Stamper Sworn In As Newest Firefighter
WARSAW — A firefighter who has gone through the probationary period was sworn in as a regular firefighter with the Warsaw-Wayne Fire Territory. Trent Stamper was given the oath of office by Mayor Joe Thallemer at Friday morning’s Warsaw Board of Public Works and Safety meeting.
“It’s a very important and fun time,” said Thallemer.
“It’s a long time coming,” said Fire Chief Mike Wilson. Stamper is a familiar face to the city as he was a former employee at the town hall, leaving and joining the fire department. “We got lucky and we got him,” said Wilson.
Thallemer stated Stamper has done a marvelous job in the community and when he worked at the city hall. “I hated to lose him, but I knew his potential was such, he wouldn’t stick around much longer. He found a home with the fire territory and I know you guys are all proud to have Trent involved.”
“I just wish to show appreciation to all of you that are here and the guys who couldn’t be here. Wouldn’t have made it without you,” said Stamper.
The traditional pinning of the badge was done by Quin Stamper, his brother, who is in his second week as a probationary firefighter.
During the business portion of the meeting, the board granted the forgiveness of wastewater late fees and lien fees to Megan and Luis Vega in the amount of $40.80. The board was advised the bills had been sent to the contractor upon completion of the construction. No one notified the wastewater department of the change of ownership until after a lien was placed on the property.
Mrs. Vega was present stating they would happily pay the past due amount, but felt it was not their responsibility to pay the late fees and lien fees when no notification was ever received.
A bid opened June 17 for paving work on a portion of Main Street, was officially rejected by the board. Jeff Beeler, street supervisor and James Emans, city engineer, stated the bid of Phend & Brown Inc., Milford, was $60,000 more than the estimate. That amount was not budgeted. The bid was for $323,915.
Stellar Friday
Thallemer announced the Stellar Community First Friday would begin at 2 p.m. with craft events followed by the event moving to Richardson-DuBois Park at 5 p.m. for more activities.
The deadline for the proposed projects is 5 p.m. today. That deadline will be met, Thallemer said, adding he had spoken with the consultant prior to the board of works meeting. “It is being printed and will be walked over … our attention will now move to the site visit on July 21.”
Thallemer expressed appreciation to individuals, department heads and community members who were involved in preparing the plan. “We now hope to convince the state committee (to be named a Stellar Community). It’s not an opportunity that comes along very often. I’m confident with what we are presenting and we will do everything in our means to convince them to be in Indianapolis on Aug. 18 (when the winner is announced).”