Discrepancies between an ordinance and employee handbook’s PTO policies were brought to Milton council’s attention at its Aug. 11 meeting. Town marshal Tom Geiselman stated that a lack of departmental and legal review of the updated policies led to confusion, and he petitioned to suspend the employee handbook for a revised version.
President Joy May agreed that both the handbook and ordinances need to be updated, and the most recent revision occurred in July. However, she stated suspending the employee handbook would be too drastic. Town attorney Chris Armour agreed, mentioning that a full suspension could lead to violation of certain labor laws.
Council member Sedgrick Satterfield suggested suspending one portion of the handbook — use of electronic devices — allowing them to proceed with editing other verbiage. The motion was seconded and approved. The council will hold a public special meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, to review and update the ordinance and handbook.
Old business
Water and street supervisor Quenten Foreman said that Lichen Land & Water plans to complete an unfinished water line replacement project. Lichen departed the project amid disputes on payment, leaving debris, equipment and unfinished work across town. The project was supported through a water infrastructure grant that also included repairs to the water tower.
Armour said incorrect figures resulted in the town being overcharged for piping and expects a refund. Armour recommended that the town have Lichen complete the project, including any errors, corrections and warranty work.
May introduced a second reading for an animal ordinance defining policy around livestock, limiting the number of chickens and assessing a one-time $20 fee. The ordinance will be reviewed at the Aug. 27 meeting.
New Business
A salary ordinance and fund appropriation for Indiana Department of Local Government Finance were approved, and the 2027 budget will be discussed at the Aug. 27 meeting. New council member Cathy Vandivier was sworn in to replace former member Hugh Payne Jr., whose tenure ended Aug. 11. Vandivier was selected amongst three candidates by Wayne County Republican Chair Beth Leisure. Council will discuss hiring a building commissioner to properly update and execute its building permit ordinance. A park meeting was set for 6 p.m. Aug. 18.
Council member Jeanette Hensley reported that the town has unpaid bills for multiple services including sewage and dumpster. May cited a lack of a 2026 budget as the cause and ensured they would work together to move forward. Armour will handle contact with said parties’ attorneys.
Department reports
Foreman reported that the water department assisted customers with storm cleanup and must address a 4-5 ft. hole in a backyard on North Central. The hole could be a result of a culvert drainage ditch repair. Council must determine if the state or county will rectify the problem.
Geiselman reported the police had 30 traffic stops and around seven arrests, including one felony and misdemeanor, last month. The department’s Durango needs a new fuel pump, Explorer needs service and options for a decommissioned white Tahoe are being explored. One officer returned full time after being part time for health issues.
Fire Chief Matt Bartlett reported 27 calls for July, with 145 total to date. They are actively recruiting new members, expect an update on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant on Sept. 25, and are completing fire station repairs this month.
The next regular council meeting will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, 101 N. Central Ave. The public may attend.
A version of this article appeared in the August 19 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.
