The Winona Lake Town Council unanimously approved an increase of rental and park fees by $10. The decision was made during Tuesday night’s regular monthly meeting.

The current rental fee for park facilities – $15 for non-profits, $25 for residents and $35 for non-county residents – is too low and the parks are losing money. The new fees take effect next year.

The council awarded a bid from Newton and Sons Excavating to replace a storm drain in Grace Village near Arbor Lane. The project is expected to take 30 days and be completed by winter.

From the streets department, it was noted the pump station on Wooster Road is complete, however, the station is having communication issues with its trucks and are working on modifying an antenna.

The Prestwick reconstruction project is expected to be completed on Wednesday with surface asphalt to be placed.

Town attorney James Walmer addressed a salary issue. The plan was to reduce clerk treasurer Kent Adams’ salary by five percent to balance the budget. However, the council is not allowed to reduce an elected official’s salary by an amount lower than the previous year’s amount. The official can only waive all or part of the salary, according to state legislation. The solution is to donate back that five percent and Adams agreed to donate the five percent of income back. He stated publicly that was his original intent.

In the supervisors report, it was noted Nov. 21 will be the last day for leaf pick-up for Winona Lake residents. After that time all leaves must be bagged.

Also reported, the Winona Lake Fire Department’s ladder truck is expected to arrive early on Dec. 20.

The Winona Lake Town Council meets again at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 27.