Camden waits to learn if grant for wastewater improvements will be approved
By Susan Scholl Editor

A public hearing for a wastewater project was held Sept. 11 prior to the regular Camden Town Council meeting.

Amy Miller of Cornerstone Grants Management explained that this is the second time for the town to apply for the Indiana Communities and Rural Affairs Grant.

The town is applying for a $500,000 grant with its match at $250,000 for a total of $750,000.

Miller said that this grant cycle has changed from previous ones in that Camden will only be competing with other infrastructure projects.

"We have done some things to make the application stronger and have a few more letters of support," she explained.

The announcement of awards will be made in November.

Melissa Axley, Lafayette District Red Cross Emergency Services director, discussed using the Camden Community Building as an emergency shelter. She explained that Carroll County is part of the Lafayette district and that various options are available to Camden through the Red Cross.

She said the town could opt to have the Red Cross bring in all supplies and operate the shelter or the Red Cross could train people in the community to run the shelter, while the Red Cross would provide supplies. There are numerous ways to work through the Red Cross, she explained.

Axley said that the Red Cross works closely with other emergency services. She also pointed out legal issues that need to be addressed, as well as the need to have back-up plans.

The council approved Gary Roby's rezoning request from residential to business with restriction. The rezoning will apply only to the Robys and if they sell the property it will revert to residential. The Robys have been refurbishing the filling station.

Lee Click's request to allow a trailer to be placed on his lot behind the Pizza King while a house is being built on the lot was approved for one year.

Council president Pete Wagoner read a letter of resignation from Jeff and Deanna Sieber, who have co-chaired the Camden Fall Festival 19 of the past 23 years. The Siebers said they will help with various contests at the festival but will not serve as overall chairmen.

"We're looking for an individual or individuals to step forward to take over some of the responsibility," said Wagoner. "We thank you very much."

The Siebers were presented an appreciation gift from the town.

Major changes to the town's nuisance ordinance include noise, dogs, and junk vehicles. Town attorney Anne Briggs presented the first draft for inspection and recommendations.

Trash rates will be increasing 25¢ to $11 per month as per the contract and Ordinance 2006- 2. Waste Management has increased its fees to the town.

The town's web site (www.townofcamden.org) is being updated with photos and information from the town's 175th anniversary celebration in July. One of the features will be a picture gallery.

The Lions Club has agreed to sponsor an annual horse pull event in Camden.

Sept. 24 is the deadline to apply for the sidewalk construction project. Those interested should contact the town office.

Sieber questioned the need to have horse owners clean up after their animals when using the streets. "It's getting worse on Cemetery Street," he said. "A little respect within the town limits would be nice."

Wagoner suggested that the town look at how other communities address this problem.

The 2008 budget and salary ordinance were both adopted. The budget is essentially the same as 2007 with a few adjustments.

Wagoner reminded residents that the Indiana Department of Transportation will be hosting a Hoosier Heartland Highway project update at 6 p.m. Sept. 26 at Delphi Community High School.

The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Oct. 9 in the town office.