By Liz Shepherd
InkFreeNews

ETNA GREEN — The Etna Green Town Council discussed the possibility of entering a second loan agreement with Winona Powder Coating during an Aug. 8 meeting.

Jamie Visker, Winona Powder Coating’s CEO, said the business received a $1 million loan through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program a couple years ago. The program helps provide funding for rural projects through local utility organizations.

Visker said Kosciusko Economic Development Corporation CEO Alan Tio checked with USDA and said Winona is allowed to have a second loan. If the town decides to participate, it will be about a $700,000 loan.

“The town collects the 1% interest on the outstanding balance,” said Visker. “The town pays no interest to USDA and then (Winona backs) the credit with a letter of credit from a third-party bank, so the town doesn’t bear any financial risk. It’s one of those few things (the town) actually profits from.”

Council said they would consult with Tio and look into the matter.

In other business, Etna Township Fire Chief Kevin Smith II presented two quotes for painting the entirety of the fire station’s exterior. The project is currently estimated to cost around $10,000. Council tabled the subject and asked Smith to bring them an additional quote for consideration.

The council also observed a moment of silence for the town’s superintendent of electric and waste management, Andy Cook, who passed away on July 20. Council expressed their gratitude for Cook’s work and said they are working closely with Indiana Municipal Power Agency during this time. Town representatives from Bremen and Argos have also offered to assist Etna Green during any emergencies.

Council’s next meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12, in Etna Green Town Hall.