The Enfield Village Board convened for nearly two hours on Tuesday night, discussing a range of topics.
Several residents attended to learn more about the resignation of Chief Mark Wheeler. Mayor Maury Black read Wheeler’s resignation letter, which mentioned a conflict with some board members regarding the police car and other matters that escalated unnecessarily. Wheeler also had posted information about policies and procedures on the Enfield Police Department’s Facebook page, which was against regulations. He later removed those posts voluntarily. Mayor Black announced that Justin Titzer, a former department employee, would return in about a week to serve as the Police Chief full-time during night shifts. Wheeler expressed a willingness to return part-time next year.
The board approved a resolution to accept the transfer of the Booth School from the NCOE School District to the village. This transfer includes the school building, 20 adjacent acres, and the ball field. The NCOE School Board had previously approved this at their meeting last month. Once the village obtains the deed, they will determine the next steps.
Justin Dartt from Dartt and Co. presented the 2024 audit for the period ending April 30, reporting that the village’s financial status is strong for its size. The village will transition to online banking, and the board approved a contract with Dartt for next year’s audit at the same rate as this year.
In other business, the board confirmed that street lighting on the west end of town is complete. They approved a payment of $35,719 to Followell Construction and $1,874.98 to Brown & Roberts for new meters related to the Water Project. Hams and turkeys were approved for all village employees, including those in the Animal Control Department. They also approved a resolution for the MFT Revised Maintenance Cost, allocating $39,000 for sidewalks and concrete. An advertisement in the NCOE Yearbook was approved for the same amount as last year. The board tabled the acceptance of bids for an altitude valve for the water tower until all bids are collected. Additionally, they approved the White County Hazard Mitigation Plan, enabling the village to apply for grants related to the plan.
In the Animal Control report, two dogs were adopted, four tickets were issued and paid, five dogs were impounded, and $845 was raised at Mule Days for spaying and neutering efforts.
In the Utilities report, an EPA inspection was conducted, and some gas lines are being installed.
Upcoming events include Town Wide Cleanup Day on Saturday, October 26th, and street closures for the Car Show on October 19th. Trick-or-treating will take place on October 31st from 4 to 8 PM; participants are encouraged to leave their porch lights on. Additionally, a Trunk or Treat event will be held on the same day from 6 to 8:30 PM, with streets closed for safety.