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Hinckley's form of township government was brought to America by the Pilgrim Fathers. Its basic structure proved sound and was used by settlers as they moved westward. Its use continues to this day. However, since townships are political subdivisions of states, they are subject to state laws. As times and circumstances change, political offices become obsolete and new offices are created. Thus, "overseers of the poor", "fence viewers", and "appraisers of property" elected at Hinckley's earliest organization are no longer practical. County and welfare agencies care for the needy, zoning commissions and boards now replace "fence viewing" and "appraisers of property."

In the beginning trustees and fiscal officer (formerly clerk/treasurer) were elected each year. Now they are elected for a four year term, staggered, so new officers can work with experienced officers. Our present elected officials are:

Township Trustees:
Raymond Schulte, Chairman
David Sambor, Vice Chairman 
Martha Catherwood, Trustee

Fiscal Officer:
Colleen Swedyk

Township Sexton:
Walter A. Robb, Jr.

Zoning Commission:
James Kamps, Chairman
Karen Siarkowski, Vice Chairman
Terry Walrath
Calvin Powell
William Spellman

Alternates:
Mel Kman
John Nehrenz

Zoning Board of Appeals:
David Manley, Chairman
Dottie Fox, Vice Chairman
David Zeleznak
Jeff Hoop
Julie Mainzer

Alternates:
Kevin Sullivan
Josephine Calabro

Secretary to the Zoning Commission and Board of Appeals:
Suzanne Peterlin

Townships may expect and receive support and assistance from county officials since they are a county as well as a state subdivision. County commissioners, prosecutor, auditor, sheriff, health and sanitation officers all have a responsibility to advise and assist in township problems.

Functions of the township include lighting for public safety and welfare; establishment, care and maintenance of township cemeteries, and solid waste disposal according to established sanitary codes.

A state law in 1947 authorized township zoning. Hinckley's first zoning code was adopted by election in 1952. As the township grew, the zoning code was supplemented and revised and is even now undergoing revision.

In the past 25 years, Hinckley has shown a steady growth with the addition of 13 major subdivisions ranging in size from 7 lots to 185 lots.

Fire protection in Hinckley is provided by a part time paid/volunteer fire department and rescue squad consisting of 39 persons.

Police protection in Hinckley is provided by a full-time department of 10 sworn officers and 3 dispatchers. Back up protection is provided by the Medina County Sheriff.

Other township responsibilities include: animals running loose, ditches, drains and other surface waters, line fences between adjacent property owners, monuments to township servicemen who gave their lives for their country, parks and playgrounds, control of weeds and brush on township property, and maintenance of 40.4 miles of roads.