Law change would speed cleanup of nuisance in townships

COLUMBUS

Lawmakers have finalized a law change that would allow townships to clean up repeat nuisance properties more quickly but not before adding a number of provisions, including one honoring bullfrogs and spotted salamanders.

The Ohio Senate passed House Bill 393 last week, and the Ohio House later concurred on a number of amendments, sending the legislation to Gov. Ted Strickland for his signature.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Ronald V. Gerberry of Austintown, D-59th, initially was aimed at helping townships clean up problem properties.

Under current law, townships must send certified letters to the owners and lien holders on properties with overgrown grass, weeds or garbage or that are otherwise considered a nuisance.

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