Syracuse Denies Vacation, Approves Water Expenditure
The Syracuse Town Council continued discussions on a public hearing for an ordinance to vacate an alley during last night’s meeting, but after discussions, the request was denied.
Treco LLC and James and Karen Tranter’s petition for an ordinance to vacate an alley was represented by attorney Steve Snyder. Council Member Brian Woody said if the owners would consent to give an easement on both sides of the property he could see vacating the alley but, since there had been discussions with the public works department regarding plans to change out the 2-inch water mains in the area of the alley to 4-inch mains for better fire protection, a vacation didn’t seem in the best interest of the town.
The alley is also on the edge of an important corridor for development. All members of the council voted to deny the request to vacate the alley.
Brett Konarski of Jones Petrie Rafinski, the town’s engineering firm, gave an update on the industrial park at SR 13 and U.S. 6. Cripe Excavating, which hasn’t been on site during the winter, is expected back on site in late March or early April to finish grading the roads. NIPSCO will come in a week or two after Cripe Excavating resumes work to complete installation of utilities in the park.
It was also noted there was an issue with the Indiana Department of Transportation. An Elkhart County employee drove through the site and noticed traffic control was not as was required by state law. The matter was reported to INDOT which shut down work for a week while the issue was resolved. The traffic control requirements had to be inspected when resumed and no fines were levied.
Jeremy Sponseller, public works superintendent, gave a lengthy report. Work on the Oakwood lift stations was to start Monday, however, due to the low temperatures, the work was pushed back to next week. Sponseller and council members are compiling a list of streets that need repaving and sidewalks that need repaired for this year’s paving season.
It was also determined the town is billing for less water than is being pumped. Sponseller noted 36 million gallons of water are unaccounted for and asked for permission to have a leak detection company come in and do a water loss survey. The project will take five or six days and will look to see if there are any leaks in the system or if the meters need to be recalibrated.
The council approved the work to not exceed $10,000 and be completed within 90 days.
Sponseller also requested permission to purchase a new pick up truck and convert it to a flatbed with a small service crane on it. The truck will be used to move pumps at lift stations. The council approved the purchase not to exceed $28,000 and work to be completed within 60 days.
The town is working on getting a bridge across the inlet at Harkless Drive and are looking at possible grant opportunities. The foundation will make a decision by the end of the month.
Police Chief Tony Ciriello reported he is working with Michiana Area Council of Governments on an Americans with Disability Administration transitional plan. This plan is required by the federal government. The completed plan has been posted at the clerk treasurer’s office and Syracuse Public Library for public review.
Dick Pelletier came before the council providing an update on the Harold Schrock Athletic field. A work day has been scheduled for April 13 and a dedication day is set for May 4. Additional funds are needed. A large donation has come in requiring matching funds for lights. Pelletier told the council the lights would probably be installed after this year’s little league season.
Last November the council awarded $20,000 to the project. Pelletier was seeking another $20,000. Siegel asked how many children participated. Pelletier said between 375 and 400 in little league and another couple hundred in Peewee football. Siegel suggested Pelletier seek funds from the Turkey Creek Township Advisors.
For a more in-depth account of last night’s meeting, see today’s issue of The Mail-Journal.