Beth Rumsey, Staff Writer

Versailles Town Council President John Holzer addressed phone calls he received regarding the removal of scrap metal at the town dump on 129 at the regular meeting held Thursday, May 8. The town had previously given permission to Brian Borders to remove the scrap. Since the work began, neighbors voiced their concerns regarding the possibility of contamination in the soil or to the water that collects in wells.

Borders assured the town council that the scrap is loose, and therefore disturbance of the soil would be minimal. He also stated that he will provide haz-tech mats to protect the soil. According to Borders, he has already invested in equipment for this project, and would like to continue. He said that he is willing to work with the town council and the neighbors to resolve this problem.

The town council decided to speak with the neighbors involved, and receive their permission to continue. The matter was tabled for the next meeting. Holzer assured Borders that he would try to get the matter resolved quickly.

Fire Chief Tracy Moore reported that Federal Field Service, Plainfield, inspected the control boxes for the sirens and found that one out of the four was working. Moore received a quote of $8250 to upgrade the three non-working siren control boxes. He requested that this matter remain on the agenda for the next grant cycle.

Moore asked for an increase in the fire department budget, citing as an example, an increase in Workman’s Compensation insurance. Holzer requested a copy of the budget for review. This matter will be discussed at a later meeting.

Chuck Folz, a member of the Vernon Forks Water District, requested information on water usage in Versailles. According to Folz, there is a possibility for Versailles to purchase more water at a reasonable rate. The town council unanimously agreed to have Folz inform the water board of their interest.

Water Supervisor Kevin Hensley gave his monthly report. According to Hensley, repairs to the lift station should be completed soon. His department replaced a sewer valve on Fern Drive, and a sewer drain on South Street. Also, curb stops were replaced at the Wesleyan church.

Marshal Joe Mann gave the monthly report for April. According to Mann, the Versailles Police Department investigated six accidents and issued 53 warnings. The department also served three warrants and made four arrests.

In other business:

• Attorney Larry Eaton recommended the town council continue with the purchase of the Tyson Auditorium. Holzer pointed out that there would be no cost to the taxpayers, no raise in taxes, and that a grant has been received to pay for these expenses.

• The grant money for the GIS system has been received and will be installed as soon as possible.

• The town council unanimously agreed to re-invest in the Ripley County Community Foundation funds.

• Holzer reported that the wastewater plant was “looking good.” He told the members of the town council that the project should be completed within seven working days.

• Larry Eaton recommended applying for a grant, and hiring someone familiar with organizing town ordinances. The ordinances can then be placed on the town website when complete.

The next town council meeting will be held on Thursday, June 12 at 7 p.m. at the town hall.