The Mail-Journal, Volume 29, Number 1, Milford, Kosciusko County, 14 February 1990 — Page 1

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Milford 658-4111

Syracuse 457-3666

VOLUME 29

Wawasee addition listed as WCSC's first priority

I By DEB PATTERSON Staff Writer Priorities on where to start in regards to the facility report received last month were reviewed by members of the Wawasee Community School Corporation Board last evening. The priorities were based on findings of the corporation administrators, using the report by Dr. Harmon Baldwin and Dr. Dean Berkley, professors at Indiana University. Board members felt the priorities presented were in order and action on the first priority item, an addition to Wawasee High School, be taken very quickly. The board gave Dr. Roger Thornton, superintendent, approval to proceed to get high school staff members’ input into the study recommendations. The priorities and tentative date of completion are: Addition of 24 classrooms to Wawasee High School and administration building to be completed January 1,1992 ; removal of Syracuse Middle School by January 1, 1992; and renovation of areas in Syracuse and Milford Schools, plus an architectural study of the North Webster School by August 1,1993. Concerning the high school addition, with a completion date of

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CHAMBER GUEST SPEAKER — Chamber President Jim Caskey, on left, welcomes guest speaker Lee Theis, on right, to the chamber’s quarterly luncheon. The special meeting was held on Wednesday, Feb. 7, at noon. Theis, of Edward D. Jones and Company of Goshen, presented his “Diary of a Decade,” or look at the 80s. He followed that up with a few economic predictions for the 90s. (Photo by Mary Jane Lorton)

Chamber luncheon —

'Moderation' is 90s watchword

I By MARY JANE LORTON Staff Writer According to Lee Theis of Edward D. Jones and Company of Goshen, the watchword for the 90s is “moderation.” Holding an optimistic view of the decade to come, Theis advised “using logic when investing,” and putting money in “solid investments with a good return.” Theis presented his 90s look into the economy to members of the SyracuseWawasee Chamber of Commerce during their quarterly luncheon on Wednesday, Feb. 7. Introduced by chamber treasurer Mike Tallon, the guest speaker delivered his “Diary of a Decade,” or look at,the 80s. He followed that synopsis up with what can be expected in the 90s. He looked back at the 80s as a decade of excess.” His look forward was a hope, he said, “to replace rampant consumerism

January 1, 1992, Dr. Thorton noted it gives the corporation six months “becoming in trouble,” based on projected enrollment figures. Discussing the removal of Syracuse Middle School, which the board had planned prior to the study, it was suggested nothing be done until the summer of 1990, with the removal started in the summer of 1991. Concern was expressed in the report about asbestos in that building. At Milford and Syracuse Schools, there were various recommendations made to renovate the older portions of the building. Dr. Thornton noted work in both these buildings would be similar and could be done at the same time, but planning would need to begin a couple years ahead. The report indicated an architectural study needed to be done at North Webster sometime in the decade. Dr. Thornton suggested if the study was done it be completed by August 1993. Funding

Financing for these projects was also suggested to the board. Dr. Thornton said general obligation bonds could be sold for the removal of the Syracuse Middle School and addition to the administration building. He pointed out that by January 2, 1991, the corporation will have $1,450,000 outstanding in its bonding power and based on assessed valuation

with social awareness.” The 90s therefore, will seek to solve the problems created in the 80s. For example, in the 90s demographic changes will mean “adding a few lines and wrinkles to our country,” as baby boomers are not having as many kids as past generations. The average family will only have 1.8 kids and the median age will rise to 39. This older society will mean a gradual increase in savings and therefore the lowering of debts. As Theis explained, “we start saving as we get older. ’ ’ “The economy should avoid a recession,” Theis said, adding, “we should see continued growth.”

Slock auu uvuu Will COn tinue to rise, he predicted, but at a slower rate. Areas to watch include. industries involved ;n health care, waste management and environmental clean-up, water shortages, the country’s in-

Consolidation of THE MILFORD MAIL (Est. 1888) and THE SYRACUSE-WAWASEE JOURNAL (Est. 1907)

figures have the bonding power of 2 percent of that figure or $2.8 million. A building corporation would need to be formed for the addition to the high school. Renovations at Syracuse and Milford could be funded by the capital project fund, that will be replacing the cumulative building fund in January 1991. Dr. Thornton noted the time frame suggested will provide adequate time to acquire funds for the project. The study at North Webster, according to Dr. Thornton, will not be the kind of money “talked about when talking construction money. It won’t be the kind to plan a long time ahead for. ” Board members were encouraged by Curt Jordan, board president, to look over the priorities and use the question, “can the corporation manage it?” Vera Hall asked if the rate on the capital improvement fund would be any higher than the cumulative building fund rate and if new chalk board and carpeting in some of the rooms was going to make it better for a child to learn? Mrs. Hall commented she felt many things in the facility report are justified, especially in the administration office. In response to her questions, Dr. Thornton noted the CIF is operated on a three-year plan and its intent is not to be any higher

frastructure (bridges, roads, highways, etc.), labor saving devices, education, telecommunications, and natural gas. For the defense industry, Theis said the predictions are gloomy. He expects no growth and maybe a declineln this field. An important point stressed by Theis was an increasing globalization of investments. He noted 75 percent of what is used today is built out of the United States. “It’s not smart to ignore that,” he added. “If you don’t have foreign investments in your portfolio, you’ll miss the boat,” he commented. Theis concluded his picture of the 90s by stating that overall he remains ontimistic Tn the OfK hr said, “you won’t see problems like trade deficits or budget deficits.” Wednesday’s luncheon was held at Gropp’s Famous Fish of Stroh in Syracuse.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14,1990

than the present rate (50 cents). Regarding her other question, the answer was yes new chalk boards and carpeting do make a difference. “It changes the classroom environment, noise control and the ability for a child to sit on the floor for reading and so on.” He pointed out there were some chalk boards that are “worn out” and are not functional as the writing cannot be seen. Mrs. Hall also voiced her concern that the board be aware of costs and justification to spend. “I’ve never known them not to be cost conscious,” commented Dr. Thornton. 1990-1991 Calendar Recommendations were made regarding the school calendar for the 1990-1991 school year, a change in the vacation rule policy and procedure for work make-up and grading for unexcused absences. Dr. Thornton asked the board to consider a calendar that would include the first teacher day beginning August 20,1990 and the first student day being August 21. The calendar would also include

Terry Zimmerman named Milford reserve deputy

(By MARY JANE LORTON Staff Writer

Filling the position of’ reserve deputy town marshal, the Milford Town Council approved the hiring of Terry Zimmerman of Milford. Clerk-Treasurer Monica Bice swore in the lifetime Milford resident at a regular session of the council on Monday, Feb. 12, at 7:30 pm. Town Marshal Dave Hobbs noted Zimmerman was “qualified” from schools on accident investigation to crime scene investigations. Further qualifications include his service in the military from 1976 to 1979 as a senior patrolman and his present position in the reserves as a military police investigator. Reporting for the utilities department, Dallas Winchester II said an inventory of the sewer and water departments has been completed. He also noted having received one set of proposed plans for Dick Casto’s mobile home park. Winchester added those having questions about the park, or wanting to see the plans can contact the utilities department. Continuing with his report, Winchester said his department will be reading water meters from February 14 to 16. Call-ins are being accepted. 'Easter Hop' set for April 14 Hoping to hop into the black to help promote future projects, the Syracuse Retail Merchants agreed to pursue an “Easter Hop” dance April 14. The dance would feature music from the 1950 s and ’6os. Meeting at Creative Touch Studio last Friday, the merchants also discussed methods of raising money to support advertising for various promotions during the year. “We need to do something to pull together and really promote the town,” said president Judy Moser. Jeanne Gardiner suggested a chicken barbecue or “kick off the summer” dance, although it was noted that many of the members didn’t have thp time tn devote to such functions. Ron Moser agreed to look into the possibility nf bringing donkey basketball into the area. The merchants will meet again at 8 a m. Friday, March 9.

a tWo-week Christmas Vacation and one week spring break the first week in April. A vote will be taken at meeting to be held on February 27. The board was also asked to delete section three of the vacation rule policy eliminating excused vacations for students. Dr.* Thornton noted administrators and teaching staff are in favor of this move. Currency students with an unexcused absence are allowed to make up missed work, but not given credit. Dr. Thornton stated this leaves a negative impact on . grades. It was suggested that the board revise the policy to permit a student to make up the work missed, for credit, but at the end of the nine weeks receive a two percent grade reduction in that area based on the cumulative score. Dennis Mikel noted his only concern about the vacation rule elimination was regarding students taking educational trips, and noted an instance several years ago when a student had the (Continued on page 2)

Following Winchester’s request, the council approved the purchase of a flow proportional and its accompanying * equipment at a cost of $6,050. Purchased from Living Waters Company, Monrovia, the equipment’s cost includes installation and training. Noting his department is looking at cleaning the lagoons in no more than two years, Winchester said he spoke to Rich Worland of Miland Agrißusiness about the removal of sludge. Worland, who is involved in the actual dredging, told Winchester it would cost between $8,500 and $12,000 to remove the sludge from the lagoons. The first step, however, prior to dredging, would be to obtain a land application permit and Worland said he does not furnish this permit. Winchester brought a quote from Steve Kiefer of Environmental and Industrial Consulting in Bremen, who would get

BZA denies additional petition for condos at Lake Wawasee

I By STACEY LESCH Staff Writer A petition by the Wawasee Overlook, Inc. for a variance to allow for a 12-unit condominium complex on Lakeview Drive, Syracuse, to have a 22-foot setback instead of the required 35-foot setback was denied by the Kosciusko County Board of Zoning Appeals at the Tuesday, Feb. 13, meeting. The board discussed the project with attorney Steve Snyder who represented the Wawasee developers. Snyder requested the condopiiniums be constructed just 22 feet from the west right-of-way of Lakeview Drive. The petition was filed after developers noted a problem with fitting the complex and parking spaces in the previously accepted setback area. Evelyn Stautter, a nearby neighbor of the property, appeared alone before the board to tignt tne petition. She sternly disagreed with Snyder’s indications that Lakeview Drive was

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HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES — Indiana livestock producers, left to right, Ray Becher, Adams County, (dairy); Leon Tucker, Milford, (beef); and Robert Bennett, Linden, (swine), were named to the Indiana Livestock Breeders Association Hall of Fame during its annual banquet held recently at Purdue University, West Lafayette. The producers’ portraits will be placed in the Hall of Fame to honor their contributions to the state’s livestock industry. Tucker has been involved in the beef industry since 1939, when he was a 10-year-old showing his first 4-H steer at the county fair. He has implemented new technology, such as embryo transplanting, into his herd with success. An excellent resource for seedstock, Tucker has a feedlot that finishes about 110 head a year. (Photo furnished by Indiana Livestock Breeders Association)

the permit approved and also be involved in sludge and land sampling. Winchester asked the council’s approval of this $3,000 expenditure stating it may take a while to get the permit and the lagoons are due to be cleaned. The council accepted this quote of $3,000. In a related matter, the council approved Winchester’s request to put Ron Swain back on as parttime in the utilities department in the second week of March. The council also approved Winchester’s request to attend the Indiana Rural Water Association Meeting on March 27 and 28 in Nashville. In new business, Kate Doty presented a petition to the council asking for a street name change. Almost all of the property owners of Turkey Creek Addition, r 2, Milford, located between Turkey Creek and Bear Creek, signed a petition requesting that their drive, recorded as Charles Bird

not a heavily traveled road as she told of the parking facilities for the Wawasee Yacht Club and other summer traffic that occupies the roadway. Snyder later commented that Lakeview Drive is a county road dedicated to public use. Stauffer then stated, “There’re condominiums on 4he lake that can’t even be sold . . . and we’re going to build more condominiums and put more congestion in the area?” She continued, “It just doesn't seem fair. I mean, we don’t have the money to bring a lawyer in here and to bring drawings in and all these kinds of things because they aren’t tax deductible. These people (Wawasee developers) are speculators, they don’t live there. They’re going to make their money and walk off... I thought the purpose of this board was to protect the little guy, and we (home owners) are the little guy.” In rebuttal Snyder offered, “We’re not here to approve the piujeci. Appiw'al.for the mult: family housing has already been done.” He added, however, that the property is now suited for multi-family housing and will remain as such, only improved..

Lane, be named either Turkey Creek Drive or Bear Creek Drive. (Turkey Creek Drive was their first choice.) Doty explained she took the petition to the Area Plan Commission and they answered back stating “the Town of Milford now has jurisdiction over the name designation of this right-of-way.” She added, she brought this change to the council’s attention now before the renumbering project is completed in Milford. Council members asked the town’s attorney, Jay Rigdon, to draw up an ordinance for this name change. The ordinance will be prepared and discussed at the next council meeting. In final business, the council signed an agreement between the town of Milford and Milford EMS for the year 1990. The agreement states the town will pay $3,500 for this emergency service. Bice said the attorney for Vanßuren Township is still working on a

After hearing arguments for the petition, the board held strong to the county requirements and denied the 22-foot setback. Approved was a five-foot setback on

Library bonds to Merchants National

I By DEB PATTERSON Staff Writer Merchants National Bank and Trust Company, Indianapolis, has been awarded the bid for public library bonds in the amount of $1,150,000. The money will be used for the construction of the addition to the Syracuse Public Library. Bids on were opened during a public meeting of the Board of Trustees of SvracuseTurkey Creek Township Public Library yesterday (Tuesday) at 1

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cooperative agreement for fire protection between Milford, the township and the Milford Fire Department. Also, Bice noted in a newsletter from the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns, it was noted that the public should be aware that the census is coming. People should be very careful to participate in this year’s census as the numbers collected are used for the next ten years. Census figures are very important to town budgets, tax figures and congressional seats. Lastly, Bice reported Ron Davidhizar did make the required repairs on his 212 E. Fourth Street property. The town ' did not have to hire an outside construction company to do the work. The next regular meeting of the council is slated for Monday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m., at the Milford Town Hall.

the east property line (Waco Drive), and a 35-foot setback on Lakeview Drive. (Continued on page 2)

p.m. There were a total of six bids received. Merchants National Bank’s bid provided an interest rate of 6.6216 percent with a net interest of $456,609.36. Other bids and rates were: Traub and Company, Inc., Indianapolis, 6.789466 percent; Raffensperger-Hughes and Company, Inc., Indianapolis, 6.6235 percent; Bank One, Indianapolis, 6.713127 percent; Indiana National Bank, Indianapolis, 6.949166 percent; and Sommers and Company, Fort Wayne, 6.774888 percent. David Cates, attorney for the library board, noted the closing date on the sale oi the bouua should be in two to three weeks.