Development News for Reading, Ohio

Hydrant Maintenance and Truck Safety Discussed by Public and Officials

Residents inquired about the testing and maintenance of fire hydrants, particularly those connected to the Western Water system. Chief JW explained that the township is not permitted to test or maintain Western Water hydrants, as they do not classify them as fire hydrants. The township only tests hydrants on the county water system. Western Water is responsible for their own hydrants, and they notify the township if a hydrant is out of service for repair, often at a faster rate than the county. Western Water also has EPA requirements for water loss monitoring, ensuring diligent system maintenance. Residents also raised concerns about truck traffic safety, including registration and roadworthiness. Police officers can conduct traffic stops for violations and work with state patrol and the sheriff's office for commercial vehicle inspections. Coordinated checks by local police, county sheriff, and ODOT inspectors are conducted periodically to ensure compliance with laws for commercial vehicles entering the township.

Township Secures $75,000 Grant for Mounts Park Trail Head Connector

Nicole Early successfully secured a $75,000 grant for the Mounts Park Trail Head Connector project. This funding will contribute to the development of a paved driveway and trailhead entrance at Mounts Park, connecting to the Little Miami Bike Trail. The project includes a 22-space parking lot (2 handicap, 20 standard), paving improvements to the existing driveway off Stubs Mill Road, and the installation of directional signage and a bicycle repair station. This initiative is expected to benefit residents and attract visitors, boosting local spending. The township will provide a $30,000 local match. This grant was supported by a park assessment study previously approved by the board.

Zoning Hearing Postponed; Trucking Development Use Amendment Discussed

A previously scheduled zoning hearing for a development at the Villages of Classic Way was postponed at the applicant developer's request. A new date has not been set, and notification will be provided if the hearing is rescheduled. Separately, a discussion occurred regarding a text amendment related to trucking operations. The amendment prevents any expansion of current trucking use and clarifies that going forward, such use would require a variance. Existing uses that were approved prior to the amendment are grandfathered in. The question arose about whether existing operations could increase their capacity up to the maximum previously permitted, even if they had fewer vehicles on site historically. Officials explained that existing approved uses can expand within their permitted space, but they cannot exceed what was lawfully allowed before the amendment. Concerns were also raised about overflow parking on the opposite side of the street, with clarification that some newer operations may need to come into compliance.

Hamilton Township Adopts Resolution to Regulate Golf Cart Use

The board discussed and approved a resolution to regulate the use of golf carts on public streets within Hamilton Township. This initiative aims to increase enforcement of golf cart related issues and clearly define rules and regulations for their operation. The resolution limits golf cart usage to streets with speed limits of 25 mph or less, primarily for travel within subdivisions to locations like community clubhouses or pools. Vehicle inspections, proof of insurance, and valid driver's licenses (minimum age 16) are required. The initial period will focus on education, with enforcement and citations to follow. Agricultural use with proper markings is exempt. Fines will be determined by a judge. This resolution was prompted by numerous resident complaints over the past three years.