Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
WINONA LAKE - The two-story house at 800 N. Park Ave. has been appraised by court order for $75,000, according to town coordinator Craig Allebach at Tuesday's town council meeting.
Over the last year the town has entered into negotiations with owners Ralph and Joellen Fitch, Larwill, to purchase the property. An offer of $35,000 was rejected by the Whitley County residents.
The building was condemned and declared as not conforming to surrounding uses.
The area is zoned as a planned unit development, combining commercial and residential usages.
Under Ind. Code 36-7-14-12.2, one method a redevelopment commission may acquire a property is by condemnation. The acquired property may then be sold, held or used in a manner the commission considers best.
The defendants are entitled to damages resulting from the condemnation, if so determined by the court. The Fitches have exercised this option, requesting a trial by jury.
Allebach said once $75,000 is placed with the court, the Winona Lake Redevelopment Commission effectively becomes the owner of the house and grounds as well as landlords to the people who occupy the building.
Allebach said there has been increased interest in the Senior Citizens Center and it may become a REAL Services nutrition site soon.
Several people have called about forming a senior group.
The town has applied for a $30,000 grant for computers and other equipment through the K21 Foundation.
A public hearing was held regarding the town's proposed 2003 budget, with no comments from the public.
Bill Gray of the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society approached the board regarding the upcoming Light the Night event, Sept. 19.
Gray said the 2.5-mile walk will begin at 7 p.m. at Rodeheaver Auditorium. More than 450 people participated last year, raising $17,000.
Gray said the national office was astonished at the local response, held for the first time in a small town. This year, he said, 750 to 1,000 people are expected.
Participants carry lighted balloons.
In other business, the council:
• Heard that cleanup of the town's 440 catch basins will begin soon, at a cost not to exceed $5,000.
• Set a meeting to adopt the budget for Sept. 10 at 6:15 p.m.
Town council members are Rolly Ortega, Jeff Carroll, Craig Snow, Jerry Clevenger and David Delp.
