NORTH MANCHESTER – At Wednesday night's meeting, the North Manchester Town Council heard from Brenda DeVries of Bose, McKinney and Evans LLP of Indianapolis regarding a water bond ordinance that is the first step in securing funding for the town's upcoming water system improvement projects.
DeVries said the town will be taking out a Bond Anticipation Note (BAN), which allows a municipality to receive a high-dollar loan with a low interest rate, ahead of securing a bond which will then repay the BAN.
As the ordinance, passed by the council on first reading, states, the project will not exceed $15,920,000. A copy of the ordinance is available from the town upon request.
In old business, council approved the 2025 budget on second reading and third reading after a temporary suspension of the rules. The budget will be available to view on the Gateway website.
In new business, council approved a request to purchase new security cameras for the town, including six for the police department, two for the town offices, three for the parks department, three for the aquatic center and one for Scout Hall in Warvel Park. Including installation, the cameras will cost $51,452.21.
Council also approved creating a full-time fire chief position.
In visitor comments, council heard from David Unhoch and Bob Sklar. Unhoch complained of cars parked on South First Street, blocking the way and making it hard to see traffic. Sklar asked the council members what they planned to do about trash in the Eel River and two town employees whom Sklar accused of trespassing on his property.
There was a town docket of $571,868.60 and a utilities docket of $274,008.73.
Council will next meet at 7 p.m. Nov. 6.