NORTH WEBSTER — Representing the North Webster-Tippecanoe Township Fire Department, Deputy Chief Chris Francis appeared before the North Webster Town Council during the meeting held Tuesday, Feb. 20, in the North Webster Community Center.

He presented an overview of the department noting the main problem is a lack of personnel. A common problem with all area departments, Francis reported, “We are all surviving by assisting each other.” He was referring to neighboring firefighting and EMS units.

The town is funding one full-time position for the fire department for a total of two full-time employees. More volunteers are needed.

He also noted, “The local department has the best equipment that is in good shape overall with the cumulative fund for equipment in pretty good shape.” Figures given were 165 calls of service for the fire department, 631 for EMS with a total response of 796.

After the next township meeting in March, Francis will return to update the council and suggested a joint meeting with township officials as well.

Another big topic of discussion was the sewer problems at 602 Albert Eckert Drive, owned by Robert W. and Patricia L. Parks, Carmel. According to Utilities Manager Mike Noe there are several components to the problem including equipment failure. The consensus seemed to be the contractor who installed the equipment should bear responsibility.

After input from Jack Birch, town attorney, it was decided to turn the Parks’ claim over to the town’s insurance provider to work out with their insurance company.

North Webster Police Chief Greg Church spoke of some personnel changes with the newest officer returning from training where he did well. Police Clerk Mary Jo Lundy is retiring in mid-March.

The police answered 182 calls of service in January with the most, 28, being traffic related. Officers worked 867.5 hours, drove 3,783 miles and used 339.5 gallons of fuel.

Attending the meeting were Francis, Noe, Birch, Church, council members Jon Sroufe, Lisa Strombeck and David Waliczek, and Clerk-Treasurer Betsy Luce. The next meeting will be held 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, at the North Webster Community Center, 310 N. Main St.