Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
MENTONE - Some cleanup work remains to be done, but otherwise the town's water project is complete and, Mentone Town Council members pointed out, the job finished up about $21,000 below the bid price.
A special meeting was held at noon Monday to resolve a couple problems and approve bills, and the council announced at its regular meeting that night that it agreed to release the funds held in escrow for Ortman Drilling as well as paying a bill for Commonwealth Engineering.
Also at the regular meeting, council members voted to make the final payment of $24,295.79 to Roberts Construction, but to retain the $20,000 still held in escrow for them until yard work is completed.
"We need better landscaping in some areas before we make payment," said council member Forrest Kantner.
Any property owner not satisfied with the condition of their yard should contact utilities superintendent Brian Reed or the clerk's office. Residents' names will be placed on a list and the yards will be checked. Roberts will be responsible for completing the work before the escrow funds are released.a
In a related matter, the council voted to institute a sprinkling rate for the next three months because of the need to keep freshly seeded lawns watered.
Under this arrangement, residents will pay the cost of the water used, but will receive a deduction on the sewer portion of their bills. The reduction will be determined by averaging the cost of three winter months water bills.
In other business, the council approved renewing the lease on the police department building contingent upon two items being clarified to the town's satisfaction.
The wording on the items holds the town responsible for all interior and exterior maintenance, including plumbing, wiring and roof repair.
Kantner said that the wording implies that the town would be obligated to replace the furnace, even if it stopped working. "That, to my knowledge, is not part of a normal lease," Kantner said. "I'm not sure if it is the renter's responsibility."
The council also decided to offer placing a guardrail at the Holloway residence on a 50-50 cost basis.
A request for the guardrail was made because the Holloway house on South Walnut Street is close to an alley behind the mini mart, and vehicles exiting from the business have struck the house on more than one occasion.
Kantner said he had mixed emotions about the town incurring the cost because the guardrail will only benefit the homeowner. However, if Holloway will pay half the $450 cost to install the guardrail, the town will pick up the balance.
In other matters, the council:
• Asked town attorney Larry Beeson to draft an ordinance allowing the town marshal to appoint his deputies. In the past, the council has reviewed applications and made selections, and an ordinance is required to allow anyone else to make the appointment.
• Approved a request from Marshal Jim Eads to purchase two shelving units for the police department storage area at a cost of $133 each.
• Gave permission for clerk-treasurer Cheryl Phillips to attend the State Board of Accounts School June 11 and 12. The cost will be $185, plus meals.
The next meeting is at 7 p.m. July 6.
