The island in Winona Lake (Map courtesy of Google)

A new ordinance that would penalize heavy loads on the island in Winona Lake was introduced to the Winona Lake Town Council at its monthly meeting last night.

The ordinance, should it be adopted, would subject vehicles with heavy loads that drive on the island to a substantial fine. Such heavy loads have the potential to damage the roads and sidewalks on the island, which could leave the town with hefty repair and maintenance costs.

The ordinance restricts vehicles to weights of 8,000 pounds per axle. Exceptions would be made for Winona Lake Fire Department trucks and garbage trucks.

Town Attorney James Walmer’s first draft set the fine at an arbitrary $1,000 plus attorney fees not to exceed $2,500. There was much discussion, factoring input from Walmer, Town Engineer Larry Long, WLFD Chief Mitch Titus and Street Superintendent Tom Miller, regarding the amount.

Town Coordinator Craig Allebach wanted the fine to be substantial enough to discourage drivers from transporting heavy loads onto the island and make sure there’s enough income to cover repairs caused by violators. Councilman Terry Howie recommended the fine be set at $1,500. Ultimately, the council didn’t set a fine, and it would be determined at the next council meeting in February.

If the ordinance passes, signs would be posted at bridges entering the island. Some trucks would have to be weighed, which would likely involve Indiana State Police. Town Marshall Paul Schmidt stated Winona Lake Police could prevent trucks from driving onto the island but did not have the equipment to weigh the trucks.

Also at the meeting, the 2015 council officers were elected. Randy Swanson was appointed president and Terry Howie was appointed vice president. Contracts for Long and Walmer were approved.

Cut and Curl Beauty Salon requested its sewage rate be adjusted from 2 units to 1.25 units. The council decided to table the request until it could collect data regarding the utilities.

Miller reported that construction on the new lift station restarted on Monday. Construction was stalled due to the recent frigid temperatures.

The Winona Lake Town Council meets on the third Tuesday of each month. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 17.

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