MENTONE - Depending on compatibility and other factors, the Mentone Police Department may acquire a K-9 officer by the first of the year.

Mentone Town Marshal Jim Eads told council members Monday that the Roseland Police Department is willing to give the town its K-9.

Toby, a German shepherd, is trained in drug detection and search, article search, tracking and other areas. However, the dog has not responded to the bite training the RPD would like for it to have and the department is looking to replace its K-9.

The dog was trained at the Edelheim Police K-9 Academy, Peru, and, if accepted by the town, deputy marshal Jason Westafer will need to be trained as a handler. The town would incur that cost, as well as possible additional liability insurance and the cost of the necessary leads, muzzles and other accessories. Eads said he presented the idea of a K-9 to area businesses and could secure free and/or reduced costs for veterinary care and food. The RPD already sent the town a cage that will fit the squad car Westafer drives.

The town's previous K-9, Molly, belongs to former marshal Tim Carpenter, who is no longer employed be the town.

"If we are willing to accept Toby, they will give this dog to the town of Mentone," Eads said. "I feel this is a top-notch program." Eads added he would be willing to give up other nonbudgeted items to take on this K-9.

Both Eads and Westafer plan to ride along with Toby and his current trainer to see how the dog works and gauge whether the dog would get along with them.

A decision on the matter is expected at a future meeting.

In other business, the council approved the 2001 salary ordinance as follows (2000 salaries are in parentheses): council president $1,900 ($1,800); council members, $1,800 ($1,700); clerk-treasurer, $23,530 ($22,625); town marshal, $31,000 ($29,800); deputy marshal, $25,500 ($24,000); utilities superintendent, $33,770 (32,465); street superintendent, $32,900 ($31,625); and hourly employees. $6.25 to $9 per hour ($6 to $8 per hour).

Town employees also will have $1 per year deducted from their salaries for health insurance coverage.

Council also gave permission for Brian Reed and Darrel Miller to attend an Indiana Rural Water Association conference in Columbus in December. Cost for registration is $60 each and lodging is $64 per night. Town employees are required to complete 10 hours of continuing education per year to retain necessary certifications.

Reed announced water hydrants will be flushed Nov. 14. Residents may experience low water pressure on this day and may want to refrain from washing laundry, due to possible discoloration in the water caused by the flushing process.

The Mentone Town Council meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of each month in the town hall. Council members are Ed Rock, president; Ed Lamar; and Mike Diemer. [[In-content Ad]]