PIERCETON — The Pierceton Town Council officially approved rezoning the former Pierceton United Methodist Church building from public to commercial use during its Monday meeting.
At its meeting Wednesday, the Kosciusko County Area Plan Commission gave Ashlee Ryman permission to rezone the lot in order for the building to become a wedding and event venue. APC Director Matt Sandy attended the council meeting and said the commission unanimously approved the request.
The council adopted an ordinance allowing for commercial use of the building.
In other business, Town Marshal Jim Bumbaugh asked council for permission to establish a shooting range within town limits. The range, which would be in the far western portion of land near the town's water treatment center, would be used only for law enforcement training.
Bumbaugh said he consulted with Winona Lake Police Department officer Dave Swain about the location, as Swain is a firearm instructor for the entire county. Swain said the location for the range was good but suggested Bumbaugh look at the town's ordinance regarding firearm use for employees.
"The area is so well-suited and I think it would be beneficial for other departments to take advantage of that," said Bumbaugh. "It's hard to find good ranges to go out and take advantage of when there's so few places to shoot."
Town attorney Tammy Keirn said the town's ordinance states the discharge of firearms in town limits is not allowed, with the exception of law enforcement officers engaged in police duties. Keirn said it wouldn't be difficult to further clarify the ordinance on training.
Bumbaugh and Town Superintendent Casey Boggs said the berm that's going to be built up in the area won't affect anyone nearby.
Council approved Bumbaugh setting up a shooting range.
Bumbaugh also requested permission to apply for a Drive Clean Indiana grant through the Michiana Area Council of Governments. The grant would be used for the purchase of two electric vehicles, including a town pick-up truck and a police vehicle, as well as charging stations. If awarded, the grant would cover the entirety of the cost.
Council President Matt Brubaker also notified the public that Annie Espinoza's seat on the Pierceton Park Board is available. Espinoza is able to re-apply for her seat, but anyone interested in being considered must submit a letter of interest to Clerk-Treasurer Myra Mast by Dec. 27. The council will pick a board member on Dec. 28.
The council also:
• Tabled further discussion on revisions to the town's employee handbook.
• Asked Bumbaugh to seek an additional quote on security cameras for the police department.
• Approved a $300 bonus for all town employees.
• Approved a 2024 agreement with the Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation for $6,000.
The council's next regular meeting is at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8. Council will also have a special meeting at 10 a.m. Dec. 21, and a year-end meeting at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 28.