Grant writer Ken Smith requested delaying the opening of bids for the Town of Camden's wastewater grant project until Sept. 25 to enable more contractors to bid. He said at the Sept. 11 town council meeting that he hoped the delay would help lower costs with additional competition.

Steve Brock of Therber and Brock gave a preliminary wastewater rate analysis. Complete information will not be known until the bids are opened and accepted.

The town has been accepted into the State Revolving Loan (SRL) Program for the project and this loan requires a rate study. The interest on the SRL loan is currently 4.02% for 20 years, however the rate is subject to change on Oct. 8.

Without any project costs calculated into his work, Brock said the department needs a 10.97% rate increase for the sewer portion of customers' bills. The minimum rate (3,000 gallons) would increase from $13.86 to $15.38, an increase of $1.52 per month. If the town borrows the anticipated $250,000, the rate will increase to $20.59, up $6.73.

The town is considering applying more of its own funds to the project and not borrowing the full amount. The option will be reviewed further when all the costs are known.

Brock said the $500,000 grant that the town received will save the citizens a nearly $30 price increase.

Dogs and cats

The council adopted an ordinance relating to the control of dogs and cats in town. Registration tags will be required as of January. Neutered pets can be tagged for $3 and non-neutered pets for $5. Penalties will be applied for animals deemed a public nuisance. The duties and responsibilities of pet owners are set forth as well as the requirements for vaccinations.

The town marshals will be responsible for enforcing the ordinance. Stray animals will be returned to the owners whenever possible.

Council member Andy Kelly reported no progress on county-wide animal control.

2009 budget

The 2009 budget was adopted. Council president Pete Wagoner reiterated the budget expenses for 2009 were the same as 2008. Any changes made were in line item adjustments as a means to keep the total 2009 expenses the same as 2008.

Wagoner said that the town's expenses have increased just as they have for citizens. Inflation is across the board and causing concerns on many levels. As an example, he explained about the town's difficulty in securing road salt for this winter. Sand will probably be used instead of salt because of the cost.

Street commissioner Jerry Snavely said a ton of salt in 2006 cost $40.07, including delivery. This year's price will be between $191 and $196, plus a delivery fee. Camden has joined with other communities to purchase large quantities in the hope of lower prices. To date, this is not working. Unless the price drops drastically, the only salt used will be the small amount left over from '06.

Housing grant

The two change orders by Star Development for homes in its program were approved. They are trying to keep the dollars allowed per home even and the change orders will allow for more efficient use of grant funds.

Bids were opened from two contractors interested in doing work on three other homes. One home is an addition to the program and the other two homes had significant changes that required the bidding process. These bids were taken under advisement and will be awarded at 6 p.m. Sept. 18 in the town office.

Other business

Ordinance 2008-3, setting rates for use of the community building were approved. The rental fee for the building is now $100 ($125 if the kitchen is included) with a $100 deposit. The building will remain rent free for non-profits but they will be required to sign a rental agreement and clean the building after use. Proof of liability insurance is still required from all parties.

Brian Foreman, Vital Signs, submitted two examples of town entrance signs and one was chosen.

The Preservation Society was recognized for purchasing the new town banners and Jeff Sieber and Ron and Diane Wertz for hanging them.

Discussion on a "No Burn" ordinance was tabled to allow for citizen feedback. Council member Richard Fite expressed concern for the people who have breathing problems.

Jerry Danner from the Lafayette Journal & Courier sought input on placing newspaper tubes out for quicker delivery versus throwing the papers toward porches. He was advised to ask customers what they prefer and report back.

The volunteer fireman's breakfast will be Oct. 4.

Groundbreaking for the Hoosier Heartland Highway is expected to be held Oct. 22 in Lafayette.

The next council meeting will be Oct. 9 at 7 p.m.