Holton Council discuss casino cash dilemma
Wanda English Burnett - Editor

The community of Holton has benefitted greatly from riverboat revenue and town council officials are concerned with the possibility of losing that money.

At the regular meeting of the council held Monday, April 11, members voiced their concerns over the state's proposal to minimize the riverboat money for counties such as Ripley. The meeting was held in the new community building that was gained in part with grant money from the Rising Sun Regional Foundation.

A letter from the Rising Sun Mayor Bill Marksberry, was circulated with a phone number for people to call to ask the governor to veto any bill that takes revenue from casino communities. People are encouraged to call 317-232-4567 or fax 317-232-3443 or send a letter to the Office of the Governor, State House, Rm. 206, 200 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204-2797.

It was noted that little towns such as Holton, are the ones who will suffer the most. "We'll have to go back to square one," noted Council President Robert Furst. The council approved $190 to be paid to the Ripley County Probation Department so the Holton Town Marshal could participate in the Ripley County Interagency Information Sharing Program Website. "This will be taken out of riverboat money," noted Furst, who added these are some of the things that would not be possible. He further noted that this particular project allows officers to be networked with other agencies that would assist them when making a juvenile arrest. "Those situations are very difficult and this is important," Furst noted.

The council referred to an article printed in The Versailles Republican about unsafe building laws. They noted there are several in the town. Town Attorney Larry Eaton noted, "You have the authority to do something about it," referring to ordinances already in place.

Eaton will prepare a notice that will be sent to property owners with unsafe buildings and it will also be posted on the structure itself.

May 7, was the date set for heavy trash pick up day. A notice will appear in the county paper stating what items can be brought.

The community park was opened on April 1, and will remain open for the summer. Hours most days are 10:00 a.m. until dark. Council members noted that the park is another classic example of riverboat money at work, taking the quality of life for Holton residents up a notch.

The park, located on Versailles Street, is also the scene for the "Music in the Park" series that is set to begin for the season on May 14, at 6:30 p.m. This event provides a night of music for free for residents of the community and the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors.

It was noted that Ripley County police call, and was assisted by other departments once.

Both Steve Troxell, town employee, and Marshal Moore, were commended for the jobs they are doing.

Those attending the Monday meeting were Clerk-Treasurer Velma Stickelman, Council members Rick Holman and Wilma Myers, President Robert Furst, Attorney Larry Eaton, Park Manager Wilbur Myers, Steve Troxell and Marshal Billey Moore. Two citizens attended the meeting.