The most recent minutes will be added to the website after they have been approved and signed at a Council meeting. "Draft" minutes are available for viewing at Town Hall two weeks after the meeting date.                                                   

 

October 12, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on October 12, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith 5:30 P.M.  Clerk-Treasurer Christensen announced that the meeting was being recorded.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Michael Johannes, Dennis Della Morta, and Elmer Dilger

 

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen; Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

MINUTES: 

 

Dilger moved to approve the minutes from September 14, 2009 (regular session).  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR: 

 

Culvert on Ashburn Road:  Dave Smith said that about 2 ½ years ago the council had been approached regarding the culvert on Ashburn Road overflowing.  Koch Development had offered a 50% match using the recommendation of Midwestern Engineers.  At that time it was mentioned that a study would need to be done before any work was done.  Smith stated that he thought the town had estimates at that time.  Patmore stated that the Corps. of Engineers would have to be involved.  They control any waterway of the United States that has a defined bed and bank.  Patmore asked if there were plans, Luthy stated just preliminary to the north.  Smith stated we needed to make contact with the Corps. of Engineers, they may tell us what we need to do first.  Luthy stated there will be a permitting process.  Patmore said they would make a preliminary determination of impact on the water of the United States with individual feathers and it could require individual permits.  Johannes moved to have the Town Attorney contact the Army Corps. of Engineers to discuss the project.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Ordinance Violation Change:  Jeff Stillman was present to request a change in the traffic violation ordinance.  He stated that some of the Council Members had been talking with the Director’s at Christmas Lake Village and had expressed some doubts about changing the ordinance.  The CLV Board wanted him to talk to the Council about what the Council’s feelings about changing the ordinance so that the fine can be increased and if there are any problems in doing that let them know.  Smith had previously asked J. Brown about repeat offenders and then asked Stillman if he thought that raising the fee would stop repeat offenders.  Stillman said that yes he thought it would because if they only think it is $30.00 they won’t think twice about, but if it is $100.00 that would be a deterrent.  Della Morta said that he thought $30.00 was too low but that $100.00 was to steep.  Burke said that he just thought that we needed to be in there enforcing the speed limit.  It is not going to matter if it is $25.00 or $100.00 if we are not in there.  Stillman said they are in there he has seen them, but they still have speeders.  Patmore stated that the Board could raise the fees, but would encourage keeping the step process.  Dilger asked if this was just in Christmas Lake Village, which Patmore stated it was, but that they could do any Town streets.  Dilger felt all Town streets should be done.  Patmore explained the step process and then said that if they do other street in the Town that a speed study would have to be done.  Johannes moved to approve that the Town Attorney proceed with the Ordinance change that would include all of the non state highway roads within the Town limits under our traffic ordinance and to raise the first minimum fine to $50.00 and the second to $75.00 if not paid within 30 days.  Burke asked if this had been talked about at the last CLV meeting or if Stillman was asking on his own.  Stillman said that he as not at the last meeting but that it had been talked about and the Board had decided that he should come and talk to the Council about it.  They did not set an amount that they would recommend with him talking to the Council first.  Della Morta asked if Stillman thought that most people in the Village would support raising the fines.  Stillman said absolutely, they are tired the of the speeders.    

            Ayes:  Smith, Della Morta, Dilger, Johannes

            Nays:  Burke

            Motion passed.      

 

PARKS AND RECREATION/ COMMUNITY CENTER:  

 

Smith asked how the Day Care was doing.  O’Brien said that their numbers are down, but that they are great renters.  Della Morta asked about the football at Yellig Park, which O’Brien stated was going okay.  Soccer and football have been working very well together.  Burke asked how many town people actually use the park.  O’Brien felt about 1/4th.  Burke wondered about surcharging out of town people.  O’Brien stated that the Park Board did not want to do that.  Smith questioned about whether they make enough to cover expenses.  Soccer and football there is not much expense.  Baseball probably loose money.  Dilger said that even if they are not from Town it is still a benefit for the Town.  O’Brien stated that they are talking about raising user fees for next year. 

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

                                                                                                       

Reports:  P. Brown presented his monthly report to the Council.

 

P. Brown had spoken with Ruth Rice and gave her names of contractors to board up the house. 

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT: 

 

No business to come before the Council.

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Generator:  Hagedorn had received three quotes for a generator for the fire department.  Gudorf - $6,674.23; Vondy’s Contracting - $6,950; and Evapar - $4,773.00.  Evapar would be thrown out because it does not include installation.  The Town would only be required to pay 10% of the cost with FEMA paying the other portion.  Johannes moved to approve the purchase of the generator from Gudorf in the amount of $6,674.23.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Patmore and Hagedorn informed the Council that 2/3rds of the awards had been made with regard to funding for fire stations, none of those being in Indiana.  The rest of the awards still need to be made, with Santa Claus still being in the running.

  

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Street paving:  Had been hoping to have these ready for this meeting, but will be advertising and hope to have for the November 9th meeting.

 

WASTEWATER:

 

PMR:  Luthy presented his monthly PMR report to the Council.

 

Replacement quotes: 

 

Luthy stated that four packets (BFJ, Shelton Excavating, Schafer and K & K Dirtworks) had been sent out for 2 slip lines and 2 point repairs in Holiday Village.  Only one was received from Shelton Excavating in the amount of $16,420.18.  Johannes moved that one the recommendation of the Utilities Superintendent that the quote from Shelton in the amount of $16,420.18 be accepted.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed. 

 

Hiring of new lift station technician:  Luthy stated that he had interviewed applicants for the lift station technician opening and would like to recommend Philip Gessner to the Council to start at $11.00 per hour pending a background check and drug screening.  Della Morta moved to approve the hiring of Philip Gessner at $11.00 per hour subject to the background check and drug screening.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Smith, Della Morta, Dilger, Johannes

            Abstained:  Burke

            Motion passed.

 

Grade/Pay adjust for Thompson:  Luthy asked the Council about a grade adjustment since he had taken over for Reed, which meant a lot more responsibility.  He has stepping right in with little supervision.  He would also be ready for his probationary raise on October 20th.  If they would raise him to Reed’s pay it would be from $11.25 to $13.95 which is a large increase.  Luthy asked if the Council wanted to wait until the probationary period is over to address both.  The Council decided to wait and address this at their November meeting

 

Vacation time:  Luthy informed the Council that he would be on vacation from October 14th – 26th. 

 

Water Project:  Luthy updated the Council on the Water Project.

 

Smith stated that previously two of the Council members had meet with the employees, just to see how things where going.  They would like to do that again sometime time in October.

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

No business to come before the Council.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Hearing officer:  Patmore stated that the Council needed to appoint a hearing officer which would serve for any unsafe building issues that require a hearing.  It had been Clete Leimbach, but he is moving out of Town and will no longer be able to serve.

 

CLERK TREASURER: 

 

Budget session:  A budget session was scheduled for November 16th at 5:30 p.m. as long as it can be coordinated with the Waterworks Board

 

Reminder of special session:  Christensen reminded the Council of the special session scheduled for October 19, 2009 regarding the 2010 budget. 

 

MISCELLANEOUS: 

 

Recording devices:  Dilger moved to authorize the Council President to approve the purchase of the recording device that had been used during the meeting if it meets with his and the Clerk-Treasurer’s approval.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:  With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:50 p.m.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

October 19, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on October 19, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Smith at 5:30 p.m.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Dennis Della Morta, Elmer Dilger and Mike Johannes

 

Christensen stated that the special session was for the second reading and adoption of Ordinance 2009-04, 2010 Budget.  The public hearing concerning the budget had been held August 10, 2009 along with the first reading of Ordinance 2009-04.  Christensen read Ordinance 2009-04 by title.  Johannes moved to approve the second reading and adoption of Ordinance 2009-04, 2010 Budget.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed. 

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:15 p.m.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:    Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

November 9, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on November 9, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith 5:30 P.M.  Clerk-Treasurer Christensen announced that the meeting was being recorded.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Michael Johannes, Dennis Della Morta (5:35 p.m.), and Elmer Dilger

 

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen; Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

MINUTES: 

 

Dilger moved to approve the minutes from October 12, 2009 (regular session) and October 19, 2009 (special session).  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR: 

 

No comments from the floor were received.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION/ COMMUNITY CENTER:  

 

Christensen stated that the yearly Open House at the Community Center would be December 17, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

                                                                                                       

Reports:  P. Brown presented his monthly report to the Council.

 

Ruth Rice property:  P. Brown stated that nothing had been done at the property yet.  Patmore stated that Rice had been served with the letter, but that she had not called to get the names of individuals that could possibly do the work.  Johannes asked what the next step would be.  Patmore stated that it could be let out for bids and then Rice would be charged for the cost.  P. Brown stated that the windows needed to be boarded up and the property picked up of debris.  Johannes moved that the Town Attorney send another letter to Rice explaining what needed to be done and that the Town would send out for bids and she would be charged for the cost of the work.  If she does not pay then the cost would go onto her taxes.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Hearing Authority:  Johannes moved that Eric Snow be appointed as the Hearing Authority for the Town of Santa Claus.  Dilger seconded.  Burke asked that Johannes contact Snow regarding the appointment.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed. 

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT: 

 

Vehicle Repair and Compensatory Time:    Burke inquired if the blue police car was running okay.  J. Brown stated that it was running fine.  Burked stated that we needed to watch to be sure it is not nickel and diming the Town.  Burke asked about compensatory time.  J. Brown stated that they are trying to use the time the week after it is accumulated.

J. Brown reminded the Council regarding the instructor development course that he will be taking. 

 

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Street light requests:  Luthy stated that Vectren was going to install the street lights free of charge.  He is going to meet with them to come up with a streetlight plan. 

 

Vectren contract:  Nothing new on this item.

 

Street paving:  Luthy stated that the bids are to be received at the November 23rd meeting.  Patmore explained that the specs had not included a bond.  An addendum can be done and sent to those that had already picked up the specs.  The Council said to do whatever needed to be done to include the bond as part of the bid specs.

 

Decorative street lights:  Luthy stated that they are no longer making the decorative street lights that we have.  Will be fixing the ones that are not working as soon as the parts are received. 

 

Christmas decorations:  Luthy wanted to be sure that he understood correctly that all that was to be put up on the decorative street lights was the garland.  The Council agreed that was the intention.

 

Ashburn Road culvert: Patmore stated that he had spoken with the Corp of Engineers and they would really have no involvement with the culvert issue.  They felt that IDEM might need to be involved.  Would have to look at the volume of water.  Johannes stated that he didn’t want to spend money on flooding, what about others.  This is not the Town’s responsibility, but the property owners or should have been done by the subdivision owner.  Patmore stated that new subdivisions have to show water retention.  Smith stated do we hire an engineer when the Town is not liable.  Johannes felt it was not a Town issue.  Patmore stated that Koch Development had offered to pay half of the cost.  Smith hated to spend the taxpayers money to fix something that the Town is not obligated to fix.  The Council decided to not address the issue.   

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Vehicle quotes:  Hagedorn stated that quotes had been advertised for a new fire vehicle.  Those quoting could either quote the chassis only, body only or chassis and body.  Four quotes had been received:

Coburn Ford Mercury – chassis only - $41, 149.00

W.A. Jones – chassis and body - $116,532.00

Renewed Perfomance, Inc. – chassis and body - $105,876.00

Gerry’s Automotive LLC – body - $57,230.00, chassis #1 (Ruxer Ford) - $43,604.00

                                                                            chassis #2 - $42,688.00

 

Hagedorn asked that the quotes be taken under advisement until he has a chance to review them.

 

WASTEWATER:

 

PMR:  Luthy presented his monthly PMR report to the Council.  Had been concentrating on the I&I in Christmas Lake Village, but had to move to Holiday Village because of the heavy rainfall.

 

Probationary raise for Tim Thompson:  Luthy reminded the Council about his request for probationary and pay grade raises for Thompson that had been tabled.  After discussion Della Morta moved that Thompson receive a probationary raise of $.25 as of October 20th and a pay grade raise to $12.50 as of November 16th, which will be looked at again in 6 months.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Fiber optic installation:  Luthy stated that the costs incurred by the Town because of the fiber optic installation included:

in water: repairs of $7,300, 431 man hours, 1,064,000 gallons of water lost.

in wastewater:  repairs of $2,100, 45 man hours.

This does not included monitoring time, paint and flags, and double the IUPPS tickets.  The company has been invoiced for one incident.  The crews have been very professional. 

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

Smith stated that he had meet with a gentlemen regarding the sign, but has not received any pricing yet.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Traffic Violation Ordinance 2009-05:   Patmore presented Ordinance 2009-05, an Ordinance amending Chapter 6.09 of the Municipal Code of the Town of Santa Claus.  Johannes moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 2009-05.  Dilger seconded.

Expanding the provision to include all Town streets is still being worked on and will be addressed at the next meeting as a separate Ordinance.

            Ayes:  Smith, Della Morta, Dilger, Johannes

            Nays:  Burke   

            Motion passed.

 

TIF:  Patmore stated that he felt the Town needed to look again at TIF for the commercial and amusement areas of the Town.  Needs to be done before March.  This was tabled until the December meeting, when Patmore will have contract amounts from Barnes and Thornburg and H.J. Umbaugh.

 

CLERK TREASURER: 

 

Reminder of meeting:  Christensen reminded the Council about the meeting November 23rd at 5:30 to discuss the utility budget and additional items.  She suggested that the Waterworks Board be asked to move to 6:30 p.m. for their budget meeting.

 

Census update:  Christensen stated that she had received information from Census that needs to be reviewed and asked the Council’s permission to change P. Brown’s contract to once again include the $30.00 per hour for Census work.  He had helped with the initial Census updating and it would be easier if he was able to help with the new review.  Burke moved to approve the additional $30.00 per hour for Census work for Phil Brown.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Open house:  Christensen stated that there would be an Open House at Town Hall again this year on December 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

 

Collection for Food Bank:  Christensen stated that once again the Town would be collection canned and dry goods for the holidays for the North Spencer Community Action Food Bank in Dale.

 

Insurance:  Christensen stated that she had received renewal information regarding the dental insurance which is staying the same and health insurance, which is increasing 26%.  She asked if the Council wished for the insurance agent to shop for other health insurance.  The Council requested that this be done.

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:  With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Burke moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:14 p.m.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

November 16, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on November 16, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Smith at 6:00 p.m.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Dennis Della Morta, Elmer Dilger and Mike Johannes

 

Hagedorn stated that he had reviewed the quotes received for the new fire vehicle.  He recommended that the quote from Coburn for the chassis for $41,149.00 be accepted and the quote from Gerry’s Automotive for the body for $57,230.00 be accepted.  Johannes so moved.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed. 

 

Christensen asked that the Council authorize the Council President to approve the

purchase of the speaker and recording system at a cost not to exceed $1,800.00.  Della Morta so moved.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:06 p.m.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:    Unanimous

            Motion passed.

November 23, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on November 23, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Smith at 5:30 p.m.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Dennis Della Morta, Elmer Dilger and Mike Johannes

 

Paving Quotes:  Luthy stated that he had requested quotes for paving on Clubhouse Road,

overlay on Rebud Road and Hevron Road.  Three quotes were received:

Hunter Paving and Construction, Inc. - $86,330.00

J.H. Rudolph & Co., Inc. - $60,894.00

Metzger Construction Co., Inc. - $81,650.00

 

Johannes moved to authorize the Council President to sign the contract after Luthy and Christensen review the quotes and financing.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Property Insurance:  Christensen stated that she had received the billing for the renewal of the property insurance.  There was no increase except for the additional items that had been added, which made the total due $35,336.00.  Dilger moved to approve the payment of the property insurance.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Personnel Policy:  Luthy stated that he had been asked to bring before the Council a request to change personnel policy regarding overtime hours.  The request was to change from using a 40 hour week to using 8 hour days to calculate overtime.  There was also a request to change the vacation policy.  Christensen stated that she would check with other municipalities on both of these issues.

 

Luthy asked about employees carrying pagers and the reimbursement for doing so.  He will check with the Town Attorney to see if there were any legal issues involved.

 

Salt Spreader:  Luthy stated that there is a problem with the salt spreader and asked the Council’s permission to check into replacing.  Christensen stated that she could come up with $6,000.00 out of this year’s budget if the need arises.

 

The Council reviewed the wastewater 2010 budget figures.  Christensen stated that since there was nothing definite on the employee health insurance that she recommended that the Council concentrate on everything except anything that involved payroll.  The Council could then address the payroll figures at the December regular meeting and make any changes that that time.  No changes were made on the figures that were presented.   

 

Burke moved to recess the meeting at 6:20 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. when the Waterworks Board would convene.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Johannes moved to reconvene the meeting at 6:30 p.m.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

The Santa Claus Waterworks Board special session was called to order by Board Chairman Elliott at 6:30 p.m. 

            Present:  Scot Elliott, Frank Fowler, Mike Kamp, and Steve Leibering.

            Absent:  Marvin Leibering.

 

The water 2010 budget figures were reviewed.  Christensen explained to the Waterworks Board that the health insurance with the current company was to increase 26% and was currently being shopped.  Those figures will be presented at the regular monthly meeting in December.  She informed the Board that the Council reviewed all figures on the wastewater budget except those involving payroll.  The Board could address these at their regular monthly meeting and make any necessary changes at that time.  The only change made was to add the $100,000.00 County yearly payment to revenue line item “reimbursements”. 

 

The year end meeting for the Council will be Monday, December 28, 2009 at 5:30 p.m.  The year end meeting for the Waterworks Board will be Monday, December 28, 2009 at 6:30 p.m.

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:15 p.m.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:    Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

With no further business to come before the Waterworks Board, Kamp moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:15 p.m.  Fowler seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

December 14, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on December 14, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith 5:30 P.M.  Clerk-Treasurer Christensen announced that the meeting was being recorded.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Michael Johannes, and Elmer Dilger

            Absent:  Della Morta

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen; Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

MINUTES: 

 

Dilger moved to approve the minutes from November 9, 2009 (regular session), November 16, 2009 (special session), November 23, 2009 (special session) and December 2, 2009 (executive session) with the date correction.  Burke seconded.  Burke asked that the e-mail document discussed at the executive session be included in the employee file.   

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION/COMMUNITY CENTER:

 

Board Vacancies:  O’Brien explained that there were two openings on the Park Board.  Joe Asbury’s term ends December 31st and Dean Merder submitted his resignation.  O’Brien stated that the Park Board would like to recommend Joe Asbury for another term and that Asbury was present if the Council had any questions for him.  Smith asked if there were two vacancies.  O’Brien stated that Dean Merder had resigned and the Park Board recommended April Susnarja to fill the remainer of the Dean Merder’s term and she is also present if there are any questions.  Christensen stated that the Council had received a letter of interest from Tom Goldsberry.  Terms were discussed.  Dilger asked if the members wanting to come in had been talked to.  O’Brien said they had been.  Dilger stated that he would like to see the members talked to by the Park Board and would like to see Della Morta get involved.  Would like to see this tabled.  Goldsberry spoke about his qualifications and that he wanted to see the park grow.  Park Board had not talked to him.  Susnarja stated that she had worked with the Park Board when she had been in charge of Y-Wee Day Care and would like to have an opportunity to get more involved.  Asbury said that he is pleased that there is so much interest and that there has been great progress made.  Greg Hagedorn questioned why the same board members were always put back on the board.  Need new blood on the board.  Hagedorn was present to lobby for Goldsberry. 

 

Dilger moved to table the appointment until the Park Board had a chance to speak with the prospects.  Would like to have Della Morta involved.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Park Rules:   O’Brien presented Ordinance 2009-08, an ordinance establishing rules and regulations for parks.  After explaining the ordinance O’Brien informed the Council that they needed to decide which sections to fill in for 3.20.15 that deals with the penalties involved.  Patmore said it is at the Council’s discretion as to which of the types of offenses would be the more serious.  J. Brown questioned the enforcement .  Patmore stated that it did not take a law enforcement officers to write a town ordinance violations.  Smith felt that only Town employees should be able to write the violations.  Johannes asked about dividing the violations into classes.  Burke moved that this be tabled and that the Park Board give recommendations on which penalties are Class I, II and III, that the Class I be enforceable by the Park Board Members and Class II and III be enforceable by the Police Department.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous        

            Motion passed.

 

Community Center:  O’Brien informed the Council regarding the planned Open House at the Community Center.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR: 

 

Employee Health Insurance Proposals:  Danita Grosvenor, Amenity Business & Insurance Solutions, said that notification had been received that Pekin and due to the Town’s loss ratio of 109% the rates did increase substantially.  Grosvenor shopped nine other providers and presented the Council with quotes from the current provider and four other companies.  Grosvenor recommended United Health Care based on rates and coverage.  Vision is included and is not something that the employees currently have.  Burke moved that the Town use United Health Care as employee health insurance provider for 2010 including the vision coverage.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Grosvenor stated that the American Fidelity representative would be meeting with the employees on December 16th at 2:00 p.m. to sign the employees up for ancillary programs.

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

                                                                                                       

Reports:  P. Brown presented his monthly report to the Council.

 

Contract for Building Commissioner:  Christensen presented the Building Commissioner Contract for 2010 for Phil Brown with no changes from the current year contract. Johannes moved to approve the contract for services as Building Commissioner for the Town of Santa Claus for Phil Brown.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Contract for Zoning Administrator:  Christensen presented the Zoning Administrator Contract for 2010 for Phil Brown with no changes from the current year contract, does include the additional compensation for Census 2010 work.  Burke moved to approve the contract for services as Zoning Administrator of the Town of Santa Claus for Phil Brown for the year 2010 as presented.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Rezoning Requests:  P. Brown stated that the Advisory Plan Commission had meet and approved the Wollems vacation request, Koch Development rezoning request, rezoning of Yellig Park, and Paul Gogel/Lilco rezoning request with stipulations.  They also certified housekeeping changes made to the Zoning Ordinance.  Patmore explained further the details of the requests.  Patmore also explained discrepancies involving the duplex property.  Burke moved to schedule a public hearing regarding the certified zoning requests for December 28th at 5:30 p.m.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.      

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT: 

 

No business to come before the Council.

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Hose quotes:  Hagedorn stated that he had requested hose quotes and will have them for the December 28th meeting.

 

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Luthy informed the Council that Rudolph had started the 2009 paving.

 

Ashburn Road:  Patmore stated that a letter had been received from Attorney Steve.  Has prepared a response to that citing the Town’s responsibility and would like the Council permission to send the response.  After the previous meeting had done a little research and one of the concerns was impacting down stream from the culvert.  This could cause legal problems with IDEM.  One thing that has not been explored is retention upstream.  Would it be possible to have retention upstream to slow down the water at this location.  W. Koch owns the lot immediately west of the ditch and he was asked if he would be willing to donate the property if it is feasible to use as a retention area.  Midwestern has never looked at retention.  Talked to Wiggins, would be happy to look at that and would stand by a contract from 2007 for $3,000.00.  Council had denied the culvert request, but it is up to the Council as far as wanting to do any further exploring.  Smith stated on the Town Attorney’s recommendation that the Town would be spending tax dollars to fix something that wasn’t the Town’s liability to do.  Would be back to the same thing if the retention is looked at.  Burke stated that if we did decide to fix that we would be setting ourselves up for the future. Patmore said that yes others could come with other drainage problems on their properties.  Johannes was worried about being liable for whatever it could change downstream.  D. Smith asked if the Town is not liable who is responsible for the Town road, who put the culvert in?  Smith stated the Town is responsible for maintaining the road, but can’t control the drainage from someone else’s property.  Patmore stated that the culvert did not cause the water to get there it is the development in the subdivision upstream from the culvert.  Johannes moved to instruct the Town Attorney to respond to the letter in the manner that he has indicated to us is appropriate.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous        

            Motion passed.

 

WASTEWATER:

 

PMR:  Luthy presented his monthly PMR report to the Council. 

 

Wastewater Budget:  Johannes moved to approve the 2010 Wastewater Budget, with the only change being moving $50,000.00 from wages to capital projects.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Generator purchase:  This was tabled until the December 28th meeting. 

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

Sign:  Smith had spoken with Hank Signs and the cost would be $350-$400, just need to know what to put on sign. 

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Legal services for 2010:  Patmore had presented the Council with a letter of interest for legal services for the Town under the same terms as this year.  Dilger moved to retain Patmore as Town Attorney for 2010.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Ordinance 2009-05:  Patmore explained Ordinance 2009-05, which would amend Chapter 6.09 of the Municipal Code.  Johannes moved to approve the second reading and adoption of Ordinance 2009-05.  Dilger seconded.  This ordinance which increase ordinance violation fees.  Would need motion to approve the second reading and adoption of Ordinance 2009-05, and ordinance amending Chapter 6.09 of the Municipal Code of the Town of Santa Claus.  Johannes so moved.  Dilger seconded.  Johannes asked a bout how many contract the Town had with private business in order to enforce this on their property.  Patmore will get a list.  Johannes asked about the High School.  Patmore stated they are out of Town limits so we can’t enforce our ordinance on the property.  They are out of the Town’s territorial jurisdiction.  Do have a contract for traffic enforcement.  Burke said that at a previous Council meeting the CLV Board had been asked to consider this at one of their meetings.  In reading their minutes this was tabled, so the information that was brought to the Council was not voted on at the CLV meeting.  He can therefore not support this.  Stillman said that it was considered at the meeting and he had not been at the meeting so it had been tabled so he could come and talk to the Council about it, which is what he had said.  Johannes asked if it was scheduled to be back on the agenda.  Stillman said it was not.    Burke asked for a recommendation from the CLV Board.  Johannes withdrew his motion approving Ordinance 2009-05.  Dilger withdrew his second.  Johannes moved to table and asked for a recommendation from the Christmas Lake Village Board.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.   

 

Ordinance 2009-07:  Patmore presented Ordinance 2009-07, regarding traffic regulation on all the other Town streets.  Refer Prancer and Holly Drive to Christmas Lake Village Board.  Johannes moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 2009-07, an ordinance amending sections 6.08.040 and 6.08.050 of the Municipal Code of the Town of Santa Claus.  Dilger seconded.  Burke asked if the Village does not make a recommendation at the next meeting, is this going to be tabled.  The consensus of the Council was yes.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Contracts:  Patmore presented contracts with H.J. Umbaugh and Barnes & Thornburg for services regarding a TIF district.  Patmore also informed the Council that they need to appoint a member of the School Board as a nonvoting member to the Redevelopment Commission.  Burke moved that we try to figure out funding for the contracts in order to have everything in place by March 1, 2010.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Smith, Burke, Dilger

            Abstained:  Johannes

            Motion passed.

 

Johannes wants to have a definite project in mind.  Patmore stated that there would have to be.  Johannes also stated that we need to show economic benefit.  This will be discussed further at the December 28th meeting.

 

Ruth Rice:  Had been given until December 1st to address the problems on her property.  Nothing has been done yet.  The Council recommended that P. Brown contact Rice. 

 

CLERK TREASURER: 

 

Ordinance 2009-06:  Christensen presented Ordinance 2009-06, an Ordinance fixing salaries of elected officials and employees of the Town of Santa Claus.  Burke moved to approve 16% be used for the employees’ portion of the health insurance and $235.00 as the Section 125 plan amount for 2010.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Burke commented that other companies are not giving raises.  Has some concerns about some of the recommendations for 2010 for some of the staff.  Johannes stated that he was surprised by the total compensation that the employees receive, especially those that have the insurance. 

 

Johannes moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 2009-06, an ordinance fixing salaries of elected officials and employees of the Town of Santa Claus.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Smith, Dilger, Johannes

            Nays:  Burke

            Motion passed.

 

Holiday and Safety Bonuses:  Christensen stated that the Salary Ordinance states that the Council may give holiday and safety merit pay and asked what the Council’s wishes were regarding this.  Burke asked if there had been any safety violations or loss of work.      Luthy and Christensen stated that there had not been.  Johannes moved to approve the holiday and safety merit pay per Ordinance.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Compensatory Time:  This was tabled until the December 28th meeting.

 

Office Closings:  Christensen stated that the Town Hall would be closed December 24th, December 25th, December 31st and January 1st.

 

Thank you:  Christensen thanked everyone that contributed food donations to the North Spencer Community Action Center food bank.

 

Board vacancies:  Christensen explained that the Advisory Plan Commission had two members with terms expiring at the end of the year.  Robert Grundhoefer and Jim Voges both said they would stay on for another term.  Dilger moved to approve the appointments of Robert Grundhoefer and Jim Voges for another term on the Advisory Plan Commission.  Johannes seconded.

           

Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Christensen stated that one member, Jeff Stillman, on the Board of Zoning Appeals term is over at the end of the year.  This appointment is made by the Council President and must be a member of the Advisory Plan Commission.  Smith appointed Jim Voges to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

 

Christensen stated that an appointment needed to be made for the Indiana 15 Regional Plan Commission for 2010.  Ron Smith had been the representative for the Town for 2009.  Johannes moved to have Ron Smith represent the Town for the year 2010.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Year end meeting:  Christensen reminded the Council of their year end meeting on December 28th at 5:30 p.m.

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:  With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

December 15, 2009

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on December 15, 2009 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Smith at 7:10 p.m.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Elmer Dilger.

Absent:  Mike Johannes and Dennis Della Morta

 

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk Treasurer, Kim Christensen and Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy.

 

2010 Water Budget:  Burke moved to approve the 2010 Water Budget as presented.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Dilger moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:15 p.m.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:    Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

January 11, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on January 11, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith at 5:30 P.M.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Michael Johannes and Dennis Della Morta

            Absent:  Elmer Dilger

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Deputy Clerk, Carol Severson, Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy; and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

Burke moved to appoint Ron Smith as President.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Johannes moved to appoint Kevin Burke as Vice-President.  Smith seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

MINUTES:

 

Della Morta moved to approve the minutes from the December 14, 2009 (regular session) and the December 15, 2009 (special session).  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR:

 

Meagan Hollander, Wessler & Associates, introduced herself, passed out material regarding her firm to the Council, and gave a review of Wessler & Associates. 

 

PARKS AND RECREATION CENTER:

 

Ordinance 2009-12:  Patmore reviewed Ordinance 2009-12, an ordinance establishing rules and regulations for parks.  Johannes moved to approve and adopt Ordinance     2009-12.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMUNITY CENTER:  No business to come before the Council

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

 

Ruth Rice Property:  P. Brown advised the Council that Ruth Rice had not yet made contact with any contractor.  Due to Rice not having responded, Smith asked if Patmore could authorize the town to go ahead and make the property safe.  Patmore is to check into the procedure to see if bids must be obtained or if the town can just do the work.  Smith requested Brown clean up and board up the property.  Johannes moved to have Patmore and Brown do whatever is necessary and get bids if necessary.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Monthly Report:  P. Brown presented his month-end and year-end reports to the Council.

 

Gogel rezoning stipulations:  Paul Gogel was present and asked where he needs to go from here to have the property rezoned.  Patmore asked the Board what they need to get the rezoning approved.  Smith advised Gogel needs to go back to the Zoning Board.  Jeff Stillman stated two property sales in Christmas Lake Village fell through due to this rezoning.  Smith stated Gogel needs to go back to the Zoning Board to have them come back to the Town Council.

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT:

 

J. Brown reminded the Council of the firearms and EVO class in Jasper.

 

District 10 Task Force:  Al Purdue, representing District 10 Task Force, was present; explained the training to be given and the advantages it would be to the Town of Santa Claus.  Johannes moved to allow Brown to represent the Town of Santa Claus.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT

 

Hagedorn advised the fire truck has come in and been delivered.  Smith inquired as to the status of the fire station.  Hagedorn explained it is to the point where it could be put out to bid; cannot find any grants.  Hagedorn hopes to know by budget time this year where we are.

 

STREET DEPARTMENT

 

Salt Spreader:  Luthy advised could not get the salt spreader.  Has other bids and recommends the purchase of $7,300 spreader from Mid State Truck Equipment in Fishers, Indiana; is cheaper and would be delivered.  Della Morta moved to approve purchase of salt spreader from Mid State Truck Equipment for $7,300.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

UTILITIES:  WASTEWATER

 

PMR:  Luthy presented the monthly PMR report.

 

12” main relocation:  Old Tyme Liquors has 12” main on their property.  As the store will be expanding, the main will have to be relocated.  This cannot be done in-house so will be subbed out by bids or quotes.  Patmore directed to get easements straightened out.

 

Loan to water department:  The Town is waiting EDA money.  If the money is not received this week, the water department will need a loan from the wastewater department.  Patmore is to check on paperwork requirements.  Johannes moved to authorize a loan of up to $600,000.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:  No business to come before the Council.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Gunn lease:  Patmore explained the lease that from 1995 needed to be updated.  The Town Council has already approved the new price. 

 

CLERK TREASURER:

 

Redevelopment Commission Appointments:  The Town Council nominated Della Morta and Burke.  Johannes moved to approve.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Smith nominated Johannes, Dilger and Smith.  Johannes moved to approve.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Elaine Daubenspeck, School Board Member, has not yet been authorized by the School Board to be the appointed non-voting member.

 

Waterworks Board appointment:  Patmore advised the Council that Marvin Leibering was the current appointee.  Johannes moved to re-appoint M. Leibering to the Waterworks Board.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unamimous

            Motion passed.

 

Scheduling of Holidays:  Luthy stated they are in the employee manual so this was tabled.

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:

 

With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

February 8, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on February 8, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith 5:30 P.M.  Clerk-Treasurer Christensen announced that the meeting was being recorded.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, and Michael Johannes.

            Absent:  Della Morta and Elmer Dilger

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen; Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

MINUTES: 

 

Burke moved to approve the minutes from December 28, 2009 (special session) and January 11, 2010 (regular session).  Johannes seconded the motion.     

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR: 

 

No comments from the floor were received.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION/COMMUNITY CENTER:

 

No business to come before the Council.

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

                                                                                                       

Reports:  P. Brown presented his monthly report to the Council.

 

Ruth Rice property:  P. Brown reported that the windows and doors and been boarded up at property owned by Ruth Rice, but that the junk was still on the property.  The Council advised him to send another letter thanking her for boarding up the house, but that she was incurring fines because the property had not been cleaned up.

 

Meeting times:  P. Brown advised the Council that the Advisory Plan Commission would be meeting monthly on the fourth Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. and the Board of Zoning Appeals would be meeting the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.  Anyone wishing to present a permit for review must submit it 30 days prior to the scheduled meeting. 

 

Ordinance 2010-01:  Patmore presented Ordinance 2010-01, an ordinance rezoning the Town’s Yellig Park lands in Section 35, Township 5 South, Range 5 West from AM and CG to A.  This was being presented to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Advisory Plan Commission.  With no public comment, Johannes moved to adopt Ordinance 2010-01 as presented.  Burke seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous      

            Motion passed.

 

Ordinance 2010-02:   Patmore presented Ordinance 2010-01, ordinance altering street requirements for subdivision in the zoning ordinance.  This was being presented to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Advisory Plan Commission.  With no public comment, Johannes moved to adopt Ordinance 2010-02 as presented.  Burke seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Ordinance 2010-03:    Patmore presented Ordinance 2010-03, an ordinance concerning a request by Paul Gogel and Lilco, Inc. for rezoning of certain lands in Section 1, township 5 South, Range 5 West from R2 to CG.  This was being presented to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Advisory Plan Commission.  Smith called for public comment. 

Jeff Stillman stated that Christmas Lake Village Board had previously voted to give an easement to Gogel, but this has been revoked and they will not be giving an easement.  The Board of Director do not approve of the rezoning.

Jim Davidson stated that he knew this had gone through the plan commission.  The Council has a responsibility to the individuals that elected you.  You can not ignore the impact this will have or that property prices are going to decrease. 

Keith Blair felt that this was an infringement and that they are already having to deal with dust and noise from the Holiday World parking lot.

 Johannes asked with the buffer was around the village.

Stillman stated 10 feet. 

Johannes asked what Gogel was going to do about utilities if he didn’t have an easement.  Gogel stated that he was not sure. 

Smith stated that this did come with a favorable recommendation from the plan commission. 

Patmore stated that it did as long as a commitment was signed.  They would have so much time to build and if not done it would revert back to the previous zoning.  Would have to meet state and IDEM approval. 

Smith asked if the town had a noise ordinance. 

Patmore stated that it did not because it would be hard to enforce. 

Johannes asked if it was legal to build structures without water and sewer connections.

Patmore said that yes, if they are not within 300 feet of available sewer line they cannot be forced to connect.

Smith stated that there needed to be a motion to approve or not approve.

Johannes asked about septic

Gogel stated that the Health Department does not allow septic in town.

Dennis Drake reiterated that they were opposed to the rezoning.

After further discussion, Johannes moved to adopted Ordinance 2010-03 as presented.  Burke seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous      

            Motion passed.

 

Carl Working asked what the stipulations were for the project.  Patmore state that the development is limited to detached itinerant lodging arranged as stated in the development plan, that the commitment runs with the land, change to the commitment must be approved by the Town and that the development comply with any and all other laws and rules.  The Council will also need to decide the timeframe within which the project will have to be started before the property would revert back to the previous zoning.

 

Glen Peters said that the Council was showing a total disregard to the residents of Christmas Lake Village.

 

Zoning Commitment:  After review of the zoning commitment the Council asked that it state that they must be connected to the Town’s wastewater.  The Council also stated that the timeframe for revision is two years, meaning that the project would have to be started within two years or the property would revert back to the previous zoning.  This commitment stays with the property even if it is sold.   

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT: 

 

District 10 training:  J. Brown requested permission to attend the “Managing Civil Actions in Threat Incidents” basic course in Aniston, Alabama.  All but mileage is paid for by the Department of Homeland Security.   Johannes moved to approve J. Brown attending the training.  Smith seconded.

            Ayes:  Smith, Johannes

            Nays:  Burke

            Motion passed.

 

Tasers:  J. Brown said that he would be looking into obtaining the cost of tasers for the department.  He may be able to get them at no cost to the Town.  Burke asked that the liability issue be checked on before anything is done. 

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

No business to come before the Council.

 

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Street light banners:  Luthy asked if the Council wanted the banners left on the street lights or if they were to be removed.  The Council instructed Luthy to have the banners removed.

 

Salt box:  Luthy informed the Council that the salt box/spreader had been received.

 

WASTEWATER:

 

PMR:  Luthy presented his monthly PMR report to the Council. 

 

Gravity main relocation:  Luthy stated that he had asked for quotes for 150 feet of sewer line rehabilitation in Holiday Village.  Three had been received:  Shelton Excavation - $6,000.00; D-Lite Excavation - $4,399.50 and Schaefer Trucking - $1,777.50.  This is for labor only. Johannes moved to accept the quote from Schaefer Trucking for $1,777.50.  Burke seconded the motion adding that it must meet all of the Town’s regulations.

            Ayes:  Unanimous      

            Motion passed.

 

Gessner probationary raise:  Luthy stated that Philip Gessner had received his probationary review.  Luthy requested a $.25 raise per hour retroactive to January 26th for Gessner.  Johannes moved to approve the raise as requested.  Smith seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Smith, Johannes

            Abstained:  Burke

            Motion passed.

 

 INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

Sign:  Smith stated that he needed to come up with the wording for the sign.  Patmore stated that he would let him know what needed to be on it because of the shovel ready designation for the industrial park.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

TIF:  Patmore spoke with H.J. Umbaugh and Barnes & Thornburg regarding TIF.  They recommended doing the industrial and commercial both.  He has been working on a list of projects and if anyone has any suggestion to let him know.  A Redevelopment Commission meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, February 17th at 5:30 p.m. 

 

Gunn Lease:  Patmore stated that he had prepared a new lease in the amount of $1,500 per year for the Gunn property where the Town applies sludge.  He asked for authorization to send it to Gunn’s for their approval.  Burke so moved.  Johannes seconded the motion.   

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

WTH Engineering:  Patmore stated that he had spoken with a representative of WTH Engineering regarding the think map program.  The cost of one license is $750.00, five licenses $1,250.00 and the editor version is $1,750.00.  He is waiting for additional information, but wanted to bring this to the Council attention as a possible purchase for the Town.

 

INDOT:  Patmore informed the Council that he had spoken with INDOT about a MOA regarding the intersection of Hwy 245 and Candy Castle Road.  The State will be turning this over to the Town once the project is complete.

 

Spencer County request:  Christensen stated that she had received a letter from the Spencer County Clerk asking for the Town’s permission to make handicap improvements at the Town Hall since it is a polling place.  The improvements would include handicap parking painted onto the parking lot and a handicap sign.  Johannes moved to approve the signing of the requested document.  Burke seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous      

            Motion passed.

 

Notice of election dates:  Christensen informed the Council that she had received notification from the County regarding the primary and general election dates and the use of Town Hall as a polling place.

 

Holiday Scheduling:  Christensen asked for direction from the Council with regard to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.  Both of these holiday’s fall on Saturday and per policy that would mean that the Friday before would be taken as the holiday.  The Friday before in both instances are already holidays (Christmas Eve and New Years Eve).  She asked if they wanted the employees to use Thursday or the following Monday as their holiday.  The Council stated that the following Monday would be used as the holiday.

  

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:  With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:00 p.m.  Burke seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

March 8, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on March 8, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ronald Smith at 5:30 P.M.

            Present:  Kevin Burke, Ronald Smith, Michael Johannes and Elmer Dilger.

            Absent:  Dennis Della Morta.

 

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Deputy Clerk, Carol Severson; Joey Brown, Police Chief; and Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy.

 

MINUTES:

 

Smith moved to approve the minutes from the February 8, 2010 regular session.  Burke requested a change be made to the minutes as outlined in his email to Kim Christensen of Thursday or Friday. 

 

Johannes moved to approve the minutes, with Burke’s change.  Burke seconded with the requested changes.

            Ayes:  Burke, Smith & Johannes

            Abstained:  Dilger (absent from 2/8/2010 meeting)  

            Motion passed

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR:

 

None

 

PARKS AND RECREATION:

 

Ordinance 2010-04:  Lisa O’Brien presented Ordinance 2010-04, An Ordinance establishing fees and charges for use of Yellig Park.  Patmore read the Ordinance by title and informed the Council that the Ordinance revised the existing Ordinance concerning fees charged for Yellig Park to include tournament fees and increased the fee for club sports.  Dilger moved to approve Ordinance 2010-04.  Burke seconded. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

COMMUNITY CENTER:

 

Lisa O’Brien stated everything is good.

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

 

Monthly Report:  Phil Brown presented his monthly report.

 

Ruth Rice property:  Brown advised has nothing on Ruth Rice property; will check again next month.

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT:

 

Joey Brown advised he has passed the instruction course and is now able to instruct others.

  

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Smith inquired if the duplex streets have been taken care of.  Patmore advised that they have and have been deeded to the town.

 

UTILITIES – WASTEWATER:

 

Proposals for slip line:  Luthy advised three proposals were solicited and received for slip lining.  Slip lining had been requested because of the cost.  Three proposals had been received:  Reynolds Inc., $50 per foot totaling $15,350, but Certificate of Insurance for General Liability and Workers’ Compensation insurance coverage was not included; Enviroflow, $123.80 per foot totaling $38,018; Insitu-Form, $70 per foot for a total of $21,490.  Luthy to approve quote subject to Reynolds providing required insurance with the money coming from EDIT.  Burke moved to approve quote from Reynolds of $15,350 as long as they provide the necessary information within the next ten days.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Proposals for control panel rebuilds:  Luthy had requested proposal for control panel rebuilds.  Three proposals had been received:  K&M Pumps, $3,897; ITT Flygt, $3,150  and CED, is $4,143.43.  The proposals are for two lift stations.  Johannes moved to approve ITT’s proposal of $3,150 for one of the panels and $3,000 for the other.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Luthy provided update on water project status.

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

Patmore advised are working on getting Smith information for the sign.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Resolution 2010-02:  Patmore read Resolution 2010-02, a resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Santa Claus, Indiana approving certain matters in connection with the establishment of an economic development area and an allocation area and the approval of an economic development plan for said area.  This is for an area known as the Amusement and Commercial Economic Development area.  Johannes moved to approve Ordinance 2010-02.  Dilger seconded.   

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Resolution 2010-03:  Patmore read Resolution 2010-03, a resolution of the Town Council of the Town of Santa Claus, Indiana approving certain matters in connection with the establishment of an economic development area and an allocation area and the approval of an economic development plan for said area.  This is for an area known as the Santa Claus Industrial Park Economic Development area.  Johannes moved to approve Resolution 2010-03.  Dilger seconded

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Think map:  Patmore reviewed the cost of Think Maps versus the same information being free in Rockport and recommended not pursuing further.

 

Utilities to Gogel property:  Paul Gogel requested utilities be brought up to his property and provided a diagram of the plan.  Luthy explained how this could be accomplished and clarified who is responsible up to the property and who is responsible once lines are on the property.  Patmore advised that the Town has the right-of-way to the land in Christmas Lake Village as long as it is used for public utility lines and read the deed to Christmas Lake Village which is very broad, but does allow for this situation.  As long as Gogel builds to the town’s specifications, the town easement must be granted.  Luthy was instructed to inspect and approve the plan.  Smith stated Luthy is to approve plan and installation and the town be granted the easement.  Also, Luthy is to inspect all lines/laterals to all buildings.  Brown advised will be required to have fire sprinklers which will require six inch line. 

 

Smith that the Town would agree to take over water and wastewater lines which are extended by Gogel onto his property, subject to the Town’s approval of the plans as to the type and size of lines and structures to be installed, inspection of the actual construction of the lines and structures, and the Town’s receiving an easement along the boundaries of Gogel’s property to permit expansion of the lines to adjoining property.  Johannes seconded. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Road closure:  Johannes discussed the situation of INDOT’s letter/Memorandum of Understanding regarding closure of Indiana SR 245.  The Candy Castle, golf course and emergency vehicles disagreed to the complete closure of the road due to no other equal road alternative available for the detour proposed.  The MOU required that INDOT will repair any damage to Buffaloville road, because it will be the official detour.  A run-around was suggested.  INDOT sent request to Indianapolis and is awaiting a response.

 

Johannes moved to approve INDOT’s February 24, 2010 letter/MOU.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Resolution 2010-04:  Patmore presented Resolution 2010-04, a resolution concerning the anticipated closure of Indiana State Road 245.  The resolution states the Town’s concerns about the complete closure of State Road 245.  Johannes moved to approve Resolution 2010-04.  Burke seconded. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Ed Hagedorn gave an update on Truck 3.

 

CLERK TREASURER:

 

Special meeting regarding personnel manual:  Council felt overtime and vacation should be left as is.  Will ask Christensen and have meeting if necessary.

 

Heritage Hills Band Boosters:  A request for donation had been received from the Heritage Hills Band Boosters.  The Council chose to not donate to this organization.

 

Resolution 2010-05:  Patmore reviewed each wastewater write-off in Resolution 2010-05.  He advised that they are not worth trying to collect.  Burke asked about contacting a collection agency and at least putting the information on the individuals’ credit reports.  Johannes inquired about reporting to their credit reports.  Patmore noted that at least one of the individuals was known to be deceased, and deceased individuals do not care about their credit rating and since we do not have social security numbers, it probably could not be placed on a credit report.  Burke further asked to have Christensen check with a collection agency in Evansville regarding the cost to do this.  Resolution was tabled until the next monthly meeting.

 

MISCELLANEOUS:

 

Yearly Redevelopment Commission Report:  Patmore presented the yearly Redevelopment Commission Report to the Council.

 

SIREMS:  Patmore advised Smith had taken it upon himself to sign the paperwork as the school was applying for a grant and required an immediate response prior to the meeting.  Johannes moved to ratify.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

ADJOURNMENT AND VOUCHERS:

 

With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 P.M.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

April 12, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on April 12, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith 5:30 P.M.  Clerk-Treasurer Christensen announced that the meeting was being recorded.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Michael Johannes, Dennis Della Morta, and Elmer Dilger.

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen; Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

Announced the meeting was  being recorded.

 

MINUTES: 

 

Dilger moved to approve the minutes from March 8, 2010, regular session.  Johannes seconded the motion.     

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR: 

 

No comments from the floor were received.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION/COMMUNITY CENTER:

 

Ordinance 2010-04:  Patmore read by title, Ordinance 2010-04, an ordinance establishing fees and charges for use of Yellig Park.  Johannes moved to approve and adopt on second reading Ordinance 2010-04.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Burke asked if O’Brien had a schedule of events for the park and requested that a copy be given to the Council.  O’Brien stated that the Park Board had purchased “slow children” signs to put in the middle of the road during tournaments.  She asked the Council’s opinion on leaving the signs in place until after season.  Concerns were raises as far as liability if someone would hit the signs and if the signs were stolen.  O’Brien stated that she would move the signs out of the roadway when she is available to do so.

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

                                                                                                       

Reports:  P. Brown presented his monthly report to the Council.

 

Ruth Rice property:  P. Brown he is to speak with Rice on Tuesday.

 

Ordinance 2010-05:  Patmore read by title, Ordinance 2010-05, An ordinance rezoning certain real estate located within the territorial jurisdiction of Santa Claus and amending the zoning maps.  He stated that this was being brought to the Council with a favorable recommendation from the Advisory Plan Commission.  With no comments from the floor, Johannes moved to approve and adopt on second reading Ordinance 2010-05.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT: 

 

J. Brown stated that money had been budgeted for two part time officers during the busy season.  He would like to advertise and to have the applicants start the end of May.  He would be looking for trained personnel.  Discussion followed concerning the officers going to Dale for accidents.  There was concern about leaving the Town uncovered during those times.  The officer’s go when they are dispatched.  Sometimes the people involved are from Santa Claus.  Brown is to let the Council know how often in the last two months the officer’s were called to Dale.

 

Burke asked how the District 10 training was.  Brown stated it went very well. 

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Hagedorn stated that the new truck was ready for lettering and stripping and should be competed next week.

 

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

No business for the Council to address.

 

WASTEWATER:

 

Wargel medical leave request:  Christensen stated that Jeremy Wargel was going to have surgery on his wrist and was requesting two weeks medical leave to recuperate.  He has been informed that he will be responsible for his health insurance during that time.  Burke asked that documentation be received from the doctor and a release work be obtained.  Dilger moved to approve the two week medial leave request for Wargel.  Della Morta seconded.

Ayes:  Unanimous

Motion passed.

 

PMR:  Luthy presented his monthly PMR report to the Council. 

 

Luthy stated that some cure in place replacement had been done by Reynolds.  Council asked that they be kept updated on I & I progress.

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

No business for the Council to address.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

No business for the Council to address.

 

CLERK-TREASURER:

 

Personnel matters:  Christensen asked the Council’s wishes concerning the request for a change to the calculation of overtime (40 hour week versus 8 hour day) and vacation policy.  The Council stated that they are not going to address this and policy would remain as is.

 

Proclamation for Rotary:  Christensen stated that she had been contact by Mr. Holder, Chairman of the rotary conference to be held in Santa Claus.  He asked if the Council would approve a proclamation declaring May 21, 22 and 23, 2010 as Rotary Conference Days.  Johannes so moved.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Collection Agency:  Christensen stated that the Council had asked that she look into using a collection agency.  She had forwarded two separate agreements for the Council’s review.  Burke stated that the bank uses Hoosier Accounts.  Burke moved to authorize the Town Attorney to review the agreement from Hoosier Accounts and to give a recommendation at the next Council meeting.  Dilger seconded. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Signs:  Smith had asked the Clerk-Treasurer to see what fund where available to pay for four signs at the entrances to the Town.  She stated that there was money available in the Riverboat and Rainy Day Funds depending on the cost. 

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:  With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:30 p.m.  Burke seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

 April 28, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on April 28, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Smith at 6:55 P.M.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Dennis Della Morta, Elmer Dilger and Mike

Johannes

 

Also present were town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Deputy Clerk, Carol Severson; and Parks & Recreation Director, Lisa O’Brien.

 

Announced the meeting was being recorded.

 

Smith advised there is a Ripley’s “Believe It Or Not” Proclamation request to the Town of Santa Claus.  Patmore explained the Proclamation requesting May 11, 2010 to be “RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT DAY” in the Town of Santa Claus.  Johannes so moved.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

O’Brien had two requests.  First, the possibility of portable speed bumps being installed at the park.  They would be removed at the end of the season.  O’Brien stated that they would be putting warning signed up.  She has spoken with Luthy concerning the speed bumps and it is within the Park Board’s budget.  Burke moved to authorize the Park Board talking with Russ Luthy about installing the speed bumps and what type he would prefer.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

O’Brien’s second item was the question of what process is needed to amend the tournament policies.  Patmore advised would require first and second readings.  Smith asked O’Brien if she had a contract with Region 15 for grants.  Smith stated that the Town’s wish list needed to be updated this year.  O’Brien stated theirs needed to be updated too.

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:03 P.M.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

May 20, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on May 10, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith 5:30 P.M.   Smith announced that the meeting was being recorded

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Michael Johannes, Dennis Della Morta, and Elmer Dilger.

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen; Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

MINUTES: 

 

Dilger moved to approve the minutes from April 12, 2010, regular session; April 28, 2010, special session; and April 28, 2010, executive session.  Johannes seconded the motion.     

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR: 

 

Kimball:  Patmore stated that the Town had received two separate Compliance with Statement of Benefit forms from Kimball for their tax abatements.  These forms are required to be filed each year.  The Council needs to decide if Kimball is in substantial compliance or not.  Johannes moved to approve the Statement of Benefits forms with Kimball being in substantial compliance.  Dilger seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Smith, Dilger, Della Morta, Johannes

            Abstained:  Burke (his wife works for Kimball)

            Motion passed.

 

PARKS AND RECREATION/COMMUNITY CENTER:

 

Johannes and Smith are to attend the next Park Board meeting.

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

                                                                                                       

Reports:  P. Brown presented his monthly report to the Council.

 

Ruth Rice property:  Johannes asked if the Town could pick up the junk on the property and send Rice a bill.  P. Brown said that Rice was very hard to get a hold of.  Multiple letters have been sent.  The property was boarded up, but the junk was not removed.  Johannes asked about penalties accruing and if these could be added to the bill for removal of the junk.  Patmore stated that he would coordinate with P. Brown on this.    

 

Dollar General Store:  Patmore stated that the Board of Zoning Appeals had approved a variance request regarding the Dollar General Store.  There are two sidewalks on the property and Mr. Rafferty would like to remove the one that is furthest in on the property.  The easement for this has never been recorded.  Dilger moved to allow Mr. Rafferty to remove the old sidewalk and that he needed to connect the north side to the newest sidewalk on the east.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous      

            Motion passed.

  

POLICE DEPARTMENT: 

 

Reserve officers:  J. Brown stated that by Ordinance he is allowed ten reserve officers, currently he has four, with one going to resign and one having family issues.  He would like to put on a couple more reserves.  He would interview, do background checks and fingerprinting.  J. Brown stated that since Patmore informed him that the fingerprint check was free that everyone in the department has been fingerprinted and he will be sending them in to be checked.  If that is what the Town is requiring then that is what will be done.  He would come back to the Council with his recommendations on the reserve officers.  Burke said that they should not be able to be reserve officers until the background check is complete and a have approval from the Council.  

 

Part-time temporary officers:  J. Brown stated that the Town had budgeted for two part-time temporary officers to be used during the summer.  He said that J. Faulkenburg had been working as a reserve since August 2008 and he would like to put him on as one of the temporary part time officers and then hire the other through an interview process.  Johannes asked if he was one that had been fingerprinted.  J. Brown said that his had been sent in.  The part time officer’s would start in June, helping with nights and weekends.  They would have background checks and fingerprinting done also.  If we hire part time people, Burke said that the car needed to stay in town and not be taken home by the officers.  J. Brown stated that would not be a problem, would be good idea.  Smith said to make a list and make a recommendation to the Council at the next meeting.  Background checks will be done prior to the meeting and have everything ready for the meeting.  M. Johannes said that Faulkenburg already had uniforms, but asked if there was enough money to get uniforms for the others. 

 

Town Marshal fund:  Christensen explained that J. Brown has received $905.80 from the County for digital cameras, which has been deposited into the Town Marshal fund.  The total cost of the cameras is $1,649.90, which is a difference of $744.10 that will also be paid for out of the Town Marshal fund.  Money for the reserve’s uniforms comes from the Town Marshal fund.  By Ordinance only $1,000 cumulative can be expended prior to receiving approval by the Town Council for each additional purchase.  With the purchase of the cameras J. Brown will already be over the $1,000 cumulative purchases.  Christensen asked that the Council allow the purchase of the cameras to not count towards the $1,000 cumulative in order to eliminate the need to come to the Council for the purchases of the reserve officer’s uniforms.  Johannes so moved.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.     

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Barbeque:  Christensen stated that the Fire Department barbeque will be July 3rd this year.  They usually set up their grills in the area where the new road into Lake Rudolph’s employee parking is.  Hagedorn was asking for permission to set up the grills in the grassy area between the new road and the parked RVs.  He is asking because it will kill the grass in the area.  The Council stated that this would not be a problem.   

 

Christensen stated that Hagedorn had received an email stating that if a turn down letter had not been received that the Town’s application for money towards a new fire station was still being considered.

 

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Lake Rudolph Street Light relocate:  Luthy stated that the entrance to Lake Rudolph was being widened.  They would like the street light next to the entrance to be relocated and that they would bear the cost to have it done.  It would require removal of the pad, splice the wire, setting of the pad and placing the street light.  Luthy stated that this would be contract work.  Patmore stated that they would have to modify their easement.  Johannes moved to let Lake Rudolph relocate the street light as long as they agreed to modify their easement to allow the new location and that the removal would be at their expense.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Road stripping:  Luthy stated that he had requested quotes on road stripping from three companies: Hunter Paving, Quality Painting & Stripe and Latshaw.   The work included 1 mile on Ashburn – 2 edge stripes, double yellow center, 2 stop bars; 1.6 mile on L.J. Koch – 2 edge stripes, double yellow center, 3 stop bars, 2 cross walks; 1 mile on Clubhouse Rd – 2 edge stripes, double yellow center, 1 stop bar.  Only one quote had been received from Latshaw in the amount of $9,750.00.  After discussion it was decided to reject the quote and to again go out for quotes. 

 

WASTEWATER:

 

PMR:  Luthy presented his monthly PMR report to the Council. 

 

Thompson medical leave request:  Luthy stated that Thompson had submitted a letter requesting medical leave until May 17th, but that he was going to need a longer recuperating time and would like to have the leave until May 24th.  Christensen stated that Thompson is aware that he will be responsible for his medical insurance premium during that time.  Della Morta moved to approve the request for medical leave until May 24th.  Burke stated with a medical release.  Johannes seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Gessner probationary raise:  Luthy stated that Phil Gessner had received his final probationary review and that he would like to recommend him for a raise of $.25 retroactive to April 26th.  Smith moved to approve the raise of $.25 retroactive to April 26th.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Smith, Della Morta, Dilger, Johannes

            Abstained:  Burke (Gessner’s mother works for him)

            Motion passed.

 

Consumer Confidence Report:  Luthy stated that the Consumer Confidence Reports will have a different format this year and hopefully will attract a little bit more interest.

 

Thompson and Allen salary review: Luthy asked to meet with a couple of Council Members to discuss Thompson and Allen.  Smith and Dilger are to meet with him prior to the next Council meeting. 

 

Lamar Conservancy:  Patmore stated that the Town had received a letter from John Hargess, representing Lamar Conservancy, asking about the Town taking over the Lamar sewer.  Patmore, Luthy, Hargess and Lenn Stein have a meeting scheduled to discuss the possibility.  Luthy is concerned about the grinders on the system and the Town’s policy of not owning grinders, but those being the responsibility of the property owner.  Christensen has compiled information concerning the difference in revenues of billing each property individually or billing the Conservancy. 

 

County lots:  Patmore stated that the County is having certificate sales of about 99 properties in the Town.  This is different from a tax sale in that it is sold for a percentage of what is actually due and there is only a 120 day redemption period.  He is concerned about what will happen if the properties are not sold.  Johannes moved to authorize the Town Attorney to send a letter to the Council asking what their intentions are concerning the properties if they are not sold.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Luthy gave an update on the water project.  Chlorination at the well site was discussed.  Everyone had understood that this as going to be done and now it looks like it isn’t.

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

No business for the Council to address.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Collection agency agreement:  Patmore stated that he had reviewed the agreement from Hoosier Accounts and there are a few items that he would like to negotiate with them on.  The Council authorized Patmore to contact Hoosier Accounts to negotiate the terms of the agreement. 

 

Shaneyfelt letter:  Patmore stated that a letter had been received from William Shaneyfelt regarding Paul Gogel.  Patmore has replied to the letter, but has not received any response. 

 

Stormwater Retention:  Patmore stated that previously the Town had received a stormwater ordinance from the County that if signed would allow management by the County.  The Town chose to not have management by the County.  Patmore questioned if this was something that the Town might want to pursue on their own.  He said that he was not qualified to review the information, but does the Council want him to refer it to P. Brown and Luthy, which the Council authorized.

 

Gunn Lease:  Patmore stated that the Gunn lease for application of solids has been signed.  This authorizes payment of $1,500 per year.  Johannes moved to approve the lease and authorize Smith and Christensen to execute the agreement.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Computer usage:  Patmore presented a draft ordinance to the Council concerning computer usage.  Dilger moved that this be tabled until the next meeting so it can be reviewed by the Council.  Johannes seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

CLERK-TREASURER:

 

Future Projects:  Christensen stated that she had given the Council a Future Projects listing that is good through the end of this year.  This needs to be reviewed and changes made as the Council sees fit.  Some of the items have or will be completed by the end of the year and there are new ones that could be put on.  This needs to be done at the June meeting. 

 

Insurance:  Christensen stated that the Town had received a document from United Healthcare asking if we wanted to opt-out of the early access to health coverage for college graduates program.  Burke moved to opt out of the early access.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

MISCELLANEOUS:

 

There was discussion concerning annexation of property and the expense involved. 

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:  With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and Dilger moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:58 p.m.  Johannes seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

May 20, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on May 20, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Smith at 6:15 P.M.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Dennis Della Morta, Elmer Dilger and Mike

Johannes

 

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Clerk Treasurer, Kim Christensen; and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

J. Brown announced that Dan Grindstaff had resigned effective immediately and had submitted a letter of resignation.  Johannes moved to accept the resignation effective immediately.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Patmore stated that Russ Luthy, Lenn Stein, John Harges and himself would be meeting on Monday regarding the Lamar Conservancy District.

 

J. Brown stated that the County Prosecutor had requested funding from the County Council for tasers for the Santa Claus Police Department.  This has been approved.  Burke stated that he had issues with the use of the tasers, especially who they could be used against.  J. Brown sated that there would be a written policy in place and training would be given on the use of the tasers.  Burke moved that a policy of use be adopted prior to the tasers being used.  Dilger seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.     

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Johannes moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:19 P.M.  Dilger seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

June 14, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in regular session on June 14, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith at 5:30 P.M. and it was announced that the meeting was being recorded.

            Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke and Dennis Della Morta.

            Absent:  Michael Johannes and Elmer Dilger.

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore; Deputy Clerk, Carol Severson, Utilities Superintendent, Russ Luthy and Town Marshal, Joey Brown.

 

MINUTES:

 

Burke moved to approve the minutes from the May 10, 2010 regular session, the May 20, 2010 executive session, and the May 20, 2010 special session.  Della Morta seconded the motion.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Burke added condolences to the Will Koch Family for his service to the community.  Smith seconded. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

COMMENTS FROM THE FLOOR:

 

No business to come before the Council

 

PARKS AND RECREATION:

 

No business to come before the Council

 

COMMUNITY CENTER:

 

No business to come before the Council

 

PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT:

 

Monthly Report:  P. Brown presented his monthly report.

 

Phil Brown advised of Town Hall property line in the back of the building is where the parking lot for Lake Rudolph ends.    

 

Ruth Rice property:  The windows of Ruth Rice’s property have been boarded up and most of the debris has been picked up. 

 

POLICE DEPARTMENT:

 

Ordinance 2010-06:  Patmore read in its entirety Ordinance 2010-06, an Ordinance amending Salary Ordinance 2009-06.  Patmore explained that it makes the change to the salary ordinance to allow the payment to part time deputies a maximum of $13.80 per hour.  Smith asked if this was a budgeted item.  J. Brown stated that it was.  Burke asked what we start our regular part-time at, Luthy if you would hire someone?  Luthy stated probably minimum wage.  Burke asked what the lowest paid police officer is paid?  That information was not available.  J. Brown stated that other departments pay their part time $15.00 to $18.00 per hour.  Burke asked what departments?  J. Brown stated Dale pays their part time $15.00 per hour.  J. Brown didn’t know any other communities rates.    

 

Smith moved to approve first reading of Ordinance 2010-06, and ordinance amending Salary Ordinance 2009-06.  Della Morta seconded.  Could not do the suspension of rules because 2/3’s of entire council is needed to approve and only 3/5’s is present.  Smith called for a vote for the motion on the table.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Part-time temporary and Reserve Officers:  J. Brown about putting on James as a part-time temporary employee.  Everything came back clear on his background check and fingerprinting.  Smith sated that he had already been approved.  Would also like to put on another part time deputy, since two were budgeted for.   Candidate is someone that actually worked for the Town, Jason Dunworth, who presently works nights for the County and is fully trained; will need background and fingerprint check.  Burke asked if Jason left on good terms.  J. Brown said that he left on good terms, he left because he got hired by the County.  Would also like to put Billy Phelps on as part-time reserve, with no pay.  His background and fingerprint check has already been done and J. Brown will be teaching his pre-basic next week with the Rockport Chief to get him through his training.    

 

Della Morta moved to put Billy Phelps on as a reserve officer.  Smith seconded.  Discussion – Burke wanted to be sure that the vehicles will remain within the Town; Brown confirmed.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Brown advised that there are still problems with the blue car and it is not worth having further work done on it.  Would like to know what the Council’s wishes are.  Smith asked if it was needed since it is basically used only for traffic.  Burke recommended disposing of the vehicle; J. Brown agreed.  Patmore will check on sending out for bids to get rid of the vehicle.  Depends on value of the item.  Would also need to remove certain equipment from the vehicle.  Luthy stated that he also had equipment that needed to be disposed of.  Smith inquired if it could be included in the town auction with other surplus equipment.  Patmore will check on the procedure for an auction. 

 

Taser policy:  Patmoree stated that he had a short Ordinance that adopts a change to the Police SOP’s to include a taser policy.  Brown will start training.  Patmore said that he has the policy it basically mirrors the County’s policy concerning taser use.  Burke stated that the tasers will not be used until the policy is adopted. 

 

FIRE DEPARTMENT:

 

Mutual Aid Agreement for Mass Casualty Response Trailer:  Hagedorn explained the trailer usage and storage agreement that needs to be signed.  Hagedorn had checked on the insurance and the Town was covered with the insurance requirements.  Hagedorn went on to explain that the supplies are provided by the county, not the town.  Patmore explained that the Town was responsible for hauling the trailer.  Burke inquired as to who was responsible for covering insurance for the trailer.  Hagedorn stated that the County would cover the trailer and the Town would cover their vehicle that would be hauling the trailer.   

 

Burke moved to approve the Mutual Aid Agreement for the Mass Casualty Response Trailer and authorize the Town Council President and Ed Hagedorn to execute the agreement on behalf of the Town, as long as the Town of Santa Claus is not liable for damages while towing the trailer.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Patmore advised that the Town had not received the grant for the new fire station. 

 

Hagedorn explained that Truck 1 could be sold, but wants to keep the old first responder truck.    

 

STREET DEPARTMENT:

 

Road stripping:  Luthy advised the stripping will be done at the same time as the annual paving. 

 

UTILITIES:

 

County lots:  Patmore stated he has not received a response from Francis Lueken.  Had sent a letter to him concerning the County owned Christmas Lake Village vacant lots in May asking what the County’s intention was.  Did receive a call from Lueken stating that they wanted to see what happened with the sale and then they will formulate a policy on what they are going to do with the lots to get them back in circulation and the Town to receive vacant sewer fees. 

 

Lamar Conservancy:  Patmore and Luthy meet with Stein and Hargess with the Lamar Conservancy District.  They did state their desire to have the Town of Santa Claus take over the conservancy.  The next step would be to enter into a Letter of Intent that would outline the Town’s wishes with regard to that. Did state that the Town’s primary concern was the grinder stations and the private service lines.  The conservancy district owns from the grinder station to the house.  The Town’s policy has always been that we do not own and will not own grinder stations.  Talked about a buy out, they have about $84,000 in the bank.  Don’t necessarily agree with a buy out, we would have required a residence to purchase and own their own grinder station if they wanted to hook onto the Town’s system.  Patmore proposed the Town of Santa Claus set an amount that the Town would receive.  They currently have a $22.30 per month service charge for each customer by the conservancy.  The users pay the Town’s rates, plus the additional surcharge which covers their overhead.  The Town of Santa Claus should set an arbitrary amount of what we expect to receive and if they don’t turn over that amount then the Town would continue the surcharge until that amount is received.  If they do spend money buying out the residents then it would just mean that the users would pay the surcharge for a longer time until they hit the agreed upon amount.  Need to state the Town’s intentions and the right for Luthy to do due diligence on all the mechanical system.  Patmore had prepared a draft of a Letter of Intent which he summarized.  Luthy advised of water used versus sewer and that the system has some deficiencies according to some people.  He further advised that he has not had the time to look at things closer, but there is an infiltration problem and didn’t know if the Town wanted to inherit the problem.  Smith stated a dollar amount is still needed.      

 

Smith moved to authorize Patmore to send a Letter of Intent to the Lamar Conservancy District under the terms he had outlines with the change of that $125,000 would be the net amount payable to the Town and with the inclusion of a clause that the Town anticipates closure of this one-year from now.  Della Morta seconded.  Patmore stated that with the Council’s permission that he will include that we hope to have it done by the end of the year

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

PMR report:  Luthy presented his PMR to the Council and reviewed the information for the past month.

 

Allen & Thompson salary reviews:  Luthy explained that Allen will have more responsibility and that he has the necessary license to operate the new water plant.  He is currently at $13.80 and would like it increased to $14.50 based on new acquired duties.  Allen was present and reviewed his work history and certification as well as him having to answer to IDEM.  He would be the responsible party, not the Town or the Utilities Superintendent.

 

Smith moved to approve an increase in pay rate to $14.50 from the current $13.80 effective the first pay period in July.  Burke seconded. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Luthy informed the Council that Thompson was a lift station technician, but not yet the lead man; he handles the day-to-day duties.  His pay increase had been postponed by the council in the past, but an additional six-month probationary period has passed.  He recommends the $12.86 rate be increased to $13.25. 

 

Della Morta moved to approve the increase to $13.25 effective this past Saturday which was the start of the current pay period.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Quotes for slip line for W. Melchoir:  Luthy advised he had solicited three quotes for the slip line rehab on West Melchoir from Reynolds, Inc., In-Situ Form, and EnvironFlow.  Only one had been received from Reynolds, Inc. in the amount of $17,376. 

 

Burke moved to approve the $17,376 quote from Reynolds for the West Melchoir sewer rehab.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

INDUSTRIAL PARK:

 

No business to come before the Council.

 

TOWN ATTORNEY:

 

Collection agency agreement:  Patmore’s request for changes to Hoosier collection agency’s agreement have been done, signed and returned to the Town.  

  

Burke moved to authorize the Town Council President to execute the collection agreement with Jayandbee, Inc. dba Hoosier Accounts Service.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Ordinance 2010-07:  Patmore presented by title Ordinance 2010-07, an Ordinance establishing policies concerning use of the Town computer systems, and reviewed the high points.  Discussion was made as to how it would be policed and disciplined.  Town Council has the ultimate final decision concerning discipline. 

 

Della Morta moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 2010-07, an Ordinance establishing policies concerning use of the Town computer systems.  Burke seconded.

 

Discussion followed concerning adding this to the Applicant’s Certification and Agreement that is signed by employees when they are first hired.  Patmore advised it would be part of the employee manual. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Storm water retention:  Patmore advised there is policy in force at this time.  Luthy & P. Brown are still looking at policy for this.  Smith said it should go back to the Zoning Board.  This was tabled until a later time. 

 

CLERK TREASURER:

 

Resolution regarding write offs:  Burke moved to have the Clerk Treasurer forward the write-offs on Resolution 2010-07 to Hoosier Accounts with all of the necessary documentation needed for collection.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

Updated ODFI/Originator Agreement:  Since there were not enough members to vote on the agreement this was tabled until the next Town Council meeting.

 

MISCELLANEOUS:

 

Future Projects List:  Patmore reviewed Future Projects list for 2011-2013; Numbers 1, 3, 6, 10 and 12 are gone.  Discussion followed concerning projects left on the list and additional that could be added.    

 

Smith inquired about the TIF district; Patmore advised that we are ready to have the public hearing, waiting on the Economic Development Plan from Umbaugh. 

 

Smith asked about an estimate to pursue the annexation of the north side.  Patmore stated it depends on multiple factors. 

 

Smith asked about the fee to get the GIS mapping system.  Patmore stated that he had given the cost to the Council and it was quite high.  Smith thought that Luthy could use it to map sewer and water and that it would help with a long range sewer plan.  Smith questioned if the County had any licenses left that the Town could use or if they could add to their licenses.  Patmore will check with the County.   

 

VOUCHERS AND ADJOURNMENT:

 

With no further business to come before the Council, vouchers were signed and

Della Morta moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:10 P.M.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed

 

June 22, 2010

The Santa Claus Town Council met in special session on June 22, 2010 at the Town Hall.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Ron Smith at 5:30 P.M. and it was announced that the meeting was being recorded.

Present:  Ron Smith, Kevin Burke, Dennis Della Morta, Elmer Dilger and Michael Johannes.

Also present were Town Attorney, Kevin Patmore and Clerk-Treasurer, Kim Christensen.

 

BUSINESS:

 

Ordinance 2010-06:  Smith stated that this would be the second reading of Ordinance 2010-06.  Christensen said the Ordinance amends the current salary ordinance by adding a maximum hourly wage for a part-time police officer.  Burke asked if J. Brown still needed to come before the Council in order to hire.  Smith and Johannes stated that he was already given permission to hire James Faulkenburg.  The other candidate he is still waiting for fingerprinting and background checks on.  Johannes moved to approve the second reading of Ordinance 2010-06, an Ordinance amending Salary Ordinance 2009-06.  Dilger seconded.  Burke questioned why J. we needed two extra part-time.  Joey can’t manage the people he has right now.  Last week there was a funeral and we had two police cars parked side by side, if there was an accident, they could not have gotten out of their car doors, they were parked so close.  Someone called him and said we had one of our police cars sit down at the high school parking lot for about an hour.  He doesn’t know where his people are.  We have some real issues here.  Dilger asked if there was a schedule for the police.  Burke said he had asked for one yesterday.  Smith said that James was already on the schedule.  Burke said he hadn’t seen a schedule, that he had asked Joey to prepare a schedule for the remaining month and also for July.  Della Morta questioned if the Ordinance had anything to do with him hiring.  Johannes said it just allows for the wages.  Smith stated that James had already been approved as a part-time employee this is to amend the Ordinance so he can be paid.  Once the information is back on Jason, Joey needs to come back to the Council for approval to hire.  There was discussion concerning yearly training, qualifications and certifications needed for the officers.  Burke asked why we are going to pay $13.80 per hour when we are not paying any of our other part-time people that amount, Russ does not hire any of his part-time people at that wage.  Christensen stated that Russ does not have part time employees.  Burke asked why they are getting such a better benefit?   Smith stated that they don’t receive any benefits and Smith and Patmore said they don’t get shot at.  Burke said that was the job they chose to be in.  Smiths said he didn’t want the job for $13.80 an hour.    Johannes said that when they work other jobs in the County they get paid more.  At the school they get $15.00 an hour and at Holiday World they get $18.00 per hour.  Burke asked if when they work at Holiday World if they receive a discount coupon to get in.  Johannes said that they did.  Burke then asked if they have to go on a points system like a normal employee does.  Johannes stated that they get one free ticket for every week that they work and they are hired as contractors.  Burke asked if an employee of the Town could accept a free ticket?  Smith said they are not working for the Town they are working for Holiday World.  Burke said they are using our stuff.  Smith said if Holiday World did not pay the Town would have to.  We are responsible for the traffic in the Town.  Johannes said that this had been brought up before and that every other community that has events has to pay their police officers regular time or time and a half to do traffic.  Holiday World pays the officers to take the burden off of the Town.  If the Town wants to do that, there are 25 police officers out there at times, are we going to make the Town pay for those officers?  How are they going to come up with the officers?  It was discussed that the employee are only part-time temporary and that there were only so many hours budgeted for them to work.  Smith called for a vote on the motion on the table.

            Ayes:  Smith, Della Morta, Dilger, Johannes

            Nays:  Burke

            Motion passed.

 

ODFI/Originator Agreement:  Christensen stated that she had received an updated Agreement from Spencer County Bank.  This allows the Town to debit from customer accounts for utility bills.  She needs the Council to authorize her to sign the agreement.  Johannes moved to authorize the Clerk-Treasurer to sign the ODFI/Originator Agreement with Spencer County Bank.  Della Morta seconded.

            Ayes:  Smith, Della Morta, Dilger, Johannes

            Abstained:  Burke (works for Spencer County Bank)

            Motion passed.

 

Advisory Planning Commission appointment:   Smiths stated that he was appointing Sue Hendrickson to fill out the term of Will Koch on the Advisory Planning Commission.  Christensen is to check at the courthouse to make sure of party affiliation.  The appointment will be contingent upon Hendrickson not having pulled a Democratic ballot in the last primary she voted in.   

 

Ordinance 2010-07:   Patmore stated this was the second reading for Ordinance 2010-07, an Ordinance establishing policies concerning use of Town Computer Systems, the first reading having been at the previous Council meeting.   The ordinance does not have an outright ban, but addresses excessive use and some outright prohibitions.  Della Morta moved to approve and adopt with second reading Ordinance 2010-07, an Ordinance establishing policies concerning use of Town Computer Systems.  Dilger seconded.  Burke asked that every employee sign an acknowledgement showing receipt of the policy. 

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Ordinance 2010-08:  Patmore stated that this was an ordinance adopting police procedures for the use of tasers by the police in the Town of Santa Claus, Indiana.  It amends the police department SOPs to allow for the use of the tasers.  Burke asked if this had been approved by the Town’s insurance carrier.  Christensen is to check with the insurance carrier.   Della Morta moved to approve the first reading of Ordinance 2010-08, concerning taser policy.  Johannes seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed.

 

Christensen stated that she wanted to remind the Council that if Lamar is obtained and the additional fee is imposed on the Lamar customers that there would be a charge involved to having it added to the billing program. 

 

Burke said that he thought that Joey had been talked to about directly his employees not to be sitting anywhere for any length of time.  Last night is a good incident, what are we going to do?  Someone needs to talk to Joey and tell him that we are not going to allow him to sit down by the high school and grade school and have a conversation.  They can do that up town, they can do it over their cell phones.  Johannes said that someone needs to just ask Joey what was going on.   Burke said that it was directed last at the previous meeting.  Christensen asked if Burke had spoken with Joey.  He said he had not talked to Joey yet, he is not here tonight.  Smith said he is at training he had called and asked if he needed to be here.  Burke said he will bring it up at the next meeting.  Johannes asked when this was supposed to have happened and said he will check with Joey.  Smith said he can’t know where everyone is at all the time, he has a life to.  Burke said that he understood that, but his people have to know what we expect of them.  We are not going to pay them to sit down there and talk all night.  If he worked an eight hour sift, one of that was down there, that is not right.  We need to get a GPS to put in their cars.  Smith said that would be back to the legal issues that had been discussed before.  Burke said that the State Police are going to, so he will have numbers for that stuff at the budget meeting.      

  

Dilger asked about the Welcome Signs.  Smith and Patmore stated that this is still being work on as far as location and what will actually be on the signs.   

 

ADJOURNMENT:

 

With no further business to come before the Council, Dilger moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:07 P.M.  Burke seconded.

            Ayes:  Unanimous

            Motion passed