Forgiven loan could also provide the RDA $5.1 million to another project
By SYDNEY KENT
The town of Ossian may soon see much-needed housing and retail, as well as a more accessible entrance to Archbold-Wilson Park.
The Ossian Town Council approved a request to forgive a $50,000 loan to Wells County Economic Development for three spaces downtown last year, which includes the old NAPA building.
Chad Kline, who recently resigned from his position as executive director with Wells County Economic Development, made the request. He said he wanted to see the redevelopment project though after nearly three years in the making.
Kline explained that the initial plan was to pay the loan back — until the potential for a matching grant with the state arose. With the stipulation of the town forgiving the $50,000 loan, the Regional Development Authority indicated they could provide 5.1 million dollars for the project.
Council member Jeff Kemper voiced his support for the idea and suggested making a motion to approve.
“It’s going to be a focal point downtown,” Kline said. “As well as a focal point to people who reside in this community.”
Kody Kumfer with Ossian Revitalization attended the meeting to discuss the addition of an internal park access drive to the parking area of Archbold-Wilson Park.
Kumfer announced that the Wells County Foundation has approved offering dollar-for-dollar matching funds up to $100,000 for the project. He requested the town contribute $100,000 in order to receive the funds.
President Josh Barkley advised that they would come up with the money. Kumfer also requested $14,500 for design services for the access drive, which would be completed by Jim Breckler with Engineering Resources. The council approved.
Member Stephanie Tucker noted that a citizen in the area voiced their concern with the project.
“It’s going to free up a lot of congestion that happens during events,” Park Board Vice President Jay Esparza said.
“I think that spending the $14,500 would let the Foundation know we are really serious about doing this,” council member Glen Werling added.
The council also:
• Awarded a contract to VTF Excavation for $2,162,023.50. The project includes work on Mill Street, a clutching system and septic relief.
• Awarded a contract to VTF Excavation for the Baker Drive extension project in the amount of $497,114.36.
• A $13,450 proposal for a stainless steel overhead door on the Headworks building
• Approved pay application number seven to Ottenweller Contracting for work in the town in the amount of $8,740.
• Approved payment to the Ossian Police Department in the amount of $948 for training, hotel and per diem for an officer to complete required defensive tactics training.
• Approved payment to WW Williams for a WWTP panel and battery replacement in the amount of $9,934.26
• Approved a motion to pass Pena’s Mechanical Contracting as a CF-1 property.
sydney@news-banner.com
