Jackson Township Trustee Steven Meeks opened the meeting at 6:30 p.m. with an explanation of the purpose of this meeting, and an introduction of the speakers.

Dorey Diab, Executive Director of Research & Technology, Stark State College of Technology, described what Bio-technology was and what the impact of the industry is today.  He also spoke about what Stark State’s plans were for their prototyping center, how it would be financed, and the partners in the venture.  In response to questions from residents, Mr. Diab clarified the research aspect as opposed to manufacturing and the safety and disposal of any hazardous materials that could be used.

Jackson Township Trustee Steven Meeks spoke on the township’s viewpoint, the township’s goals and role in the district, zoning regulations for the area and the timeline for development.  Mr. Meeks answered questions concerning buffer zones and building setbacks, tax revenue to be generated from the development, the impact on resident’s wells, property values, sewer systems, the Park System (Nature Preserve), and FAA restrictions.

Steve Paquette of the Stark Development Board spoke in support of the proposed district and the impact of future jobs for the area.  He answered additional questions regarding tax revenues in the early stages and in the future.  A question was brought up as to what would happen if Stark State did not get the grant they have applied for.  Stark State has an alternate plan.

Randy Gonzalez, Jackson Township Clerk, pointed out that 10 acres would not pay property tax.  The other 160 acres could.  Fifty percent of township services are paid for by commercial properties.  Without these commercial properties, your taxes would be double.  Most people are not concerned about the taxes it will generate, or the jobs it will create, they are concerned about what effect it will have on their homes.  The questions need to stay focused on what this development will do to your properties, not what income they will generate. This development will bring water and sewer lines to the residents and that could be expensive. If anyone has tax questions, he will be glad to answer them.

John Phillippi from the Jackson Township Zoning and Planning Department explained the proposed zoning regulations and the types of businesses and industries that would be allowed in the district.

Ed McDonnell gave background information on the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee.  He clarified some of the categories in the permitted usage of the district.

Other questions concerned whether this was or would be part of the International Trade Zone.  Also discussed was what assurances residents would have that the zoning regulations would be followed by the developer and how and when any changes could be made to the regulations.

John Meeks representing the Jackson-Belden Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Development Committee, and the Jackson Township Community Improvement Corp. spoke briefly in support of the Research & Technology District.

Steven Meeks thanked everyone for coming and closed the meeting.