Leading up to Centerville’s veterans parade, police investigated the theft of two life-size cutouts of military members from a busy intersection.
Police Chief Josh Millsaps discussed the thefts from the southeast side of the Main and Morton Avenue intersection during council’s Tuesday, May 12, meeting.
Someone in a white SUV stole one of the decorations, which honor the military service of people connected to the town, late Saturday, May 9.
Millsaps said the theft was caught on video and nearby businesses are supplying high-quality footage.
Last year, the same theft occurred, but the cutout was returned.
“It would be a wise decision to return that,” said councilor Josh Tudor. He works in law enforcement in Fayette County.
Millsaps told WWN that four vehicles passed by while the theft was happening. He urges those who see thefts or vandalism to call 765-855-5222.
Because of rainy weather May 16, the parade is rescheduled for 6 p.m. May 30.
Expert advice
Council approved hiring specialized legal counsel that town attorney Ed Martin might need, per Martin’s request. Council didn’t disclose what type of legal matter might require additional services. Wandersee told WWN the town might have an issue outside Martin’s expertise and he wanted that option if needed.
Martin helps the town with a variety of legal needs. His private practice’s website notes estate planning and administration, business, and real estate services. Wandersee said the Indianapolis-area firm charges an hourly rate.
Council also hired Indianapolis-based municipal adviser Baker Tilly for two analyses.
One $6,000 effort is new — the first phase of evaluating potential costs and benefits to determine if Centerville should establish a fire territory. Fire department services are currently paid from Centerville’s general fund, which is expected to receive less revenue through Indiana General Assembly’s property tax changes.
Establishing a fire territory would allow the town to charge property owners a separate tax for fire coverage. Previously, Centerville Fire/Rescue leaders said raising more money to add daytime fire service could reduce property owners’ insurance costs, possibly offsetting the new tax.
Centerville previously hired Baker Tilly to help with annual budget preparations and will do so again for 2027.
In other business
- While approving claims, Wandersee asked Clerk-Treasurer Sarah Rice to review the police supply budget, which he said showed “a huge negative.” Rice said she thought the fund was fine, but would check.
- Council approved an interlocal agreement for Wayne County’s gift of digital speed limit signs.
- In April, Gerald Millsaps processed 19 building permits and eight code enforcement investigations, all of which were cleared without enforcement.
- Town Manager Kevin Slick is awaiting the schedule for installation of a new transformer that serves Warm Glow Candle Co.’s factory. Warm Glow requested the installation by July 1 to minimize impact on its holiday production schedule.
Upcoming events
- Council’s work session will be 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, at town hall, 220 E. Main St. The public is invited.
- Centerville Plan Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding the town’s proposed comprehensive plan at 7 p.m. June 16, also at town hall. The draft plan will be available starting June 6 at town hall and online at town.centerville.in.us. Written comments may be submitted to planning@reasite.com.
- Councilors urged pedestrians and motorists to be careful during the May 27-31 National Road Yard Sale.
- The farmers market starts at 4-7 p.m. June 13 in Maplewood Park, just north of downtown.
A version of this article appeared in the May 20 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.