Left to right: Council President Todd Slabaugh, V.P. Keith Claaseen, member Kevin Smith, Jr. and Clerk/Treasurer Laura Baker

ETNA GREEN — The Etna Green Town Council met for a meeting Tuesday, Sept. 13.

The main order of business for the night was the 2017 budget hearing. Treasurer Laura Baker states $6,000 was cut from Motor Vehicle Highway fund, which has a 2017 budget estimate of $36,900, and $2,000 from the Park and Recreation fund, which has a 2017 budget estimate of $6,100, in order to fund the 2017 budget. The adoption of the budget will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016 at the Fire Department meeting room, 132 W. Broadway St., Etna Green.

A spreadsheet of park expenses and revenue was presented by Baker for the park to help examine the budget. Without changes, it is expected that the department will be $542 in the red by end of 2017, an unusual occurrence. Baker stated she has been using building and ground expenses from the general fund to help keep the park nice.

“I just wanted the council to be aware,” states Baker, “I had to cut the park $2,000 to fund 2017. We’re going have to look at raising rates.”

President Todd Slabaugh asked the council to individually access the park building and surrounding area to access costs of building improvements before next meeting.

Council member Kevin Smith, Jr. suggested asking for public help with freshening the area. Having volunteers help with labor will cut costs and extend how much work can be completed. Setting volunteer projects will also mean potential family activities that help get kids interested in their neighborhood.

By revamping the park, the hope is that new equipment can be brought in to give kids and families something new. Baker points out how well the parks in Winona Lake and Knox look, and how well the public has responded.

“They look amazing!” Baker exclaimed. “There’s a ton of people there.”

It’s clear the council’s goal is to freshen up Etna Green’s public places and ensure Etna Green is a place families can spend their time.

Other business:

• Fire Chief Randall Byer announced the department’s fund raiser fish fry, Oct. 15 starting at 3 p.m. until sold out. Price is $8, carry out or sit down.
• Large trash will be taken Tuesday, Oct. 18 and 25th.
• Fire hydrant flushing will be Oct. 18-20. Postcards will be sent out with information.
• Town trick or treating will be 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 31.