PLYMOUTH — Monday’s meeting of the Marshall County Council quickly turned to a discussion of the ongoing debate among several county governmental bodies regarding the Marshall County Sewer District Board and litigation that is currently underway regarding the removal of Sewer Board member Thomas McFadden and his replacement by the Commissioners’ appointment of Bill Woodward.

Council person Nicole Cox presented the Council with numbers she had compiled from Sewer Board consultants Jones, Petrie, and Rafinski (JPR) regarding expenditures of the Sewer Board since its inception in 2023.
Cox said that through the month of May of this year, the Sewer Board had spent just over $1.1 million. The majority of that money had been to consultants, with financial analyst Baker-Tilly receiving $113,000, $148,000 in attorney’s fees, and JPR, an engineering firm, receiving $847,000.
Cox said that some of the documents she received suggested that the Sewer Board had a contract with JPR for around $3 million, but she had not been able to confirm that as of the Monday meeting.
Council member Brandon Schadek made his point of view known quickly in the discussion, calling the board “fiscally irresponsible”.

Later in the discussion, Council President Tim Harmon also expressed his belief that the projected cost of hookup was at the center of the problem, having risen from an initial estimate of around $80 per month to over $200, with a large additional initial cost to hook up to the system.

Addressing the current debate between the multiple agencies, Council member Greg Compton urged a change in the tone, saying that it was “harsh”.

In the end, it was decided that a joint work session with the Commissioners would be desirable, with an invitation to be sent to the Marshall County Health Department to address the session.
In their meeting on Wednesday, the Marshall County Sewer District felt that, while not yet invited to the proposed session, they, too, should have representation.
The tentative date for the meeting was set at Aug. 20 at 6 p.m. However, no official date and time has been announced.

UPDATE

The joint work session of the Marshall Count Council and the Commissioners has been officially set for August 20 at 6 p.m. in the Marshall County Building meeting room 203 at 112 W. Jefferson in Plymouth.

MARSHALL COUNTY – Lieutenant Detective Les McFarland of the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department announced today the filing of an exploratory committee for the 2026 Republican primary for Marshall County Sheriff. The announcement comes on the 30th anniversary of McFarland’s service to the Marshall County community, having joined the department on August 14, 1995.

As a conservative Republican, McFarland’s platform centers on upholding the highest standards of ethical leadership, expanding and strengthening the Detective Bureau, and ensuring fiscal responsibility without compromising public safety and service. His conservative values are rooted in his faith and commitment to law and order and constitutional principles.
“I’ve dedicated my career to protecting and serving the people of Marshall County, and I’m called to continue that service as your Sheriff,” McFarland stated.
“I’m committed to professionalizing our operations, maintaining the highest ethical standards and fiscal responsibility, and ensuring every citizen receives the protection and service they deserve,” he added.
McFarland plans to spend the coming months meeting with community members, law enforcement professionals, and civic leaders to discuss his vision for the department and gather input on public safety priorities.
“I encourage citizens to email me at McFarlandforSheriff@gmail.com or call 574-767-1468 to share their thoughts on our department’s strengths and where we can improve,” McFarland said. “This exploratory phase is about engaging with the community to build a strong plan that truly serves the citizens of Marshall County.”
McFarland brings extensive experience across all facets of law enforcement to his potential candidacy. Beginning his career as a patrolman, he served on the Drug Task Force, working undercover with state and federal agencies to combat drug trafficking organizations. He was later promoted to Detective Sergeant, investigating high-felony cases including theft, domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse. Following his promotion to Detective First Sergeant, McFarland assumed supervision of the patrol unit while continuing his investigative duties. Since 2023, he has served as Lieutenant Detective, which includes supervision of the Detective Bureau.
“Some of the most meaningful work I’ve done has been liberating children from violent and abusive homes and bringing justice to families in their darkest hours,” McFarland noted.
A graduate of North Putnam High School and Vincennes University with an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice, McFarland began his law enforcement career with emergency first responder certifications. He served with the Akron Police Department and Bremen Police Department before joining the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, accumulating over 35 years of total law enforcement experience.
McFarland has served on the Bourbon Town Council for 15 years, gaining valuable experience in budget management, grant acquisition, and compliance with eligibility requirements. This experience has prepared him for the fiscal responsibilities of serving as Sheriff.
Beyond his official duties, McFarland is actively engaged in the community through organizations including Marshall County Relay for Life, Dustin’s Place, and Operation Quiet Comfort, demonstrating his commitment to serving others both on and off duty. His community involvement reflects his belief that effective law enforcement requires building strong relationships and trust with the citizens he serves.
If elected, McFarland would take office on January 1, 2027, bringing a proven track record of service, conservative leadership, and dedication to the citizens of Marshall County.

ARGOS — On Thursday, Aug. 7,​ at 11:11 a.m., the Marshall County Sheriff’s Dept. investigated an accident on Michigan Road.

Chancey Dennie, 78, of Argos was attempting to cross from the south junction of Michigan Road westbound toward 13th Road. Dennie began crossing the highway when traffic was quickly approaching. Branden Eckholm, 36, of Noblesville, was traveling north on US 31 in the fast lane. With no time to react,​ Eckholm struck Dennie’s vehicle on the front driver’s side.
Both vehicles came to rest in the median at the intersection of US 31 and 13th Road.
All four passengers were transported to the hospital to be checked for their minor injuries. ​
​Agencies Involved: ​Marshall County Sheriff’s Department,​ Plymouth Fire and EMS,​ Reichert and Knepp Towing .

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 12 at 6:55 a.m., Plymouth Officers were dispatched to Jackson Heights Road about a verbal argument.

Aleksandra Woodby, 49, of Plymouth, was arrested for disorderly conduct for interfering during the investigation by yelling and cursing inside and outside of the apartment where children were present after being given several orders to stop.
She was transported to the Marshall County Jail, where she was lodged for disorderly conduct.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*

LAKEVILLE — Friday, Aug. 15, at 9 A.M., there will be a road dedication ceremony in honor of former Congresswoman Jackie Walorski.

The ceremony will be held at the intersection of Tyler Road and Michigan Road (Old U.S. 31) at the Marshall/St. Joseph County line. Michigan Road will be prominently marked as “Jackie Walorski Road” at various points from the St. Joseph County line to the Fulton County line.
Parking is available at the County Line Brethren Church. The public is welcome to attend. Guest speakers include U.S. Congressman Rudy Yakym and Indiana State Representative Jake Teshka.

PLYMOUTH — At Monday night’s Plymouth Common Council meeting, an ordinance — Ordinance No. 2025-2247 — that would establish a municipal wheel tax for the city was heard on first reading. As usual with a first reading, no action on the ordinance was taken and there was also no discussion.

In a press release on the matter, Plymouth Mayor Robert Listenberger says that the ordinance is a reaction to Indiana House Bill 1461, just passed by the legislature, along with other changes in state funding for infrastructure.
Other Marshall County government entities have also had similar discussions recently regarding the Indiana Assembly’s message that communities with such local taxes in place will see preferential treatment for state infrastructure grants.
“Plymouth’s streets are more than a convenience; they are essential for public safety, economic development, and quality of life,” said Listenberger in the release. “Our ability to fund local street maintenance and improvement projects depends heavily on state support.”
“The State of Indiana has historically returned tax dollars to local governments, helping to cover the costs of repairing potholes, resurfacing streets, replacing signage, and upgrading critical infrastructure. However, this model of state funding is changing, placing more responsibility on local jurisdictions like Plymouth to identify and secure their own street funding solutions.”
This year’s passage of House Bill 1461 altered the way transportation and infrastructure projects are funded throughout the state. The bill shifts a greater share of responsibility for street maintenance and improvements from the state level to cities and counties. Specifically, House Bill 1461 restructures the distribution formula for state highway funds, resulting in reduced allocations for many mid-sized and smaller communities such as Plymouth.
Under this new law, state contributions to local street projects have been recalibrated to focus more on regional priorities and high-traffic corridors, often at the expense of smaller cities and rural areas.
In addition, many municipalities will need to decide whether to pass a local wheel tax to continue receiving the most benefit from Community Crossings Matching Grants. The immediate impact of House Bill 1461 on Plymouth is a projected shortfall of several hundred thousand dollars in our annual road maintenance budget.
The wheel tax to be considered by the Plymouth Council would apply to vehicles registered in Plymouth, including passenger vehicles, trucks, motorcycles, and trailers. By law, the revenue generated would be earmarked strictly for transportation infrastructure; those funds could not be diverted to other purposes. The tax rate will be carefully calibrated based on vehicle type and reviewed annually to ensure fairness and adequacy.
“Plymouth stands at a crossroads. The shift in state funding brought about by Indiana House Bill 1461 means that our community must take new steps to maintain and improve the streets we all rely on,” said Listenberger. “I urge all residents to stay informed and engaged as we move forward with this important decision. Working together, we can continue to build a brighter future for Plymouth.”
Listenberger encouraged the citizen’s of Plymouth to reach out to his office with questions or comments at (574) 936-6717 or email mayor@plymouthin.gov.

BOURBON — On Monday,​ Aug. 11,​ at 3:15 ​AM,​ Marshall County Sheriff’s Deputies ​observed a black 2018 ​Jeep traveling westbound on U.S. 30 from SR-331 at 110 ​MPH in a posted 60 ​MPH zone.

Deputies and Bourbon Police Department Officers caught up to the speeding SUV ​and activated emergency lights, but the vehicle failed to stop. Officers ​pursued the vehicle to the area ​of U.S. 30 and Pioneer Drive, ​where the driver was identified as 19-year-old ​Damion L. Jeffrey of Fort Wayne, who was taken into custody.
During the investigation, it was learned that the Jeep had been stolen from a dealership in the Warsaw area. Jeffrey was transported to the Marshall County Jail, where he was booked for Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle,​ a Level 6 Felony.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*

MARSHALL COUNTY – Indiana Department of Transportation contractor RAM Construction Services of Michigan Inc. will conduct two consecutive bridge projects on State Road 10 between Muckshaw Road and Lilac Road beginning on or after Monday, August 18.

State Road 10 will first be closed between Muckshaw Road and Maple Road for a bridge deck overlay at Wolf Creek. Once complete, State Road 10 will then close between Maple Road and Lilac Road for a bridge deck overlay at Myers Ditch.
State Road 10 is expected to reopen in early October. During the closures, motorists should seek alternate routes. The official detour will follow State Road 17, State Road 110, and U.S. 31.

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 8 at 10:26 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department were given information that Brittney Snider, 27 years old of Highland, Indiana, was at the Red D. Mart Gas Station with a warrant out of Marshall County for a probation violation.

Officers were advised that the woman was outside and was pregnant. Plymouth Officers located the woman outside and took Snider into custody.
Snider was transported to Plymouth Hospital for Jail clearance and then to Marshall County Jail, where she was booked in for her no-bail warrant.

On the afternoon of Aug. 8, Plymouth Police responded to the area of the Love’s Truck Stop (2952 Gary Drive) about a Welfare Check.
The Officer spoke with Tylor Michael Hall (31), who was inside a vehicle. It was confirmed through the Marshall County Dispatch that Hall had active warrants for his arrest through Kosciusko County. He was transported and lodged in the Marshall County Jail for the warrants.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*

Average gasoline prices in Indiana have decreased by 10.0 cents per gallon over the last week, averaging $ 3.13 per gallon today, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 3,271 stations in Indiana.

Prices in Indiana are 6.2 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stand 33.5 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has decreased 1.8 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $3.690 per gallon.
According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Indiana was priced at $2.61/g yesterday while the most expensive was $3.59/g, a difference of 98.0 cents per gallon.
The national average price of gasoline has fallen 2.7 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.08/g today. The national average is down 7.0 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 32.3 cents per gallon lower than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.
“After rising for two straight weeks, the national average price of gasoline saw a slight decline in the last week as oil prices fell below $64 per barrel, paving the way for prices to ease in most states,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “Price-cycling markets again saw the largest weekly swings, with Florida and Michigan cycling upward, while Indiana and Ohio experienced sharp declines, but may be due for jumps this week. As we approach the peak of hurricane season, forecasts are showing favorable conditions for tropical development, so we’ll be watching closely for any potential impact on supply and prices as Labor Day nears.”
GasBuddy’s averages, graphs, maps, and historical pricing data covering the U.S. and Canada are available 24/7 at http://prices.GasBuddy.com.

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 1 at 11:20 p.m., Plymouth Police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle near the Duke of Oil on N Michigan St.

The driver, Landin Ryan Kole Olson, 21, of Plymouth, was found to be operating the vehicle with a suspended license. Olson was also found to be in possession of marijuana.
Olson is charged with operating a vehicle with a suspended license and possession of marijuana. He was transported to the Marshall County Jail.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 3 at 2:33 a.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department were patrolling the area of US 30 and Plymouth Goshen Trl.

Officers observed a vehicle traveling at a speed of 97 mph. The officer was able to catch up to the vehicle in the area of US 30 and Oak Drive, where the vehicle pulled over.
The driver was later identified as Cesar Corsega-Maita, 22 years old, of South Bend. It was determined during the stop that Cosega-Maita never had a driver’s license. He was arrested for reckless driving. driver never licensed, and possession of paraphernalia and was transported to Marshall County Jail. Plymouth Police were assisted by the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department and Lyons Towing.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 6 at 7:17 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department were contacted by an off-duty officer who advised there was a wanted person inside Kroger’s store.

The man was identified as Shane Wilson, 25 years old, of Plymouth. Wilson had 4 warrants out of Marshall County for Criminal Mischief and was taken into custody.
He was transported to Plymouth Hospital for medical clearance due to a recent surgery he had, and then to Marshall County Jail, where he was booked in for his warrants.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

PLYMOUTH — The Plymouth Board of Public Works and Safety will meet on Monday beginning at 6 p.m., with the Plymouth Common Council to meet immediately following.

On the Board of Works agenda is the opening of demolition quotes for The Pointe Apartments building and a discussion on the Historic Fire Station.
The Council will hear a pair of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and an ordinance to create a municipal wheel tax for the city.
The Marshall County Boys and Girls Club will also make a request for monetary support.
Both meetings are in the Council Chambers at 124 N. Michigan, enter from the Garro Street entrance.
If you need special accommodation to attend the meeting, please contact the ADA Coordinator at 574-936-2948.

PLYMOUTH — President of the Marshall County Council, Tim Harmon, came before the Marshall County Commissioners in their Monday meeting to further lay out a request for the County Board of Finance to consider.

The County Board of Finance consists of the three county Commissioners and County Treasurer Sandra Dodson. Commissioner Adam Faulstich is the Chair of that Board. The responsibility of the board is to review investment policies, designate banks as depositories, and ensure compliance with state regulations, acting as the guardian of public funds at the county level, ensuring their safe and prudent management.
While the interest accruing in certain county funds is mandated by state statute, Harmon had asked the board to consider putting all other accrued interest allowed by law into the General Fund, rather than into any special restricted funds it might be going to currently. He told the Commissioners that the hope of the Council was to have more flexibility with those assets.
In the Finance Board meeting on July 21, Commissioner Stan Klotz said that while he found no problem with Harmon’s request, he wanted to have a more detailed picture of the Council’s intention.
Harmon gave a short briefing to the Commissioners on Monday and asked for another Board of Finance meeting so he could give a complete briefing that would also include Treasurer Dodson.
Another meeting will be set soon.

PLYMOUTH — The Marshall County Council will have its regular meeting on Monday, Aug. 11, at 9 a.m., in the second-floor meeting room of the Marshall County Building, 112 W Jefferson St in Plymouth.
The Council will hear subcommittee reports from Highway, Budget and Finance, and job classification and compensation.

They will also hear from Chelsea Smith of ONE Marshall County, Zachary Cook and Mark Groeller of Bowen Health, Gibson Insurance, Sheriff Matt Hassel, and EMA Director Jack Garner.
They will also hear first readings of the various county budgets.
ADA Notice: For special accommodations, please don’t hesitate to contact the ADA Coordinator at (Pg 574) 935-8720 at least two business days before the scheduled meeting to request an accommodation.

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 5 at 1 A.M., Plymouth Police were dispatched to Baker Street for a report of a possible domestic disturbance. Upon arriving in the area, police were notified that three men had fled the area in a vehicle.

That vehicle was located in the area traveling south on Columbus Drive and a traffic stop was initiated. The driver of the vehicle, George L. Childers, 28, of LaPorte was found to be operating the vehicle while intoxicated. During the investigation it was discovered that a passenger inside the vehicle, Andrew L. McFarland, 29, also of LaPorte had battered another man at the residence with a glass bottle.
Childers was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Marshall County Jail, where he was lodged for the pending charge of Operating a Vehicle while Intoxicated. McFarland was taken into custody and was lodged for the pending charge of battery resulting in moderate bodily injury and disorderly conduct.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*

PLYMOUTH — The City of Plymouth is actively seeking proposals for the redevelopment and future use of its historic firehouse and city hall property.

This initiative presents a unique opportunity for developers, businesses, community organizations, and preservationists to contribute to the revitalization of downtown Plymouth by reimagining this significant local landmark.
Interested parties are encouraged to review the comprehensive details and submission requirements outlined in the Request for Proposals (RFP) that you can see at our website at max983.net.
Any other questions or to discuss this opportunity further, please feel free to contact the Mayor’s Office directly at 574-936-6717.

REQUEST FOR SOFT PROPOSALS REGARDING THE USE OF PLYMOUTH’S HISTORIC FIRE HOUSE & CITY HALL

The Historic Fire House & City Hall Advisory Committee to Plymouth Mayor Listenberger is seeking soft proposals from parties interested in the long-term use and operation of the former fire house and city hall building located at 220 North Center Street. The proposals are not binding, and the Committee can accept any or reject all proposals. Those submitting proposals deemed by the Committee to demonstrate logical planning, the ability to sustain operations, and offer substantial public benefit, whether for-profit or non-profit entities, shall be invited to submit and present more detailed proposals to the Committee at a later date. It is the intent of the City of Plymouth to retain ownership of the building.

The Old Fire House & City Hall property is located at 220 North Center Street, a block west of the historic commercial district, across from the Plymouth Library, next to the Plymouth Post Office, and two blocks south of the Marshall County Courthouse. The property includes off-street public parking on its north side that may also be considered for program development. The building was constructed in 1875-1876 as the original combination Plymouth Fire House-City Hall and appears to be the oldest of its kind in the state of Indiana. The building has approximately 1,500 square feet on the first floor and 1,500 square feet on the second floor. The first story has modern offices and toilet rooms; the second story has the original city hall chamber and fire pole, as well as modern toilet rooms and elevator. It is currently being used as a daycare facility. Exterior and interior photographs of the building accompany this request for proposals. Plan drawings of its current configuration is at the end of this document. The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is within the Plymouth Downtown Historic District, which may provide rehabilitation tax credit or grant assistance for qualifying work.

The soft proposals should not exceed four pages and indicate use, ownership structure, ability to sustain operations and maintenance, and approximate number of individuals, employees, or market, that would benefit from the proposed use. Please include name and contact information and forward the proposal to the City of Plymouth, Mayor’s Office, 124 North Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563. All proposals must be received by 4:00 p.m. August 29, 2025.

PLYMOUTH — On Aug. 3 at 8:28 p.m., Officers with the Plymouth Police Department were dispatched to the area of US 30 and Oak Dr. for a vehicle traveling West on US 30 that was all over the roadway.

Officers arrived at the scene, and a Marshall County Sheriff’s Deputy located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop at Love’s Truck Stop. During the investigation, the driver was identified as Salleigh Torpy, 28 years old, of Warsaw. It was also determined during the stop that Torpy had been drinking.
Torpy was given a field sobriety test and then offered a certified breath test, with certified test results showing a .251 BAC. She was arrested and taken to Marshall County Jail for OWI, OWI Above .15, and OWI Endangerment.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*

PLYMOUTH — On the morning of August 1, at 12:01 am, Plymouth Police conducted a traffic stop on Pioneer near Gary Drive for an equipment and registration violation.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as 31 year 31-year-old Chandler Shiflette of Anderson. Shiflette was found to have a suspended driver’s license, was in possession of marijuana, and showed signs of impairment. During the officer’s investigation, Shiflette was found to be under the influence and was taken into custody for operating a vehicle while intoxicated on a controlled substance, endangerment, as well as for possession of marijuana.
She was transported to the Marshall County Jail.

Suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

*To see all the area police reports go to the home page and hit the “Police Reports” tab at the top.*