In a special meeting held on June 16, 2025, the Brimfield Township Board of Trustees discussed critical financial matters and future planning for the community. The meeting highlighted the allocation of Joint Economic Development District (JED) funds and the implications of zoning regulations on local development.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around the distribution of JED revenues, which are shared among Brimfield, Tallmadge, and Kent. Currently, Brimfield receives 45% of the JED funds, with 5% allocated to maintenance and improvement funds. This leaves Brimfield with 40% of the total revenue, while Tallmadge and Kent each retain 50%. The trustees noted that these funds have been instrumental in purchasing essential equipment for local services, including police cruisers and emergency medical services equipment, without impacting the general fund.

Trustees emphasized that the funds from the CARES Act were used for community projects aimed at revitalizing public spaces post-COVID, such as building a library and enhancing recreational facilities. These initiatives were funded entirely through federal assistance, not local taxpayer dollars.

The meeting also addressed the ongoing growth in Brimfield, particularly concerning zoning laws. Trustees explained that the township has three zoning classifications: commercial, residential, and industrial. They clarified that property owners have the right to sell their land for development, provided it complies with existing zoning regulations. This has led to concerns from residents about the loss of farmland and the potential for new commercial developments, including a proposed big box store.

Trustees presented several options for managing the township's budget, including potential changes to the JED revenue distribution and staff payroll restructuring. One proposal suggested adjusting the revenue split to reduce funding for police, fire, and road departments while increasing the general fund. Another option involved locking in current funding levels for these departments to stabilize their budgets amid anticipated growth in JED revenues.

As Brimfield Township navigates these financial and developmental challenges, the discussions from this meeting underscore the importance of strategic planning and community engagement in shaping the future of the area. The board's decisions in the coming months will be crucial in balancing growth with the needs and concerns of residents.