Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - Letters to multiple state representatives will be mailed today by the Winona Lake Town Council to communicate the board's views on upcoming state bills.
Senators Bob Meeks, Ryan Mishler, Gary Dillon and Tom Weatherwax, as well as House Representatives Bill Ruppel, Bill Friend and Dave Wolkins will receive these letters which analyze four bills, each in different stages in the state government.
The council applauded House Bill 1399, calling it the "best answer for reducing reliance on property taxes; establishing alternatives for financing local government; and creating the most efficient and effective local government." The bill, titled Hometown Matters, makes changes in laws governing budget adoption, tax rates, tax levies and the administration of public funds.
Members also recognized the need for local government modernization which is addressed in HB 1400. This bill transfers the property tax assessment duties and dog tax duties to the county assessor, and permits a county to impose any combination of local taxes.
Though the council approved the overall idea of HB 1400, members recommended amendments to the bill so that it would mirror HB 1399.
HB 1001, a proposal for property tax relief, was called a "potentially devastating" bill to Indiana's cities and towns. The council opposed the bill's required referendum for construction projects exceeding $10 million, and also disagreed with the idea of property tax caps on residential areas.
In reference to HB 1010, a bill covering the regulations of eminent domain, the council opposes the bill, saying it restricted the government's use of the tool. Though the council disagreed with the stricter requirements, it said eminent domain was "an important tool to be used only as a last resort with public review and input."
During the meeting, the board also:
• Approved an ordinance to transfer funds from the general and motor vehicle highway fund accounts to the "rainy day" fund. Monies totaling $85,000 will be relocated into this fund.
• Voided six outstanding checks totaling $150. The checks had been outstanding for two years.
• Appointed Leo Boyer to the Economic Development Committee and Jim Zielasko to the Housing Authority. More town appointments are scheduled to take place during the next council meeting in February.
Council members are Rolly Ortega, Dave Delp, Joy Lohse, Jeff Carroll and Jerry Clevenger.
