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SOUTH WHITLEY – At Wednesday night's meeting, rescheduled from Tuesday, the South Whitley Town Council held a budget adoption hearing.
Following no public comments, council approved the 2027 budget, which will be uploaded to Gateway for public access.
During the regular meeting, Council President Brock Waterson presented a proposal for a new business at the old flower shop at 104 S. State St. Waterson has talked with Jay Ocken, of Ocken Bit and Spur, who, together with his wife and daughter, are interested in opening an art gallery with attached retail space for leather and metalworks.
Town attorney Gregg Hockemeyer said if council wanted to pursue a new business in the building, which is owned by the town, the town would need to offer the building to the public. Council could then consider any and all business proposals received, but will first look into getting a new appraisal for the property.
Of the Ockens' business proposal, Waterson said it was "a cool thing that could bring a new demographic to town."
In new business, council discussed a $1,053.93 reimbursement for Terry Eberly following the new transformer installation at the Press Room. The reimbursement is a show of good faith, Waterson said, as the town is not legally required to pay any of the cost. The town is covering half of the total cost, minus taxes. Council voted 2-1 to approve the reimbursement, with Councilmember Randy Cokl opposed.
Utilities Superintendent Kent Slater said the wastewater project bid opening is set for 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 29.
Town Marshal Chad Schipper said the golf outing with Churubusco Police Department was a success, with 23 teams registered.
There was a claims docket of $252,106.68.
Council will next meet at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8.
