Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
BOURBON - Town Council members heard yet another reason for the reconstruction of Center Street - the main storm drain is nearly blocked with tree roots.
Utilities Superintendent Marty Martin said Tuesday the portion between Harris and Thayer streets is reduced from a diameter of 24 inches to about 6 inches and is a contributing factor to the drainage problems at the First State Bank.
He said a company came in with a high pressure cutter last year to try to open the tile but was not successful. Adding to the problem are the age and condition of the drain. He estimates the drain was installed by WPA workers in the 1930s and is broken in several places.
Martin asked permission to hire a crew with a cable and bucket to attempt to clear the tile at least partially. He said the drain should be dug up but he didn't recommend such an expenditure as the town is awaiting word on an application for funds to help in the reconstruction of the street and drains.
Council president Bill Keyser read a letter from the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) concerning the FA3 application for the project. The letter stated INDOT has been slow in reviewing the application but promised word on it within two weeks. "Do what you can without spending too much," Keyser told Martin.
In other business:
• Council passed an ordinance prohibiting parking by all except EMS and fire department members at the new EMS building. Violators will be fined $10, and vehicles will be impounded and towed.
• Street superintendent Roger Terry said the town will pick up leaves from Oct. 22 through Dec. 6. He said a good supply of leaves and landscape chips is available for the taking. Residents of other areas are welcome to the material and may make arrangements for pickup by calling the street garage.
• Jay Robinson, representing AT&T, explained his plans for an updated telephone system for town offices. He said the update will tie all the offices into one system. The cost to purchase would be $13,335; to lease, $300 per month for 60 months. Clerk Jacqualine Murphy said a letter from GTE in June said that company will no longer maintain the present system.
