The final two properties along Wayne Avenue threatened by creek erosion will be purchased by the city.
On Wednesday, members of the Board of Public Works & Safety approved a purchase agreement for a vacant half-acre lot owned by Christine Demoret and Carri Carrell in the amount of $11,900.
The board also approved the purchase of the final property at 515 Wayne Ave. in the amount of $119,333. That purchase agreement is between the city and Marla McDaniel c/o Carl and Mary Eades.
Five properties along Wayne Avenue were identified as being in imminent danger due to the high-bank erosion caused by Sugar Creek. The city was able to purchase the properties with a state grant and local matching funds. Participation in the program is voluntary.
Upon purchase of the property, the city will raze any structures on the land within 90 days. A permanent deed restriction prohibits future sale or building on these properties.
In other business, the board:
• Approved plans, as presented by Paul Pfledderer, for the 50th annual Strawberry Festival. There were no changes from previous years, he said. The festival will take place June 14-16 on the grounds of Lane Place.
• Approved a request from Morgan Vesey to close Pike Street at Pike Place from 2-9:30 p.m. June 22 for a Pride Festival.
• Approved a request from Street Commissioner Mark Cox to declare a portable vehicle lift as surplus.
• Approved the purchase of a 2024 Polaris for the fire department in the amount of $29,193.
• Opened two bids for the U.S. 231 water extension project. Price Excavating of Crawfordsville bid $1,046,534 and Plant Brothers Excavating and Construction of Rosedale bid $1,022,050. The bids were tabled for review.
• Approved requests for city crews to mow the following properties: 301 Wayne Ave., owned by Maraya Godbey; 1008 W. Market St., owned by Michael Everly; 402 Wayne Ave., owned by Cody Willhite; and 301/303 W. North St. and 313 N. Grant Ave., owned by Dan Malek.
