Limited Home Rule Resolutions

 

The home rule form of government, or “limited” home rule government as described in Ohio law, is an option for township governments of a defined budget and population size wherein they can obtain, in general terms, a limited degree of autonomy and control over their public affairs and services. As authorized by Chapter 504 of the Ohio Revised Code, the Boardman Township Board of Trustees first adopted home rule status and authority on October 12, 1999, following appropriate public notices and hearings. By virtue of both population and budget size, Boardman Township also met the qualifications under the law to be designated as an “urban township.”

In June 2000, following the initial enabling legislation, a citation form was adopted and approved. Since that time, resolutions (regulations) pertaining primarily to “quality of life” issues have been adopted. Although the regulations are enforced by both the Zoning Office and the Boardman Police Department — and are primarily complaint-driven — in all cases a certified peace officer must sign a citation. Examination of complaints over the years prior to adoption indicated that the citizens of Boardman Township wanted something done about the quality of life issues as described, and mindful of the social effects of these issues on the general public, the Board of Trustees felt that “limited” home rule powers were in the best interest of the community.

Home rule authority, and the related urban township designation, provides an additional tool to deal with specific problems as they arise. The Township Trustees and administrative staff take great care in determining whether resolutions should be addressed through home rule or as standard resolutions already permitted by Ohio law. Listed below are the current Home Rule Resolutions in effect for Boardman Township: