FAQs • Canton, OH • CivicEngage

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Building / Code Enforcement / Zoning - Rental Properties

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1. If I am a tenant, and repairs are needed in my apartment, do I still have to pay my rent?: Yes! But if needed repairs are not done, you do not have to pay it to the landlord. You can deposit your rent money into an escrow account at the Clerk of Courts. Call the Clerk of Courts at 330-489-3204 for additional information.

2. What do I do if my landlord evicts me?: Our department does not handle evictions. You can contact the Stark County Legal Aid Society at 330-456-8361 for advice.

3. Where can you get help with landlord / tenant disputes?: Our department does not handle landlord/tenant disputes. You can call the City of Canton's Fair Housing Assistance Program at 330-438-4133 for information.

4. I recently purchased a property in the City and it is going to be rented. What do I have to do and what steps do I need to take?: All non-owner occupied residential properties shall be registered yearly before March 1 or within 30 days of obtaining ownership. The yearly registration fee is $80 per unit. An interior inspection will be required for properties that have not been previously registered. An inspection fee of $100 is required.

5. Where can you get financial help or grants to fix up your non-owner occupied property?: Call Community Development at 330-489-3040 for information about financial help and grants.

6. How do I cancel / reschedule an inspection date and time?: Please call 330-430-7800 at least 24 hours in advance to reschedule an appointment. When calling, please indicate the address in which you are referring, when it would be more convenient, and if the property is up for demolition. Another appointment will be scheduled to better accommodate you the owner and the tenant. Only the owner of the property can do this - not the tenant.

7. How can I find out if my apartment is under a demolition order?: If you are calling to find out if the property is under demolition, please call 330-430-7800, provide the address and the owner's name to the staff member and he or she will let you know the status. Any further information would have to be addressed to the Code Supervisor.

8. I have questions or do not understand some of the repairs listed from my inspection report. Who can I call?: You must always talk to the inspector that made the inspection listed on your report for any questions on your repair list or other questions about your property. The inspector that was there knows first hand what he/she saw. The inspectors are only in from 8 to 8:45 am and 3:30 to 4:15 pm. You may call the inspectors at 330-430-7800. You can also call any time from 8 am to 4:15 pm to leave a message on their voicemail to have them return your call.

9. What are the code requirements for a 3rd floor apartment?: Required emergency escape openings shall be maintained in accordance with the code in effect at the time of construction.

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Canton Curbside Recycling

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1. My family will need more than one container. Can we get another container for free or do we have to pay for it?: The City of Canton is currently distributing one recycling container free of charge to city residents. When all residents have received their free container, we will be accepting requests for additional containers. Currently, we do not plan to charge for the additional container. If supplies begin to run extremely low or completely run out we may impose a per-container charge for additional containers. To request another container, fill out the Container Request Form.

2. Are we allowed to put out additional recyclables next to our official recycling container in a plastic bag?: Because plastic bags are not recyclable in our current program, we request that residents only use the approved containers supplied by the City when recycling their materials. City recycling employees are unable to accept materials that are not in an approved container. Residents should request another bin by filling out the Container Request Form.

3. I live outside the City. Can I participate in the recycling program?: Unfortunately, the program is only open to those residents who receive City sanitation services. If you live outside the City, it is highly unlikely that you receive City sanitation services. However, if you do live outside of City limits and receive City of Canton Sanitation services, you can participate in this program. There are currently no plans to expand service outside of our current service area.

4. What happens if the wind or animals upset the bin and recyclables are strewn around the yard / street?

If the recycling container simply tips over, chances are that the recycling pickup workers will pick up your materials and put them in the truck. However, similar to standard sanitation services, it is the resident's responsibility to ensure that materials are placed in their designated pickup location in an orderly fashion. Large quantities of recyclable materials that are spread over a defined area could result in citations from the Canton City Health Department.

A Helpful Tip

To prevent animals from getting into your recyclable materials, be sure to thoroughly rinse your food items before placing them in the container. Animals are attracted to food smells - if your items have been rinsed properly, animals will not have any reason to investigate your container.

5. Am I required to participate in the recycling program?: Though we strongly encourage all residents to participate in our recycling program, residents are not required to participate in the recycling program at this time. If you choose to opt-out of recycling, your sanitation bill will not raise or lower, as this is a free service. Should you opt-out of the recycling program, we ask that you call Canton Curbside Recycling at 330-489-3000 to have a City employee retrieve your free recycling container for another household to use.

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Civic Center

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1. Where can I park at the Civic Center?: Parking at the Canton Civic Center is run by Arts in Stark. Parking fees for events are $7.00 daily rate, but "special event" parking rates may apply. Parking is located in one of 4 main lots. There is a parking garage located right on the Canton Civic Center lot. Also, there is parking directly behind the building in the Educational Lot, on the north side of the building, and directly across Market Avenue in the ground lots. Parking buyouts can also be arranged for some events by contacting Rob Barrett at 330-452-4096 ext. 403.

2. Where can I get tickets to an event at the Canton Civic Center?: Tickets can be purchased for Canton Civic Center events at the Canton Civic Center Box Office Monday through Friday 10am-4pm. For weekend events, the box office usually opens four hours prior to the event time. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.ticketmaster.com.

3. Does the Civic Center serve food/drinks and alcohol?: The Canton Civic Center has multiple concession stands and other vendors serving food and drinks for events. Depending on the event, the Canton Civic Center will serve alcohol. The Canton Civic Center proudly serves Pepsi and Budweiser products.

4. Can I bring food or drinks into the venue?: Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

5. How can I find out about upcoming events?: Our complete event calendar is available at our website www.cantonciviccenter.com and on our Facebook page facebook.com/CantonCivicCenter. You can also access our automated event line at 330-489-3090.

6. What types of accessibility does the Canton Civic Center offer?

The Canton Civic Center consists of one main arena and one ballroom. The entire building is located on ground level. There are no elevators or escelators within the Canton Civic Center arena. Once inside the arena, the numbered seating sections resemble that of a movie theatre, where each row is elevated higher than the row in front of it, and stairs are required to climb to access each higher row. Hand rails are available at the entrances to any arena section. Accessible stalls are available for use inside every Canton Civic Center restroom. Hearing impared devises are available upon request at the Canton Civic Center Main Office during events.

Accessible seating is offered for every event that is hosted at the Canton Civic Center, but the location of that accessible seating is liable to change depending on the type of event. Please see our arena maps for more information on accessible seating locations based on event. Accessible seats can always be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in person at the Canton Civic Center Box Office during business hours.

Accessible parking is available upon request at the lots around the Canton Civic Center. Please see attendants on event day for locations.

For more information regarding accessiblity, please call our office during business hours at 330-489-3090.

7. Is the Canton Civic Center and the Cultural Center for the Arts the same entity?: The Canton Memorial Civic Center and the Cultural Center for the Arts are two separately run buildings, even though they are in very close proximity. The Canton Memorial Civic Center is owned by the City of Canton and managed by ASM Global. The Cultural Center for the Arts is a privately run center and houses many of Canton's fine and performing arts.

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Civic Center Security

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1. What if I have a concealed/carry permit?: The Canton Civic Center is a facility owned by the City of Canton. Fans entering the Canton Civic Center will not be allowed to carry concealed or unconcealed weapons. Section 2923.126 (B)(9) of the Ohio Revised Code does not authorize the licensee to carry a concealed handgun in any building that is a government facility of this state or political subdivision of this state and that is not a building that is used primarily as a shelter, restroom, parking facility for motor vehicles, or rest facility and is not a courthouse or other building or structure in which the courtroom is located that is subject to division (B)(3).

2. What if I have a pacemaker?: Extensive research has found no information that would indicate that the use of metal detector wands have adverse effects on medical devices (such as pacemakers) or magnetic recording media. However, directives by physicians and medical device manufacturers regarding metal detectors should be followed. If you are not comfortable with the metal detector wand please inform security where you may be required to consent to a physical pat down.

3. What if I am an expectant mother?: Extensive research has found no information that would indicate the metal detector wands in use have adverse effects on pregnancy. However, directives by physicians regarding metal detectors should be followed. If you are not comfortable with the metal detector wand please inform security where you may be required to consent to a physical pat down.

4. What if I have a hip replacement or other metals in body?: It is safe for metal detector wands to be used, however, guests with medical circumstances who prefer a pat-down screening may request such accommodation. When entering the arena please inform security staff in advance of any medical conditions prior to the screening.

5. What steps can I take to get into the arena quickly?: Arrive early and be prepared! Have your physical ticket out or mobile ticket loaded up or saved to your virtual wallet, and have it ready to be scanned. Removable items should be out of your pockets and ready to be placed on the search table. Have your bags open and ready to be searched when you reach the search table. Avoid bringing large bags if possible. Follow instructions from security and staff.

6. What is the policy for children?: Children are subject to screening, however, parents with an infant may carry the baby. Parents who are attending with small children who are able to walk on their own are invited to proceed through the screening alongside their children.

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Civil Service (City Jobs)

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1. If I want a job with the City, what do I have to do?: To receive City employment in a classified non-union or union position, you must first apply for a position. Our current job openings can be found here. Once you have applied for a position, you will be notified if you qualify for the position. You would then be invited to take the Civil Service Exam. All tests are job-specific and offered at different times.

2. How do I use governmentjobs.com to apply for a position in the city?: Click the link to view the Online Employment Application Guide with direction on how to navigate governmentjobs.com to create an account, find, and apply to jobs.

3. How does the process work?

APPLY: Search and apply for jobs on www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cantonohio/
TEST: Complete the required testing through the Civil Service Commission.
RANK: Once all steps are completed, candidates will be ranked on an eligibility list according to their performance in the previous steps.
INTERVIEW: Complete a series of interviews through the appropriate departments.
HIRE: Start your new career working for the City of Canton!

4. Are Civil Service Exams Job Specific?: Yes, all Civil Service Exams are specific to each job. There is not any kind of generic Civil Service Exam that is used for all positions. You must first apply to a job before taking an exam.

5. What kinds of tests/exams does the Civil Service Commission give?: The kind of exam we give is dependent on the position's qualifications and the department's needs. For most jobs we will use a written exam that covers key areas of knowledge and job related-content. For other positions an Oral Exam may be used to evaluate candidates. There are multiple positions that require a Physical Exam such as Police, Fire, and Waste Collector. These positions have physical requirements to complete the day to day duties, so a Physical Exam can be used to evaluate ones ability to accomplish those physical requirements. Further still, there may be other prerequisite exams such as a typing test, prior to taking a written exam. It is at the discretion of the Civil Service Commission to determine what form of testing or combination of testing is best suited to the position.

6. Does the Civil Service Commission use any outside testing companies?: Yes, for a few positions within the City, we offer our Civil Service Exams through outside testing companies. For our safety forces position; Police, Fire, and Telecommunicator, we often use outside testing companies to conduct the exam. For our entry level exams for Police, Fire, and Telecommunicator we use the National Testing Network. When applying for these positions, you are provided with further details about these companies and how the testing process works. For other promotional safety positions the Civil Service Commission may also choose to use an outside testing company.

7. Who develops the Civil Service Exams?: Most exams given by the Civil Service Commission are developed and created by our dedicated team members in the Civil Service Department. This team of highly trained professionals works tirelessly to compile the Civil Service Exams to ensure the exams are relevant to the position and that they measure the knowledge, skills, and training of all test-takers. Each exam is carefully crafted to find the most qualified applicants who have the abilities needed to best perform the job duties.

8. Where are the tests given?: Canton Civil Service examinations are given on pre-determined dates and may be given at various locations including the 3rd floor of Canton City Hall. You can find out when the next testing date is, both for general testing and for specialized positions, by calling the Civil Service Office at 330-489-3360. Some large tests, like the police and fire tests, are given in alternate locations to accommodate large numbers of test takers. If this is the case, applicants will be contacted via email to notify them of the testing date and locations.

9. Can I apply for a City job if I have been convicted of a felony?

People with a criminal background are eligible to apply for jobs with the City of Canton. The City will take certain factors into consideration during the hiring process including:

The nature and severity of the crime
The age at time of crime
How long has it been since the crime was committed?
How long since under court supervision?
Documentation regarding rehabilitation

Felony convictions are automatic disqualifiers for only the following positions:

Police Officer
Firefighter
Dispatcher
School Board jobs

10. Do Veterans receive bonus credit on Civil Service Exams?

As provided in ORC 124.23C, any person who has completed service in the uniformed services, who have been honorably discharged from the uniformed services or transferred to the reserve with evidence of satisfactory service, and who is an Ohio resident and any member of a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the Ohio National Guard, who has completed more than 180 days of active duty service pursuant to an executive order of the President of the United States or an act of Congress of the United States may file with the director a certificate of service or honorable discharge (DD-214 – Long version), and upon this filing, the person shall receive an additional credit of twenty percent (20%) of the person's total grade given in the examination in which the person receives a passing grade.

A member in good standing of a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States, including the Ohio National Guard, who successfully completes the member's initial entry-level training shall receive a credit of fifteen percent (15%) of the person's total grade given in the examination in which the person receives a passing grade. Applicants are solely responsible for making Commission staff members aware of previous filings of discharge papers by the application deadline if bonus credit is to be claimed.

In order to receive credit, applicants MUST attach a copy of their DD-214 to their application. Bonus credit CANNOT be used to increase a non-passing score to a passing score. Credit is only given to those who pass their exam.

11. What is an Eligibility List?: An Eligibility List is a ranking of all candidates who applied for a position and passed the exam(s) given by the Civil Service Commission. Candidates are ranked on the list based on their exam scores from highest to lowest. Scores are also calculated to include any military service credit that was submitted with an application. In the case of a tie, the candidate who applied first will be placed higher on the list, unless one candidate has military credit, then that candidate will be given priority. Candidates who did not pass the exam(s) will not be placed on the Eligibility List.

12. How does the Commission use an Eligibility List?: Eligibility lists are used when an appointing authority wishes to fill a vacancy in the classified service. After a request is made by the appointing authority, the Civil Service Commission can provide a certified list of the top ten candidates or the top 25%, whichever number is higher. For every extra vacancy one extra name may be added to the certified list. The certified list will be sent to the appropriate department, they must then select a candidate from the provided list of names to fill the vacancy. If a candidate fails to respond to an interview request, fails to appear for an interview, declines the position, or cannot be reached they may be removed from the certified list and eligibility list.

13. How long is an Eligibility List in effect?: An Eligibility list is active for one year. After one year is up the list will expire. A list may close before the one year period is up if; there are no more candidates on the list or the position is filled and the list is closed. In the case of continuous positions, new candidates will be merged onto the current list and will expire after one year from that date. Adding more candidates to an existing list will not change the expiration date for those currently on the list, they will still expire after one year.

14. How to I find information about my current status in the hiring process?: To find information of your hiring status, please contact the Civil Service Department at 330-489-3360. We will provide you with information we have on your status or direct you to the appropriate department for further details.

15. When are Civil Service Commission meetings?: Regular Commission meetings occur once a month, on the third Wednesday of the month. The meetings usually begin at 8:00 am and take place at Canton City Hall in Council Chambers. The Commission may also hold a Special Meeting if needed that occurs separately from the Regular meetings. Upcoming meetings can be found in the Public Meeting Calendar on the website. You can visit the Public Meetings Calendar for specific dates.

16. Are all jobs within the City considered classified?: No - there are roughly thirty management and clerical positions within city government that are considered "unclassified" positions. These positions are appointed directly by the Mayor. To apply for a management position, you should speak directly with the Mayor's Office by calling 330-438-4307.

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Electric Aggregation Program - About the Program

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1. What is aggregation?: Under governmental aggregation, local officials bring citizens together to gain group buying power for the purchase of competitively priced electricity from a retail electric generation supplier certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

2. How is the City able to choose a certified electric generation supplier on my behalf?: In November 2011, Canton’s residents voted to allow the City to contract for an electric generation supplier on their behalf.

3. Who will be our supplier for the electric program?: Energy Harbor is the current electric aggregation program supplier. Energy Harbor won a competitive proposal process and was chosen as our program's supplier through the March, 2025 meter read dates.

4. Is our price for power fixed, or does it vary?: In this program, the price you will receive for the generation related charges is fixed at 5.376 cents per kilowatt- hour (kWh) for all the electricity you consume from March 2018 through March 2021. Unlike our program rates, the local utility’s rates change quarterly and are unknown in advance.

5. What if I’m with another supplier and would like to join the City’s program?: If you have already chosen a supplier you will not receive an Opt-Out Notice and are not eligible to be automatically included. You will need to contact AEP Energy seeking enrollment information. You will need to be aware of any obligations in your current agreement; many include an early termination fee. AEP Energy will always try to accommodate residents should they wish to enroll after the initial enrollment period. However, AEP Energy reserves the right to decline late enrollments depending on market conditions.

6. Who is eligible for the program?

Your local utility company must be AEP Ohio/Ohio Power
You must be a resident or business owner located within the City limits
You must not be a Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP) customer
You must not be in arrears on your bill payment
You must not be a mercantile customer (commercial accounts using over 700,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh per year)
You must not be a commercial customer with a peak demand of over 199 kilowatts.

7. How did the City develop such a program?: We have retained Independent Energy Consultants, Inc, a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) certified broker and aggregator of electric and natural gas, without using any taxpayer money. They have designed, implemented, and administered similar successful electric and natural gas aggregation programs that impact over 100 communities across Ohio. We will have their assistance and that of Energy Harbor throughout the program. We researched the process thoroughly and are pleased with the offer they negotiated. Independent Energy Consultants’ efforts were instrumental in obtaining this offer for the City of Canton.

8. Does the City benefit from the program?: Yes. The City-owned accounts are eligible to receive the program rate.

9. Will small businesses, schools and churches be eligible?: Small commercial accounts using less than 700,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year and with a peak demand of over 199 kilowatts are eligible. Interested accounts using more than this amount, will need to call AEP Energy at 877-726-0214 to obtain this rate.

10. Does this affect my distribution charges or the wires coming to my home?: No. Customer Choice programs in Ohio provide residents the ability to choose an electric supplier other than the local utility company. Maintenance of the wires coming to a resident’s home continues to be the responsibility of the homeowner.

11. What is the toll-free number for questions?: For answers to your questions, please call AEP Energy at 877-726-0214, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 7 pm, Saturday 9 am to 1 pm.

12. Where can I learn more about electric deregulation and assistance programs?: The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) has approved a number of additional assistance programs to help customers with their energy bills. You may be eligible to participate in other programs and this offer from AEP Energy. Eligibility and enrollment information can be found on the PUCO website.

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Electric Aggregation Program - Enrollment

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1. What do I do if I received both an opt-in letter and an opt-out letter?: If you received a letter telling you to proactively join the program (an opt-in letter) and then a letter stating that you will be automatically included in the program (an opt-out letter), you should ignore the opt-in letter and follow the instructions in the opt-out letter. The opt-in letter was likely sent to you in error. If you received both letters and wish to remain in the program you do not need to take any action.

2. What does “opt out” mean?: “Opt-out” means that you can decide not to participate in the City’s electric Governmental Aggregation Program. By returning the opt-out form, which was included in the mailing, you will not be enrolled in the City’s program and you will not receive the program rate.

3. What happens if I do not send in the opt-out form?: If you do not return the opt-out form postmarked by the required date, you will be included in the City’s Governmental Aggregation Program with the fixed rate offer.

4. Will I get two bills?: No. You will continue to receive one bill from AEP Ohio that shows their distribution charges and the supply charge of AEP Energy.

5. Will I still receive a delivery charge from my local utility - Ohio Power?: Yes. Even though you have chosen a new supplier of electricity, Ohio Power continues to deliver the electricity to our homes and businesses. Distribution charges and a flat monthly customer charge apply whether you choose a supplier on your own or remain supplied by Ohio Power.

6. Can I stay on budget billing or have my payment automatically deducted from my checking account as I do now?: Yes, AEP will continue to offer those programs. If you are currently on budget billing AEP will continue to budget bill your distribution charges, but you will need to contact the supplier, AEP Energy, to request budget billing for your generation and transmission charges. Otherwise, these charges will be passed through based on your actual monthly usage. You can call AEP Energy at 877-726-0214 to request budget billing.

7. Can I exit this program without penalty?: You will be given an initial 21-day period to opt-out free of charge and then another 7-day period as soon as AEP Energy enrolls you as their customer. We are pleased to report that we have been able to eliminate the early termination fees for the program. You may leave the program at any time without penalty.

8. What if I move?: There is no penalty from AEP Energy for terminating your agreement if you move. If you move within the City and want to remain in the program, you’ll need to call AEP Energy at 877-726-0214 to re-enroll.

9. How will I sign up for the program?: There is no signup required. Residents, however, will have 21 days to opt-out of the program if they decide not to participate. An opt-out mailer will arrive from AEP Energy explaining the rates, terms and conditions and means for opting-out. If you would like to remain in the program, simply do nothing and you will be enrolled.

10. Can I opt out over the phone?: Yes. You can opt-out over the phone but you must do so before the opt-out deadline, listed in your letter, or you will be automatically included in the program.

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Electric Aggregation Program - Service Information

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1. Whom do I call if I have a problem with my electric service?: The local utility, AEP Ohio (aka Ohio Power) company, will continue to deliver your electricity, read your meters, and issue your monthly bills. You will continue to call AEP Ohio at 800-672-2231 for emergency repairs, downed power lines, billing questions, etc.

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Engineering - Road Resurfacing

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1. Can this list change?: Yes. Depending on conditions in the field, funding, bid results, etc. roads may be added or removed.

2. How are roads selected?: The list is compiled by the Engineering Department with the input of multiple other City departments. Factors that are considered include road conditions, amount of traffic, other planned projects in the area (this can either advance or delay a road), and funding source.

3. I know of a road that I believe is worse than roads on the resurfacing list. Why would this happen?: Similar to what is discussed, planned utility work, the funding source, and other roadwork in the area can advance or delay a resurfacing.

4. Are these the only roads within the City of Canton that will be repaired this construction season?: No. These are the roads that have complete resurfacing planned. Other maintenance work will continue to take place. This includes but is not limited to pothole patching, chip and seal, crack sealing, internal Street Department paving, etc.

5. If I have questions regarding the City of Canton Paving Program who do I contact?: Email the City of Canton Engineering Department, or call them at 330-489-3381.

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External Calendar Events

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1. You really want us to add your event to our online calendar, will we add it?

Probably not, with some exceptions. It is against the City of Canton's policy to add Calendar events to our website for entities that we do not already have a pre-existing professional relationship. Of those entities that we do have a pre-existing professional relationship with, we only add events to our Calendar that are:

Centric to Canton
Fits into the goals for this website
Not overtly or covertly commercial in nature (exceptions: Civic Center events, Farmers' Market, First Friday, HOF events, etc.)
That our citizens will find useful

Right to Allow / Refuse

We also reserve the right to allow or refuse to post any event for any, or no, reason. We are working to make this website a haven for the citizens of Canton to come and get the information they are looking for from their local government, we will not allow that standard to be diluted with information that does not move us toward that goal. Although, if you feel your event will add to the City's goals for this website, then submit it for review.

2. Is there a fee to post an event on the City's site?: No. The City's website and the information on it is a free service for the City's citizens and visitors. If an event is deemed worthy of inclusion, the City is happy to post it free of charge.

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External Sites / Links

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1. You really want us to list or link to your site (or a site that you think we would be interested in), will we do to it?

No, with some exceptions. It is against the City of Canton's policy to add references or links to our website that go to entities that we do not already have a pre-existing professional relationship. Of those entities that we do have a pre-existing professional relationship with, we only link to information that is:

Centric to Canton
Fits into the goals for this website
Not overtly or covertly commercial in nature
Our citizens will find useful

Right to Allow / Refuse

We also reserve the right to allow or refuse to post any link for any, or no, reason. We are working to make this website a haven for the citizens of Canton to come and get the information they are looking for from their local government, we will not allow that standard to be diluted with links that do not move us toward that goal.

2. Is there a fee to put a link on the City's site?: No. The City's website and the information on it is a free service for the City's citizens and visitors. If a link is deemed worthy of inclusion, the City is happy to post it free of charge.

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Fire Department

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1. Does Canton Fire provide smoke detectors, CO detectors or Fire Extinguishers to residents?: The Canton Fire Department does not currently provide smoke detectors. Please refer to the Red Cross (330-453-0146) or your local hardware store to obtain a smoke detector. Also, the Fire Department does not provide CO detectors or Extinguishers. Again, please refer to your local hardware store for these items.

2. Where do I place smoke detectors in my home?

Please follow this link for smoke detector placement information:

https://www.nfpa.org/~/media/files/public-education/resources/safety-tip-sheets/smokealarms.pdf

3. Does the fire department service or fill fire extinguishers?: No, we do not service extinguishers. There are local fire extinguishment companies in the area who can assist you. We are unable to recommend a company.

4. Can I burn yard waste (bushes, branches, leaves, etc)?: No. Burning yard debris is against statewide EPA regulations and you may incur fines for burning debris.

5. What or when can I burn in city limits?: You may obtain a recreational fire permit by calling the Administrative office during normal business hours. You can only burn cut, seasoned, dry firewood per Ordinance.

6. Can I visit a station? Can our group visit a station for a tour?: To schedule a group tour of any station, contact 330-489-3400.

7. How do I obtain a copy of a fire report? Is there a fee?: Call 330-489-3400, or email your request to fire.customerservice@cantonohio.gov. There is no charge for a single copy of a fire report.

8. How do I obtain a copy of an EMS run report? Is there a fee?

EMS run reports are HIPAA protected. To obtain a copy of a run report, you must provide a government issued ID, a subpoena, a signed HIPAA release form, executor information, or other identifying information enabling us to release the run report to you. We do not email run reports due to security concerns. You may submit a request in person, or via fax at 330-471-8831. There is no fee for a single copy of a run report.

9. I have information about an arson/fire. Who do I contact?: Call 330-489-3400 and ask to speak to the investigator for that particular fire. Alternatively, you may email fpb@cantonohio.gov.

10. How do I reach the Fire Marshal?: The Canton Fire Department does not have a Fire Marshal, however we have several fire inspectors and investigators. Please call 330-489-3400 or email FPB@cantonohio.gov.

11. How do I file a complaint?: To file a complaint about the Canton Fire Department you must submit your complaint in writing. You may email or mail your complaint: Canton Fire Department, 110 7^th St SW, Canton OH 44702, or fire.customerservice@cantonohio.gov.

12. How do I report a leaking or broken fire hydrant?: Fire hydrants are maintained by the Canton Water Department. Report all issues with fire hydrants to: 330-489-3315.

13. An animal is stuck or injured. Who do I contact?: Injured or orphaned animals can be reported to the Wildlife Conservation Service at 330-477-0448. Cats are not considered wild animals. https://starkparks.com/injured-or-orphaned-animals/

14. I locked myself out of my car or house. Can the Fire Department help?: If a child or other person is in danger due to a lockout/in, dial 911 for assistance. Please keep in mind that the fire department is not responsible for damage to property.

15. Does the City of Canton charge a fee for calling 911?: No. You will never receive a telephone or cell phone charge for dialing 911 for an emergency, however charges may be applied for false calls.

16. Why does the Canton Fire Department bill for ambulance services?: The City of Canton only receives tax dollars for Fire related services, not Emergency Medical Services. As such, you and/or your insurance will be charged for ambulance services if transported by the Canton Fire Department.

17. Who do I contact about my ambulance bill? Where do I mail my payment?: Please call 888-330-5405 for ambulance billing questions. Payments can be mailed to: City of Canton Treasurer, 424 Market Ave N, Canton OH 44702.

18. My child is setting things on fire. Can someone talk to him or her?: Yes. Call 330-489-3400 and ask to speak to Fire Prevention. You can also reach Fire Prevention via email at fpb@cantonohio.gov.

19. Does the fire department fill pools?: Unfortunately, the fire department is unable to fill pools. Please contact the water department at 330-649-8100.

20. I have to test a fire alarm, or our alarm went off accidentally. Who I do call to report a test or false alarm?: Report the test or false alarm to Dispatch at 330-649-5900.

21. How do I schedule a fire inspection for my home or business?: Please call 330-489-3400 or email FPB@cantonohio.gov to schedule an inspection.

22. How do I pay for an inspection or permit?

You may pay for an inspection or permit in person during normal business hours or via mail. At this time, the Fire Department can only accept checks or money orders made payable to City of Canton.

110 7th St SW, Canton, OH, 44702

23. What are your normal business hours? How do I get there?: Canton Fire Administration is open to the public Monday – Friday from 8:00am – 4:00pm, excluding federal holidays. Staffing levels may affect these hours. If visiting Admin to speak to a Captain or Fire Chief, we recommend calling ahead to schedule an appointment. We are located on the second floor of Station 1 (110 7th St SW, Canton, OH, 44702). Free parking is available to visitors diagonally across from our garage doors on 7^th St SW.

24. Do I need to report my special medical condition and or device to the Fire Department?: Though it is not necessary, if you or your primary care provider feel it is important that we should be aware of your situation or devices, please submit your information to fire.customerservice@cantonohio.gov. You may also submit the information in writing to 110 7th St SW, Canton, OH, 44702.

25. How do I replace or update our Knox Box key?: Call 330-489-3400 and ask to speak to an inspector, or email your request to fpb@cantonohio.gov.

26. How do I order a Knox Box (lock box)?

Please refer to this link: https://www.knoxbox.com/KNOX/media/KNOX/How-to-Buy-Guide-(1)_2.pdf

Forms may also be picked up at 110 7th St SW, Canton, OH, 44702 during normal business hours.

27. Which station responds to my location?: Due to fluctuating call volume, we are unable to guarantee a specific station will respond to your home or business in the event of an emergency. A list of our fire stations is available via the following link: https://www.cantonohio.gov/Facilities?clear=False.

28. How do I dispose of a fire extinguisher??: Fire extinguishers in good condition may be taken to the city recycling center on Schroyer (https://cantonhealth.org/eh/?pg=290. Sanitation accepts empty fire extinguishers in your regular, bagged curbside garbage.

29. Can I drop off or exchange needles at the fire department?: No. Medical needles may be disposed of in a sharps container (coffee can, milk jug) and placed with your regular household garbage. For information on local needle exchange programs, contact the Health Department (link https://cantonhealth.org/)

30. Where can I drop off unused medication?: Safe drop box locations are listed here (link https://starkmhar.org/prevention-resources/drug-drop-off-locations/)

31. How do I dispose of hazardous waste?: Please to refer to http://www.cantonhealth.org/eh/?pg=290

32. Does the Fire Department provide CPR classes?: The fire department currently does not have a public CPR program. Please refer to https://www.heart.org/en/cpr.

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Income Tax

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1. How do I handle the 07/01/18 tax rate increase for withholding purposes?: Employers should begin the withholding with your last payroll in June, which will be your first payroll paid after July 1st.

Please pay particular attention to the bold-ed language from Canton's Income Tax Code, below.

182.051 COLLECTION AT SOURCE; WITHHOLDING FROM QUALIFYING WAGES.
(A) (1) Each employer, agent of an employer, or other payer located or doing business in the Municipality shall withhold from each employee an amount equal to the qualifying wages of the employee earned by the employee in the Municipality multiplied by the applicable rate of the Municipality's income tax, except for qualifying wages for which withholding is not required under section 182.052 of this Chapter or division (D) or (F) of this section. An employer, agent of an employer, or other payer shall deduct and withhold the tax from qualifying wages on the date that the employer, agent, or other payer directly, indirectly, or constructively pays the qualifying wages to, or credits the qualifying wages to the benefit of, the employee.

2. What is form 2106?: We apply essentially the same guidelines to 2106 expenses as does the federal government. Expenses must be carried forward to Schedule A, reduced by the 2% Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) floor. We allow the deduction of Employee Business Expenses as reportable on the taxpayer's form 2106, subject to audit and approval by the Income Tax Division.

For verification it is necessary that a copy of the Schedule A, and a detail statement of any Line 4 deduction, "Business Expenses not included on lines 1 through 3," also must be submitted. Please note: other miscellaneous deductions shown directly on Schedule A are not deductible on Canton's tax return.

3. What are Estimated Quarterly Returns?

Declaration of Estimated Tax Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q.s)

What is a Declaration of Estimated Tax?
Any Canton taxpayer who expects to receive taxable income that has no tax withholding (or less than 2.25% tax withheld) must Declare that income at the beginning of the year, and pay the estimated tax on it quarterly. Basically, if an employer doesn’t withhold city tax, taxpayers must withhold it from their own pay, and remit it to the City themselves.
Who must file a Declaration?
Any person who receives taxable wages which are not subject to withholding at the source by his or her employer must file a “Declaration of Estimated Tax.” Example: XYZ Corporation in Plain Township employs a Canton resident. XYZ Corp. does not withhold Canton city income tax from the employee’s paycheck, so the employee must file a Declaration.

Any person who anticipates taxable income from a business, profession, enterprise, or other for-profit activity which is subject to the Canton city income tax. Example: A nonresident of Canton operates a Lawn care/Landscaping service which has customers inside the Canton city limits. He must file a Declaration of Estimated Tax on that income.
Is there a penalty for failure to file a Declaration?
Yes! The Declaration of Estimated Tax is required by Law. The failure to file a bonafide Declaration will result in a penalty of 15% of the unpaid balance and an additional interest assessment.
What is a bonafide Declaration?
A bonafide (“good faith”) Declaration is one in which the combination of the taxes withheld and the estimated taxes paid total 90% or more of the tax obligation shown on the taxpayer’s income tax return. Payments of estimated tax plus any other credits must equal 90% of the final liability to avoid the fine and interest penalty. Estimated credits equal to at least 100% of the prior year’s final liability will not be penalized either. Example: A small-businessman, who owed $300.00 on the prior year’s tax return, files a Declaration of Estimated Tax for the current year, of $270.00. On the final tax return, it is determined that his tax obligation was actually $350.00. The Declaration was less than 100% of the prior year’s tax liability and was only 77% of the current tax obligation, rather than the 90% required to be in “good faith.”
How much is the penalty and interest?
The amount of penalty and interest depends upon the estimate requirement (90% of the tax obligation), and total credit on the tax return (withholding + estimate payments). When the tax return is filed, an auditor will multiply the tax obligation by 90% to find the bonafide Declaration amount. That amount is divided by four, to establish the installment amount that should have been paid quarterly. The quarterly installment due is compared with the combined estimate and withholding payments from each quarter. Any difference will be subjected to penalty of 15%. Interest will also be imposed at the federal short term rate rounded to the nearest whole percent, plus five percent.
Does Canton give credit on the Declarations for taxes withheld and paid to another city?
Yes. Canton gives full credit (up to 2.5%) on the Declaration of Estimated Tax for withholdings due and payable to another city. However, a Canton resident who works in a city whose tax rate is less than 2.25% would have insufficient credit to avoid falling below the “90%” test. Taxpayers working in North Canton, Canal Fulton, East Canton, and any of the townships will need to file the Declaration and pay estimated tax in order to meet the good faith requirement.
How will the public know about this mandatory Declaration of Estimated Tax requirement?
It’s on the tax form, and in the “General Information Sheet” and “Line-by-Line Instructions” which are available here. The estimate remittance forms are available here as well. Also, our auditors will try to identify taxpayers who file returns reporting total credits which are less than their actual tax obligations by 11% or more, and a letter and this FAQs sheet will be sent to each, informing him or her of the Declaration requirement. Ultimately, though, the Declaration of Estimated Tax is your responsibility - not the tax department’s.
When should the Declaration be filed?
The Declaration is due with the annual city income tax return every year; however, it may be filed separately, as late as April 15, without incurring any penalty.
When are the payments due, and how much are they?
At least one-fourth (1/4) of the estimated tax due should be paid with the previous year’s annual return and the current Declaration: on or before April 15.

It’s really simple: the tax on the income you make in January, February, and March is due to the City in April. For April, May, and June, the tax is due June 15. For July, August and September, the tax is due September 15. And for October, November, and December, the tax is due January 15. You withhold the tax from your own pay, and remit it to the City just as if the employer were doing it. Please note carefully: the Canton city income tax department will not send a statement of estimated tax due every quarter. Instead, the quarterly statements have been included with the annual tax return. For individuals, the remittances will be due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15. For businesses, the remittances will be due on the 15th day of the fourth, sixth, ninth, and twelfth month of their filing year. Please mark your calendar and be sure to file your estimates timely.
What should I do if the original Declaration needs to be changed?
In order to account for mid-year changes in income, employment status, etc., a Declaration of Estimated Tax can be amended as needed, at any time. Simply adjust the amount due on your next quarterly statement of estimated tax by writing in your amended figures, and send it in by the next quarterly deadline.
What if I have more questions, or I just don’t get it?
Call the income tax department! Our auditors will be glad to assist you, and answer all of your additional questions.

4. How do I handle stock options?: The difference between the "issue price" and the "market price at exercise" is taxable when the stock option is exercised.

5. How do I handle Early Retirement - Separation Payouts?: "Early retirement incentive programs" and separation payouts (termination pay, golden parachutes, etc.) are taxable if the recipient was employed within the city of Canton at the time of retirement, regardless of the employees residency status. Resident taxpayers' separation payments are considered taxable, regardless of employment location; however, credit is given for taxes lawfully imposed and paid to the city of employment, up to 2.5%.

6. How do I handle Lump Sum Distributions?: Lump sum distributions made from qualified pension and profit-sharing trusts, and not made pursuant to an employee's retirement, are taxable.

7. How do I submit Federal Schedules?

When submitting copies of federal schedules please remember to copy both sides of the schedules where appropriate. As an example, often we receive a copy of Schedule C and the taxpayer has copied only the front side of the schedule. This delays processing the return until the remainder of the information is available.

On Schedule E the addresses of the rental properties is necessary information, but it is sometimes missing. Also, this schedule needs to accompany the Canton tax return even if a loss is shown.

8. What if I do not include a payment with my return?: Taxpayers who file a return timely but do not include payment with the return will be assessed interest penalties up to the time the payment is made. If a taxpayer is financially unable to meet the tax obligation, an installment payment agreement might be allowed, at the discretion of the Income Tax Division.

9. What are "Qualifying Wages"?

"QUALIFYING WAGES" means wages, as defined in section 3121(a) of the Internal Revenue Code, without regard to any wage limitations, adjusted as follows:

Deduct the following amounts:
1. Any amount included in wages if the amount constitutes compensation attributable to a plan or program described in section 125 of the Internal Revenue Code.
2. Any amount included in wages if the amount constitutes payment on account of a disability related to sickness or an accident paid by a party unrelated to the employer, agent of an employer, or other payer.
3. Any amount included in wages that is exempt income.
Add the following amounts:
1. Any amount not included in wages solely because the employee was employed by the employer before April 1, 1986.
2. Any amount not included in wages because the amount arises from the sale, exchange, or other disposition of a stock option, the exercise of a stock option, or the sale, exchange, or other disposition of stock purchased under a stock option. Division (FF)(2)(b) of this section applies only to those amounts constituting ordinary income.
3. Any amount not included in wages if the amount is an amount described in section 401 (k), 403(b ), or 457 of the Internal Revenue Code. Division (FF)(2)(c) of this section applies only to employee contributions and employee deferrals.
4. Any amount that is supplemental unemployment compensation benefits described in section 3402(o)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code and not included in wages.
5. Any amount received that is treated as self-employment income for federal tax purposes in accordance with section 1402(a)(8) of the Internal Revenue Code.
6. Any amount not included in wages if all of the following apply:
  1. For the taxable year the amount is employee compensation that is earned outside of the United States and that either is included in the taxpayer's gross income for federal income tax purposes or would have been included in the taxpayer's gross income for such purposes if the taxpayer did not elect to exclude the income under section 911 of the Internal Revenue Code;
  2. For no preceding taxable year did the amount constitute wages as defined in section 3121 (a) of the Internal Revenue Code;
  3. For no succeeding taxable year will the amount constitute wages; and
  4. For any taxable year the amount has not otherwise been added to wages pursuant to either division (FF)(2) of this section or section 718.03 of the Ohio Revised Code, as that section existed before the effective date of H.B. 5 of the 130th general assembly, March 23, 2015.

10. What is witholding?: Any taxes withheld by an employer are held in trust. It is illegal to withhold any sum and not subsequently forward it to the Division of Taxation as required by the Income Tax Code. Businesses must deposit withheld taxes semi-monthly, monthly or quarterly, depending upon the amount withheld.

11. What are extensions?

Unless there are unique circumstances (determined on a case-by-case basis), no extension for filing a year-end tax return or making the required year-end payment will be granted for any individual or business whose account is in a delinquent status with us. The delinquency can relate either to documents that have not been filed or to payments that have not been made.

Also, filing an extension with us does NOT relieve the responsibility for making full payment by the original due date, of the tax anticipated due.

12. What is the City of Canton Income Tax Rate and what type of Income is taxable?: The income tax rate is two and a half percent (2.5%). Generally, qualifying wages (including most income which is deferred) and business net profits are taxable. A list of taxable and non-taxable income is available at this website.

13. What if I reside in Canton and work in an area with no municipal tax. How often must I file with Canton?: You must file a Declaration of Estimated Income Tax by April 15th of each year, if the estimate of tax that will not be withheld exceeds two hundred dollars ($200.00) On it you must estimate the amount of tax you will owe for the year. One-fourth of the estimate must be paid with the Tax Return/Mandatory Declaration form. Subsequent payments are due June 15th and September 15th, and December 15th.

14. Is there an age limit for individuals subject to Canton Income Tax?: Yes. All individuals under eighteen years of age are exempt from City of Canton Income Tax and are eligible for a refund of municipal tax withheld. Senior Citizens aged 65 and older whose income is comprised entirely of non-taxable benefits and earnings such as pensions, social security, etc., may file an exemption form with a copy of their Drivers License or Birth Certificate, and the account will be closed.

15. I am over 65. I am retired. My only income is from Social Security, company pension, interest, and dividends. Am I required to file a City of Canton Income Tax Return?: No. You are not required to file an income tax return with Canton, nor are you taxed by Canton on these types of income. However, you must file a one-time exemption certificate with us so we will not send you income tax returns in future years.

16. If an individual files late, is there a penalty?: Yes, a fine of $25 per month will be assessed in each of the first six months, a penalty of 15% of the tax balance due will be imposed immediately upon filing, and monthly interest will be charged.

17. Can I receive assistance in preparing my City of Canton Income Tax Return?: Yes. The Income Tax Division personnel can assist you either by telephone, mail, or in person. If you visit the Tax Office please bring a copy of your Federal Income Tax Return and all W-2's and 1099's. These will help us assist you in preparing your Canton Tax Return.

18. Can I obtain a copy of the City of Canton Income Tax Ordinance?: Click on Ordinances on the top of this page to view the tax ordinances online.

19. What is an Independent contactor?: Many individuals claim to be operating as independent contractors, and some employers have classified certain employees as independent contractors. However, we follow the federal guidelines for determining "independent contractor" status.

20. What must I do if I am a contractor?: All contractors must be registered with the city's Income Tax Division before performing work within the city. You can obtain the appropriate registration forms from the Income Tax Department, or the Building & Code Department.

21. What do I do with a 1099?: It is a requirement of the Income Tax Division that copies of 1099's (for other than interest or dividend payments) be submitted by both the payer and the recipient of a 1099.

22. Do I live in the City of Canton?: Go to the Stark County Auditor Property Search site and find your property record. In the City/Village field, it will state "Canton City" if you are within the city limits.

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Natural Gas Governmental Aggregation Program - About Aggregation Programs

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1. What are governmental natural gas aggregation programs?: Governmental aggregations allow an entire community, or groups of communities, to join together to form one large buying group. Once voters authorize an aggregation, elected officials are then permitted to shop for natural gas on behalf of their residents and small businesses.

2. What are the benefits of gas aggregation?: As a large buying group, residents participating in an aggregation have more buying power. The aggregation is in a better position to negotiate favorable pricing and supply terms than what could ordinarily be achieved by any one individual resident.

3. What are the different types of aggregations?: In Ohio, there are two types of aggregations. A community may conduct an "opt-out" program or an "opt-in" program. With opt-out programs, each eligible resident is automatically enrolled in the program unless they notify the supplier that they do not wish to participate. With opt-in programs, each resident must notify the supplier to actively enroll in the program. Opt-out aggregations are the most common types of aggregation programs because they result in higher participation that usually results in lower rates.

4. What does a community need to do to become an aggregator?: For starters, a community must obtain the approval of voters to form a natural gas aggregation program. Community leaders are then permitted to proceed through a series of steps to become certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio as a governmental natural gas aggregator.

5. What are the key steps in an opt-out aggregation?

With the assistance of a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) certified consultant, a community seeks bids from certified retail natural gas service providers. A qualified bidder is selected to supply the aggregation with its gas for a set period of time. An "Opt-Out" Notice is sent to each eligible community resident prior to the start of the aggregation. Each resident has 21 days from the postmarked date on the notice to contact the supplier to withdraw or "opt-out" of the program.

After the 21-day period, any resident not opting out will be submitted to the utility company for enrollment in the program. The utility company will send notice of the pending enrollment to each participating resident. Each resident will then have 7 days to rescind their enrollment in the program by contacting the utility company. After the 7-day rescission period, all participating customers are officially enrolled in the program. The new supplier will appear on your natural gas bill within one to two billing cycles after enrollment is verified by the utility.

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Natural Gas Governmental Aggregation Program - Enrollment & Billing

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1. Will I get two bills?: No. For your convenience, you will continue to receive only one bill from Dominion Energy Ohio (DEO). It will show DEOs delivery charges and the supply charge amount owed Constellation. DEO continues to read your meter, issue monthly bills and responds to all service calls.

2. Can I remain on budget billing?: Yes. If you are on budget billing you will remain on budget billing. (Note: Dominion Energy Ohio (DEO) calculates your monthly budget amount each month by summing your total delivered gas cost on a rolling 12-month basis and dividing that total by average monthly usage in the same 12-month period.)

3. Can I enroll if I do not receive an opt-out notice?: Yes. During the initial enrollment, any eligible resident that does not receive an Opt-Out Notice may call Constellation directly at 1-844-467-4303 or www.Constellation.com/oh-canton to enroll in the program.

4. Can I enroll after the initial enrollment period?: Constellation will always try to accommodate residents should they wish to enroll after the initial enrollment period. However, Constellation reserves the right to decline late enrollments depending on market conditions.

5. Can I enroll even if I currently purchase my gas from another supplier?: Yes, however, your supplier may charge an early termination fee. All residents should check the terms and conditions of their current contract for more information.

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Natural Gas Governmental Aggregation Program - Rates & Program Information

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1. Who is the natural gas supplier for the City's program?: Constellation won a competitive proposal process and was selected to serve our community’s program. The program will run through the April 2024 bill cycle. Constellation is certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, and currently supplies customers and governmental aggregation programs across Ohio.

2. What is my price for gas?: A low fixed rate of $2.835/Mcf will take effect for gas flow April 2020 through March 2024. This rate compares very favorably to offers residents can find on their own and unlike many offers, our program has no penalty if you decide to leave early.

3. Will it cost me to join the program?: No. Enrollment in the program is free and you need not take any action. You only need to be eligible to participate.

4. Is everyone eligible for the program?

No, by law there are certain limitations on eligibility. All of the current participants in our community's program will receive a notice of the new program rates, terms and conditions and continue to be eligible. Newly eligible residents or businesses must be located within the community limits. Furthermore, they must have received an Opt-Out Notice from Constellation. Here are the criteria for new member eligibility:

Your local utility company must be Dominion Energy Ohio
You must not have chosen a supplier on your own
You must be a resident or business owner located within the community limits
You must not be a Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP) customer
You must not be in arrears on your bill payment
You must not be a mercantile customer (natural gas commercial accounts using over 500 Mcf per year)

5. When does the new rate start?: Customer switching takes place when meters are read. Therefore, your start date for the new rate will depend on when Dominion Energy Ohio (DEO) reads your meter. Your service from Constellation is expected to begin with gas flowing in April 2020 (May 2020 bill cycle).

6. How long is the program?: The community’s Governmental Aggregation Program can go on indefinitely. The offer from Constellation is for four years and will end with your April 2024 billing cycle. The rate through your April 2024 billing cycle will be $2.835/Mcf.

7. What if I don't want to participate?: While most residents will remain in, and benefit from, Governmental Aggregation Programs, the choice is up to you. If you do not want to participate you will have 21 days in which to return a reply card to Constellation or call them toll-free at 1-844-467-4303. If you fail to do that, Constellation will enroll you as a new customer. Dominion Energy Ohio (DEO) will acknowledge the enrollment and send you a confirmation letter reminding you of the pending switch. That letter will mention that you can cancel the switch by contacting DEO within 7 days.

8. Does our community benefit from the program?: Yes. Our eligible community-owned facilities will be included in the program.

9. Can I exit this program without penalty?

Yes. A very attractive feature of our program is your ability to leave free of charge at any time for any reason. There are several "formal" opportunities to take yourself out of the program.

First, when an offer is presented you will have 21-days to opt-out by returning a card to Constellation or making a toll-free phone call. If you do not opt-out Dominion Energy Ohio (DEO) will then send to new members a confirmation notice giving you 7 more days to cancel the switch. Furthermore, by law, you will be able to leave without penalty at least every two years.

10. My friend lives in a nearby community and has a different rate from Constellation than mine. Why?: Natural gas prices are highly volatile. Market rates change often and quickly. Price differences between communities will vary based primarily on the contract term and the dates on which pricing was secured for the community.

11. What happens if I'm part of the program and I move?: A resident moving within the same community can stay in the aggregation by providing Constellation with their new address. If a resident moves out of the community or does not provide Constellation their new address, their participation will end and no early termination fee will apply.

12. Is this related to our community's electric program?: The programs are similar but totally independent. The electric and gas programs have different suppliers and are on different time lines. You do not have to belong to one to participate in the other.

13. This sounds complex. Is our community qualified to handle such a program?: We have retained Independent Energy Consultants, Inc, a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) certified broker and aggregator of electric and natural gas, without using any taxpayer money. They have designed, implemented, and administered similar successful gas and electric programs that impact over 100 communities across Ohio. We will have their assistance and that of Constellation throughout the program.

14. These FAQs help but I still have a question?: If you have additional questions please call Constellation at 1-844-467-4303, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For general information on natural gas deregulation in Ohio, you can visit the websites of the Ohio Consumers' Counsel website, or the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio website. Please do not contact our offices. We are pleased to have made this program possible but are not prepared to handle calls.

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Natural Gas Governmental Aggregation Program - Service Information

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1. Whom do I call if I have a problem with my natural gas service?: Dominion Energy Ohio (DEO) will continue to deliver your natural gas and maintain the pipeline system that brings it to your home or business. You will continue to call DEO 1-877-542-2630 for emergency repairs or gas leaks. For non-emergencies such as billing questions, service turn on or turn off, call 800-362-7557.

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Office Hours / Location

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1. When is the (insert department name here) department open, and where is it located?: Most departments have their office hours and address (along with other contact information) posted in the staff directory.

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Police Department - Office of Professional Standards

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1. How do I file a complaint?

There are several options to choose from. Most importantly, you will need to download, print, and fill out a Personnel Complaint Form (PDF). This can also be picked up at Internal Affairs during business hours or at the Information Desk in the Police Department located in the basement of City Hall.

Complaint Form

This form asks for basic information about you (the complainant) and the details of the incident you wish to have investigated. Be sure to sign and date it at the bottom, then return the form to Internal Affairs. You will then be contacted by an Internal Affairs Officer who will arrange an interview. At that point, the process of investigation is started, but remember, nothing will begin on the case until the complaint form is received by our office.

2. Where can I find Internal Affairs?

We are located at:
City Hall
218 Cleveland Avenue SW
3rd Floor
Canton, OH 44702

Hour of Operation

Generally we are open from 8 am to 3 pm Monday through Friday. However, the commanding officer cannot always be present in the office. If no contact is made in our office during normal business hours, or you are submitting a complaint outside of normal business hours, you may obtain Complaint Form from the information desk located in the lobby of the Police Department.

3. What constitutes making an official complaint?

Internal Affairs investigates the conduct of our officers or employees. The office will not contest what you (the complainant) were charged with criminally, or cited for in a traffic violation. All charges will be handled through a court of law.

Our office looks into the actions of our officers both on and off duty. Sworn officers are held to a higher standard and are expected to handle themselves in a manner conducive to that decree of conduct. If you believe that a Canton Officer did not act with proper conduct and professionalism, then you are encouraged to file an official complaint with the Canton Police Department Internal Affairs Office.

4. Who works in Internal Affairs?: The Office of Internal Affairs is actually a bureau of the Canton Police Department under the direction of Chief John Gabbard. The operations of this office are headed by the Commanding Officer, who is currently Lieutenant Mark Nolte.

5. How long does an investigation take to complete?: The investigations of Internal Affairs may take up to ninety days to reach completion, however, most investigations are concluded much earlier than the ninety days. Depending on the nature and severity of the investigation, and the number of witnesses and officers to be interviewed, investigations rarely will extend beyond the ninety days. If the investigation does go beyond the permitted ninety days, the complainant will receive notice from the Internal Affairs Office explaining the delay in the investigation.

6. How long before I am notified of the outcome of the investigation?

Once the Office of Internal Affairs has completed the investigation of the complaint and the completion is presented to the Chief of Police for his review, his office will send you a letter notifying you of the results. The letter will state that the complaint is:

Sustained - the complaint is supported
Not Sustained - insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove the complaint
Unfounded - the complaint was false or did not occur
Exonerated - the act of the complaint occurred but was justified, legal and proper under the circumstances
Referred - the complaint is decided by another authority, for example, criminal or traffic court

If you have any questions concerning the results, you are encouraged to contact the Chief of Police.

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Sanitation (Garbage) Pickup

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1. Is the garbage pick-up supposed to happen at its proper time this week?: Garbage is usually picked up on its normal scheduled, weather permitting, advanced changes in the schedule can be found at the Sanitation Department’s Holiday Schedule. Most changes to the normal schedule are also posted on the main page of the City’s website just prior to the event. For safety reasons pick-up will not take place when the weather is determined to be dangerous.

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Sanitation (Garbage) Rules

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1. How do I dispose of used motor oil or anti freeze?: Used motor oil and antifreeze can be taken to the City of Canton Recycle Center. NEVER dump oil or antifreeze down storm drains!

2. How do I dispose of household hazardous waste?

Hazardous household waste may be taken to the City of Canton Recycle Center. NEVER dump them into a creek or storm drain.

Acceptable waste includes: flammable liquids, aerosols, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, oil base paint, corrosive liquids. Automotive fluids, pool chemicals, items that contain mercury or florescent bulbs.

Unacceptable waste includes: latex paint, explosives, smoke detectors, DEA regulated material and bio-medical waste.

3. How do I properly dispose of pet waste?: Pick-up after your pet and dispose of their waste in the toilet or trash. Don't rinse or dispose of the pet waste into a storm drain.

4. How do I dispose of leaves and grass clippings?: There are a couple of options when disposing of leaves and/or grass clippings. First consider composting them. If this is not something that you are interested in doing, you can bag the leaves and/or grass clippings and place it at the curb on your normal trash day. The bags need to be manageable and properly bagged. NEVER dump them into a creek or storm drains to get rid of them!

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Sanitation (Garbage) Wheeled Carts

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1. When will I receive my wheeled cart?: When you call the Sanitation Department to request a cart, they will inform you when it will be delivered.

2. Where do I place the wheeled cart on collection day for trash pickup?: Generally, the wheeled cart should be placed at your normal collection site on the street adjacent to/touching the curb or the end of pavement adjacent to/touching the yard. If this is not possible because you live on a main road, narrow road, etc., please ensure that the cart is placed in a safe and secure location in the approximate location where your waste is typically set out. For example, the tree lawn, sidewalk, drive apron, etc.

3. Do I have to pay extra for the wheeled cart?: The wheeled cart is already included in your current Sanitation bill. There is no separate charge.

4. If the amount of trash I have exceeds what can fit in the wheeled cart, will the Sanitation Department still take it?: Yes. We do ask that residents first use the provided cart. Trash in excess of the provided cart may then be set out as was done typically prior to the wheeled cart implementation. Additionally, we still collect up to two (2) large items per week.

5. Do I have to use the wheeled cart?: We do ask that all residents use the wheeled cart. This will help reduce workplace injuries and contain trash. If a resident is unable to use the cart due to extenuating circumstances, he or she may contact the Sanitation Department at 330-489-3020 to request an exemption.

6. Am I responsible for a lost or broken cart?: Each cart comes with a full 10-year warranty for typical use. If a cart is lost or damaged for reasons outside of typical use, a $75.00 replacement fee will be charged.

7. Does the City know which wheeled cart is mine?: Yes. Each wheeled cart has a serial number and is matched to the residence.

8. Can a resident use this wheeled cart for recycling?: No. Please continue to use the provided blue carts for recycling.

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Streets - Snow & Ice Removal

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1. I usually park on the street. What will happen to my car?

To best serve the City of Canton, we ask that when there is a chance for snow and ice that you limit the parking of vehicles on the road. If you have access to a driveway please use it to park your vehicles during the snow and ice event. Parking on the street greatly limits the plow driver's ability to do a thorough job clearing and treating the pavement. It reduces the lane width creating a limited and often cramped lane for our plow driver to operate within. It also defeats our goal of treating the pavement from curb to curb.

Codified Ordinances of the City of Canton

Ordinance 357.04 prohibits parking on emergency snow routes.

The parking ban is instituted when four inches or more of snow is on the streets of Canton and the Street/Sewer Department is actively involved in the removal of this snow. Designated Emergency Snow Routes are marked as such by signage. When the Mayor or Service Director declares an emergency and invokes the parking ban, such notice shall be conveyed through local radio stations. Vehicles parked on designated Emergency Snow Routes during the ban will be towed at the owner's expense. The parking ban remains in effect until the Mayor or Service Director lifts it.

2. Who do I contact if my street needs plowed?

Feel free to call the Street Department for any unplowed street at 330-489-3030. Office staff will take your request and your street will be added to our list. Please keep in mind there are 1090 lane miles in Canton, divided into 13 districts. That means most of our plow drivers are averaging over 70 lane miles driven per snow and ice event. They can't be on every road at the same time.

Repeated Calls

Repeated calls from citizens to the office will have no impact on when your street will be plowed. There is a "Procedure for Snow and Ice Events" in place that the drivers follow.

3. Did you know it was against the law to blow or plow snow into a city street?

Ordinance 311.01 - 311.01 Placing Injurious Material or Obstruction in Street; Snow Removal prevents blowing or plowing of snow into a city street.

No person shall place any obstruction in or upon a street without proper authority (Ordinance 4511.74).
Snow removed from private or public parking lots shall not obstruct public sidewalks, streets, highways or alleys. Snow shall be contained within the parking lot and shall not be piled more than three feet high or so as to obstruct visibility.
Whoever violates any provision of this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor.

4. What is spot salting?: It's the practice of salting intersections and intermittent salting on flat straight-a-ways.

5. What are the procedures that occur when it snows?: Take a look at the Snow and Ice Removal page to learn about the snow procedures.

6. What are the main snow routes?: View our Snow District Map page to learn about our main snow routes.

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Utilities - Sanitation - Garbage Rules

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1. How do I dispose of used motor oil or anti freeze?: Used motor oil and antifreeze can be taken to the City of Canton Recycle Center. Never dump oil or antifreeze down storm drains!

2. How do I dispose of household hazardous waste?

Hazardous household waste may be taken to the City of Canton Recycle Center. Never dump them into a creek or storm drain.

Acceptable Waste

Aerosols
Automotive fluids
Corrosive liquids
Flammable liquids
Fungicides
Herbicides
Insecticides
Oil-based paint
Pesticides
Pool chemicals
Items that contain mercury or fluorescent bulbs

Unacceptable Waste

Bio-medical waste
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulated materials
Explosives
Latex paint
Smoke detectors

3. How do I properly dispose of pet waste?: Pick-up after your pet and dispose of their waste in the toilet or trash. Don't rinse or dispose of the pet waste into a storm drain.

4. How do I dispose of leaves and grass clippings?: There are a couple of options when disposing of leaves and/or grass clippings. First, consider composting them. If this is not something that you are interested in doing, you can bag the leaves and/or grass clippings and place them at the curb on your normal trash day. The bags need to be manageable and properly bagged. Never dump them into a creek or storm drains to get rid of them!

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Utilities - Water

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1. What is the source of our drinking water?

The Canton Water Department obtains 100% of its water from underground wells. Our wells extend hundreds of feet deep into sand and gravel aquifers that were created long ago by glacial activity. These natural aquifers provide Canton with an average of 24 million gallons of water per day. We have three separate well fields that supply water to our three water treatment plants.

Backup Measures

Should the need ever arise, we have several protective backup systems built into our utility that enable us to ensure a dependable flow of drinking water to our consumers. As previously mentioned, Canton has three separate water treatment plants and well fields. If one plant is taken off-line, the other two plants can make up the difference in water production.

Enclosed Reservoirs

The City also has 27 million gallons of drinking water stored in enclosed reservoirs. This quantity represents about one day's supply of water and is kept in reserve as a precautionary measure. Another backup system is the new 2,100 horsepower Caterpillar Diesel generator. This powerful generator can provide enough electrical power to operate our Sugarcreek Plant in the event of a widespread power outage.

Interconnections

We also have two interconnections with the North Canton Water System which are normally kept in a closed position. In an emergency, however, these valves could be opened and potable water supplied to our system or vice versa depending on the need. All of the redundant and overlapping "backup" systems described above ensure that the Canton Water Department can provide a dependable supply of drinking water to all of our consumers.

2. What are sources of contamination to drinking water?

Contaminants that may be present in source water include:

Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from:
- Farming
- Industrial or domestic wastewater discharges
- Mining
- Oil and gas production
- Urban stormwater runoff
Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from:
- Agricultural livestock operations
- Septic systems
- Sewage treatment plants
- Wildlife
Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are by-products of industrial processes and petroleum production, and can also come from:
- Gas stations
- Septic systems
- Urban stormwater runoff
Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as:
- Agriculture
- Residential uses
- Urban stormwater runoff
Radioactive contaminants, which can be naturally-occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

3. Who needs to take special precautions?

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly persons, and infants can be particularly at risk from infection. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)/Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline, which can be reached by calling 800-426-4791.

Water Quality Monitoring

The EPA requires regular sampling of the City's water supply to ensure drinking water safety. Each year the Water Department conducts over 20,000 tests for more than 100 different substances. The good news is none of the contaminants that we detected exceed EPA established maximum contaminant levels or resulted in a violation of drinking water standards.

Only a very small percentage of the contaminants tested for exist in our water at detectable levels. The Ohio EPA requires us to monitor for some contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants do not change frequently. Some of the data, though accurate, are more than one year old.

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Water Quality

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1. What is water hardness?

Water hardness is an aesthetic quality of water, and is caused mostly by the minerals calcium and magnesium, but is classified or measured based on the level of concentration of calcium carbonate. How hardness is classified is based on the following scale:

Calcium Carbonate Concentration

Classification	Measurement
Soft Water	0 to 60 Milligrams Per Liter or 0 to 3.5 Grains Per Gallon
Moderately Hard Water	61 to 120 Milligrams Per Liter or 3.6 to 7 Grains Per Gallon
Hard Water	121 to 180 MillIgrams Per Liter or 7.1 to 10.5 Grains Per Gallon
Very Hard Water	Over 180 Milligrams Per Liter or over 10.5 Grains Per Gallon

Water Treatment Plants

The water that the Canton Water Department delivers to its customers is considered to be "very hard water" but it varies slightly from our three water treatment plants. The following is a comparison of the three plants average hardness:

Plant	Water Hardness
Northeast Plant	429 Milligrams Per Liter or 25 Grains Per Gallon
Northwest Plant	497 Milligrams Per Liter or 29 Grains Per Gallon
Sugarcreek Plant	354 Milligrams Per Liter or 21 Grains Per Gallon

2. What makes water hard?: Water is often called the universal solvent. Water picks up minerals as it travels many miles over rocks and through soil as it makes its way to water treatment facilities. Those minerals, mostly calcium and magnesium, are dissolved and held in solution even after going through the treatment process.

3. How can I tell if my water is hard?: The minerals in hard water can cause spots to form on dishes and a scale to form on showerheads, faucets and kitchen appliances like coffee makers. Boiling hard water causes the dissolved calcium to form a whitish or grayish or oily-looking scum on top of the boiling water. Freezing hard water will also cause the calcium to form white particles that appear when the ice melts in a glass.

4. What if I think I have a serious water quality problem?

Call the Canton Water Department Laboratory at 330-489-3035 or call the after-hours the dispatcher at 330-489-3315. We will ask you questions regarding the problem and take the steps required to resolve it. If you have any further questions, visit the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website.

Private Wells

If you have a private well and need more testing than the Canton Water Department Laboratory can provide, Heidelberg College can provide further testing at an economical cost.

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Website Questions or Issues

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1. The website is (broken / wrong / out-of-date), whom do I tell?

First, you should make sure that you are using a modern/up-to-date browser (that is also a great security tip).

If you are still having problems, then email the Site Owner with all of the specific and relevant information, including the web page address.

2. Where can I change my (email / text message) notification preferences?: To change (add / modify / delete), and manage your list notification preferences you should go to the Notify Me® page on CantonOhio.gov.

3. Will we list or link to your site (or a site that you think we would be interested in)?

No, with some exceptions.

It is against the City of Canton's policy to add references or links to our Web site that go to entities that we do not already have a pre-existing professional relationship.

Of those entities that we do have a pre-existing professional relationship with, we only link to information that:

is centric to Canton
fits into the goals for this web site
is not overtly or covertly commercial in nature
our citizens will find useful

We also reserve the right to allow or refuse to post any link for any, or no, reason. We are working to make this web site a haven for the citizens of Canton to come and get the information they are looking for from their local government, we will not allow that standard to be diluted with links that do not move us toward that goal.

4. Is there a Fee to have a link placed on the City's site?: No. The City's web site and the information on it is a free service for for the City's citizens and visitors. If a link is deemed worthy of inclusion (see above), the City is happy to post it free of charge.

5. Will we add your event to the the City's online Calendar?

Probably not, with some exceptions.

It is against the City of Canton's policy to add Calendar events to our Web site for entities that we do not already have a pre-existing professional relationship.

Of those entities that we do have a pre-existing professional relationship with, we only add events to our Calendar that:

are centric to Canton
fits into the goals for this web site
are not overtly or covertly commercial in nature (exceptions: Civic Center events, Farmers' Market, First Friday, HOF events, etc.)
our citizens will find useful

We also reserve the right to allow or refuse to post any event for any, or no, reason.

We are working to make this web site a haven for the citizens of Canton to come and get the information they are looking for from their local government, we will not allow that standard to be diluted with information that does not move us toward that goal.

If you feel your event will add to the City's goals for this Web Site, please submit it for review.

6. Is there a Fee to have an event posted on the City's calendar?: No. The City's web site and the information on it is a free service for for the City's citizens and visitors. If an event is deemed worthy of inclusion (see above), the City is happy to post it free of charge.

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