Should water service be tied to annexation? Township leaders, residents oppose Canton's new rule

Canton City Council has enacted an ordinance mandating that properties bordering the city must agree to annexation to receive water and sewer services upon sale. This policy aims to streamline city borders and enhance service efficiency, according to City Council Majority Leader John Mariol, who also noted it ensures equitable contributions from residents benefiting from city services. However, the ordinance has ignited widespread opposition from residents and officials in adjacent Stark County townships, including Perry, Plain, and Canton Townships. Perry Township residents Eric and Penny Vick voiced concerns about being absorbed into Canton and having to pay city taxes, citing quality of life issues. Plain Township Trustee Scott Haws strongly criticized the city's move, disputing claims of inequitable contributions and condemning the use of a public utility to coerce annexation. He stated the city is attempting to reap economic benefits without collaboration and that township safety services often assist Canton. The Stark Trumbull Area Realtors association is circulating a petition to rescind the ordinance, arguing it infringes on residents' right to choose where they live. Ohio State University associate professor of urban planning, Jason Reece, indicated that while similar policies aided Columbus's growth in the 1950s, such strategies are uncommon today and risk building distrust within regions. Canton Mayor Bill Sherer affirmed his aggressive annexation stance, though he stated conversations with township leaders are ongoing. The dispute also stems from a JEDD agreement between Canton and Perry Township that prohibits Canton annexations without trustee approval for 50 years, an agreement that pertains to a parcel of land where a data center is planned and is expected to provide significant tax revenue. Perry Township is exploring options to separate from Canton's water service, considering a contract with a private company, Aqua Ohio. Meanwhile, the new ordinance has left many Stark County residents worried about their property values and ability to sell their homes, leading them to contact state legislators for intervention.