Deputy Joe Mann steps up
Versailles Town Marshal resigns

The Versailles Town Board met in regular session on Thursday, October 12. All members were present, as well as town Attorney, Larry Eaton.

A letter of resignation from Town Marshal David Adams, was presented for the board’s consideration. Adams’s resignation was approved. The board then voted to appoint Deputy Joe Mann, as the new town marshal. Mann was sworn in by Larry Eaton.

It was reported that the Versailles Volunteer Fire Department has six new applicants. There are 17 active fire fighters at present. The department can have up to 31. Three cadets are currently training.
Contractor Jeff Hafft appeared with some residents of the Harvest Ridge subdivision to seek a remedy for a clogged drainage ditch. Hafft said that a few property owners dump their lawn clippings and debris in the ditch constricting drainage. One homeowner stated that his basement drain pipe is almost constantly under water due to this problem. Board member, John Holzer commented, “I’d want to have a meeting with homeowners.” Harvest Ridge residents responded that a meeting was held last summer, the situation was explained, and there was no improvement. Town Treasurer, Ted Spurlock, noted, “A lot of it (debris) is washed in from construction and erosion.”

It was agreed that the ditch needs to be cleaned out before winter as there is currently about six inches of water standing in it. Eaton stressed that the town is not responsible, but after discussion between the board and town Superintendent, Kevin Hensley, a decision was made to clean out the ditch with a bobcat on a one-time basis. A letter is to be sent to subdivision residents to that effect.
A parking problem in Harvest Ridge was also brought to the board’s attention. Hafft stated there have been complaints regarding residents and guests parking trucks and trailers in front of homes. He was advised that owners of tractor-trailers are allowed to park their cabs at their residences, but trailers are not allowed.

In other business, Hensley reported that parts needed to get water plant filters online are slow coming in. Hensley estimated it might be January before both filters are up and running due to shipping and packaging problems.

Hensley said that all three valves at the dam have to be fixed at a cost of $27,600. The town has applied for a grant for most of that money, but will likely need to provide approximately 30% of the funding. Board member John Holzer asked, “Do we have to have three valves?” Hensley responded that unless we get another water source, they need to be fixed and will then function for 30-40 years.
Hensley also reported that he had received a request from the City of Greensburg asking if Versailles could supply water if they need it for the new Honda plant. The request will be researched.
Board member, Sue Meisberger, asked Hensley if Versailles is ready for winter. He stated that the town is prepared with winter salt.

Trick or Treat in Versailles will be on Halloween evening, Tuesday, October 31 from 5-7:00 p.m. A parade will begin at 7:00 sponsored by the American Legion Post #173.