The Fountain City council held a public hearing before its regular meeting on Monday, Sept. 1, to review initial estimates for its 2027 budget before the October deadline. Clerk-Treasurer Trina McGuire provided each member a report detailing amounts for the town’s separate funds. Council member Cecil Mullins was absent.
President Laurie Hayes brought concerns that the full council was not involved in the budgeting process and suggested holding a special meeting before the hearing in the future. Hayes also recommended possibly increasing the budget to prevent future use of Economic Development Income Tax funds. McGuire said changes can be made before the budget is adopted by October. With no adjustments, the budget was approved and the public hearing was closed.
Council member Michael Gray provided an update on drainage issues regarding the Longfellow property near U.S. 27. Earthworks conducted a thorough investigation, finding issues with vertical grates near an easement on Davis Street; an incorrectly sealed pipe in a culvert near a sinkhole; a possibly collapsed line or crack causing pressure issues in the septic tank; and additional drainage issues near the post office on Cherry Street. Total repairs were quoted at $12,300 and the council approved Earthworks to proceed with the work. Gray added that the town will conduct dye tests to determine the flow of two sewage drains and a storm drain before repairs begin. About the Aug. 12 flood, Gray said their mass flooding operator pumps are working as they should.
McGuire addressed concerns about bill mailing and posting, as some residents complained they receive bills late or not at all. McGuire said all bills are taken to the post office the 24th of each month, then routed to Indianapolis before reaching residents’ mailboxes. McGuire said any concerns must be addressed to the post office. She also reported that penalties for late payments cannot be adjusted for those with disabilities, per officials from the Indiana State Board of Accounts. Currently, payments are due the 15th of the month, and can be submitted via mail, dropbox, in-person or online.
In department reports, Daniel Husted was approved as a new full-time police officer to replace a part-time position. The town attorney will review an ordinance that allows Husted to conduct blood draws. Council approved purchasing Husted’s new police vest for $477.98.
Council approved the purchase of new tires for the utility department’s Ford from Greens Fork Alignment for $740, and will pay Ron Sandlin $250 to mow the banks near the lagoon. They also approved Wastewater Manager David Allen to search for a new, small vacuum truck for septic tank upkeep.
In other business, an ordinance regarding mobile food trucks was tabled, a fundraising project with Forward Wayne County was approved, and the streets will be closed from Sept. 18-20 for Levi Coffin Days. All claims were approved and the meeting was adjourned.
The council’s next meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, 312 W. Main St., Fountain City. The public may attend.
A version of this article appeared in the September 9 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.
