Centerville preparing for public hearing on water bills

Centerville council discussed a variety of matters at is Aug. 26 work session ranging from water bills to several equipment purchases.

Council conducted a second reading of an ordinance raising water rates and charges as described in WWN’s Aug. 27 edition to cover unexpected water system repair costs. A public hearing will take place at council’s 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 9, meeting at town hall, 220 E. Main St.

Council discussed granting easement authorization and setting a price for a requested easement. A property owner adjacent to the town’s water treatment plant on the west side of town wants to connect into the town’s sewer system because of issues with its existing septic system.

The town wouldn’t give up land ownership but would gain revenue from the sewer customer.

Council members expressed concern about a potential health/sanitation issue if the property isn’t added to the town’s system. The proposed easement would be about 18,000 square feet.

The business would not have a public restroom but would serve a few employees. Abutting landowners can place bids on the easement through Sept. 8.

Council set an opening price of 15 cents per square foot ($2,700).

Council approved a $15,699.60 purchase of six mobile radios as Centerville Fire/Rescue prepares for Wayne County’s new 800 mhz communications system for first responders. The county is providing 25 pagers, 18 portable radios and three mobiles. Chief Andy Aughe is concerned about safety and said the mobile radios will go in vehicles so those inside can hear better while surrounded by sirens and other noise.

In other business

• Andrew Jordan has been appointed assistant police chief.
• A recently lightning strike took out utilities communication equipment. Workers are using cell phones. Town manager Kevin Slick received council’s permission to give $20 monthly to those using personal phones until repairs are finished. The vote was 4-0; David Cate was absent.
• Kevin Branson said Archway Days organizers had heard good comments from the weekend and thanked town officials for their support. CF/R had 12 registered donors for its Archway Days blood drive, seven of whom were first-time donors. The 12 products collected will impact up to 28 lives.
• Aughe gathered quotes for a new command vehicle. Because all just surpassed $50,000, per Indiana purchasing rules, he must now mail out requests for bids. Council could receive and review bids Sept. 9.
• In wastewater/stormwater news, specialized computer communications equipment crashed at the lift station, and parts are no longer available. Replacement is $17,100. If an overflow occurred when utility workers aren’t on scene, no one would be notified, causing a major problem, Slick said. Council agreed to the purchase.
• The town’s steering committee developing its comprehensive plan received permission to offer a public open house to gain residents’ comments. It will take place from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8, at town hall.