the township.

Trustees expressed concerns about the potential misuse of loan funds for administrative costs rather than strictly for construction expenses. A proposal was made to create a separate line item for the loan to ensure transparency and proper allocation of funds. This approach aims to prevent any confusion regarding the repayment responsibilities of the fire department and the general fund.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the loan, which was met with general agreement among the trustees. However, further discussions regarding the specifics of the repayment plan and the allocation of costs between departments are anticipated, particularly as the township continues to negotiate with contractors to finalize the project.

As Brimfield Township navigates these financial challenges, the outcome of these negotiations and the effective management of the loan will be crucial in maintaining the township's fiscal health and ensuring the completion of the fire administration building project.