IDNA Brands, a subsidiary of Wildman Business Group and the company behind the popular Sportula product line, has requested a tax abatement from Kosciusko County Council.

Josh Wildman came before the council at the Aug. 14 meeting saying the company was expanding its product line, buying new equipment and planning to hire more employees. The council took the abatement request under advisement.

Rick Wagner of Pierceton came before the council to address horse-drawn carriages not being taxed. “I inquired with Senator Mishler,” said Wagner. “He said that horse drawn carriages are exempt from motor vehicle law.”

Wagner would like to see laws adjusted to include any passenger vehicle, not just motorized vehicles. Wagner’s concerned was raised due to the adoption of a Wheel Tax in Kosciusko County. Wagner feels the tax is not fair if it does not include the buggies that also use the roads.

“Let us do what we can, and you do what you can,” said Kosciusko County Council President Robert Sanders. “Get others who have the same concern you do to voice their opinion.”

Also at the meeting, an appropriation of $2,000 to the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department for work release drug testing. Sheriff Rocky Goshert said he would like to start using a drug test that will check for synthetic drugs. The appropriation was approved.

A requested to seek new employees to replace two employees who are leaving the health department was approved. Additionally, all transfers on the agenda were approved, including four transfers totaling $10,000 of highway department funds to be used for garage maintenance and motor supplies.