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MENTONE – Mentone Town Council discussed grants and next steps Wednesday with phase two of the Mentzer Park upgrade project.
With the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority’s (IHCDA) CreatINg Places crowdfunding campaign, the town raised $83,772, which makes the total project budget for the park upgrade project $290,786, said Clerk-Treasurer Amanda Yaprak.
Yaprak then presented to the council three agreements in regards to grants for phase two of the park upgrade project. The first agreement was for the $50,000 matching grant from CreatINg Places since the town met its goal of raising at least $50,000. The second agreement was in regards to the $140,000 Community Amenities Program grant the town was awarded. The third agreement was for a $20,000 Kosciusko County Community Foundation grant.
She said the next step was to get three quotes for amenities at the park.
Utilities Superintendent Josh Shepherd will get with James Emans, town engineer, in regards to the quoting requirements and contact different construction companies. The council will then open the bids.
Council President Jill Gross asked about deadlines. Yaprak said it was to have things done by year-end.
Deputy Town Marshal Jeremiah Mellott asked if the park was going to be closed during construction. Gross said she didn’t think the whole park would be closed; it would depend on what they’re doing because when the walking path gets done, it might get a little tricky.
Yaprak said the entirety of the park will not be closed, just portions.
In other business, the council:
• Was reminded the Project Ebenezer pickleball tournament is July 18-19. Registration closes July 14.
• Heard the clerk-treasurer’s office will be closed the morning of July 16.
• Heard the Mentone Makers Market and Antique Fair is July 11 and 25 from 9 a.m. to noon.
