Bill Pipp, left, president of the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District, signs necessary financial documents at the district’s first quarter meeting Friday, Feb. 14. Shown from left are Heather Harwood, who assisted with Zoom participants; Jim Silcox, who attended virtually; and Todd Mikel, treasurer and board member.

Text and Photos
By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

SYRACUSE — A final report of the dike repair will soon be sent to the Natural Resource Commission and Department of Natural Resources, once a work schedule on repairs to the water control device and control tower are set.

Members of the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy District had approved $180,800 in potential repairs and prevention with Advanced Diving Inc., at its fourth quarter meeting in October. These repairs included repair of the gate area, seal and guide replacement, downstream side repair, control tower work, annual cleaning and inspection, including a dive inspection, removal of excess debris on the upstream side of the spillway,, and installation of a bubbler system on the upstream side.

During the first quarter meeting Friday, Feb. 14, the board reviewed the six projects, giving the go ahead on three projects, totaling $128,000, and scheduling the annual cleaning and inspection for August, at a cost of $12,900. The board will obtain more details on a $20,000 cost to remove excess debris and a $19,900 cost for a bubbler system, before approving further work.

“These are subjective and have nothing to do with the work project. They are nice things to do,” said Bill Pipp, who was re-elected board chairman.

Pipp stated time tables will be sought on the three projects.

Judy Roberts takes the oath of office after being elected to her first full term on the Turkey Creek Dam and Dike Conservancy Board. Roberts represents District 4 of the district.

Jim Silcox questioned why a fuss had not been raised with only one gate being operational. It was explained it possibly had to do with how many gallons flow through each gate. With one operational gate, it was adequate, so as not to take out the bridge on Henry Street or flood down-stream properties.

Silcox was curious at the cost of raising the Henry Street bridge. While no information was available, Pipp stated he has talked to the town about removing trees and vegetation in that area, as safety precautions. This has yet to be accomplished.

It was suggested the board get with Al Tehan on the amount of water that could flow through both gates when opened to full capacity. The raising of the Henry Street bridge would be a capital project for the town to discuss. It was pointed out there is evidence of erosion on the sides of that bridge.

During other business, a review of fund balances, and its 2025 budget was presented by Ross Hagan, Baker Tilly Municipal Advisors. Noting the assessed valuation for the district had increased 11%, the new tax rate is $.0181, compared to $.0188 in 2024. The advertised rate was at $.0192. It was noted the amount projected to be paid by homeowners will be reduced by at least 5%.

During the discussion, additional appropriations may be needed toward the end of the year for the general fund, due to timing of the tax draw. He stated when working on the 2026 budget, an idea of what is needed will be on the radar. He also mentioned there is room, if needed to raise the cumulative improvement rate.

Silcox reported an account has been established with NIPSCO for electricity to be provided for the water control structure. Kemp Electric is working with NIPSCO on service to the building, including additional outlets. He also was asked to look into having the door replaced with appropriate locks.

Before adjourning for the quarter, the board set its meeting dates for 2025 and its annual meeting. Meetings will be held at 3 p.m. April 25, July 25 and Oct. 24, at the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation office. The annual meeting and election of officers will take place Feb. 6, 2026.

Prior to the first quarter meeting, the board briefly conducted it’s annual meeting. During that meeting, Judy Roberts was sworn in to represent District 4 and the resignation of Carolyn Anderson as District 5 representative, was noted. No other candidate for District 5 has come forward. Current board members will be seeking a resident in that district to fill the vacancy.

Additionally, the slate of officers for the next year was approved. Pipp will continue as president, Roberts will serve as vice chair, Silcox as secretary, and Todd Mikel as treasurer.