Scam on Zoning Applicants
Unfortunately, a scammer has once again targeted one of our residents - another actual recent rezoning applicant - purporting to be our Zoning Department. The communication and invoice appear to be VERY official looking, and are clearly written with the assistance of AI to sound official. These are very credible looking documents and would sound and appear convincing to anyone who isn't familiar with zoning or our process here in Clearcreek Township.
You'll first note that the actual email address domain IS NOT from '@clearcreektownship.com,' it's from '@usa.com.'
The proper language and reference to 'record numbers' and zoning 'jargon' like using the word 'classification' make the communication sound very official. The description of the functions that the application fee will cover are thorough and convincing.
The email directs the victim to reply to the email 'requesting the invoice wire instructions.'
Clearcreek Township, nor any legitimate local government that we're aware of requires a wire transfer as a form of payment. Most will accept check or (exact) cash in-person for an application fee, or a citizen-initiated online payment using a third-party vendor, as we do at the Township. That transaction is linked directly from the application portal on our website.
Lastly, the email is signed by 'Jeff Palmer,' who IS our longtime Planning & Zoning Director here at the Township. However, there is no actual entity called 'Planning & Zoning Commission' for the Township. We have a Zoning Commission and a separate Board of Zoning Appeals, but no appointed 'Planning & Zoning Commission.'
The invoice is just as official looking with references to record numbers, parcel numbers, zoning jargon, a breakdown of fees, and even our actual logo as a watermark on the pages. It, too, gives a thorough explanation of the rationale for the fees.
Bottom line - DO NOT FALL FOR THIS SCAM if you're doing business with our Zoning Department! We will NEVER ask you to wire money for ANY application fee. Our fees will be prompted when an applicant makes application online, linked directly from our website.
For any zoning-related matter - especially to verify application fees! - please call 937-748-1267, Option 1 to speak to one of our staff!
