Departments
Assistant Fiscal Officer
Ellen Horman
Phone: (513) 683-8520
Email: ehorman@hamilton-township.org
Hours: Monday - Thursday
7:00 am - 5:30 pm
As of January 8th, Ellen has been with Hamilton Township for 17 years. She maintains the day-to-day operations of the fiscal office, including getting the township out of Fiscal Emergency in 2015. Since then she has accomplished 9 clean audits.
Ellen has a daughter and two grandsons who are local.
She participates in 5k walks, enjoys gardening, and volunteering for community events in Hamilton Township.
For Financial Reports and 'Open Checkbook', please visit the Fiscal Officer's section of the website.
Township Parks
Hamilton Township is fortunate to have almost 600 acres of passive and active parkland with activities all of our residents can enjoy. Our Parks Vision Statement: "Hamilton Township provides well-maintained parks and trails system that promotes healthy lifestyles; strengthens the Township's identity; encourages use by people of all ages and abilities and connects the community to its natural surroundings." Head to Testerman Park for sports activities, family picnics at the shelters, and walks on the paved walk trails. Mounts Park is the perfect spot to take in the natural beauty Hamilton Township has to offer with mulched and gravel trails for walking, fishing, and tons of wildlife sightings. Marr Park has 13 soccer fields and provides recreation for hundreds of kids throughout the year. It is the home of the Fire Training Tower which will provide valuable training opportunities for our and neighboring fire departments. The Dog Park offers our furry friends over 6 acres of fenced in space to run, jump, and play. There is something for everyone to enjoy in our Hamilton Township Parks!
EMS Billing
EMS billing is not a new or novel idea. In fact, approximately 85% of the EMS providers nationwide bill for patient transports. Some southern Ohio departments have been charging for EMS transports for nearly 10 years. Currently, all Warren County EMS Agencies charge to transport patients to the hospital.
On the surface, EMS billing seems like a money grab where Fire Departments are taking advantage of patients during a difficult and vulnerable time. However, the facts don’t support this conclusion. The information below is offered to give residents a better understanding of EMS billing.
FAQs
Brush 76
2009 Ford F 350, 200 gallon water tank, 100′ booster line. This unit is a multipurpose vehicle used for Grass, Field, Brush and trash fires, open burns, mulch fires in the public right of way medians.
Commitment to Fitness
In 2011 and 2012, members of our fire department competed and excelled in the fire fighter Combat Challenge. Still to this day, the crews are committed to fitness and strive to do some form of exercise each day. The idea of a combat challenge team is being revived to help spur healthy competition and a continued focus on firefighter health.
New Firehouse Construction
On May 1, 2019, we broke ground on our new fire station, which will replace the 57 year old fire station located on Fosters-Maineville Rd. The new station will be located on State Route 48 next to our Township Administration building. We expect to occupy the new station in the first quarter of 2020.
Fire History
Prior to 1954 fire protection for the area was provided by the Loveland Community Fire Department. In 1954 it was decided by residents who lived in the village to form a fire department for the area of Hamilton Township and the Maineville Community Volunteer Fire Company was organized. The fire company served the residents until 1994.
In July of 1994 Hamilton Township Division of Fire and Emergency Services was formed to serve Hamilton Township, Maineville and a portion of South Lebanon. Robert Kissick served as interim Chief until the hiring of our first full time Fire Chief Goebel E. Williams Jr. During Chief Williams' tenure the department expanded to a second station and many strides were made in improving our fire protection rating. Along with those improvements, the department grew with the addition of paid fulltime and part time personnel. In 2005 the department switched from an intermediate E.M.S. service to a progressive Paramedic service. Chief Williams retired in 2008 and left a legacy of progress for the department that has continued through today.
Station 76
Location:
7684 South State Route 48
Maineville, Ohio 45039
The new fire station was built to replace the fire station in downtown Maineville that served the community for 59 years. This new station, built in 2019-2020, was designed with modern sleeping and crew facilities and greater garage floor space for accommodating modern fire equipment and activities. The location of the building allows emergency equipment easier access to main roads for quicker, safer responses. Additionally, several concepts were included in the design to make use of available space for daily training. Lastly, the building was designed with consideration for expansion to meet the need of the community as it grows.
Curfew Hours for Hamilton Township
Any minor under the age of 18 shall not be out without adult supervision between the following hours:
Sunday - Thursday - 11:00pm - 5:00am
Friday - Saturday - 12:00am - 5:00am
Mission Statement
The mission of all members of the Hamilton Township Police Department is to be responsive to, and protect, the constitutional rights of each resident, friend, family, and visitor that comes to Hamilton Township by affirmatively promoting a climate of safety and security among all persons within our jurisdiction.
The success of our Mission shall be realized by constantly working to achieve excellence in providing efficient and effective services to our community in a professional manner, and by encouraging the active participation of our community in those efforts.
“Guardian Heart Warrior Spirit” Our Motto is simple: Treat others the way you would want your family treated while remaining vigilant.
Police Contacts
Hamilton Township Police Department Administration Office and Records Department can be contacted Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (513) 683-0538. After hours non-emergency phone number (513) 925-2525.
Address |
Hamilton Township Police Department 7780 South State Route 48 Hamilton Township, Ohio 45039 |
|
Phone | (513) 683-0538 | |
Police Chief Scott Hughes | (513) 683-0538 | |
Assistant Chief Quillan Short | (513) 239-2433 | |
Captain Tim Rector | (513) 239-2396 | |
Detective Brittany Huelsman | (513) 239-2419 | |
School Resource Officer Brandenburg | (513) 899-3781 ext. 20479 | |
School Resource Officer Elzey | (513) 899-3408 ext. 20587 | |
**Please note that this e-mail is checked only during our normal business hours of Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you have an emergency, call 911. To speak with an officer after hours, please call (513)925-2525. |
Connect with Us!
Police History
Hamilton Township has had some kind of law enforcement presence for many years. It started in the early 1960’s with the appointment of Mr. Bernie Chitwood as a constable, and C. O. Baston (father of Clyde E. Baston-former Township Trustee ) during the 1970’s and early ’80’s.
As the Township started to grow there was need for more police coverage. This was done by working with the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and utilizing their Special Deputies. These volunteer officers were fully certified and were putting time in with the County to be able to continue their certification. Per an agreement with the Sheriff, some of these Deputies were assigned to work in Hamilton Township. This allowed the Township to have one deputy for eight to ten hours of coverage per day.
This was acceptable for a number of years, but due to growth and the rise in calls for service, the Trustees began to consider starting a separate Township P.D. After researching the costs and feasibility, the decision was made to form a department.
On August 4, 1993 Trustee Fred Oeder made the motion to form the Hamilton Township Police District, and along with Trustees Clyde Baston and O. T. Bishop, the motion carried.
The date for swearing in the officers was set for September 1, 1993. Thirteen men were sworn in as Police Constables by State Representative George Terwilleger (former Township Trustee and Clerk, and County Commissioner), with Gene Duvelius being sworn in as the first Hamilton Township Police Chief. Scott Carlton was sworn in as the Assistant Chief.
The Department has done very well and grown with the township over the years. Frank Richardson became the second Chief in 2004. In 2010, with the unfortunate passing of Chief Richardson, Lieutenant Scott Carlton became Major Carlton and Acting Chief. Major Carlton continued as Acting Chief until the appointment of Chief Jon Wheeler in 2011. Chief Jon Wheeler retired February 29, 2016. As of March 24, 2016, Mr. Scott Hughes became the 5th Hamilton Township Police Chief .
Training
Hamilton Township Police Department is proud to host these upcoming advanced law enforcement training courses:
4th Amendment Search & Seizure on Patrol. January 23, 2025
Simunition Scenario Instructor & Safety Course. March 18-19, 2025
Article I – The Park Advisory Committee
Section 1 – Name of Board: This Board is known as the Hamilton Township Park Advisory Committee hereinafter referred to as the “Advisory Committee”.
Community Center Rentals
The Hamilton Township Community Center is open year round. There is a $50.00 fee for the for-profit groups and parties such as receptions, birthdays, showers, etc. Payments can be made the day of reservation if it’s during the week or the Friday prior if the reservation is on the weekend. There is no fee for non-profit groups. The maximum occupancy is 50. There are 10 tables and 50 chairs there. There is a small kitchenette with a dish washer, sink, microwave and refrigerator. The building remains locked when not in use. You will need to pick up a key day of reservation or Friday prior to weekend reservations. Please see the calendar below for available rental dates and times. Please call to make a reservation: 513-683-8520.
Shelter Rentals
Hamilton Township has 4 shelters at Testerman Park between the playground and the ballfields. Shelter 1 and shelter 2 can be reserved. These are the 2 closest to the playground equipment and the gazebo. Shelter 3 and shelter 4 can also be used, but are first come first serve. Each shelter has 4 picnic tables and a trash can located under it. Across the small walkway are more picnic tables and a grill located on small concrete pads. There is no fee for reserving a shelter. The playground is easily accessible from all shelters.
2017 Mowing Bid Results
Mowing Bids due by 12 noon on February 17, 2017
http://www.hamilton-township.org/media/parks/2017 CEMETERY MOWING BID ADS 1-9-2017.pdf
http://www.hamilton-township.org/media/parks/2017 HAMILTON TOWNSHIP CEMETERY BID 1-9-2017.pdf
http://www.hamilton-township.org/media/parks/2017 PARKS MOWING BID ADS 1-14-2017.pdf
http://www.hamilton-township.org/media/parks/2017 HAMILTON TOWNSHIP PARKS BID 1-14-2017.pdf
http://www.hamilton-township.org/media/parks/MARR PARK MOWING 2017.pdf
Accident Reports
The Hamilton Township Police Department uploads accident reports within 3-5 business days after the incident.
If you need a copy of a Crash Report that occurred after January 1st, 2019, please visit: Crashdocs Powered by CarFax.
If You Need a Copy of a Crash Report that occurred before January 1st, 2019, Please Visit:
https://ohtrafficdata.dps.ohio.gov/crashretrieval
If you need additional assistance, please contact us at (513) 683-0538, M-F 8AM-4:30PM or Click here to Email.
A Letter From the Chief
On behalf of the firefighters of Hamilton Township Fire Rescue, I would like to say how proud we are to serve the communities of Hamilton Township, Maineville, and portions of South Lebanon. Not only do we provide your fire protection and emergency medical services, but we also provide public education and many additional safety related services as well.
Additional services we provide are:
- CPR Instruction
- First Aid Instruction
- Assist With Smoke Detectors
- Fire Safety Inspections
- Home Safety Checks
- Carbon Monoxide Checks
- Dry Hydrant Inspections
- Station Tours
- Community Events and Demonstrations
- Reflective Address Signs
- Stop the Bleed Training
We have three shifts each working 24 hours. Each shift is staffed with seven to nine firefighters who are a combination of full time and part time personnel . Daily we perform maintenance on our two fire stations and equipment: and we train on a wide variety of topics to assure our readiness to respond to emergencies and to interact with the public.
We are your fire department and strive to provide you the best possible service with professionalism and skill. If you have any questions about any of the services we provide, please call on our officers or our fire safety inspector at (513) 683-1622.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve,
Chief Jason Jewett
Department Officers:
Assistant Fire Chief Daniel Berkebile
Division Chief Justin Cormany
- Unit 1
- Capt. Schumacher, Lt. E. Webb,
- Unit 2
- Capt. B. Webb
- Unit 3
- Capt. Myers, Lt. Brown
- Inspections
- Cory Sanders
A Letter From The Chief
Thank you for visiting and welcome to the Hamilton Township Police web page.
Our goal as a Police Department is to provide professional and accountable police services to all our residents and guests. To effectively accomplish this we will strive to build and maintain partnerships with the citizens and businesses of our township. Together, we will maintain a safe and secure environment for all those who live, work or visit us in this great community.
We invite you to call the Department with any and all concerns of police matters. We will endeavor to respond to all situations, or promptly refer you to the appropriate responsible agency.
Please follow the Hamilton Township Police on Facebook and Twitter at the links below.
Thank You
Chief Scott Hughes
2023 Annual Report
About Hamilton Township Parks
If you notice damage to any park structure/facility being done by someone, please call 911! If you happen to notice any damage to a structure/facility please call the Administration at (513) 683-8520. Thank you!
Park Rules and Regulations
Hopkinsville Cemetery
131 W. Route 22/3
Maineville, Ohio 45039
Maineville Cemetery
476 E. Foster-Maineville Rd.
Maineville, Ohio 45039
Murdock Cemetery
10200 Murdock-Goshen Rd.
Loveland, Ohio 45140
Pricing
Rules and Regulations
Township Maintenance
The Hamilton Township Public Works Department’s primary function is to maintain roads and right-of-ways for Hamilton Township. This department reports directly to the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
Mailbox Damage Policy
Adopted February 20, 2008
A properly installed and maintained mailbox will withstand snow removal operations. If improperly placed the front face of the mailbox extends past the back of the curb edge or edge of pavement into the road/street. Chances are, the mailbox could be hit by the plow.
In the event your properly placed mailbox is down, you may call Hamilton Township Road and Maintenance Department at (513) 683-5320. The roads Division will repair/replace boxes damaged by a snow plow or mower strike. Replacements will be with a standard U.S. postal mailbox and 4”x 4” pine or cedar post if necessary.
Boxes down from snow plow throwing snow, is the homeowners responsibility. Boxes down due to deteriorated materials will be the responsibility of the owner.
Improperly installed boxes will be the responsibility of the owner.
All mailboxes including altered or custom-made mailboxes damaged by snow plow or mowers will be repaired by the Township. If not repairable the resident will have the option of a standard U.S. postal mailbox and post or the established cost of the materials for the U.S. postal mailbox and post materials.
The Township is not responsible for any mailbox that is above the standard U.S. Postal mailbox permitted in the right-of-way. Replacement of such will be the responsibility of the owner.
For mailboxes on County or State roads, you may contact Warren County Engineer at (513) 925-1364, or Ohio Department of Transportation at (513) 932-3010.
Lawn damage done by snow operations or the mower will be repaired by the Road/Maintenance Department by calling (513) 683-5320 to report the damages done.
Mailbox repairs will not take place until current snow operations are finished. If owner chooses to replace his mailbox before the snow removal is completed the Township will reimburse him for the box and post only, based on a standard U.S. Postal mailbox cost for the year the damaged occurred Future snow events could delay repairs. This would not interfere with any mower damages unless it would be raining and then the repairs would take place when the ground would be dry enough to not damage any other areas.
If you are not sure if your road/street is a county, state, or township road you may contact the Township at (513) 683-8520.
Road Construction
Public Works FAQs
Public Works Services
The Hamilton Township Public Works Department performs many services which keep our roadways safe and maintained. These Services include:
- Snow Removal
- Mowing grass along the right-of-way
- Park Maintenance
- Cemetery Maintenance (Burial and General Upkeep)
- Tree Removal (in right-of-ways)
- Tree Pruning
- Paving of Township Roads
- Removal / Replacement of Culvert Pipes
- Installation of Guardrails
- Road Closures (when necessary)
- Maintenance of Township Vehicles and Equipment
Public Works Updates
Snow Season Policy
Hamilton Township is pleased to announce we have upgraded our level of service during winter storm events. Township Road Crews will be begin plowing when snow accumulates or at the discretion of the Road Supervisor when ice or sleet is present. Crews will now plow and then use salt and Beet Heat to treat the main roads, intersections and hills. Afterwards, side streets and rural routes will be plowed and treated with salt until all roadways have been serviced.
The Township will use a priority ranking for the treatment of all Township roadways. The main roadways within the township are treated first, then crews will plow the main entrances into the subdivisions, and then the Township will address side streets within subdivisions and rural routes. Hamilton Township adopted a parking code (Chapter 4) in 2021 to include declaring a Snow Emergency. A Snow Emergency is hereby defined as the period of time during which two (2) or more inches of snow or ice has accumulated or is expected to accumulate, within the unincorporated area of Hamilton Township, such that the Township has determined road conditions within its unincorporated territory have become, or are likely to become, hazardous for vehicular travel. The administrator, or his designee in the Administrator’s absence, is authorized to declare a snow emergency within the Township’s unincorporated territory. This order will become effective two (2) hours after it has been announced to the local news media and will continue in full force and effect until the same is canceled by the Township upon announcement of such cancelation to the local news media. Parking of all vehicles shall be prohibited during a Snow Emergency in any right-of-way within the unincorporated territory of Hamilton Township on which traffic control devices compliant with R.C. 4511.09 are displayed.
If your street has not been plowed within 24 hours after the snow event has occurred, please use our report-a-problem@hamilton-township.org to let us know. This email line is monitored by Township Employees after normal business hours. You can help our road crews during snow events by parking cars in the driveway and off the street so the plows can make a wider sweep. Make sure when you plow your driveway you do not shovel the snow into the street as this can cause a hazardous condition on the roadway.
The purpose of Hamilton Township’s Snow Removal Policy is to provide the safest possible roadway system and access routes for the motoring public, public transit, public schools, fire, police, emergency aid vehicles, the citizens of Hamilton Township and the surrounding communities.
County roads are maintained by the Warren County Engineer’s Office and include: Zoar Road, Grandin Road, Foster-Maineville Road, Morrow-Cozaddale Road, Butterworth Road, Cozaddale Murdoch, Murdoch Goshen Road, Old 3C Highway. State roads are maintained by the Ohio Department of Transportation and include: US 22-3 and State Route 48.
This policy is intended to communicate Hamilton Township’s preliminary coordination efforts to reduce the threat to public safety from a snow and ice emergency. During inclement weather, the Hamilton Township Maintenance Department will make every effort to maintain the traffic flow as close to normal driving conditions as possible.
About
A Letter from the Director
Welcome and Thank You for visiting the Hamilton Township Public Works web page.
On behalf of the employees of Hamilton Township Public Works, I would like to thank the residents of Hamilton Township for the opportunity to be able to serve this wonderful community.
Our goal is to provide the highest quality public works services to the public and Township, through our efforts to maintain a cost effective operation and to provide these services in a responsible and efficient manner.
Please do not hesitate to contact us when the Hamilton Township Public Works Department can be of assistance in solving a problem, or providing an answer.
Thank you,
Don Pelfrey
Phone: (513) 683-8520
email: dpelfrey@hamilton-township.org
Hours: Monday - Friday
7:00 am - 3:30 pm
Please feel free to contact any member of the township with questions or concerns.
Cemeteries
Zoning Administrator
Board of Zoning Appeals
Zoning Codes
Zoning Commission
The Zoning Commission makes recommendations on zone change requests and site plans, as well as text amendments to the Hamilton Township Zoning Code. View a copy of the Commission Bylaws here. Meetings are generally scheduled for the second Monday of each month, with an alternate meeting on the fourth Monday of the month depending on the workload. Hearings are held at the Hamilton Township Administration Building, 7780 State Route 48, Hamilton Township, Ohio 45039. All zoning commission meetings begin promptly at 6:00PM.
Zoning Applications
Purpose of Advisory Committee: The purpose of the Advisory Committee is to make recommendations to the Administrator to propose to the Board of Township Trustees on matters related to the Township.
General Duties & Responsibilities:
- Research, deliberate, debate, and conclude a recommendation to the Administrator on any matters presented to the Committee for proposal to the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
- Request data, documents, and any supporting information regarding a matter at hand.
- Generally enlist community interest in Public Interest and Community events.
- Each member is responsible for voting what they believe to be in the best interest of Hamilton Township.
Members:
Ryan Ziemba – President
Becki Walker– Vice President
Melinda Briggs – Secretary
Fritz Nelson – Board Member
Brandon Roark – Board Member
Mark Wernery – Board Member
Thomas Ketterer – Board Member
BY-LAWS
Hamilton Township Advisory Committee,
Hamilton Township, Warren County, Ohio
Article I – The Advisory Committee
Section 1 - Name of Board: This Board is known as the Hamilton Township Advisory Committee hereinafter referred to as the "Advisory Committee".
Article II - Purpose, Duties and Responsibilities
Section 1 - Purpose of Advisory Committee: The purpose of the Advisory Committee is to make recommendations to the Administrator to propose to the Board of Township Trustees on matters related to the Township.
Section 2 - General Duties & Responsibilities:
A. Research, deliberate, debate, and conclude a recommendation to the Administrator on any matters presented to the Committee for proposal to the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
B. Request data, documents, and any supporting information regarding a matter at hand.
C. Generally enlist community interest in Public Interest and Community events.
D. Each member is responsible for voting what they believe to be in the best interest of Hamilton Township.
Article III - Membership
Section 1 - The Advisory Committee shall consist of seven (7) voting members appointed by the Board of Trustees. Each member shall have one (1) vote. One (1) alternate may also be appointed and would be entitled to one (1) vote only in the absence of a regular member.
Section 2 - Members shall serve four (4) year terms which shall conclude on December 31st of their fourth year. Terms of office shall be initially staggered in such a manner that at least one (1) expires annually.
Section 3 - Residency: Members shall be residents of Hamilton Township in good standing within the community at the time of appointment.
Section 4 – Attendance: Members must notify the President of the Advisory Committee in advance of a scheduled meeting if they are unable to attend. The President shall determine if an absence is excusable for reasons such as illness, emergency, military or community service, scheduled business, or personal travel. If a member is absent more than three (3) scheduled meetings in a twelve (12) month period, the President of the Advisory Committee shall notify the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
Section 5 - Removal of Members: The Hamilton Township Board of Trustees may, by and with the consent of a majority of a vote, remove a Member at their discretion.
Section 6 - Vacancies: Vacancies created by removal, resignation or otherwise, shall be reported to the Board of Trustees, and shall be filled by appointment of the Board of Trustees, except that the term of office shall be limited to the unexpired term of the vacating member(s). Vacancies will be filled by appointment by the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
Article IV - Officers
Section 1 - Officers and Election: The officers of the Advisory Committee shall be President, Vice-President, and Secretary. The officers shall be elected at the organizational meeting in January to serve for a one-year term. Should any officer of the Advisory Committee become vacant, the Advisory Committee shall elect a successor at its next regular meting to serve for the balance of the unexpired term.
Article V - Duties of Officers
Section 1 - Duties of President: The President shall preside at all meetings of the Advisory Committee. He or she shall appoint all regular or special committees, and committee chairman, represent the Advisory Committee at public affairs, and perform other duties ordinarily performed by that office.
Section 2 - Duties of Vice-President: The Vice-President of the Advisory Committee, in the absence of the President shall assume all the duties of the President. He or she shall be charged with the responsibility of insuring that all standing and/or special committees complete their assigned task. In the absence of both the President and Vice-President, the Advisory Committee shall elect by majority vote, an acting President to preside at the meeting with their Presidency expiring at adjournment.
Section 3 - Duties of the Secretary: The Secretary shall be responsible for maintaining an attendance record for each Advisory Committee member and report those records if a member no longer remains in good standing per Article III Section 3 of these By-Laws. The Secretary shall also be responsible for creating the agenda, notifying the Board of Trustees and Administrator of meetings, and recording minutes of all meetings. The minutes shall be recorded. A summary of the minutes will be provided to the Advisory Board for approval at the next meeting, and provided to the Administrator and Board of Trustees within a timely manner.
Article VI - Meetings
Section 1 – Organizational Meeting: The Advisory Committee must meet at least one (1) time per year in June. This meeting in June of each year shall be called the organizational meeting for the purpose of electing new officers, distribution of manuals for new members, and normal order of business. All other meetings will be called at the request of the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees, Administrator, or the President of the Advisory Committee.
Section 2 – Regular Meetings: The Board of Trustees, Administrator, or President of the Advisory Committee may call a meeting of the Advisory Committee for the purpose of any recommendation relating to Hamilton Township. If a meeting is called by the President of the Advisory Committee, he or she is to notify the Administrator and the Board of Trustees before notifying the Committee. Members shall receive sufficient time, after being notified, to make arrangements to attend the meeting.
Section 3 - Location of Meeting: All regular meetings are to be held in the Township Administration Building, 7780 South State Route 48, Maineville, Ohio, 45039, unless otherwise specified.
Section 4 - Meeting, Conduct, and Procedures: Meetings shall be conducted in accordance with procedures prescribed in these By-Laws. Anything not explained in these By-Laws will revert to Robert’s Rules of Order. All decisions will be reached only after full consideration and debate on the issue in question.
Section 5 - Manner of Voting: The vote on all motions on matters coming before the Advisory Committee shall be by simple yea-nay, unless a roll call is requested by the President. A unanimous vote shall be recorded as unanimous.
Section 6 - Order of Business: The following shall be the order of business, however the Rules of Order may be suspended and any matter considered or postponed by action of the Advisory Committee.
1. Call to order
2. Roll call
3. Consent Agenda (to include minutes)
4. Introduction and hearing of visitors, communications and petitions
5. Old Business
6. New Business
7. Miscellaneous & Announcements
8. Adjournment
Article VII - Amendments
Section 1 - These By-Laws may be amended only by motion and majority vote of the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, the Hamilton Township Police Department is taking proactive steps to limit exposure to both our officers and our residents. If you need to report an incident or minor crime to our police department, please consider completing this form and emailing it to our agency. Once received, an officer will contact you for further information. Please confirm the following before completing this form:
- This is not an emergency or an in-progress incident
- This incident occurred within Hamilton Township
- There are no known suspects
- There is no physical evidence such as fingerprints, blood, pry marks or items left behind by the perpetrator
- There are no known witnesses to be interviewed
When in doubt, simply call Dispatch at (513) 925-2525 and ask to speak with an officer.
*Please note that reports are only received in this manner during our normal business hours of Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. If you need to speak with an officer or make a report outside of those hours, please contact Dispatch at (513) 925-2525.
Parks Director
Nicole Earley
Phone: (513) 683-8520
Email: nearley@hamilton-township.org
Hours: Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Nicole is a Hamilton Township resident and joined our team in 2020. In coordination with our Public Works Department, she oversees the budget and daily operations of our parks, creates and coordinates community events, and develops recreational programs to keep our community engaged. Nicole spent the last 18 years in management and event planning in Florida before returning to Ohio to be closer to her family.
She enjoys spending time with her husband and English bulldog in our parks and on our local trails, Sunday family dinners, and all Cincinnati sports. She also volunteers with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, St. Joseph's Orphanage, and the Hamilton Township CPAAA.
Please click the link below to view the current Hamilton Township Comprehensive Plan. This plan was passed by the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees on February 3, 2021.
2021 Comprehensive Plan
COUNTY ROADS
County roads are maintained by the Warren County Engineers Office. The following list contains county road here in Hamilton Township:
- Butterworth Road
- Cozaddale-Murdoch Road
- Dallasburg Road
- Grandin Road
- Ludlum Road
- Morrow-Cozaddale Road
- Murdock-Goshen Road
- Old 3C Highway
- Roachester- Cozaddale Road
- Stubbs Mill Road
- Zoar Road
- Foster-Maineville Road
The Warren County Engineer Office can be reached via telephone at (513) 695-3301 or on the web at wceo.us
STATE ROADS
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) maintains state roads. The following list contains state roads here in Hamilton Township.
- State Route 48
- US Route 22/3
ODOT can be reached via telephone (513) 932-3030 or on the web at transportaion.ohio.gov
All other road within the Township, with the exception of private drives, are maintained by the Hamilton Township Service Department. We can be reached at (513) 683-8520
Additionally, all of the roads within the corporation limits of the Village of Maineville, including S.R. 48, Zoar Road, and Foster-Maineville Road, are the responsibility of Maineville.
SERVICES WE PROVIDE
CPR & First Aid Education - Sign up here!
Assist with Smoke Detectors
Fire Safety Inspections
Home Safety Checks
Carbon Monoxide Checks
Dry Hydrant Inspections
Station Tours
Community Events and Demonstrations
Reflective Address Signs
Stop the Bleed Training
Human Resources Manager
Cheryl Allgeyer
Phone: (513) 683-8520
email: callgeyer@hamilton-township.org
Hours: Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Cheryl Allgeyer joined Hamilton Township as the HR Manager in October 2022. Prior to working for Hamilton Township, Cheryl was the Finance and HR Director for Goshen Township, Clermont County for the past 9 years. She has 25 years of responsible and progressive experience in both human resources and finance and uses her blend of experience in both the private and public sectors to affect positive collaboration within the organization. Cheryl holds a Degree in Accounting from Northwestern College and is Certified Professional through the Society of Human Resources. Cheryl is active in her community and currently serves on a non-profit education foundation board.
Cheryl grew up in Hamilton Township and resides in Goshen with her husband and daughter. She enjoys traveling with her family, volunteering at an assistance dog training facility, and is a big UC Bearcat fan.
Through UnitedHealthcare, UMR and HealthSCOPE Benefits creates and publishes the Machine-Readable Files on behalf of Hamilton Township. To link to the Machine-Readable Files, please click on the URL provided: https://transparency-in-coverage.uhc.com
How EMS Billing Works
While treating and/or transporting patients, EMS and hospital personnel gather patient information and, if possible, ask the patient to sign a form authorizing disclosure of specific medical information protected by HIPAA privacy rules. This information is electronically submitted to a third party billing service. They review the report to determine the appropriate fee for the transportation services provided. Once the fee is determined, a claim is submitted to the patient’s private or government insurance carrier.
Will I be denied service if I am unable to pay to be transported to a medical facility?
No. No one will be denied emergency medical service or transport for any reason. The medical treatment that a patient receives will not be changed in any way by an EMS billing program.
Administrator
Township Administrator: Jeff Wright
Email: jwright@hamilton-township.org
Phone: (513) 683-8520
Daily Responsibilities: Administrator Jeff Wright oversees the daily operations of the Township at the direction of the Board of Trustees. The Township Administration consists of Finance, Human Resources, Zoning, Economic Development, Cemeteries, and Parks. Mr. Wright makes recommendations for adoption to the Board and has a primary duty to enforce and execute the policies and resolutions approved by the Board of Trustees.
The LOEB Foundation
For fiscal year 2018-2019, the Fire Department received a grant for replacing and upgrading several sets of fire gear.
Station 77
Location:
2000 East U.S. 22 & State Route 3
Hamilton Township, Ohio 45152
Built in 2001 this station serves the residents of the northeastern corner of Hamilton Township. The building was constructed by Morton Buildings.
Police FAQs
Article II – Purpose, Duties and Responsibilities
Section 1 – Purpose of Advisory Committee: The purpose of the Advisory Committee is to make recommendations to the Parks Coordinator and the Board of Township Trustees on matters related to the planning and operations of the parks.
Section 2 – General Duties & Responsibilities:
- Take initiative in planning for future recreation and park areas, facilities, and grounds as well as maintaining present areas, facilities, and grounds up to acceptable standards.
- Give consideration and study as to how recreation and park services affect the welfare of the community.
- Enable civic and service groups to accomplish results through cooperation that they could not accomplish alone.
- Work with individuals, civic clubs and citizen groups to give funds, property, and/or manpower for the development and operation of the park and recreation facilities.
- Periodically evaluate the progress of acquisition and development of land, effectiveness of recreation programs and level of maintenance.
- Generally enlist community interest in parks and recreation,
Community Center Rentals Calendar
Information
The Little Miami Scenic Trail is just a small part of the Buckeye Trail of Ohio. There are 26 sections to the Buckeye Trail, each named for a town or feature within the section, and each with its own unique experiences. The portion of the Trail located in Hamilton Township is named the Loveland Section. The Buckeye Trail, from it’s southern terminus at the upper overlook in the northeast corner of Eden Park in Cincinnati, to the intersection of US 50 and Wooster Lane in Terrace Park is on urban and suburban streets. This section leads you past some wonderful examples of mansions and churches that were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From the intersection of US 50 and Wooster Lane to the end of the Loveland Section the Buckeye Trail follows the Little Miami Scenic State Park, a paved bike path located on abandoned Penn Central railroad right of way along the Little Miami River. Popular on hot summer days, the bike trail follows a rail bed first build in the 1840’s as the Little Miami Railroad, named after the nearby river and not the size of the train! As the trail heads north, you pass through Camp Dennison, used as a Civil War camp by the Union Army. North of Loveland, the land gets less urban, though you can often hear the sounds of Kings Island amusement park near Foster. After passing through Morrow, the trail passes under the I-71 bridge and into the Caesar Creek section. The Fort Ancient prehistoric Indian earthworks and museum are adjacent to the trail near SR 350. Please click here to be linked to a map of the trail. (Information above from the Buckeye Trails Website.)
Shelter Rentals Calendar
Cemeteries are operated by the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees under the direction of the Township Administrator (or designee). They are operated in conformance with the Laws of the State of Ohio, and in accordance with the appropriate principles of good conduct which the Trustees believe should govern the operation of the cemeteries. Cemetery records are maintained at the Hamilton Township Administration Building. Information and assistance regarding burials, deeds, transfers, etc. is available by calling (513) 683-8520 or by email.
The Hamilton Township Cemeteries are NOT a permissible burial ground for animals or pets.
It is understood that Hamilton Township does not assume responsibility for the theft, disappearance or wildlife damage of any floral arrangement or other decoration and reserves the right to immediately remove any decoration which does not comply with our decoration regulation.
As a friendly reminder in compliance with the Township Cemetery Rules and Regulations, once a month, the Township will remove all decorative items within the cemeteries that do not comply with the Rules and Regulations. If you have additional questions please feel free to call the Administration Building at (513) 683-8520. Thank you.
Approved by the Hamilton Township Trustees October 1, 2014 and will be enforced as of January 1, 2015.
Cemetery Rules and Regulations Standard Operating Procedure in pdf from.
Lot Prices (per grave)
Resident Rate | $1,200.00 per gravesite | |
Non-Resident Rate | $2,000.00 per gravesite | |
Niche | $600.00 per Niche |
Gravesite(s) must be sold and deeded to Hamilton Township residents to receive resident rates.
Cemetery Visiting Hours
Sunrise to Sunset, unless otherwise marked.
Hamilton Township Maintenance Department’s primary function is to maintain roads and right-of-ways for Hamilton Township. This department reports directly to the Hamilton Township Board of Trustees.
Mailbox Information
Check your mailboxes and make sure they are ready for winter and comply with postal regulations.
Make sure your mailbox can withstand heavy snow thrown by passing plow trucks this winter. Autumn is a good time for residents to make cure their mailboxes are in good shape for the winter weather.
Common repairs include replacing loose hinges on a mailbox door, remounting a mailbox post that may have become loose, and replacing or adding house numbers.
Residents installing new mailboxes or replacing old ones must use USPS-approved traditional or contemporary mailboxes. Generally, the bottom of a mailbox should be at a vertical height of between 40 and 42 inches from the road surface and placed so carriers can safely and conveniently serve them without leaving their vehicles. Repairing your mailbox and making sure the post is securely set in the ground, will help it withstand the force of the heavy snow coming off the snow plows.
Damage to mailboxes resulting from snow plowing will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Mailboxes that are damaged by actual physical contact with township equipment will be repaired at the township expense, but only if they were properly located and installed. The mail box owner is responsible for repair or replacement of the mailbox if the mailbox was damaged by the pressure of the plowed snow and there was no physical contact with the plow equipment. To find out what the proper location of your mailbox is along the road way, contact your local postmaster.
As you inspect your mailbox it is also a good time to install reflectors that make your mailbox easier to see during storms or during dark hours. It’s a good idea to also make sure your house number is visible on your mailbox as this will assist mail carriers and emergency crews.
What is defined as a Right-of-Way?
Typically this is from the center of the roadway to the utility poles. This area should be free of plantings and structures.
Annual Township Trustees Meeting
The Warren County Engineer’s Office is constantly in a mode of surveying, research, design and development of new road infrastructure and improvements throughout the county.
Road Closure information, High Water, Emergency type updates will be posted as they occur. For more information on county road closures go to: Warren County Engineers Office for county road updates at http://www.co.warren.oh.us/engineer
Please click here for additional updates throughout Hamilton Township at the Warren County Engineer’s web site or contact our Administration Building at (513) 683-8520 for details.
Organization of Staff
Hamilton Township employs an eight person road maintenance crew for handling snow and ice control on township roads. The road maintenance crew is a group of dedicated, full-time employees that work year round and who are individually required to maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
During normal business hours, the Maintenance Supervisor is responsible for evaluating the need for road treatment and during the winter storm event continues to monitor township roadways as snow conditions become more severe.
After normal hours of operation, initial calls are made by Warren County Communications Center to the Maintenance Supervisor. The Maintenance Supervisor is then called into work to evaluate the need for road treatment as well as to determine the manpower needed to treat the roads.
Filing Requirements
The Zoning Commission meets at 6:00PM the second Monday of every month at the Hamilton Township Administration Building, 7780 South State Route 48, Maineville, Ohio, 45039.
Submittals may be delivered to the Hamilton Township Planning and Zoning Department, 7780 South State Route 48, Hamilton Township, Ohio, 45039. Plans must be received by 4:00pm in order to meet the deadline.
All plans must be fully complete with 1 sets of folded copies and 1 set of digital copies. Rolled plans will no longer be accepted. Staff reserves the right to return incomplete sets of plans or schedule items for the following meeting date when the agenda becomes full. Items will be set on the agenda in the order they were received unless otherwise required by the Ohio Revised Code.
Hearings will take place at the Hamilton Township Administration Building, 7780 South State Route 48. Documents can be reviewed at the Township Planning and Zoning Office, between 8:00AM and 4:30PM Monday through Friday. Additional information on the agenda items for each meeting may be found here on our website.
*Stage 2 PUD Site Plan submittals must be received by Regional Planning Commission before Zoning Commission hearing date.
**Zoning Amendment Requests must first be reviewed by RPC before ZC hearing date is scheduled. Hearing dates must be advertised 30 days in advance of ZC hearing date.
Click the links below for information about upcoming projects managed by the Warren County Engineers Office, the Warren County Transportation Improvement District and ODOT
- State Route 48 Road Improvements
Warren County Construction Projects (arcgis.com)
- King Avenue Bridge Improvements Project
Old Station 76
Location:
69 West Foster-Maineville Road
Maineville, Ohio 45039
Station 76 was built in 1962 by the dedicated members of the Maineville Community Volunteer Fire Company. The members of the department at that time sold block for 50 cents a piece and the building was paid for through various fundraisers. At the same time the building was built additional space was added to house the United States Post Office. The lease from this also helped to offset the cost for the building. As the fire service continued to evolve and apparatus grew larger it was necessary to add additional bay space to the back of Station 76. The rear bays were added in 1984 in anticipation of the delivery of the 1985 Sutphen Pumper.
What a Hamilton Township Fire District Resident Can Expect
Residents are considered persons who live in the Hamilton Township Fire Rescue service area, which includes unincorporated Hamilton Township, the Village of Maineville, and the parts of the Village of South Lebanon located within the Hamilton Township Fire District. Residents would not be billed for insurance co-pays or additional charges above the rate paid by their insurer. Residents may receive a letter requesting insurance information or verification, but they will not receive a bill even if they are uninsured.
When will I be asked to pay for transportation to the hospital?
Sometime after your hospital visit, your insurance carrier will be billed for the transport. When your insurance carrier or Medicare pays the transport charges, you will receive an “Explanation of Benefits” form to notify you that the charges have been paid. That will be the end of the transaction for residents in the Hamilton Township Fire District service area. In some cases, the third party billing service may not have the name of your insurer. In those cases, you may receive a letter asking you to provide this information. If you are a resident, you will NOT receive nor will you be expected to pay the bill yourself. Charges are assessed only if the patient is transported to a medical facility. If a patient receives medical attention, but is not transported, there is no charge for the service.
Engine 76
2014 Sutphen Monarch Rescue Pumper, Cummins ISX12 500 Hp, Jacobs Engine Brake, Allison Generator IV EVJ4000, Hale Qmax-1500, 750 gallon water tank, Smart power 10k generator, 2- 200’ pre-connected cross-lays off rear, 200’ 2 ½” cross-lay off rear , 800’ 3” for supply , 1050 ‘ 5” hose, 1-24’ ladder 14’ roof ladder, 12’ Little Giant Ziamatic Hydraulic Ladder Rack, Ziamatic Hydraulic Hard Suction Rack, Akron Brass Apollo Ground Monitor
Stop the Bleed
We now offer a new, Stop the Bleed, course to groups along with CPR and fire extinguisher training. Please contact Captain Goodpastor at (513) 683-1622 for more information.
Article III – Membership
Section 1 – The Advisory Committee shall consist of seven (7) voting members appointed by the Board of Trustees from the Township at large. Each member shall have one (1) vote. One (1) alternate may also be appointed and would be entitled to vote only in the absence of a regular member.
Section 2 – Members shall serve four (4) year terms which shall conclude on December 31st of their fourth year. Terms of office shall be staggered in such a manner that at least one (1) expires annually.
Section 3 – Residency: Members shall be residents of Hamilton Township for a period of no less than five years before appointment. In certain circumstances the Board of Trustees may waive this requirement. Members must also be a citizen of the United States of America and in good standing within the community at the time of appointment.
Section 4 — Attendance: Members must notify the President of the Advisory Committee in advance of a scheduled meeting if they are unable to attend. The President shall determine if an absence is excusable for reasons such as illness, emergency, or scheduled business or personal travel. If a member is absent more than three (3) scheduled meetings in a twelve (12) month period, the President of the Advisory Committee shall notify the Hamilton Township Trustees.
Section 5 Removal of Members: The Hamilton Township Trustees may, by and with the consent of a majority of a vote, remove a Member at their• discretion.
Section 6 – Vacancies: Vacancies created by removal, resignation or otherwise, shall be reported to the Trustees, and shall be filled in like manner as original appointments, except that the term of office shall be limited to the unexpired term of the vacating member(s). Vacancies will be filled by the Hamilton Township Trustees with recommendations made by the current Advisory Committee members.
Marr Park
912 Nunner Road
The 123 acre farm now known as Marr Park was generously donated to the people of Hamilton Township by the Marr Family in 2009. The Hamilton Township Trustees quickly adopted a master plan for the park in 2010 and graded 13 soccer fields the following year. The fields are home to Cincinnati United Soccer League and provide space for hundreds of kids to practice and play throughout the season.
Additional Information
One (1) gravesite is permitted to accommodate one (1) full burial and one (1) crematory or two (2) crematory burials.
A maximum of eight (8) graves can be purchased. Additional graves may be requested for purchase, but will require the approval of the Hamilton Township Trustee Board.
Un-plotted sites in any of the cemeteries will have an additional charge of $150.00 for locating and installing corner markers.
Grounds Flowers and Decorations
- All grave floral decorations are to be of fresh or artificial flowers only.
- Cut or artificial flowers are permitted in appropriate permanent vases year round. (See Section II-B for details)
- The placement of American Flags and/or National Flags shall be permitted on graves of Veterans of the Armed Forces and will be treated as all decorations.
- No flower pots or boxes will be permitted to be set on the lots, except for there (3) business days post burial interment.
- No planting of flowers, trees, shrubs or bushes will be permitted on or around the grave lot.
- Potted plants, glass or potters containers and open flames are strictly prohibited.
- No wrought iron stands, shepherd’s hook, figurines, stepping stones, gazing balls, wind chimes, fencing, decorative rock, ornamental flags, bird houses, toys, etc. allowed on grave lots.
- Wire or other materials are prohibited from holding decorations in place. (This is to prevent these items from being caught in equipment or being thrown from equipment and endangering our visitors or Township personnel.)
Maintenance Contacts
Public Works Director | ||
Office: | (513) 683-5320 | |
Email: | dpelfrey@hamilton-township.org | |
Hours: |
7:00 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. Monday-Friday |
|
Emergency: | 911 | |
Non-Emergency: | (513) 925-2525 |
How long after the snow should I expect my street to be plowed?
Primary Township Roads are cleared first. Residential Streets are cleared next.
Organization of Equipment
Currently the Maintenance Department has one facility for Winter Storm fighting which is located in Testerman Park, on Maineville Road. This facility stores equipment and 1800 tons of salt under a shelter. This facility is also equipped with a front end loader and two mechanics.
The Hamilton Township Maintenance Department standards do not include a bare pavement policy and road treatment may be limited to curves, hills, and intersections. When winter snow events accumulate more than two inches on the roadways, crews will both plow and salt/grit mix only on primary roadways. The clearing of cul-de-sacs will be 2-3 swipes depending on the size of the cul-de-sac. Once the snow begins to melt, storm drains will be cleared for proper drainage. Snow removal and treatment operations will be conducted only on township maintained roadways generally in accordance with the following ratings.
Cathy Walton
Phone: (513) 683-8520
Email: cwalton@hamilton-township.org
Hours: Monday - Friday
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
The BZA is responsible for reviewing variance requests, conditional uses and challenges to the zoning administrator’s decisions on the interpretation of the Hamilton Township Zoning Code. If you would like more detailed information on the BZA, please refer to Chapter 2.5 of the Hamilton Township Zoning Code, or view a copy of Board’s Bylaws. Meetings are generally scheduled on the second Thursday of each month, as needed. Hearings are conducted at the Hamilton Township Building at 7780 State Route 48, Hamilton Township, Ohio, 45039. All meetings begin promptly at 6:00PM. Copies of all zoning applications are available on-line in the Zoning Forms section of this website.
In 1972, the people of Hamilton Township, Warren County, Ohio adopted a Zoning Resolution, which established local control of land use and zoning and put the future of the township in the hands of the locally elected officials.
This Zoning Code has been provided below in a digital format and is also available in a hard copy format for $25.00.
Click on a section below to view a printable pdf of the corresponding chapters.
- Index
- Chapter 01 – General Provisions
- Chapter 02 – Administrative Roles and Authority
- Chapter 03 – Development Review Procedures
- Chapter 04 – Zoning Districts and Use Regulations
- Chapter 05 – Planned Unit Development Regulations
- Chapter 06 – General Development Standards
- Chapter 07 – Parking, Loading and Circulation
- Chapter 08 – Landscaping Regulations
- Chapter 09 – Signs
- Chapter 10 – Nonconformities
- Chapter 11 – Enforcement and Penalties
- Chapter 12 – Definitions
- Resolutions/Amendments
Please note the following as of January 29, 2021:
Township-wide Final Notice: Any Signs placed in the Right-of-Way will be removed and thrown away by Township staff. If you have a question regarding signage, please contact Zoning Administrator Cathy Walton at (513) 683-8520 or cwalton@hamilton-township.org
Members
The Hamilton Township Zoning Commission is comprised of five members and one alternate member. Members are appointed by the Hamilton Township Trustees to a five-year staggered term.
- Eric Reiners (Term expires 2026)
- Brady Hood (Term Expires 2026)
- Julie Perelman (Term expires 2024)
- Randy Kuvin (Term expires 2025)
- Alternate: Scott Gravett (Term expires 2026)
This page was designed to inform you on how the zoning certificate process works in Hamilton Township and provide you a digital copy of important forms. All forms and the fee schedule are provided below in PDF format. All new buildings, residences, additions, signs, decks and accessory structures built or erected within Hamilton Township require an approved zoning certificate before work may commence. In order to apply for a zoning certificate you will need to complete an application and attach a site plan clearly indicating all setbacks, dimensions and areas of both the structure and the property where the structure is to be built.
Upon receipt of the completed application, site plan and appropriate fee, the Staff of the Planning and Zoning Department will process the zoning certificate within five to seven business days. The approved zoning certificate will be emailed back to the applicant and from there the applicant will need to file additional permits with the Warren County Building Department. Application or review fees are not refundable except where the zoning inspector determines that the application was accepted in error, or the fee paid exceeds the amount due, in which case the amount of the overpayment will be refunded to the applicant.
The Warren County Building Department will not issue a building permit for a structure until they have a copy of an approved zoning certificate. You may however, submit your building permit application to the Building Department after you submit your zoning certificate application to Hamilton Township.
What A Non-Resident Can Expect
Transport charges will be billed to a non-resident patient’s insurer in the same manner as a resident. However, non-residents will be billed for any unpaid balance not covered by the insurance carrier. If the non-resident is uninsured, they will be billed for the entire amount.
How much will the transports cost?
The cost of the transport would depend on the type of the service provided and the distance to the medical facility. For example, the charge for basic life support (BLS) transports will be less than the charge for advanced life support (ALS) transports. Our rates would be based on the reasonable and customary Medicare rates for our region and would be comparable to the rates of other departments in central Ohio.
How do I get a copy of a police report or traffic crash report?
All accident reports are posted on the website. If you need any other reports please come to the Police Station at 7780 S. State Route 48, Maineville, OH 45039 or call (513) 683-0538.
Article IV – Officers
Section 1 – Officers and Election: The officers of the Advisory Committee shall be President, Vice-President and Secretary. The officers shall be elected at the organizational meeting in January to serve for a one-year term. Should any office of the Advisory Committee become vacant, the Advisory Committee shall elect a successor at its next regular meting to serve for the balance of the unexpired term.
History
In 1958, Merrill Gilfillan wrote an article for the Columbus Dispatch proposing a trail from Cincinnati to Lake Erie. One of his hopes was that the trail would serve as an encouragement to young people to slow down and learn about their native land. Spurred on by the article, several people, including Merrill, met in Columbus in February, 1959 to discuss building such a trail. In June, they formed a non-profit organization – The Buckeye Trail Association.
The first 20 miles were dedicated on September 19, 1959 in Hocking County. Several of the founders and early leaders were among the 34 people making that dedication hike, including the BTA’s most famous grandma, Emma Gatewood. From that beginning, the trail grew to over 1,444 miles under the auspices of the BTA. It was completed near Deer Lick Cave in the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area in 1980.
The purpose of the Association is to promote the construction, maintenance, and use of a state-wide trail system, within the State of Ohio, to be supplemented with side trails, campsites, and other facilities, so as to render accessible some of the historical and beauty spots of the Buckeye State. The trail shall be primarily a footpath, but certain portions may be designated for use by horsemen and/or other non-motorized users. Said corporation is organized and shall be operated exclusively for charitable, educational, and scientific purposes co-extensive with the purposes set forth in Section 501c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law) including for such purposes the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under said Section.
Today, the Buckeye Trail Association is a large, strong body of volunteers who maintain and promote the trail. Though the entire route is marked, the Buckeye Trail continues to change and improve. The BTA looks for ways to move road sections off the roads, and to upgrade those off-road sections to high quality trail. (Information above from the Buckeye Trails Website.)
Opening and Closing Interment Fee
Weekday 8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. |
||
Infant to 3 years old | $300.00 + Deposit Fee | |
Over age 3 years old | $800.00 + Deposit Fee | |
Crematories | $500.00 + Deposit Fee | |
Niche |
$500.00 |
|
Weekday after 3 p.m. and Saturday |
||
Infant to 3 years old | $450.00 + Deposit Fee | |
Over age 3 years old | $950.00 + Deposit Fee | |
Crematories | $650.00 + Deposit Fee |
No funerals/gravesite services permitted on Sunday’s or Holiday’s
Monument Vases
Only the type of permanent vase is permissible, which, when not in use, may be inverted and sunk in the ground. It is recommended, vases should be placed inverted in the ground from November through March to prevent freezing and cracking.
Crew Members
Kris Farmer | Supervisor | |
Justin Thompson | Foreman | |
Chrisie Hainey | Administrative Assistant | |
John Daunt | Lead/Highway Worker II | |
Leo Enos | Highway Worker II | |
Josh Parker | Highway Worker II | |
Brandon Voris | Highway Worker II | |
Stan Farmer | Highway Worker I |
|
Ron Peek | Mechanic | |
Adam Nunez | Mechanic Assistant |
Why were the trees lining the road trimmed?
If trees obscure the view of traffic flow they must be cut back to clear the roadway.
Primary Roads
Primary Roads will be treated with Sodium Chloride (salt) and grit mix and plowed.
Primary Roads include: Adams Road, Baxter Road, Beeler Drive, Broadway, Caldwell Drive, Cones Road, Dallasburg Road, Elizabeth Street, Ford Road, Front Street, Fryberger, Hatt-Swank, Hill Station, Hopkins Road, Ireland Road, Kipp Lane, Lebanon Road, Luhring, Maineville Road, McIntire Road, Meredith Avenue, Mounts Road, Nunner Road, O’Hara Drive, Overbrook, Pleasant Renner, Saratoga, Schlottman Road, Shamrock, Sibcy Road, Snook Road, Stephens Road, Striker Road, Sunny Lane, Swigert Road, Sycamore Street, West Road, White Street and Winding Way.
Update from State Auditor’s Office on Fraud Reporting:
Pursuant to Ohio Revised Code Section 117.103 requires all public employers to notify employees of the methods of reporting fraud, including doing so anonymously. Tips or complaints of fraud in Ohio’s governments may be made at any time by any public employee or private citizen. Fraud may be reported by using the Auditor of State’s website, U.S. Mail, the Auditor of State’s Fraud Hotline, and the Ohio Stops Fraud iPhone app.
U.S. Mail or Call the Fraud Hotline
1-866-FRAUD OH (1-866-372-8364)
Ohio Auditor of State’s Office
Special Investigations Unit
88 East Broad Street
P.O. Box 1140
Columbus, OH 43215
Also established in ORC §117.103 is a public log of fraud reports, which includes the date of the report, the entity complained of, the nature of the complaint and the status of the review of the complaint.
Filing Deadlines
Submittals may be delivered to the Hamilton Township Planning and Zoning Department, 7780 South State Route 48, Hamilton Township, Ohio, 45039. Plans must be received by 4:30pm in order to meet the deadline.
All plans must be fully complete with 15 sets of folded copies. Rolled plans will no longer be accepted. Staff reserves the right to return incomplete sets of plans or schedule items for the following meeting date when the agenda becomes full. Items will be set on the agenda in the order they were received unless otherwise required by the Ohio Revised Code.
Hearings will take place at the Hamilton Township Administration Building, 7780 South State Route 48. Documents can be reviewed at the Township Planning and Zoning Office, between 8:00AM and 4:30PM Monday through Friday. Additional information on the agenda items for each meeting may be found here on our website.
*Stage 2 PUD Site Plan submittals must be received by Regional Planning Commission before Zoning Commission hearing date.
**Zoning Amendment Requests must first be reviewed by RPC before ZC hearing date is scheduled. Hearing dates must be advertised 30 days in advance of ZC hearing date.
2024 ZC Application Deadlines and Meeting Dates
Submit a Zoning Violation >> Click Here
Zoning & Fire Inspector
Ohio Revised Code Section for EMS Billing
505.84 Reasonable charges for use of ambulance or emergency medical services.
As used in this section, “authorized medicare reimbursement rate” means such rate established for the locality under Title XVIII of the “Social Security Act,” 49 Stat. 620 (1935), 42 U.S.C.A. 301 , as amended.
A board of township trustees may establish reasonable charges for the use of fire and rescue services, ambulance services, or emergency medical services. The board may establish different charges for township residents and nonresidents, and may, in its discretion, waive all or part of the charge for any resident. The charge for ambulance transportation for nonresidents shall be an amount not less than the authorized medicare reimbursement rate, except that, if prior to September 9, 1988, the board had different charges for residents and nonresidents and the charge for nonresidents was less than the authorized medicare reimbursement rate, the board may charge nonresidents less than the authorized medicare reimbursement rate.
Except as provided in section 505.441 of the Revised Code, charges collected under this section shall be kept in a separate fund designated as “the fire and rescue services, ambulance services, and emergency medical services fund,” and shall be appropriated and administered by the board. The fund shall be used for the payment of the costs of the management, maintenance, and operation of fire and rescue services, ambulance services, and emergency medical services in the township. If the fire and rescue services, ambulance services, and emergency medical services are discontinued in the township, any balance remaining in the fund shall be paid into the general fund of the township.
Amended by 129th General AssemblyFile No.27, HB 128, §1, eff. 9/23/2011.
Effective Date: 09-09-1988; 03-31-2005
Won’t I end up paying for this service through an increase in my insurance premium?
No. If you are insured, you are already paying for this service. By state statute, EMS transport fees are included in your current premium. All private and government insurers already carry provisions to pay for EMS transport.
Engine 77
Coming Soon!!
Article V – Duties of Officers
Section 1 – Duties of President: The President shall preside at all meetings of the Advisory Committee. He or she shall appoint all regular or special committees, and committee chairman, represent the Advisory Committee at public affairs, and perform other duties ordinarily performed by that office.
Section 2 – Duties of Vice-President: The Vice-President of the Advisory Committee, in the absence of the President shall assume all the duties of the President. He or she shall be charged with the responsibility of insuring that all standing and/or special committees complete their assigned task. In the absence of both the President and Vice-President, the Advisory Committee shall elect by majority vote, an acting President.
Section 3 – Duties of the Secretary: The Secretary shall be responsible for maintaining an
attendance record for each Advisory Committee member and report those records annually to the Parks Coordinator. The Secretary shall also be responsible for recording minutes of all meetings. The minutes shall be recorded in either tape and written format.
Testerman Park
8373 Maineville Road
The first 23 acres of Testerman Park was purchased by the Township in 1973 and the land was intended for active recreation from the start. A ballfield was originally named in memory of William “Bill” Testerman who was clerk of the township at the time of his passing, and soon the entire park became known as Testerman Park.
Over the years additional land has been added for parking, 10 ball fields, concession stand, 4 shelter houses with grills and picnic tables, playground equipment, tennis and pickleball court, basketball court, and a paved walking trail. Testerman Park is home to Championship Field, dedicated to the memory of Kevin C. Barnhill. Testerman Park is home to Little Miami Little League, Warren County Little League, and Little Miami Fastpitch. In 2021, the Public Works crew, in partnership with ARCS and the Violence Free Coalition, built and installed a Storybook Trail for our residents to enjoy. This trail stretches ½ mile long with storyboards to read along the way. The book is titled Halle and Tiger with their Bucketfilling Family (written by Peggy Johncox) with the original ‘Bucket Fillers’ book series in mind that promote kindness.
Hamilton Township holds multiple events at Testerman Park including Hop into Spring in March or April, the Freedom Parade & Festival in July, Movie in the Park in July, and Trunk or Treat in October.
Testerman Park Map
Youth Organization Contacts:
Warren County Little League Email: wcllohio@gmail.com
Little Miami Youth Baseball Email: s.smith7677@gmail.com
Deposit Fee
A deposit equal to a foundation cost of a 12” x 24” marker is required to ensure that a marker is provided within twelve (12) months of interment.
12” x 24” marker or monument will have a foundation of 16” x 28”
Deposit Fee | $268.80 |
Removal of Flowers and Decorations
All flowers and decorations will be removed and discarded at minimum one (1) time each month, approximately on the 15th day of each calendar month. It is to be noted that during grass cutting season, flowers and decorations may be removed each week should it be required to prevent items from being caught in equipment or being thrown from equipment and endangering visitors or Township personnel.
Secondary Roads
Secondary Roads will be treated with a mix of Sodium Chloride (salt) and grits. The emphasis of the treatment will be on curves, hills, and intersections. Straight-aways will be treated with a mix of Sodium Chloride (salt) and grits, at a lesser level, and plowed.
When a snow and ice event continues, routes (depending on priority) are continually monitored by the Maintenance Department. Some Priority Roadways may require salting and plowing several times during a storm event before other township roads are addressed, depending on the severity of the event.
Members
The Hamilton Township Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) is comprised of five members and one alternate member. Each member is appointed by the Trustees for a staggered term of five years.
Appointments
- Ryan Ziemba (Term expires 2024)
- Mark Wernery (Term expires 2025)
- Adam Paul (Term expires 2026)
- Michael Blomer (Term expires 2027)
- Holly Roush (Term expires 2028)
- Alternate: Susan Erickson (Term expires 2025)
What if I am not insured or my insurance doesn’t cover the total cost of the transport?
Hamilton Township’s billing service provider will be instructed to practice “soft billing”. Once the Township’s billing service receives verification that you are not covered by insurance or Medicare, the billing process stops for Hamilton Township Fire District residents. No bill will be sent and you will not be expected to pay the charges. Non-residents will be billed for any unpaid balance.
Article VI – Meetings
Section 1 – Regular Monthly Meeting: Regular meetings shall be at 6:00 p.m. on the first Monday of January, April, July and October. In the event the meeting day is a legal holiday, the meeting shall be held the following Monday.
Section 2 – Special Meetings: The Parks Coordinator may call a special meeting of the Advisory Committee for the purpose of transacting business. Members shall receive sufficient
time, after being notified, to make arrangements to attend the special meeting.
Section 3 – Location of Meeting: All regular meetings are to be held in the Township Administration Building, 7780 South State Route 48, Maineville, Ohio, 45039, unless otherwise specified.
Section 4 – Organizational Meeting: The first regular meeting in January of each year shall be called the organizational meeting for the purpose of electing new officers, distribution of manuals for new members, and normal order of business.
Section 5 – Open Meetings: All meetings shall be open to the public except as provided according to State Statute on Governmental Bodies and Records (Sun Shine Law).
Section 6 – Meeting, Conduct and Procedures: Meetings shall be conducted in accordance with procedures prescribed in the By-Laws and decisions reached only after full consideration and debate on the issue in question.
Section 7 – Manner of Voting: The vote on all motions on matters coming before the Advisory Committee shall be by simple yea-nay, unless a roll call is requested by the President. A unanimous vote shall be recorded as unanimous.
Section 8 – Order of Business: The following shall be the order of business, however the Rules of Order may be suspended and any matter considered or postponed by action of the Advisory Committee.
I. Call to order
- Roll call
- Consent Agenda (to include minutes)
- Introduction and hearing of visitors, communications and petitions
- Old Business
- New Business
- Miscellaneous & Announcements 8, Adjournment
Foundation
Concrete Foundation per square surface inch | $0.60 | |
Setting special markers on concrete – each | $25.00 | |
Vase Setting – each | $25.00 |
All foundations must include a 4” addition to both length and width for the grave marker dimensions.
Example:
12” x 24” marker or monument will have a foundation of 16” x 28.”
Cost is 16” x 28” x $0.60 = $268.80.
Maintenance and Enforcement
Cemetery maintenance work may be performed only by Township employees or by duly authorized outside contractors.
All maintenance work will be performed under the supervision of the Road Supervisor under the direction of the Township Administrator.
Township personnel are charged with the responsibility of enforcing rules and regulations as established by the Hamilton Township Board of Trustee’s approve October 1, 2014.
Right of Ways
The right-of-ways are controlled by the Warren County Engineers Office. The right-of-ways are not a domain to build in or plant in. If for example, you would like to pipe your ditch frontage, you have to contact the Warren County Engineers Office to apply for a permit. This permit is free of cost. A Representative from the Warren County Engineers Office will come out and look at the right-of-way and determine if it meets the requirements of the office to pipe the frontage. If it is, the engineers will layout what is needed to do that. This is all at the owners expense. (For material and labor.) If it does not meet the requirements, the engineer will not issue a permit and it cannot be piped. The same goes for a driveway pipe. You apply for a permit and the engineer will tell you what size and length of pipe to use. If it is a replacement pipe, the Road Department will dig out the old pipe and install a new one free of charge. The owner of the property has to buy the pipe itself.
Snow Alert Levels
The Warren County Sheriff may declare a Snow Emergency for the preservation of the public peace. The Sheriff will consult with various other county officials such as the County Engineer, the EMA Director and township and city officials before declaring the emergency. Declaring a Snow Emergency is the highest of three levels of a Winter Driving Condition:
LEVEL 1
Roadways are hazardous, drive very cautiously.
LEVEL 2
Roadways are extremely hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Roadways are also icy. Only those drivers who feel it is necessary to drive should be on the roadways. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work.
LEVEL 3
All roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be out during these conditions unless is is absolutely necessary to travel. All employees should contact their employer to see if they should report to work. Those traveling on roadways may be subject to arrest.
Starting April 15, 2024, the Zoning Department will no longer accept applications or drawings in paper form.
Vendor Permits are now processed through the Hamilton Township Police Department and can be found here.
Submit a Zoning Application >> Click Here
*Site Plan must be submitted with all applications Example Site Plan
Pay Zoning Application (Invoice# is Permit#)>> Click Here
What are the rules for parking in Hamilton Township?
How are these funds used?
By statute, revenue raised by charging for EMS transports would be used for expenses associated with the “management, maintenance, and operation of the Township’s fire and EMS services” that are currently being paid by tax revenue in the Fire fund.
Ladder 76
2006 Sutphen SL-75, Cummins ISM 450 Horsepower Engine, Jacobs Engine Brake, Allison EVS 4000 transmission, Waterous CSU 2000 GPM Pump, 450 Gallon Water Tank, Williams ATP 500 Foam System Class A and B, 20 Gallon Class A Foam Tank, 30 Gallon Class B , Foam Tank, ROM Roll Up Compartment Doors w/ LED Compartment Lighting, Onan 15 kw Hydraulic Generator, Elkhart Scorpion RF Monitor, 2 200′ Pre-connected Crosslays, Rear Low Hose Bed with 1000′ of 5″ Hose, 200′ of 3″ Pre-Connected for a Flying Standpipe , Ground Ladder Compliment of: (1) 35′ 3 Section Extension Ladder, (1) 28′ 2 section 28 Foot Extension Ladder, (2) 16′ Roof Ladders one Mounted to the Aerial and one mounted on the side, (1) Little Giant Ladder Mounted on the Cab, (1) 14′ Attic Ladder Mounted at the tip of the ladder.
When I go out of town, how can I have an officer check my residence?
You can either call the police department or stop in and request a VHC (Vacation House Check) be done. We ask information reference your departure and return dates, if your residence is alarmed, emergency contact information and a few other questions.
Article VII – Amendments
Section 1 – These By-Laws may be amended only by motion of the Board of Hamilton Township Trustees.
Restrooms
Hamilton Township has Restrooms at Foster’s Park located at the intersection of W. Foster Maineville Road and Old 3C Highway.
Mounts Park
4851 Stubbs Mill Road
Mounts Park is named after one of the first families to settle this area in 1795. It is 223 acres of natural beauty with two fishing lakes, walk trails, and tons of wildlife. It is home to our sunflower field which blooms in September and offers visitors an up-close look at pollinators hard at work! The newly installed Memorial Garden is a great place to relax and remember our loved ones. There are benches scattered around both lakes that allow you to take in the natural beauty of the park and catch glimpses of all of the beauty Mounts Park has to offer.
Paddlecraft is permitted on both lakes. Please unload from the parking areas and drag your paddlecraft to the water's edge to launch.
A fishing license is required for all persons 16 and up. Please follow all state fishing regulations. Click below to be directed to Ohio's Wildlife Licensing System:
ODNR Division of Wildlife License Sales
Mounts Park Trails Map
Dis-Interment
Weekday 8:00 a.m. to 3 p.m. |
||
Infant to 3 years old | $500.00 | |
Over age 3 years old | $1,000.00 | |
Crematories | $350.00 | |
Weekday after 3 p.m. and Saturday |
||
Infant to 3 years old | $1,000.00 | |
Over age 3 years old | $1,500.00 | |
Crematories | $1,000.00 |
During a Winter Storm Event
Do not allow children and pets to play on roadways or on the snow berms as this is very dangerous. Drivers may not see them or be able to stop in time to avoid hitting them. As snow is plowed from roadways, windrows (a line or row of snow) can be created at the end of driveways and are the property owner’s responsibility to clear. Do not shovel or put snow from driveways onto or across county roads as this is unlawful and creates a hazard for other drivers. If you are removing snow from your property and a county snow plow approaches, there is a strong possibility that you are not visible to the operator. Dark clothing, the hour of day and weather conditions inhibit visibility. Protect yourself from injury by giving the plow operator extra room to perform the task. If snow is predicted in the forecast, please be sure to not park on the street so the snow plow can completely clear the roadway. Please park in the your driveway.
Who do I talk to if I have a question about EMS service?
If you have a question about Hamilton Township’s proposed EMS billing program, contact the Hamilton Township Fire Chief at (513) 683-1622 Extension 100.
EMS Billing services are provided by Medicount Management.
1-800-962-1484
On the Road
Don’t go out until the snow plows and salt mix trucks have had a chance to do their work, and allow yourself extra time to reach your destination. If you must drive in snowy conditions, make sure your car is prepared, and that you know how to handle road conditions. Snow plows make frequent stops and backup maneuvers, do not drive your car up behind a snow plow as the driver may be unable to see you and inadvertently back into your car. If you are behind a plow that stops, stop your vehicle in such a way that your car looks into the driver’s outside rearview mirror, and please give them extra room. Drivers are also urged to give an oncoming snow truck right of way. During the winter months, the berm or shoulder of the road is often too soft to support the weight of a loaded salt truck. These drivers cannot move off of the road to let oncoming traffic pass on narrow roads. If you see a salt truck approaching on a narrow road please be courteous and pull off into the nearest driveway and let the snow truck pass.
Medic 76
2019 Horton F550 with updated ride system and safety features.
What do I do if I find someone dumping trash on my property?
Call the dispatch center (513-925-2525) and an officer will be sent to your home. If you find names and addresses in the trash, this can be used as evidence to prosecute the person(s) responsible.
Trail Access and Parking Area
Hamilton Township has an access area with parking at Foster’s Park located at the intersection of W. Foster Maineville Road and Old 3C Highway.
Storm Damage
Although undesired, there is always a potential for damage to mailboxes and fences during the snow removal process. Damage will be evaluated on a case by case basis. Mailboxes and fences that are damaged by actual physical contact with Township equipment will be repaired at the Township’s expense, but only if they were properly located and installed. The mail box owner is responsible for repair or replacement of the mailbox if the mailbox was damaged by the pressure of the plowed snow and there was no physical contact with the plow equipment. Please call 513-683-8520 to report mailbox or fence damage resulting from contact with Township equipment.
Dog Park
A park solely dedicated to man’s best friend. They can run, jump and play with furry friends in 6.6 acres of fenced in land donated to the Township by J.P.S. Development, LLC. It is located on the corner of Morrow-Cozaddale Road and East US 22 & 3 just across from the Little Miami High School.
This park has been totally built by donations from many pet lovers in the area. If you’re interested in donating to this project we are located at:
7780 South State Route 48, Maineville, OH 45039
Medic 77
2015 Horton 623/International 4300 Low profile chassis, Maxforce Diesel Engine, Allison EVS 3000 Transmission.
Winter Storm Contacts
Questions regarding snow & ice concerns should be directed to the Hamilton Township Administration Building at 513-683-8520 during the hours of 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday. After hours and weekends, please call the Warren County Dispatch at 513-925-2525.
What can I do about people trespassing (hunting, ATV, 4 wheelers) on my property?
Should you find someone trespassing on your property, call the dispatch center (513-925-2525) and a officer will be sent to your home. In order for you to prosecute, the person(s) must be on your property.
Little Miami Scenic Trail Hotline
Call (513) 212-6958 to report downed trees or other non-emergency safety issues.
Munitions Park
What's the speed limit on country roads through Residential Areas (row of homes along the road)?
55 MPH unless otherwise posted (not in a municipal corporation).
Miami Bluffs Open Space Parcel
Hamilton Township Park Rules and Regulations
The parks are maintained by the Township Road Department and seasonal park crew members under the direction of the Parks and Public Works Directors. Policies governing the parks are approved by an appointed Park Board.
Tanker 76
1994 S&S/International, DT 466 Motor, Allison MD 3060 transmission, 2000 Gallon Tank, 750 GPM Waterous Pump, side and rear dumps, 2 2 1/2″ rear tank fills, 1000′ of 3″ supply hose, 2 200′ Pre-Connected Crosslays, 2100 Gallon Dump Tank, 500 GPM Portable Pump.
Utility 76
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab Truck. Utility 76 was purchased for the purpose of towing the Boat Trailer as well as being used as a First Responder. This vehicle has also been used to return bicycles to either one of our stations or to a person’s vehicle if they were involved in an incident on the Little Miami Bike Trail as a customer service to that person or persons. The crew cab type vehicle was purchased so that Firefighters attending outside training can ride together and take only one vehicle.
Utility 77
A 2011 Chevrolet 1 Ton extended cab pickup truck. Utility 77 was purchased for the purpose of towing the ATV Trailer as well as being used as an EMS First Responder Vehicle from Station 77 when staffing is at 3 at that station, Inspections, picking up hose and equipment from a the fire scene. This vehicle has also been used to return bicycles to either one of our stations or to a person’s vehicle if they were involved in an incident on the Little Miami Bike Trail as a customer service to that person or persons.
Chief 76
2011 Chevrolet Tahoe 4X4. This unit is used by the Chief for daily operations and command.
Fire Inspector
2013 GMC Yukon XL. This vehicle is utilized by the Fire Inspector and is in essence his mobile office for fireground operations. This vehicle is also ALS Equipped with minimal supply and can first respond to a medical run when both stations are tied up on multiple incidents.
ATV 76
Polaris ATV. This unit is utilized for responses in areas that are difficult to access with larger apparatus. It can be used for victim extraction from the bike trail, a field area or a heavily wooded area. The Polaris and the Red Wagon can also be used during a mass casualty incident for victim removal and also used to transport personnel and equipment for brush fires far away from roadways or heavily wooded areas.
Boat 76 and Boat 77
Hamilton Township is bordered on two sides by the Little Miami River. We have had events on or along the river during various times of the year. Hamilton Township and other departments along the Little Miami River share boats and other equipment to effectively serve this part of our response areas.