Attorney Scott Reust reviews documents at the Silver Lake Town Council meeting Wednesday, March 7.

SILVER LAKE — Prior to the start of the regular Silver Lake Town Council meeting Wednesday, March 7, a public hearing was held related to the sewer rate increase.

Eric Walsh, CPA with Umbaugh & Associates, Indianapolis, and financial advisor for Silver Lake, discussed the town sewer main project, which has an estimated total cost of approximately $900,000. Of that total cost, approximately $500,000 is being funded through a state grant. The remaining $400,000 will be funded through a state revolving fund bond.

“To be able to make the SRF bond payments on an annual basis, the sewer rate increase will be approximately $6.92 per month per residence,” said Walsh. “For a state average of cities and towns your size, you will still be below state averages even with this increase.”

“Basically we’re keeping our rates at a level that is still competitive while doing some infrastructure improvements,” said Council President Chad Miner.

Council members opened sealed farm bids for the leasing of land behind the fire station, located at 702 E. Main St. Two bids were received. Council members approved acceptance of a bid from Aaron Hoffman for $1,327.50.

Silver Lake Fire Chief John Conley informed council members that on Thursday, March 15, there will be an insurance investigation related to a house fire on Jefferson Street that occurred in December. Conley said three insurance investigators will be coming to investigate the Jefferson Street house.

Silver Lake Town Marshal Jason McGlennen announced there is currently an ongoing IRS phone scam. The caller states that money is owed to the IRS and that if payment is not made immediately, the police will arrive at your home in 45 minutes to arrest you.

“The IRS does not call to solicit funds,” McGlennen cautioned. “Do not give them any information.”

According to McGlennen, this type of scam happens almost every year around this time. McGlennen said residents can call the police to make a report if they would like to do so but advised there is not a lot the police can do since the phone numbers are fake.

“We just need everyone to be aware of it,” said McGlennen.

Another issue is that hypodermic needles are being found along the road and on properties, said McGlennen. Residents should call police if they find hypodermic needles and the police will come and collect the needles.

Other News:

• Council members approved a sewer adjustment in the amount of $17 for Terri Mumford.
• Council members gave approval for Joanne Streeter to receive a water adjustment of  $107.94 and sewer adjustment of $39.95 on her February bill as well as a sewer adjustment of $31.86 on her March bill.
• The next regular meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 11.