The Sidney Town Council at the Monday, April 22 meeting. From left are Council Member Rebecca Adams, Council Member Sharon Rancourt, Sidney Clerk-Treasurer Lisa Parrett and Sidney Council President Gavin Parrett.

Text and Photos
By Patrick Webb

SIDNEY — After rescheduling, the Sidney Town Council met Monday, April 22 and discussed a sewage issue and the Pierceton Police contract.

Sidney Clerk-Treasurer Lisa Parrett explained that sickness was the reason for the meeting being rescheduled.

One issue the council discussed was sewage issues. Sidney Council President Gavin Parrett read a report provided by Sidney Sewer Department Manager Tim Woodward, who was unable to attend the meeting.

Woodward reported that there was a leak possibly caused by a sump pump attached to the sewer system, which is not allowed. He said that the flow went from 5,000 gallons to 20,000, then returned to normal. Woodward reported he would send a letter reminding town residents of the sump pump rules.

Council Member Sharon Rancourt shared that the sewage issues had been ongoing since January, and questioned if it was being caused by a sump pump.

The council also discussed an invoice for Woodward hiring someone to videotape the area to try and find the leak, which cost $1,300 and was not approved by the council.

Woodward also reported two motor starts for the surge tank control panel were replaced for $1,600.

The council also discussed a copy of the contract with the Pierceton Police Department for two hour coverage. Rancourt discussed if the cost, $3,500 a year, would cover only the 32 weeks left in the year. The council approved to request 3 hours a week for the rest of the year.

In other business, the council:

• Discussed a resident’s request to do community service for the town. The council approved allowing the community service only if he was insured.
• Announced that the John Deere ride on lawnmower will be sold at auction, and approved a $500 minimum bidding amount and no price on the sprayer.
• Heard another resident’s concern about SR 13, which he described as becoming a “drag strip” at night.

The next town council meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Monday, May 13, at the Jackson Township Fire Station.

SR 13 heading south out of Sidney.