Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
ETNA GREEN - Etna Green Town Council approved changing the town's water and wastewater service provider during a council meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Council President Heath Roberts said they would be switching from Astbury Water Technology to Service by Stouder. He noted Stouder would be more involved in maintenance for the systems and that it would save the town approximately $12,000 annually.
The council also approved using Split Road Media for the town's new website design. At the August council meeting, Clerk-Treasurer Ann Anglin said she spoke with representatives from Split Road Media, which is based out of Rochester. The estimated costs for logo and website designs are $150 and $2,250, respectively. There would also be a $450 annual payment for updating the site.
Anglin obtained additional quotes from other companies for the website design and presented them to council. The council noted Split Road Media worked with the city of Rochester on their website.
In other business, council addressed resident questions regarding abandoned properties in town. Roberts encouraged residents to contact the Kosciusko County Health Department, as they have the authority to condemn abandoned structures. Roberts also said he had directly contacted KCHD about four properties in town and is working on getting them condemned.
One resident asked if there's fines that could be implemented against property owners for dilapidated structures. Roberts said the town's ordinances need updated, with the updates currently being worked on by town attorney Nick Jacobs.
"It's bringing our community down," said Roberts. "Nobody wants to look at it. I've talked to people that say they're seeing animals come out of the four houses that I'm trying to condemn."
Roberts encouraged residents to take pictures of animals entering abandoned homes or dogs chasing children, as physical proof helps make changes happen.
The council also:
• Announced trick-or-treat will be held on Saturday, Oct. 31. The Lions Club will also be holding their annual hayride and hot dog event that day.
• Heard the Etna Township Fire Department has four new emergency medical responders. ETFD representatives noted membership for the department is also increasing.
• Approved the purchase of a new Toro mower from Hoffman Outdoor Power Equipment.
• Heard Roberts will be getting in contact with residents who have asked about sponsoring benches at Heritage Park. The benches arrived in town on Sept. 8, but they have not been assembled yet.
Council's next meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 13.
