Storage facility for leaf vacuum needed in Burlington
Comet staff report

A leaf collection recycling brochure will soon be mailed to Burlington residents. The town council decided at its Aug. 8 meeting to include a brochure in the mailing, informing residents of procedures and burning guidelines.

Council President Bob Davis said a site is needed to house the leaf vacuum. The original intent was to house the vacuum in the wastewater treatment garage, but that will not work.

Davis suggested building a garage in town to house the leaf vacuum, generator, and town truck at an estimated cost of $28,800. Rather than increase costs for land purchase, Davis proposed building on the far east corner of park property facing Fifth Street.

Township trusteeAl Jackson opposed a town-owned building being built on park property. The park is jointly funded by the town and township.

Shelter for the leaf vacuum will be needed by November. Davis asked for public input as to a solution while the council continues to investigate available land and costs.

Ken Smith of Civil Municipal Corporation, Lafayette, explained the services offered by his firm. He said Camden, Brookston, Yeoman, and several other towns employ his services for obtaining grants, as well as engineering needs. He also said that he does not charge a fee for grant writing and will attend council meetings and assist as requested. Town leaders agreed to utilize Smith for town projects.

Davis said that Carroll County Economic Development Executive Director Daryl Smith has been in contact, keeping town officials updated on related issues.

A question was raised as to why the EDC requested additional funds for a county-wide marketing plan. Davis said that the project has countywide benefits and by soliciting a small amount from government and private entities, everyone in the county would take ownership of the project.

Council members completed a site inspection of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and found several maintenance items in need of repair. Les Johnson was instructed to complete the necessary repairs.

Max Carman requested that something be done about the weeds on Washington Street between 9th and 10th streets. The council agreed that the town will notify property owners before having the street surveyed to determine property lines and future action. Property owners on Washington Street between 9th and 10th streets will be contacted and asked to trim their yards.

The police department and court monthly reports were reviewed. Davis commented on the additional police protection and said he was pleased that Burlington is able to have additional coverage.

The council approved Davis's request that a "Super Fleet" gas credit card be obtained for the police department to accommodate after hours and on-the-road purchases.

Clerk-Treasurer Tammy Dyer presented and read required Ordinance #2007-3 for use of credit cards, which was passed by the council.

At a special meeting Aug. 17, the low bid submitted by Jet Black of Kokomo was accepted to reseal asphalt at the community park.

Ted Huffer, representing the Kiwanis Club, requested permission to use the town's 501- c-3 (not-for-profit) status to apply for a grant for park improvements. The request was approved pending first talking to the town's new grant writer, Ken Smith, about whether or not this would jeopardize any town grant opportunity.

The next regular meeting will be Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. in the town office.