Closing 2010 and looking forward with great anticipation to the progress of 2011, I want to mention a few accomplishments from last year.
The most outstanding is a fiscally responsible agreement for the citizens and communities of both Winona Lake and Warsaw. Thanks go to Kent Adams, Representative Dave Wolkins and Randy Swanson who were appointed by the town council, along with me, to meet with Warsaw Mayor Ernie Wiggins and councilman Joe Thallemer. We did so and negotiated a 15-year wastewater treatment contract. It is tied to Warsaw's residential rate as opposed to the previous more expensive commercial rate. We have maintained our excellent working association with Warsaw and decreased Winona Lake's sewage rate to more accurately reflect actual expenses with allowances for repairs and maintenance. Over the last two years the council has lowered the sewage rate by $8, a 19-percent reduction.
Our totally volunteer fire department (WLFD) provides superb protection through constant training and selfless participation. It has been referred to as "The Best Little Fire Department in the State" and the council would concur.
In addition to police protection within the town, the police department has assisted by bringing order to numerous community events taking place throughout the year. The council recently purchased the new police vehicle locally, maintaining the high priority of keeping local dollars with local business.
The parks department has a continuously expanding program providing a large variety of summer programs to the community. We look forward to the Greenway expansion, which will eventually continue the trail to the east end of town near Lakeland Christian Academy.
The street department has had a more structured pattern of leaf pick up and snow plowing with town maintenance taking a higher priority.
Through several council decisions for each department, but especially WLFD, the council has made noteworthy financial decisions to the town resulting in significant future tax savings.
I would be remiss not to mention the huge strides the community is taking in the arts culture of Winona Lake. We are indebted to Dane and Mary Louise Miller for their gracious and generous long-term contribution to the town. Their active participation with Grace Schools has allowed MasterWorks to remain in Winona Lake for another year. New shops have come to the Village at Winona, and the beautification of the town has ensued.
The worldwide, highly acclaimed and valued Remnant Trust has made its home in Winona Lake. It is a public educational foundation sharing original and first-edition works dealing with the topics of liberty and dignity. It is available to the public. All of this is a result of the Millers' charitable involvement with the town and Grace Schools.
It has been a privilege to serve as the town council president for two consecutive years as these and many other exciting events have evolved. The council has made wise, belt-tightening decisions during an economic downturn. We have encouraged and valued open communication from our citizens. I, and the council, will continue to support fiscally responsible decisions and open communications in the new year.
