Hiram considers trail easement and permit‑only camping for Buckeye Trail hikers

On July 15 the Hiram Village Council reviewed two related first‑reading ordinances intended to formalize Buckeye Trail access through the village and provide overnight camping at designated locations in Village Park.

Ordinance 2025‑22 would approve the form of a Trail Use Agreement and Trail Easement Agreement with the Buckeye Trail Association, covering the Village Park segment and prospective easements on Couch property, Village land and at Hiram Christian Church so the trail could be moved off Ryder Road. Ordinance 2025‑23 would authorize overnight camping at specified sites behind the basketball courts; Mayor Anne Haynam said campsites would be reservation‑only for Buckeye Trail hikers, require registration with the police department and a permit, be limited to tents, and be permitted only during April–October. Limits would apply to the number of people and nights per campsite; an appendix to the ordinance sets criteria and limitations for the sites.

Resident Diane Hladky raised concerns during public comment that she had not had an opportunity to review the camping permit provisions and asked about the Buckeye Trail route and public input. Council discussed liability and possible state protections for recreational use but took no final votes on the trail or camping ordinances at the July meeting; both items were at first reading and will return for further consideration.