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MENTONE - The Indiana Department of Commerce may not give future grants to Mentone if the town uses money earmarked for the new $1.4 million water project to buy an egg-shaped water tower.
But the town may pursue the egg through private donors.
Mark D. Downey Jr. of Commonwealth Engineers, Indianapolis, reminded the Mentone Town Council Monday that the grant for the project was based, in part, on the need of the community. Spending an extra $25,000-$40,000 for the novel tank could violate the conditions of the grant.
"If you do this with town money they (IDOC) are not going to be favorable in reviewing future grants," said Downey.
Everett "Butch" Warren, Mentone fire chief, told council members that if the egg affected future grants for Mentone it would be thrown up in their face.
But the council will still explore the option through private funding.
"If its not coming out of your pocket, what difference does it make?" said town council member Forrest Kanter. Kanter explained to those present that the money could come from a private source, but he refused to reveal that source.
Several Mentone residents were on hand to share their opinion on the water tower egg.
"I don't think the town of Mentone really wants an egg-shaped tank," said Lori Miller, president of the EMS board of directors.
"If there is someone who wants to give us $25,000-$40,000 there are better things that we could do with that money," said resident Jill Gross.
In other business, visitors to the meeting expressed support for the town's employees.
"I'm here to tell you that these people aren't all that bad," said Warren. Warren expressed concern for how the town is perceived by the way they deal with their employees.
Recently, the council passed a policy that allows for no overtime pay or compensation time for town employees. Council members told employees the previous program was abused.
Town Marshal Tim Carpenter suggested that council members and employees sit down and talk out their disagreements. "The problems we are having with personnel are killing the town's morale," said Carpenter.
An executive session was scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 23 to discuss differences.
