Beth Ramsey, Staff Writer

The members of the Versailles Town Council were updated on the new building project for the Versailles Fire Department at the February 15 meeting. According to a fire department representative, a grant from the Community Focus Fund for $350,000 has been requested. Also, the Ripley County Commissioners have agreed to deed almost four acres in the industrial park to the fire department. The total cost of the project is $834,500 with $131,000 already raised, along with a grant for $50,000 from the Rising Sun Regional Foundation. A loan will be necessary for the balance. A special public meeting will be held on March 4 to discuss the fire station project. “I wholeheartedly support this project,” said council member Dee Dee Benkie.

Water Superintendent Kevin Hensley informed the council of new state required testing procedures for water quality. This testing is already practiced by the water department, and tests for the by-products of chlorine at a cost of approximately $700 per quarter. The council members discussed the need for a good water supply. Council member Benkie suggested that the town of Versailles needed a representative on the Regional Water Improvement Board. This covers three counties: Jennings, Decatur and Ripley and discusses water quality and other water issues.

Clerk-Treasurer Kiersten Libby reported that the cameras for the police cars were installed. The cost was $14,922, with the town paying 10% and the balance paid by a grant from the Rising Sun Regional Foundation. Libby presented a letter from LifeTime Resources requesting a $1,000 donation. Council suggested that Libby refer to the minutes to see what was previously donated. This matter will be decided upon at the next meeting.

In other business:
• Council President John Holzer will represent Versailles on the Historic Hoosier Hills Board.
• Council member Benkie suggested Jerry Gilpin as a replacement for her position on the Board of Zoning Appeals. Council will hold off the decision until next month to see if there are other volunteers.
• Council member Benkie was appointed as the liaison for the police department, and council president Holzer and council member Sue Meisberger will be the liaison for the water and sewage department. According to Holzer, this will allow for better communication between these departments and the town council.
• Town Marshal Joe Mann reported that live traps for stray cats have been purchased and are in use.
He also gave the report for January showing his department had a total of 243 incidents for the month. There were 64 warnings given; 15 citations issued; 44 citizens assisted; 11 theft investigations, 11 fight and battery calls; along with many other details.

All members of the council were in attendance. The next meeting will be held on Thursday, March 13 at 7:00 p.m. at the town hall.