Township Corner

This spring has been an exciting time for the township and Richfield community. New homes are being built in Briarwood Estates, Richfield Heritage Preserve is renovating property in the park and Summit County is working to reduce stormwater erosion.

I visited the new Briarwood Estates subdivision with 56 home sites so far. Four single-family homes are under construction. They are high quality and sizeable with four bedrooms, and range from $460,000-$880,000. I toured the two models and they were very impressive. Richfield should be proud of our new neighborhood and welcome its residents. These properties will generate significant tax revenue and the people will be contributors in our community.

Also benefiting from the Briarwood development are a few township residents adjacent to the subdivision who will continue to get public water and sewer. Richfield Village is waiving their assessment fee to connect to wastewater treatment services. The property owners and township team are grateful to the village for its generous offer.

In June, my family participated in the Richfield Heritage Preserve Open House hosted by the Richfield Joint Recreation District.  We walked the groomed trails, toured the completed dam, Lodge and historic buildings. This was a rare opportunity for the public to enter the structures and see the restoration progress. Dozens of volunteers from friends groups and partners enthusiastically showed visitors all of the great work that has been accomplished. Most of the improvements were donated at no cost to local taxpayers. The Lodge is a beautiful facility available for event rentals.

The township trustees requested the Summit County engineer’s assistance to help identify potential stormwater priority projects. Drainage evaluation is underway at Stubbins and Farnham roads and Hecker Drive. Survey crews are working in the area to collect information to prepare stormwater erosion mitigation plans that may be included in the Summit County Surface Water Management Program in which all townships in Summit County will be required to participate. Nearby owners were notified by a letter from the county that their property and the environment would be protected.

Although we have two governments, Richfield is one wonderful community. ∞