Administrators in Franklin Township believe that a township government offers more personal service, more attention to individual needs and a better understanding of local problems than any other unit of government, and at a lower cost. That’s why they continue to stick to the three trustee/one clerk governing body, which acts as a watchdog rather than a rule-making political entity.

This government structure supports 11 full-time police officers—who operate a "Safety Pup" Drug Awareness Program for school children, a Neighborhood Watch crime prevention program, a bicycle patrol, and house checks for residents on vacation—and a fire department with 14 state-certified firefighters.

The big hearts that prosper in a small community can be seen in the firefighters’ community blood pressure checks on Saturday mornings or the Tudor House civic center that volunteers rescued and renovated into a showcase of color. On a practical note, nonprofits rent the space at no charge, and the Mobile Meals Program distributes its nourishing hot meals from the kitchen.

NortonThe City of Norton has an enviable problem: its location, business incentives, recreational options and new housing opportunities have created significant growth here in the past decade. Residents gladly support new sewer and water infrastructure, shopping centers and apartment complexes to not only support the current needs but meet tomorrow’s as well.

Future development here will evolve around adding organized sports fields, wildlife observation posts and fishing facilities to the three golf courses, six city parks, walking trails and community center already in use.

Local club activities form a strong social life for residents. Thanks to Jaycees, Boy/Girl Scouts, Community Parents Club, Flowering Heights Garden Club, Friends of the Library, Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Norton Historical Society, Norton Women’s Club, Welcome Wagon and other civic groups, the volunteer muscle to sponsor events like our annual Cider Festival are readily available. This spirit of pitching in bodes well for Norton’s future.

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