Tuscarawas Township voters to decide on key issues

Tuscarawas Township is preparing for several important changes and decisions in 2025. The township, home to about 5,800 residents, has three ballot issues for the upcoming May election. One key issue is a proposal for natural gas aggregation. Voters will decide if the township should create a bulk-buying program for natural gas. If approved, trustees will work with a broker to find the best rates for residents. Trustee Molly Marthey said this program is similar to the existing electricity aggregation, allowing residents to either participate or choose their own suppliers. Additionally, trustees are asking voters to renew two tax levies. One is a renewal of a 1.5-mill road levy, which raises around $221,000 annually, for maintaining 51 miles of roads. The other is a 1-mill fire levy that brings in about $127,000 for fire services. Homeowners would see no change in their payments if these levies are renewed. To improve winter road safety, the township will equip its salt trucks with new brine systems. This technology helps prevent ice build-up while using less salt and reducing chloride pollution. A grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency will cover the costs. The township also plans a local history program for students. Trustee Marthey will present highlights from Tuscarawas Township's 215-year history to fourth graders, focusing on early settlers and important local figures. Finally, road repairs are planned for Kenyon Avenue and Moffit Road SW this summer. A roundabout at state Route 172 and Alabama Avenue is set for construction beginning in spring 2027, aimed at reducing accidents in that area.