Cindy DiFazio - Staff Writer

At the regular meeting of the Milan Town Board, held on Monday, November 13, three representatives of Milan groups came before board members to request permission to use the recently vacated town hall.

Loretta Day, a Boy Scout leader, told the board that their troop has been meeting at Ripley Crossing. Day reported that while they are grateful for the use of a room at the facility, the troop needs a place where they feel they belong rather than feeling like guests. She went on to explain that they have a box truck full of equipment. Some of that equipment, such as tents, should be stored, while items such as awards and flags ought to have a permanent place to be displayed. Day said that it is important for the boys to feel pride in ownership. She noted, “The troop is growing. The boys need a place to hang their hat.” The troop meets the first and third Wednesday of the month from 6-7:30 p.m.

Another group requesting a place to meet on a regular basis is a Girl Scout Brownie troop. Troop leader, Tina Martin, stated that their group is small so far, with a membership of seven girls. Martin asked that the girls be allowed to use the facility every other Tuesday from 3-5:00 p.m.

Also in attendance was David Kissell, owner of the Kissell Shaolin DO Martial Arts Center. Kissell had previously requested the use of the old town hall for martial arts classes, pending the sale of his existing building.

All three entities carry their own insurance.

Board members and town manager, John Ingram, felt that these requests could be reasonably accommodated. Other requests for building use will be considered on an as-needed basis.

Town manager, John Ingram, reported that the dump truck is being outfitted with a salt spreader in preparation for winter needs. Forty tons of salt are ready for pick-up.

Ingram said that fire hydrants were flushed in October. He informed the board that several older hydrants need to be replaced due to the town now using larger water lines. Ingram suggested that the town apply for grant money for that purpose.

Town Marshal, Gary Skaggs, reported :
* 4 theft reports
* 1 domestic disturbance
* 1 traffic crash involving property damage
* 1 possession of marijuana
* 2 arrests for OWI
* 1 arrest for driving while suspended prior
* 2 arrests for public intoxication
* 3 arrests for minor consuming
* 1 arrest for disorderly conduct
* 1 resisting law enforcement
* 3 traffic arrests
* 36 traffic stop warnings
* 2 criminal mischief complaints
* 112 calls for service
* 16 assists to other agencies
* 4 assists with fire and EMS
* 3 VIN checks
* 1 handgun permit.

Marshal Skaggs also reported that reserve officers accumulated 123 activity hours.

Before adjournment it was announced that town offices would be closed on Thursday, November 23 and Friday, November 24 for the Thanksgiving holiday.