The Marshall County Commissioners opened up a public hearing Monday morning to hear opinions on their proposal to increase property taxes $.0524 per $100 of assessed valuation to reestablish the Cumulative Bridge Fund.
The rate is not at its maximum level, but the proposed increase would gather another $660,000 next year to help in the cost to repair the county’s bridges.
Well water samples need to be returned today by 8:30 a.m.
The Marshall County Health Department is offering this free service to those who have experienced flood damage. Health Administrator Christine Stinson says flooding around a well can contaminate the well water and the casing of the well. That can lead to viruses and bacteria that could lead to illnesses.
Marshall County voters who plan on voting in this May’s Primary Election are invited to test the voting machine used in the election.
The public test of the voting machines begins at 10 a.m.
Be prepared for severe weather by creating a safety plan and prepare a household disaster kit.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security encourages residents to practice severe weather emergency plans which include identifying an evacuation route in your home and in neighborhoods. During a tornado, the safest place is the basement or storm cellar. If those options are not available, go to an interior room on the lowest level with no windows. Seek shelter from flying debris by getting under a desk, table or sturdy object.
Marshall County Commissioner Mike Delp would like to ask an all-hazards preparedness facilitator to present information to county and municipal leaders.
Delp explained to the Plymouth City Council members that he attended a workshop in January in Elkhart County that focuses on efforts for leaders responsible for their community’s preparedness, response and recovery capabilities.
Two grant requests were brought before the Marshall County Council members this week.
Marshall County Emergency Management Agency Director Clyde Avery asked to apply for the 2017 EMPG grant which allows reimbursement of half of his salary and benefits back to the county. He said all eligibility requirements have been met to meet obligations of the grant.
The Marshall County Commissioners will meet today.
Marshall County Highway Supervisor Jason Peters will have an update on flood damage and other projects. A representative from the Telamon Corporation will have a presentation on energy savings and representatives from Dossett Consulting will discuss Title IV child support claims. Overtime wages for a security officer will be considered.
Applications will be accepted soon for the curb and sidewalk reimbursement program for the Town of Culver.
Culver residents who would like to replace and improve sidewalks may apply beginning Monday, April 2, at the Culver Town Hall. Project applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis and reviewed by Utility Superintendent Bob Porter. Dimensions which include the width and length of the sidewalk and/or curb are required at the time of the application submission.
The Troyer Group has submitted a contract for the Bremen downtown project, but town council members will wait to approve that when they get more information from the grant writer.
The downtown revitalization project includes new streets, sidewalks, curbs and lighting. INDOT has delayed the project a bit so they can fund more aspects of the project. INDOT has already earmarked $1.2 million for this project. The project is expected to begin in 2020.
The Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety members considered several department head requests to seek quotes for equipment and grants.
Utility Superintendent Donnie Davidson is seeking quotes for the replacement of a service truck for the water department. He also asked to get quotes for a one-ton dump truck for the wastewater department. Both vehicle purchases are included in the department’s budget for capital improvement projects.
The Culver Town Council members considered an amendment to the salary ordinance this week.
A proposed change was made where the EMS Vice Director position would be eliminated and replaced with a full-time ALS-EMT2 position with an hourly range of $11.75-$17.50.
The American Legion Auxiliary Unit #27 in Plymouth recently donated items for the Miller’s Homeless Veterans Shelter in South Bend.
New clothing, gently-used clothing, non-perishable food items, cleaning supplies, and monetary donations were collected in January and February. Auxiliary members and members of the American Legion Post #27 and the Sons of the American Legion Post #27 delivered the items.
Some Marshall County residents are still without shelter as they sift through wreckage of the place they formerly called home.
Several representatives from disaster relief organizations reminded residents of the efforts of volunteers to help put back the pieces after the devastation. Linda Yoder with the Long Term Recovery organization said 2-1-1 is available to assist with any questions and help direct victims to the best resources for specific issues.
The new K9 is on duty at the Bremen Police Department.
In January, the Bremen Town Council members approved the acquisition of a new K9 from the Vohne Liche Kennels in Denver, Indiana. The funds were available for the purchase of the dog at a cost of $15,000. The annual benefit basketball game helped procure the money needed for the K9.
Bids were opened Monday night for proposed surface treatment projects and street and sidewalk projects in Plymouth this spring.
Plymouth City Engineer Rick Gaul explained that one bid was received for the surface treatment projects. Gaul said he contacted six microsurface companies to submit bids for the projects, but only one bid was received. Pavement Solutions, Inc. bid $240,788.98. Gaul asked the Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety members to take the bid under consideration to ensure it meets all requirements.
The Culver Town Council members were notified this week of several job opportunities for several town positions.
A salary ordinance amendment was discussed this week that would establish a part-time rate for a clerical position at the Marshall County Highway Department.
The part-time code enforcement officer position will have to wait.
Marshall County Planning Commission President Stan Klotz presented the Marshall County Council members on Monday morning with the proposed job description for the position. The wages would be between $17.40 and $20.05 an hour based on a 15-hour work week.
Clean-up efforts from the recent flood event in Plymouth are ongoing.
Plymouth Street Superintendent Jim Marquardt told the Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety members on Monday that the department hauled in 42 loads of sand, or 434 tons, for sandbags in preparation efforts. The cost to the city was $3,414.02.
An informational meeting for those residents and business owners affected by the recent flood event is scheduled for tonight.
Officials will have information on what residents should be doing as they continue to rise up from flood waters. Information will be given regarding immediate services available, free well testing and how to prevent further damage. The organization of a Long Term Recovery Committee will take place.
