BY JOHN A. DARNELL JR.
      associate editor
      Meeting on Monday, Feb. 13, Boardman Township Trustees learned their Planning/Zoning Department is in the process of sending out notifications for property owners of rental units that annual fees are due no later than Mar. 1.
      The township’s rental registration program began last year when some 1,616 buildings encompassing 5300 units were recorded by the Planning/Zoning Department, according to Tricia D’Avignon, assistant director of zoning and development.
      “Rental registrations must be returned to Boardman Township by Mar. 1. After that, late fees will apply,” Krista Beniston, director of planning and zoning told trustees.
      Annual rental fees are $40/unit, and for building over six units, there is a $150 flat fee and a fee of $15 per unit.
      The goal of the rental registration program is to help ensure a clean, safe and sanitary environment for all rental units in the township, Beniston said.
      According to a home rule resolution, all rental properties registered in Boardman Township are subject to inspection, and in addition, rental unit maintenance standards have been established.
      A rental inspection list is available by contacting the Planning/Zoning Department.
      Lukas Darling serves as Boardman Townships certified property maintenance and housing inspector.