Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
SILVER LAKE – At Wednesday night's meeting, the Silver Lake Town Council approved a $43,352 contract with Hoch and Associates for the town's community center project.
The contract is for redoing the design to include a full-size gym, pending a donor who is providing the funds to expand the project.
In old business, council approved an extension until April 2026 for the porch demolition project at 208 E. Main St.
In new business, council:
• Approved appropriations transfers going into 2026.
• Approved an ordinance amending the salary of the deputy marshal.
• Approved a salary ordinance giving town employees a 50-cent raise in 2026.
• Approved a resolution for encumbrances going into 2026 including the cost of repairs to the tornado siren.
• Approved a crowdfunding campaign through Patronicity which provides a one-to-one match up to $50,000 from the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority.
• Approved pursuing a 30-year bond with Rural Development through the United States Department of Agriculture.
• Approved 10 ordinances on second reading, which were presented at the November meeting.
• Approved John Conley as fire chief for 2026.
Council heard one question regarding junk or abandoned vehicles and what will be done about them.
Council President Hugh Murfin referred to the new ordinance which outlines what is considered a junk or abandoned vehicle, how the town marshal can issue citations and penalties starting at $100 for non-compliance.
There was a claims docket of $121,224.98.
Council reminded the public:
• Santa Claus will be in Silver Lake on a fire engine from 6 to 7 p.m. Dec. 16, then will hand out treat bags to families at the fire station on 104 N. Jefferson St. from 7 to 7:45 p.m.
• To make a donation to the community center project, visit the website at www.patronicity.com/TownofSilverLakeCommunityCenter
Council will next meet for a regular meeting at 7 p.m. Jan. 14.
