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SOUTH WHITLEY – At Tuesday night's meeting, South Whitley Town Council voted to add an additional electric transformer to accommodate Innovative Metalworks' new laser machine.
Innovative Metalworks, on Broad Street, is adding a laser machine which will increase production and result in more job opportunities at their South Whitley location. The machine requires more power than what the current utility structure can maintain.
Interim Utilities Superintendent Randy Gawthrop received three options from the Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA): first, to install an in-stock 750 kVA transformer with a two- to three-week lead time for $51,900; second, to order a 1,000 kVA transformer with a five- to seven-week lead time and another two- to three-week wait for install totaling $40,500; third, to install a temporary 750 kVA transformer with no rental charge from IMPA, then swap it out for the 1,000 kVA transformer once it becomes available, at a total cost of $43,800.
Gawthrop advised against the first option since a 750 kVA transformer would not provide enough power for what the company will need long-term.
Council voted on the third option with a temporary, lower-capacity transformer followed by the permanent installation of a 1,000 kVA transformer. The cost will be covered by dedicated IMPA service funds.
In other business, Council President Brock Waterson clarified details on the flock cameras to be installed in town. The cameras will not be installed until at least October and will not be used to harass citizens, Waterson said.
"The main intent is [seeking] felony warrants," he said of the cameras, which will also be used in criminal investigations.
Town resident Karen Jordan praised the Hometown Heroes banners installed downtown. Due to the popularity of the banners, Clerk-Treasurer Alyssa Knepple said the deadline for turning in applications has been extended.
The last day to turn in an application to the clerk's office for a Hometown Heroes banner is Monday, Feb. 16.
Council will next meet at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 24.
