Although trash pickup will cost more, residents will see improved facilities for young athletes and fewer kittens on local roads, based on town council’s April 13 meeting actions.
No one spoke during a public hearing about a higher trash collection cost for a new five-year contract with Rumpke. Starting May 1, customers will pay $18.71 monthly for one trash cart and a free recycling bin/cart. Rates will increase 5% annually. Council approved the increase 5-0.
After reviewing three similar bids, council chose DeSonie Roofing & Exterior’s $29,894.12 to install a new roof and accessories on Cambridge City Youth League’s concession building in Creitz Park. DeSonie previously roofed town buildings and offered a longer shingle warranty. CCYL leaders noted urgency because shingles are increasing 4-8% as oil prices rise. Funds come from a trash collection overpayment and the town’s abandoned property sale. The sale brought in $37,603 before subtracting auctioneer fees.
Animal Care Alliance trapped-neutered-released nearly 20 cats a few weeks ago for about $1,200 using donations given to the town for that purpose.
The town plans a second TNR blitz April 28-29. To recommend a colony for services, call town hall at 765-478-3522.
Council approved a $1,000 donation from Billy and Marcia Norman for spay/neuter and welcomes more gifts for ongoing care. Council also offered to use donations to buy Church Street neighbors inexpensive ultrasonic devices to deter cats from porches.
In other business
- Council hired Steve Cox to mow Creitz Park’s riverbank twice this year ($2,900 each), noting safety concerns for kids and for disc golfers.
- Council agreed the park committee should coordinate scheduling for the new Creitz Park Pavilion instead of awaiting monthly council meetings for approvals. Added signage, road markings or road closures for pedestrian safety are being discussed.
- Council approved use of a portion of Creitz Park from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. June 13 for the annual jar collectors’ show. Dustin Troxell will continue the show in memory of his father, longtime antique seller Marty Troxell.
- Electrical issues were repaired at Bicentennial Park along U.S. 40, so the clock, gazebo lights and outlet under the large tree work.
- Council approved Cambridge City Area Chamber of Commerce’s request to install a 360-degree photo booth in the gazebo during September’s Canal Days. Social media posts could draw attention to the town.
- The cemetery board agreed to pay one year’s lease on a dump truck for the town. Council will pay for future years as previously discussed.
A version of this article appeared in the April 22 2026 print edition of the Western Wayne News.