Danbury Township encompasses are area of 17.76 square miles which includes 32.75 miles of Lake Erie, Sandusky Bay and Harbor shoreline. The historic Village of Marblehead is located at the east end of the Township. The permanent population of Danbury is 4,264 with an additional 903 residing in the Village. Seasonal homes, condominiums, marina, campgrounds, cottages and recreational vehicle parks are home to a population of several thousand summer-only residents. Danbury was named for the original settlers who arrived from Danbury, Connecticut and became a township on March 6, 1840. The Village of Marblehead was incorporated in 1891.
MISSION STATEMENT
"The Mission of the Danbury Township Board of Trustees is to provide fair and representative government for all citizens, to foster pride in the community, to ensure fiscal solvency, to preserve and protect natural and historical sites, and to operate within the parameters of the laws of the State of Ohio while making certain that the Township remains an enjoyable place to live for both permanent and seasonal residents."
Current News and Events
Current News & Events
Welcome!
We hope you enjoy our website and find new information that has never been posted before. Please be patient with us as we continue to add new information!
Public Records Request Form
Township Trustee Meeting Summaries - March and April
2019 Focus on Danbury Twp. - Year End Review
Summer Newsletter - NEW!
We'll be using this section to post the most current information we need to communicate in a timely manner. As always, if you need to reach any of us just refer to the Contact Information.
Clean-up Week Announced!!
Township cleanup weeks are coming back! There will be two cleanups this year. The first will be Tuesday, August 18 through Saturday, August 22. Hours will be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 6 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Due to COVID-19 we will be utilizing staff from Cyclone Services to handle the main part of the cleanup. We are working with their schedule so that’s the reason it is being held later than usual. The second cleanup week will be October 13-17 with slightly different hours. Full details will be sent in a newsletter within the next few weeks and will also be posted here.
Ottawa Co. Small Business Relief Program
The Ottawa County Commissioners (Mark Stahl, Donald Douglas, and Mark Coppeler) have approved the use of up to $100,000 of Federal CARES Act funds for the Ottawa County Small Business Relief Program. This program is being coordinated between the Commissioner’s Office, County Auditor Jennifer Widmer and the Regional Planning Commission Director Mark Messa.
The new program will provide eligible for-profit small businesses with up to $5,000 to cover business interruption expenses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Business owners can obtain application materials from the Ottawa County website at www.co.ottawa.oh.us/index.php/small-business-relief-grant. Applications will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on August 17, 2020.
To participate in the program, the business must:
- have less than $1 million in gross annual revenue
- have 30 or fewer employees or 1099 workers as of March 22nd
- experienced a decrease in gross revenue of 30% or more due to COVID-19.
All expenses must be related to the business interruption caused by COVID-19 and must comply with the program guidelines. Eligible expenses may include: mortgage costs; rent or lease costs; expenses for utilities; salaries, wages and compensation paid to employees; materials and supplies related to interruption of the business caused by required closures; and personal protective equipment or other COVID-19 related costs such as expenses related to compliance with Responsible Restart Ohio.
The application selection will be by random draw if total of applications submitted exceed the $100,000 allotment, rather than on a first come, first serve basis. For additional information or questions, please email occares@co.ottawa.oh.us. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE WITH OTHER SMALL BUSINESSES.
ODOT Roundabout Meeting
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) will hold a virtual public meeting for the proposed intersection improvement at State Route 163 (SR 163), North Shore Boulevard, and Englebeck Road virtually Thursday, August 20, 2020 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM with a project presentation at 4:00p.m.
The purpose of the meeting is to explain the overall proposed project, discuss the alternatives that were investigated, present the preliminary roundabout design and potential impacts, discuss the proposed detour route for traffic, answer your questions, and get your input. The project is expected to require permanent and temporary right-of-way near the intersection. In order to expedite construction in fall of 2022, part of the intersection is proposed to be closed for at least 60 days with vehicular detours posted.
Attendees may find information about how to join the meeting at the following website:
www.transportation.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/odot/projects/projects/109637
or you can call 855-925-2801 code 9509 to join the meeting.
Questions can be directed to:
Nada Elkhechen
ODOT District 2 Project Manager
Nada.Elkhechen@dot.ohio.gov
(419) 373-4489
The following Documents have been provided to the Township:
Cover Letter
Comment Form
Flyer
Handout
Recycling at Police Station
Our recycle area at 419 Bridge Road continues to be a source of frustration and concern for both Danbury Township and the Solid Waste District. As stated previously, we sadly found it necessary to have video surveillance due to the abuse of the area with non-recyclables (including a vacuum cleaner, table and chairs, dishwasher, mattress and numerous other trash items). It’s a great service for residents when it is used properly – and it is for residential use only. Unfortunately we have also found that a primary reason the dumpsters are overflowing so quickly is due to heavy use by businesses. This was never meant to be a service for businesses or contractors. Now it is interfering with residents being able to utilize their service. The Solid Waste District advised that if a business wishes to recycle they can make arrangements with Waste Management by calling or emailing Matthew Leis (248) 285-0330 mleis@wm.com or Republic Services by calling (800) 234-3429. This post is a courtesy notification and enforcement will begin June 15, 2020. In the interim, we are asking that businesses voluntarily STOP using the residential recycling area. If you know of a business that does not utilize Facebook, please help make them aware of this information. We don’t want to eliminate recycling or brush drop-off but the abuse at both areas has become overwhelming for our employees. Please help us to help you keep these services and do not ever hesitate to contact the police at (419) 732-2549 to report abuse of our services.
COVID-19 Updates
In the blue band above, please click on "Community". There is a tab dedicated to sharing all the announcements the Township officials are receiving in regards to Coronavirus Covid-19.
Smart Meter Installation Coming Soon
Ohio Edison/FirstEnergy has started the process of implementing smart meters throughout Ohio starting this year. This exchange process will start in Danbury Township starting July 6, 2020. All residences or commercial property owners who will receive a smart meter should receive a letter (click here to view) prior to any installation. Not all residents and businesses will receive one, but most will. Installers are taking every safety precaution during the Covid-19 pandemic. Meter services or authorized contractors will contact the customer by phone and will not interact face to face. Also, no smart meters will be installed inside any residence or commercial property.
Census 2020
Everyone should be receiving a letter asking you to complete your Census survey online, by phone or mail. To complete online, click on the following link: https://2020census.gov/
The US Census Bureau must complete the count by the end of July so that there is enough time to process the data by December 31, 2020. This data will determine how federal tax dollars for community services will be distributed over the next ten years. Although our thoughts are elsewhere during this health crisis, it is vitally important to continue to encourage our community members to complete the questionnaire online, by phone or by mail.
Check your community's response in the link below. There you'll find direct links to the current census response rate for your community thru an interactive map https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates.html. Use the tools on the right side to find your community's rate. An instructional video on the page is available for assistance.
2020 Census - Rural America & Small Towns
The needs of rural America are different than those of urban areas, but no less important! It is imperative that federal tax dollars are available to meet those needs. Please encourage all households to complete the questionnaire online at 2020census.gov, by calling 844-330-2020, or by mail.
Help boost the self-response on the 2020 Census in your township by sharing these video clips:
Meet Jim: Shaping the Future of Healthcare in His Rural Community
Meet Don: Shaping the Future of His Small Town
Meet Charlie: Shaping the Future of His Family-Owned Farm
If you have questions or if I can help in anyway, please feel free to contact me.
Regards,
Christine Zess, M.Ed., Partnership Specialist
Philadelphia Region
U.S. Census Bureau
M: 717-925-9963
census.gov | @uscensusbureau
Concerns & Complaints
It is the policy of the Danbury Trustees to not accept anonymous complaints regarding tall grass, junk vehicles or other nuisance concerns. A written complaint regarding issues within 500 feet of your property will be accepted and reviewed to determine what action may be taken. In the blue band above, please go to Departments, then Zoning and the tab about "Violations" for more information and to print out a complaint form.
Brush Drop-Off Open
The brush drop-off located at 310 S. Bridge Road (SR 269 South) behind the dog park is now open! For your safety, the brush area is not to be used after dusk.
Rule Reminders:
No Grass Clippings
No Rootballs or Stumps
No Plastic Bags (paper yard bags are okay to leave behind)
No Contractors
No Dumping after Dusk
This is for residents of the Township. Please only bring leaves and tree limbs. Hay bales are acceptable, but please make sure they are broken apart and take the twine string with you. Plastic and string get tied up in the machinery when it's time to mulch it.
Check back for mulch distribution/assistance dates. For the time being due to COVID-19 this service is not being provided. They are typically held on Monday mornings and some Saturdays. When dates are established, we will post here on the Township website.
Ottawa County Sheriff's Office New Mobile App
The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office has launched a new mobile app. It is a free app available for both Android and Apple users. Their hope is to improve communication with the public. Thru the app, users can receive notifications of snow levels, major traffic accidents or detours, missing people or other warnings of potential danger. Features on the app, include the jail roster, sex offender registry, contact information for sheriff’s divisions, submitting tips, links to other law enforcement websites and more.
Ottawa County Emergency Alerts WENS system
We encourage you to sign up to the Ottawa County Emergency Alerts WENS system. In the event of an emergency or severe weather condition, a text message will be sent to the mobile number and/or your email address that you specify. This is a free service provided by Ottawa County, Ohio.
To receive alerts, please click here to sign-up.
50th Anniversary of Danbury Township Police Department
In 2019, the Danbury Township Police Department will celebrate 50 years of dedicated service to our community. Each member of the department was issued a 50th Anniversary badge to wear proudly on their uniform. The members of our department are committed to making sure that Danbury Township continues to be a safe place to live and enjoy.
Appointed Positions Available
If you have interest in serving on the Danbury Township Zoning Commission (ZC) or Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) please submit an Appointed Position Application as well as your resume to Kathryn A. Dale the Danbury Township Zoning & Planning Administrator. She can be reached at (419) 734-6120 for more questions.
The Zoning Commission meets the 1st Wednesday of each month at 6:30p.m. and is responsible for amendments to the zoning resolution and map. The Commission is comprised of 5 regular members and 2 alternates. An appointment is for 5 years, unless fulfilling a vacated seat.
The Board of Zoning Appeals meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 6:30p.m. and is responsible for hearing requests on Appeals, Area Variances, Conditional Uses and Special Exceptions. The Board is comprised of 5 regular members and 2 alternates. An appointment is for 5 years, unless fulfilling a vacated seat.
To be considered for either position, your permanent residence of record must be Danbury Township. Applications will be accepted until the positions are filled.
FEMA Great Lakes Coastal Study & New Flood Map Information
FEMA is preparing new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for Ottawa and the surrounding Counties. While Ottawa County recently adopted maps in 2015, these proposed new maps would replace the 2015 maps. For more information, please contact Ottawa County Regional Planning Commission at (419) 734-6780. Information can also be found at www.greatlakescoast.org
Now Accepting Reservations for Lake Point Park Shelter House!
The Township has began accepting reservations for Lake Point Park shelter house, but for a fee. It will continue to be open to the public daily unless otherwise posted as reserved. The cost to reserve the shelter house is $300. All reservations must be received by the first of the month of the month prior to the event (i.e. July events, reservations must be made by June 1st). Reservations are on a first come, first serve bases and the date is not officially reserved until a complete reservation form and payment has been turned in. Once a reservation has been made, the party will have the shelter house reserved for them the entire day. We do not reserve more than one event per day. Attendee's are asked to clean up after themselves and wrap up all activities by dusk. Reservation forms are available under the Service & Maintenance Departments web page or at the zoning office during their office hours.
Rainbow Ridge
For more information regarding Rainbow Ridge at Meadowbrook Marsh in memory of the 10 animals that perished in a barn fire Thanksgiving evening 2019 at African Safari Wildlife Park, please click on the "Community" link above in the blue band and then select the "Rainbow Ridge" button. You can also click on the photo below to see a printable flyer.
Hearing Notices
Hearing Notices
Board of Zoning Appeals
NOTICE #1 (Tuesday)
08.18.20 Agenda
The Danbury Township Board of Zoning Appeals will hold adjudication hearings on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 beginning at 5:00 p.m. on the following applications (Please continue to read below - last 2 paragraphs):
5:00p.m.
BZA-2020-130 177 S. Bridge Road (Lakeshore Canvas). Request for an Area Variance from Section 3.5 to allow for new 60’ x 80’ commercial building to encroach in to the east, rear-yard setback (5' proposed/15' required) and south, side-yard setback (4' proposed/ 10' required). Nate Schmitt, Owner/ Applicant.
5:00p.m.
BZA-2020-166 7957 Riedmaier. Request for an Area Variance from Section 5.1.7 to allow for an addition onto the existing home to encroach into the west, side-yard setback (1.25’ proposed/ 5’ required). James Rudolph, Owner/ Lee Short, Agent.
6:30p.m.
BZA-2020-169 185 Lynn. Request for an Area Variance from Section 3.5 to allow for a porch addition to be 0.7" from the west, front property line (5' required), 2'6" from the north, side property line (3' required), a hallway addition to be 2'7" from the north, side property line (3' required), and to increase the lot coverage from 46.9% to 69.5% (55% required/ 6.53% new) Also request a variance from Section 7.12.3.C to allow more than a 20% addition onto a nonconforming structure [371.2s.f. allowed/ 1,222s.f. proposed (65.8%); 160s.f. new (8.6% increase)]. Gary Pierce, Owner/ Applicant; Travis Mayer/ Agent.
6:30p.m.
BZA-2020-171 163 Vine. Request for an Area Variance from Section 5.2.2. to allow for a new shed to encroach into the south, side-yard setback and east, rear-yard setback (0' proposed/ 3' required). Ralph & Rina Oxley, Owners/ Applicant.
NOTICE #2 (Wednesday)
08.19.20 Agenda
The Danbury Township Board of Zoning Appeals will hold adjudication hearings on Wednesday, August 19, 2020 beginning at 6:30 p.m. on the following applications:
6:30p.m.
BZA-2020-172 2027 Arlington. Request for an Area Variance from Section 5.1.7 to allow for a covered front porch to encroach into the west, front-yard setback (13' proposed/20' required) and the north, side-yard setback (0' proposed/5' required) and to Section 7.12.3.A to allow more square footage onto a nonconforming structure than permitted [310s.f. (26.7%) proposed/232s.f.(20%) permitted]. Kenneth Ensman & Julie Swanger, Owners/Applicants; Scott Harris, Agent.
BZA-2020-174 466 Church. Request to for an Area Variance to Section 5.2.1.A.i to allow for an accessory structure to exceed 2,000s.f. (3,750s.f. proposed) and Section 5.2.1.C.i to exceed the maximum height of 20’ (22’4” proposed). Richard Henry, Owner/Applicant.
BZA-2020-175 8456 E. Bayshore. Request for an Area Variance from Section 5.2.1.C.ii to allow for a detached garage to encroach into the south, rear-yard setback (1' proposed/ 5' required). Felix & Sharon Polanco, Owners/Applicants.
Due to Covid-19 and per the State of Ohio public meeting guidelines, these hearings will take place thru the video conferencing platform, Zoom. This can be loaded onto a computer, smartphone or iPad. Sign-up for a free account if you don't already have one and follow the prompts. Once you have this complete, please email zoning@danburytownship.com to verify your interest in the application and receive the meeting invite link. Check your spam or junk mail in case it ends up in there. The link will also be posted here, but closer to the date of the meeting to prevent any hacking.
If you do not have electronic resources to participate in the meeting, a copy of the application may be viewed by clicking on the case information above. While we typically do not accept written statements unless they are made in person at the hearing, for this hearing due to the circumstances, we will accept your comments via handwritten letter or email zoning@danburytownship.com to share your support or opposition of the request with the Board during the hearing. Letters can be sent to the Township Hall located at:
Danbury Township Zoning Department
5972 E. Port Clinton Eastern Road
Marblehead, Ohio 43440
Please call (419) 734-6120 or email if you have any questions.
Zoning Commission
None at this time.
Board of Trustees
The Danbury Township Records Commission will meet in open session at 5:50 PM on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at the Danbury Township Hall, 5972 E. Port Clinton Eastern Rd., Marblehead, Ohio to review and approve a one-time disposal of obsolete records. This meeting is open to the public.
Contact
Contact Information
Danbury Township Hall
5972 E. Port Clinton Eastern Rd.
Marblehead, OH 43440
Phone: (419) 732-3039
Fax: (419) 734-3137
Hours for the Trustees & Fiscal Officer are by appointment.
Trustee John Paul Dress:
(419) 341-0404
johnpaul@danburytownship.com
Trustee David Hirt:
(419) 732-2703
dave@danburytownship.com
Trustee Dianne Rozak:
(419) 340-9359
dianne@danburytownship.com
Fiscal Officer - Carolyn Adams:
(419) 732-3039
fiscalofficer@danburytownship.com
Administrative Assistant to Trustees & Fiscal Officer
Susan Dress
(419) 732-3039
assistant@danburytownship.com
Fire: Chief Keith Kahler
firechief@danburytownship.com
Station 1 - Headquarters
9551 E. Harbor Road
Marblehead, OH 43440
Phone: (419) 798-5219
Fax: (419) 798-9122
Station 2
150 S. Bridge Road
Marblehead, OH 43440
Phone: (419) 734-9700
Police: Chief Michael Meisler
419 S. Bridge Road
Marblehead, Ohio 43440
Phone: (419) 732-2549
Fax: (419) 732-1516
Hours: 24 hours. If an officer
does not answer, you may leave
a message for a non-emergency
situation. Non-emergency calls
may also be placed at the Ottawa
County Sheriff’s Office
(419) 734-4404.
Email: dtpd@cros.net or
policechief@danburytownship.com
Emergency calls: please dial 911
Maintenance Garage:
Road Supervisor, Brett Waldron
Phone: (419) 734-4091
Fax: (419) 734-3137
Hours: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday thru Friday
Email: roads@danburytownship.com
Zoning:
Zoning & Planning Administrator
Kathryn A. Dale, AICP
Phone: (419) 734-6120
Fax: (419) 734-3137
Hours: M, T, TH, F: 9:00a to 3:00p
W.: 9:00-11:00a & 4:00p-6:30p
Email: zoning@danburytownship.com