From left: Tim Croy, Town Council Member; Barb Ross, Clerk-Treasurer; and Jill Gross, Town Council President. InkFreeNews photo by Kory Stoneburner-Betts.

MENTONE — The Mentone Town Council rejected a fee-for-service agreement from the Kosciusko County Economic Development Corporation (KEDCo) at its monthly meeting, Nov. 6.

During the council meeting on June 5, KEDCo proposed that Mentone invest $5,000 of its E.D.I.T., or Economic Income Tax, funds with KEDCo or split the funds by paying in two installments. The funds would be used by KEDCo to develop new businesses and increase commerce within the town limits.

The council voted to reject the KEDCo proposal due to a lack of space within the town limits to accommodate new businesses and a lack of confidence in a worthwhile use of the funds, according to the town council.

“Maybe if we had annexed land or an industrial park waiting for businesses, it would be worth it,” said Town Marshall Jim Eads following the council’s decision to reject the funds proposal.

According to Town Council President Jill Gross, the council will wait to hear a proposal from Rich Haddad and K21 Heath Foundation at the next meeting, Dec. 4.

Mentone joins North Webster as another town in Kosciusko County that rejected the funds proposal. North Webster Town Council rejected the proposal at its meeting in August.

Other business included:

• The council approved the police department to purchase a new Dodge Ram truck for $24,700 from Palmen Motors in Kenosha, Wisc.
• Town Utilities Supervisor Joshua Shepherd received approval to pursue contacting Custom Fencing to construct new white vinyl fencing on the south side of the cemetery addition.
• Gross announced that trick or treat saw over 300 in Mentone on Oct. 31, despite the weather.
• Cub Scout Pack 3777 will be in Mentone raking leaves in the community, Saturday, Nov. 16.
• The Christmas Craft Show and Open House will be at the Mentone Community and Emergency Services Building, Saturday, Dec. 7.