Wanda English Burnett
Editor

As spring brings people out and about, it also brings pets out, according to Versailles Town Marshal Joe Mann. At the regular meeting of the Versailles Town Council, the marshal requested a reminder be put on resident’s utility bills that their animals be contained. He noted he has already had several complaints of animals tearing up property and getting into trash cans etc.

Animals are not to be running loose at any time off the owner’s property. The fine for the first offense is $50, with the second offense being $150. “It can get costly,” noted Mann.

Residents were also reminded by Utility Superintendent Kevin Hensley to keep brush to the limit previously stated. He noted that at one residence he had an entire tree to remove. He was advised by the council to not pick up brush unless it fell within the guidelines set forth by the town in previous mailings to residents.

Hensley reported fixing a water line at Pangburn Park, flushing water lines, repairs at a lift station pump, storm drain repairs, and some road patching. He noted that he had been in touch with engineers concerning the new water main at the industrial park. Hensley reported O’Mara Contracting being the low bid for blacktop work.

Don Tankersley, representing the Sports Complex Board, noted that they will start moving ground as soon as the weather permits on the new sports complex. Indiana Wire was awarded the fence contract for $61,000.

When DeeDee Benkie, council member, asked when they would be playing ball on the new field, Tankersley noted, “Hopefully by June 1.” Of course he said that is totally dependent on the weather. He reported there are approximately 400 kids already signed up for the baseball and softball programs for the summer.

In other business:

• Jerry Gilpin, representing the Versailles Lions Club, attended the meeting to sign the lease for the new storage building for the club that will be erected on the old Tyson Gym property, now owned by the town.

• Marshal Mann brought a request before the council to have a handicap parking space designated in front of the Red Cross office on the square. The council approved the request.

• Fire Chief Ben Sieverding reported the department worked 34 emergency calls for the previous month.

• Council member Benkie noted that she is still looking at some state stimulus money for the Tyson project.

Sue Meisberger conducted the short meeting with Benkie and Clerk Treasurer Kiersten Libby in attendance. The next meeting of the Versailles Town Council is scheduled for May 14 at 7 p.m. at the town hall.