Facade grant applications on the rise
By Debbie Lowe Staff writer

Delphi's facade improvement grant program went through a period of relative inactivity in 2006 so much so that the city council did not appropriate money for the program in 2007. However, city council members learned at the Monday night meeting that might have been a premature budget deletion. Main Street Association member Anita Werling presented the second application of 2007 for consideration. The law firm of Obear, Overholser, Huffer and Rider requested a matching grant to make the front of the building at 102 S. Union St. more attractive by replacing wooden windows with new vinyl ones. They are also requesting help with installing standard canvas awnings over windows in the alley and in the rear of the building.

The first grant awarded in 2007 was to the Odd Fellows for their building on south Washington St.

"That was money well spent," Werling commented.

She explained there are two additional applications expected soon from local businesses that want to improve the look of their structures.

The city will advertise for additional appropriations for the budget line item to be able to fund the approved project for $4,814.25, one-half of the total cost of the project, and one to two more, depending upon the improvement characteristics.

Other business

The contract with the group to install, take down and store Delphi's Christmas decorations is set to expire at the end of August. Delphi Main Street Association will search for options to compare with the current service. Members will choose which firm to use next year and sign the contract for service.

A resolution to detail enforcement response procedures for industry was adopted. The document was requested by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and developed by city attorney Miriam Robeson and the engineering firm of Butler, Fairman and Seifert.

Robeson said Indiana Packers Corporation was consulted during development and was comfortable with the language.

Mayor Lee Hoard declared August to be Delphi Tri-Township Volunteer Fire Department Appreciation Month. He read a proclamation in honor of the occasion.

Tree ordinance 2007-03 was adopted by suspension of the rules after the second and third readings.

The ordinance provides for tree species to be planted, spacing, distance from curbs and sidewalks, utilities, public tree care, treatment of street and parking trees, pruning, corner clearing, removal of stumps and interference with the forestry commission among other topics.

All city residents are encouraged to review the ordinance at the clerk's office prior to planting or destroying trees on their property.

Department reports

Parks superintendent Richard Farrer announced the skateboard park is open for business.

Farrer reported 28 children participated in tennis camp, 35 in golf, 32 in watercolor workshop, 39 in acrylic painting, 29 in gymnastics, 38 in drawing class and 65 children traveled to Tropicanoe Cove on two occasions.

Clerk/treasurer Janice Roe announced the public hearing for the 2008 budget will be Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. This is the opportunity for the public to make comments on the budget prior to passage. A copy can be viewed in Roe's office.

Police chief Ed Chapman's report indicated there were 46 traffic summons and 64 warnings in July. There were three felony arrests, nine misdemeanor arrests and 11 information reports in the same period. Fifteen accidents were investigated and the department issued five handgun applications.

Airport manager Brian Stirm said 875 gallons of fuel were sold in July, which is an increase from June.

John Hampton reported the committee to select the steering committee for the county comprehensive land use plan development will meet next week. He said the plan is for nine to 12 people to serve on the steering committee, with three from Delphi.

Mayor's report

Hoard said the grade review plan was received from the Hoosier Heartland Highway engineers. It will be discussed with county and chamber representatives and other interested parties.

Hoard said preliminary plans call for Arby's to open in mid- September.

The next meeting will be Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. Board of works will meet Aug. 23 at 5:30 p.m. and Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m.