A grant for a project for Turkey Creek Sewer and Water District was discussed at county commissioners this morning.

The current sewer system is outdated and in need of major repairs.

“We need to replace old clay pipe,” said attorney Dick Green, who represents Turkey Creek Sewer and Water District.

Shannon McLeod of Priority Project Resources, Greensburg, who will oversee the federal planning grant process, said the water system has aged over time and has pressure problems. She said the cost of the project is estimated at $34,000.

A $30,000 grant will come from the state’s Office of Community and Rural Affairs. A 10 percent local match, which is $4,000, will come from Turkey Creek Sewer and Water District.

An income survey was conducted on 208 homes that use the sewer and water system. The survey revealed that there is a need for a grant.

The district cannot apply for the grant, therefore the county must apply. The first step in the project is to hire an engineering firm. Next, the engineer will make a report so the county knows how much the project will entail and cost. Finally, a public hearing will be held some time next year.

“It’s a pretty easy project,” McLeod said of the planning grant process, adding that the grant process should be finalized by October.

The county’s liaison to serve on the committee that will hire the engineer is Brad Jackson, northern district commissioner. A letter of intent to OCRA was signed by all commissioners.

Bruce Butler of Warsaw was named Veteran of the Month at commissioners meeting today. A Navy veteran, Butler served in Vietnam. Pictured, from left, are Commissioner Bob Conley, Commissioner Ron Truex, Veterans Service Officer Rich Maron, Jane Butler, Butler, and Commissioner Brad Jackson. (Photo by Phoebe Muthart)

In other county matters, three unnamed rights of way in Epworth Forest, North Webster, were named at the meeting. An ordinance was signed for the three roads so they can receive more efficient 911 service. The private roads are named Impact Drive, Emmaus Drive and Shaky Way. All three roads lead back to the conference area.

In other news, Bruce Butler of Warsaw was named Veteran of the Month. A Navy veteran, Butler served in Vietnam War. He was is the Navy from 1969 to 1973. In 1970, he was sent to Vietnam War to serve on a floating base. He also was recognized for saving a Navy pilot.

Butler’s grandson also serves in the Navy in Kuwait. Butler retired from Zimmer after 25 years.

In other news, the board:

• approved Sound Communications to install recording equipment for the sheriff and 911 dispatch center departments at a cost of $7,300
• approved a contract for mapping software that will cost $900
• signed a letter to the county council asking the state to assist with 9-1-1 funding.
• signed an inter-local agreement with the Solid Waste District for 2013 to allow the auditor to serve as the controller.

Commissioners are president Bob Conley, Brad Jackson and Ron Truex. The next meeting is at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 18, at the county courthouse in Warsaw.