Versailles Town Council pursues grant funding
Public meeting brings resolution
Mary Margaret Moorhead - Staff Writer

In their continuing efforts for grant funding for improvements at the Versailles water plant, member of the Versailles Town Council passed a resolution at their Thursday, March 10, meeting at Town Hall.

Following a second public hearing with Mary McCarty of Southeastern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, Council Member John Holzer moved and Council Member Jim Taul seconded a resolution for a Community Focus Grant for $457,000 with a $176,000 match to improve the Versailles water plant.

Council President Sue Meisberger joined the 3-0 vote for a grant application due April 1 and approved requesting support letters to be submitted to SIRPC by March 25.

Bid opening at a called meeting earlier for the construction of the Bishop lift station brought six bids which were reviewed by engineer Lori Young and Town Attorney Larry Eaton.

The town chose Holman Excavating with the lowest bid of $164,000. Highest bid for the project was $214,000. Taul moved to accept the Holman bid; Holzer seconded; and the vote was 3-0.

Water/Street Superintendent Kevin Hensley received council's approval to do an ozone treatability study at the aeration basin at a cost of approximately $3,970.00.

Hensley reported work is progressing on the installation of a storm drain on North Adams Street. Landscaping and culverts are to be added. He also noted that ditching is completed on the road to the Versailles Park dam.

According to Mark Salyers, everything at the new sewer plant is running well and the pump which was sent away for repairs should be returned soon.

Town Marshal David Adams reported a dog problem throughout the town and reminded citizens that dogs
are to be leashed and not running loose. The town will fine those not in compliance with the dog ordinance.

Commissioner Chuck Folz, a visitor at the meeting, noted that the whole county has a problem with dogs. "We are considering a fine for those dumping dogs," he said.

The Versailles Police Department report for February contained 11 cases taken, 10 warnings issued, 10 citations issued, 7 arrests, and eight other activities. Deputy Marshal Joe Mann was also in attendance at the council meeting.

In Clerk-Treasurer Ted Spurlock's report, progress is ongoing toward making arrangements for UPS to move to the Industrial Park area on US 421. With the UPS present lease ending in February 2006, the town is hoping to purchase the county-owned land through a partnership with Ripley County and the Rising Sun Regional Foundation. Ripley County Economic Development is working with the town on this project.

A motion by Holzer with a second by Taul and a 3-0 vote authorized
Spurlock to pursue the partnership and the purchase of the land.

Spurlock also reported that according to Pangburn Park Manager Shawn Halcomb's request, he has consulted Rumpke, who will install a small dumpster at the park for no cost to the town.

Council Member John Holzer, who is also a member of the Versailles
Historical Preservation committee, announced that 150 trees will be planted throughout the town and that anyone wishing to volunteer to help with the project will be welcome on Saturday, April 9.

President Sue Meisberger adjourned the meeting at 8:10 p.m.