Pictured, from left, are Council President Todd Slabaugh, Council Member Kevin Smith II, Council Member Keith Claassen and Clerk-Treasurer Patti Cook.

ETNA GREEN — The Etna Green Town Council started 2019 with some changes, including an updated environment and a new face at the front of the room.

Clerk-Treasurer Patti Cook was introduced to the community at the council’s Jan. 8 meeting. Cook was appointed by Kosciusko County Chairman Mike Ragan to fill the position vacated by Laura Baker, who announced her resignation in November 2018. Cook’s term as clerk-treasurer began on Jan. 1.

“We really appreciate Patti coming on board,” said Council President Todd Slabaugh.

The council’s January meeting was held in the former Interra Credit Union building, located at 106 S. Walnut St. The town council purchased the building in November 2018 to use it as the town hall.

“I’m loving the new place,” said Council Member Kevin Smith II. “It looks great in here.”

Slabaugh also acknowledged Baker for working hard to make the town hall’s transition from the Etna Green fire department building to the Interra Credit Union building happen.

“And this table has to be at least 200 years newer than the one we had, right?” joked Slabaugh, discussing a new town hall table for the council members, adorned with a nameplate for each present member.

Even with the newness, the council kept its meeting brief, with the main topics of discussion centering around the fire department.

Fire Chief Randall Byrer expressed concern about the possibility of the Internet line at the fire department building being moved to the Interra building due to the town hall’s move.

“I’d like the Internet to stay there,” said Byrer.

The council said the Internet connection at the fire department will stay there, with a new Internet site to be established at the Interra building.

Slabaugh also discussed a question presented to the council regarding liability checks for the use of the town’s park building. Byrer asked if the fire department would have to present a $200 check to the council every time the department holds fish fries at the building. He also asked if a waiver would be possible for the department.

“We have to keep everything fair across the board,” said Slabaugh.

After some discussion, the council agreed to have the fire department present one annual check for liability purposes rather than present a check for every fish fry the department hosts.

The council’s next meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the former Interra Credit Union building.

The town council held its January meeting in its new town hall, the former Interra Credit Union building.