Columbia City department reports: trails, parks and utilities updates; jail project financing doubtful

City department leaders briefed the Columbia City Common Council on July 8 about construction, maintenance and community events across parks, public safety, water and wastewater operations.

Public works reported that work on the Blue River Trail is progressing but has affected the dairy barn area; contractors will restore the area and concrete work will be adjusted to accommodate the trail. Chip said contractors "lost a lot of property" near the dairy barn but that the area will be concreted back in and restored.

Eagle Park Phase 1A — which includes the skate park and pickleball courts — is in final closeout with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, staff said, with cameras expected to be operational the following week. Several recently planted trees died and will be replaced under warranty.

Fireworks and event operations: Staff said the Fourth of July fireworks show drew positive comments but required traffic control after a late disturbance and parking issues. The police report noted Officer Fuller submitted a resignation effective July 18 to return to Warsaw Police Department; Brandon Key will fill the school resource officer role and the city will request BoardWorks to fill Fuller's vacated position. Staff also reported internal applicants for shift lead and dispatch positions and ongoing hiring activity.

Wastewater and solids handling: Slow dewatering is proceeding using a temporary tank to feed a belt press; staff described the process of turning liquid sludge into a drier material for truck removal. Parts have been ordered to repair an out-of-service tank with the expectation of returning the unit to service before the planned digester project begins. Staff said the Fourth Wing project at Jefferson has one small item to finish before closeout.

Water and lead service line work: A contractor-led door-knocking campaign contacted approximately 900 residents (by conversation or door hanger) and verified many interior service-line checks as copper rather than lead; about 429 residential homes remain to be visited. The city will continue follow-up visits in coming months.

Capital projects and finance: Staff reported that feasibility for a proposed jail project is poor without raising taxes; current revenue sources are insufficient to support the long-term bond financing under consideration. Westgate Phase 3 is planned for next year and staff will seek a Community Crossings matching grant to fund much of the work.

Planning and outreach: The US‑30 health study for the corridor through Columbia City and nearby communities has been completed and posted at propelus30.com, staff said. The arts commission thanked the Indiana Arts Commission for grant funding for a youth art camp (15 participants) and announced open calls for artists for a Whitley County Historical Museum exhibition and a Columbia City Connect rolling-print public-art project in September.

No formal council actions were recorded on these departmental updates beyond a prior approval to request replacement for an open police position; staff listed next steps and follow-up items where applicable.