WINONA LAKE – Winona Lake Town Council approved replacing a 15- year-old backhoe during its meeting Tuesday. Pete O’Connell, street superintendent, requested the replacement. Council received quotes from MacDonald Machinery for a price of $64,298; McCann, $67,513; and Diamond Equipment, $68,999. O’Connell recommended going with the low bid from MacDonald Machinery. Councilman Greg Winn moved to accept the quote and councilman Philip Hood seconded. Craig Allebach, town coordinator, said the town is accepting comments on its Americans With Disabilities Act resolution. There are also forms that can be completed to make public comments. The resolution sets accessibility guidelines for pedestrian facilities in the public right of way. Building Commissioner Gene Seiman has inspected all town facilities and has items to add to the ADA Transition Plan. The council approved a Redistricting Legislative Districts resolution. Allebach said that this was in response to the census to keep the districts in balance. Hood moved to accept this resolution on first reading and Winn seconded. Council approved a resolution to fix the compensation of town employees. This is an adjustment per request and approval from the park board for Park Director Holly Hummitch. Councilman John Boal motioned to approve the resolution and Hood seconded. O’Connell reported the street department is getting ready for the auction for lodge items Jan. 5. Swanson asked who is responsible for setting speed limits in town. Specifically, the speed limit for Winona Beach Drive is 25 miles per hour. O’Connell responded that west of the bridge, it becomes a county road. Allebach will ask the county to review this. Town Marshal Paul Schmitt will have a report for the council at the Jan. 22 meeting on police calls in 2012. Allebach thanked the council for the pay increase and adjustment in the health insurance on behalf of town employees. At the Jan. 8 meeting the council will hold election of officers and re-appointments to different boards. Adams thanked the council and residents Jerry Nelson and John Elliott for their regular attendance and support at the 2012 council meetings. Upcoming events are the YMCA run which loops through the town Jan. 1 at 1 p.m., and a Pajama Sale at the village shops Jan. 26 from 7 to 10 a.m. where shoppers are encouraged to wear pajamas and receive sales on items.
