Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
SOUTH WHITLEY – At Tuesday night's South Whitley Town Council meeting, police officer Isaac Haupert was presented with a Lifesaving Award for his actions on June 14, 2025, when responding to a call.
The award was presented by Town Marshal Chad Schipper, who read a statement. He said Haupert was dispatched to a party in rural Whitley County near Tunker, where a fight had broken out, and encountered an individual with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. Haupert demonstrated quick thinking to administer care and save the individual's life.
In new business, council approved an updated technology contract with Mark Harvey for IT services including provisions for multi-factor authentication.
Council approved an annual contract with the Whitley County Humane Society for collection of stray animals, not to exceed $3,000. Each animal pickup costs the town $108.
While Utilities Supervisor Kent Slater is on short-term leave, Randy Gawthrop will be the interim supervisor. Council approved a pay raise of $2 per hour for Gawthrop.
In old business, Council:
• Voted to commission two appraisals for the property at 105 E. Columbia St. and the adjacent lot, which the town seeks to purchase from Tony Starkey.
• Approved allowing Slater to earn compensation time while completing work, such as taking or making calls, from home.
In his report Schipper said he is talking to state police about the possibility of installing flock cameras in South Whitley.
Council will next meet at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 27.
