Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
NORTH WEBSTER – The North Webster Town Council adopted a multi-hazard mitigation plan at its meeting Tuesday.
Kip Shuter, director of the Kosciusko County Emergency Management Agency, presented the plan to town council members.
Shuter said the plan addresses natural disasters such as floods and storms and is required to be updated every five years. He noted it has been about seven years since North Webster last had a plan in place.
The plan is required by law and helps communities qualify for grants, including those from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, while also potentially lowering insurance premiums.
“The goal is to reduce losses and minimize loss of life,” Shuter said.
In other business, Utilities Superintendent Mike Noe said a new pump must be ordered for lift station three due to disposable wipes and undergarments being flushed into the system. The pump, near Epworth Forest, will cost $8,500.
Clerk-Treasurer Leigh Anne Jessop urged residents not to flush wipes or other items.
“It’s causing a lot of problems,” she said.
Noe also reported crews are working this week to pick up brush and leaves and repair potholes. He said he hopes to have the work completed by next week.
“It gives people the weekend to get brush and leaves out to the curb,” Noe said.
Town Marshal Greg Church reported 753.5 officer hours in February, with 3,666 miles driven and 316.44 gallons of fuel used. Officers responded to 214 calls for service, including 12 domestic-related calls, one criminal mischief incident, one theft or fraud call, one drug-related call and one alcohol-related call. There were also 38 traffic-related calls, nine accidents or vehicles in a ditch, 32 citizen assists or lockouts and 14 assists to fire or EMS agencies.
Council members also discussed ongoing plans for park improvements. A meeting with the park improvement committee is scheduled for Thursday. A public input meeting was held in February.
The council approved a request from L.I.T.E. Recovery Hub to close a road for a fundraiser May 16 near the North Webster Community Center. The event, a car and motorcycle show, will run from noon to 7 p.m. and include food trucks. Proceeds will support a free program for teens ages 13 to 17, according to L.I.T.E. Director Tammy Cotton.
In addition, the council adopted a resolution establishing a tall grass ordinance. Grass and weeds may not exceed 9 inches in height. If they do, a notice will be posted on the property, and residents will have seven days to mow. Notices will no longer be mailed. The ordinance takes effect immediately.
The next council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 21 at the North Webster Community Center.
