WINONA LAKE - Winona Lake residents will see an increase in their garbage fees beginning in January.
Tuesday, the Winona Lake Town Council approved an ordinance for the town's garbage pick-up service.
The ordinance requires Winona Lake residents who live in homes, apartments and condominiums to pay an additional $5 a month for garbage pick-up services. The fee is effective Jan. 1.
The town previously approved an $80,000 increase for the town garbage disposal contract. The increase is attributed to cover costs incurred from increased gas prices and landfill fees, according to Clerk-Treasurer Retha Hicks.
Warsaw resident Kathy Hodorek informed the council she is considering attending an auction for 11-1/2 acres of property that is being sold at the intersection of Pierceton and Packerton Roads. The auction is today.
Hodorek said she owns horses and asked the council, since the land is zoned residential, if there could be an exception to allow up to five horses to be located on the property.
Councilman Rolly Ortega said he discussed the issue with Hodorek before the meeting. Since the board of zoning appeals doesn't meet until December, he suggested Hodorek discuss the request with the council.
Town Coordinator Craig Allebach said the board of zoning appeals and plan commission makes zoning recommendations to the council in regards to zoning ordinances.
He said he would not look favorably on rezoning the land to allow animals or livestock to live on it.
Town Council president Dave Delp said the town's holiday festival is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The council will meet again Dec. 28 at 7 a.m. at the town hall.
