Fowler, Indiana Official Website

This is a draft of the minutes prepared by Kathy Schwartz, Fowler Clerk Treasurer. Minutes are those of the Town Council and this draft has not been approved by the Fowler Town Council. Any questions or comments can be submitted to the Fowler Clerk's office at 307 E. 5th St., Fowler, IN 47944 or by calling (765)884-0570.

April 21, 2008

                        The Town Council of the Town of Fowler met in the Town Hall, Fowler, Indiana, on the 21st day of April 2008 at the hour of 5:45 P.M., for a Public Hearing and then a regular meeting pursuant to call in accordance with the rules of the Council. The meeting was called to order by Gerry Parker, who presided. On call of the roll the members of the Council were shown to be present or absent as follows:

PRESENT: Linda Brouillette, Carole Hoff, John Berry, Gerald Parker & Thomas Sarault

ABSENT: NONE

            Attorney, Jud Barce, and Building Inspector, Sally Slavens gave an update on AJ's Dining building. The interior of the building has been inspected by Sally and the state fire marshal. An engineer  will be sought for a further inspection. This hearing will be continued until June 2nd at 5:45pm.

            The Calendar property lien has recently been cleared. It is ready for demolition. The property owner will have it done and turn it over to Habitat for Humanity.

            The Public Hearing was closed and the regular meeting began.

Linda Brouillette motioned to accept the minutes as reviewed and Tom Sarault seconded the motion. The motion passed.

            Dave Eberhardt, certified fireworks operator, had several requests for fireworks, equipment and fee for the 4th of July display. To update the fireworks equipment for safety, Dave asked for $3,905. This included 6 new racks replacing some of the racks that were destroyed four years ago, panels, slats and cables. Implementing panels will enable firemen to not have to turn their backs on the fireworks to change cables and wires during the display. Tom Sarault motioned to pay the $3,905 out of the Donation Fund and John Berry seconded. The motion was unanimous and passed. Due to a miscommunication about the cost of the fireworks display, the cost is underfunded by $2,500. Linda Brouillette motioned to pay the $2,500 for the fireworks cost and the $69 permit fee from the Community Development Fund for Promotion. Tom Sarault seconded the motion. The motion was unanimous and passed.

            Carole Hoff motioned to approve Resolution 2008-3, a resolution to approve additional appropriations for Clerk-Storm Drain for $160,000. John Berry seconded the motion. The motion was unanimous and passed.

            John Berry motioned to approve Resolution 2008-4, a resolution to approve additional appropriations for the Rainy Day Fund for $43,955. Linda Brouillette seconded the motion. The motion was unanimous and passed.

            Pat Claire, Park Board member, was present to bring estimates to the board for painting the pool as follows:

                        Larry Daily - $5,005.00

                        Michael Schwartz Decorating Inc - $5,690.00

Tom Sarault motioned to accept Larry Daily's bid. Linda Brouillette seconded the motion. The motion was unanimous and passed.

            Dennis Rice, Police Chief, brought new vehicle estimates to the board. They are as follows:

                        $22,500           Fowler Motor Group    2008 Dodge Charger

                        $22,668           Sutton Auto, Inc.          2008 Dodge Charger

                        $22,577           Sutton Auto, Inc.          2008 Ford Crown Victoria

                        $21,750           Don Hinds Ford           2008 Ford Crown Victoria      

Carole Hoff motioned to accept the Fowler Motor Group bid of $22,500 for a Dodge Charger. John Berry seconded the motion. The motion was unanimous and passed. It will be an additional $2,025 for lights and siren and $1,000 to install the lights. More estimates for lights and sirens will be sought before purchasing.

            The STOP sign addition at Lincoln and 4th has been tabled until further information can be sought from the Street Superintendent, John Budreau.

            The weekly trash pick up cost has been tabled again.

            Community Activity Director, Jessica Morin, presented an estimated budget for the 4th of July festivities. Jessica's main objective is to get the businesses, churches and not for profit organizations involved and visible. Tom Sarault motioned to approve a budget up to $10,000. Linda Brouillette seconded the motion. The motion was unanimous and approved. This is a first year commitment with the following years self supporting.

A motion to pay all claims by  Linda Brouillette and second by John Berry was approved. A motion to approve the payroll claims by Tom Sarault and second by Linda Brouillette was approved.

Tom Sarault  said he checked the tree lights downtown and suggested that an electrician check the outlets prior to the new lights being installed. Linda Brouillette said that she would help with the lights.

The park pond treatment has been started.

            There being no further business presented to the meeting, on motion duly made, seconded and unanimously carried, the meeting thereupon adjourned.

                                                                                    ____________________________________                                                                 

                                                                                    Kathleen Schwartz, Clerk-Treasurer