Champion hearing set on zoning addition

Township may add light manufacturing designation to books

CHAMPION -- The township zoning commission has informed township trustees of a public hearing set for 6:30 p.m. April 19 on a proposed zoning text amendment that would add the "light manufacturing" designation as a permitted conditional use of land.

Zoning commission officials said 231 acres, including 16 parcels of land off Research Highway, would provide a location for any light manufacturing business.

Zoning commission member John Streidfert reported that once light manufacturing is added to the zoning books, businesses can apply to locate there.

He said he is aware of a business, Bral Corp., now located off North Park Avenue, that wants to build a business there that makes rear doors for electric pickup trucks and would need a light manufacturing designation.

He said after a decision is made by the zoning commission, it will be forwarded to trustees, who would give final approval for the addition.

Streitfert said township trustees informed the zoning commission of wanting to update the zoning resolution in conjunction with the township comprehensive plan for future land use and development within the township.

The light manufacturing designation would be compatible with other other permitted uses of the land, officials said.

Also at a recent meeting, township trustees are reviewing ideas of how to use the land by the former Champion Central School. Trustee Rex Fee said soccer league members have expressed interest in new soccer fields, parking lot and concession stand, costing around $250,000.

Officials said they will review how much American Rescue Plan funds and other money is available to improve upon what is available. Resident Jim Latimer said he wants to see a commitment made from trustees on how ARP funds will be used.

Trustees said ARP funds need to be used by 2026.

A list will be put together and trustees will review and vote on usage of the funds. Proposed ideas have included a generator for the police department, ambulance for the fire department, and splash pad, pickleball court and playground equipment for the park.

"We are looking at trying to utilize what we have and seek grant money," Trustee Chairman Bill Templeton said.