By Sharon Hollar Correspondent
Etna Green Clerk Treasurer Laura Baker reported during the Sept. 9 town council meeting having worked closely with the Etna Green branch of National City Bank recently since a charge of $788.19 has been passed on from their superior office to the town. The town is now to be charged a $175 fee to maintain an account with other accounts receiving a 1.88 percent interest rate.

After discussion and checking other financial institutions, clerk-treasurers and etc. the council approved transferring the account to the First State Bank of Bourbon. The town would have no fee and could check out any questions on accounts and etc. right at the bank.
With the account in Bourbon, Etna Green will also earn an interest rate of 2.38 percent. Town attorney Jay Rigdon suggested a letter be sent to National City to state their withdrawal of the town account and the reasons for doing so.
In other business:
- The first reading of the 2009 town budget was given and the second reading will take place at the Oct. 14 regular town council meeting.
- The 2008 budget was accepted by the state and written with no cuts.
- Jeanie Rote was hired as part-time custodian for Heritage Park and the town buildings.
- Ordinance 2008-03 was approved to transfer $3,500 back to the Riverboat Fund account. This transfer had been approved at the July town council meeting in order to purchase the Mule from J & M Gravel until Riverboat Fund money was received in the budget.
- Ordinance 2008-04 was approved to establish an amendment to the salary ordinance.
- There was discussion on information concerning cell phones and the IRS.
- Andy Cook presented three quotes for a medium-sized, heavy-duty, 8 and 1/2 foot bed for the truck they had noted purchasing at the January council meeting. Since they will be able to install it and haul it from Hoosier Truck and Trailer, Fort Wayne, the council gave their approval for the purchase. The cost will be paid out of the Motor Vehicle and Highway and Electric, Water and Wastewater accounts.
- Council president Todd Slabaugh announced that Oct. 7 and Oct. 14 have been selected for large trash day pickups. Residents are asked to have their items to curbside early. For questions concerning what will be removed call the town hall office.
- President Slabaugh also noted how beautiful the Triton division of the Marshall County Junior Football League have made the west grounds area of Heritage Park. He prompted a ribbon-cutting ceremony held Saturday, Sept. 13. Slabaugh said the town is honored to have the league as part of the community.
- The next town council meeting will be held at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14 at the town hall meeting room. Residents are welcome to be in attendance.