Trustees rescind removal and reinstate two BZA members, vow training and process changes

Morgan Township Trustees voted to rescind motion 041-2025 that had removed two members of the township Board of Zoning Appeals and then voted to reinstate those two members, trustees said during the April meeting.

The trustees said they learned the township must follow the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) when removing members of zoning bodies and that the earlier removal did not follow the required procedure. The board rescinded the prior action and reinstated Brian Balzer and Chris Gaines effective immediately.

Trustees said the township will change how it manages the BZA to reduce future errors. Trustees announced plans to hold monthly BZA meetings rather than only when a hearing is scheduled and to bring outside presenters and trainers, including someone from the county prosecutor’s office, to explain legal limits and procedures. The trustees said the prosecutor’s office advised the BZA to base decisions on the hardship information provided by applicants and warned that site visits by board members can create the appearance of impropriety.

The board’s comments stressed the difference between intention and perception: trustees said they do not allege any corrupt behavior but acknowledged the prior handling caused public humiliation and that changes are needed to ensure consistent process and training.

During public comment, residents and BZA members Justin Bresnan and Chris Gaines thanked the trustees for the apology and for reinstating the members. Several speakers called for a local BZA handbook and for ongoing training so members understand permissible actions and site-visit rules.

The trustees did not change the zoning regulations themselves at the meeting; they said the reforms will focus on process, training and clearer procedures going forward.