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Markle TC opens bids on project

In its first remote video conference meeting on Wednesday, April 15, the Markle Town Council got to work on opening construction bids for the new Novae Parkway utilities extension project.

Out of two bids received, the council unanimously approved the lower one from API Construction Corp. for $412,777.50.

Architectural and engineering design services firm DLZ, which reviewed both submitted bids, also recommended the winning bid.

The council also approved the drafting of an ordinance on behalf of resident Stephen Jeffers, who requested the town vacate an easement on the west side of County Line Road adjacent to his residence. The house encroaches on the right-of-way, which has not been used by the town.

The ordinance will be presented for its first reading at the next council meeting.

In his report to the council, Town Superintendent Rick Asher said he has requested a price for drainage tile for a project between Mercury Street and Girvin Street to alleviate flooding in the neighborhood.

The project involves putting eight-inch perforated tile in place and running the water to an open ditch on Clark Street. He said residents would be able to voluntarily tie their sump pumps into the lines.

Asher said he would have drawings of the project at the next council meeting in May.

Town Assistant Mike Grant reported the recent paving in town on Countryside Drive will include a new curb addition, at a cost of $3,800. The homeowner, who lives on the corner of Tracy Street and Countryside, has agreed to pay half the cost for the construction, Grant said, adding that the additional cost to the town will not be significant because of savings on construction costs on other streets.

Grant also said a contractor contacted him about whether a project involving a storage building at the Markle Volunteer Fire Department will be put to bid. He recommended the town put the project out for public bid.

“I think we can survive until we get through the process, and let’s do it right,” he advised, adding he has arranged for two appraisers to look at the building.

Town Marshal John Markley reported that there hasn’t been as much traffic through downtown recently, but disturbances and petty thefts have been on the increase.

Markley also noted that the park board met recently and compiled a list of concerns regarding the installation of playground equipment in Walkway Park. The board hired an individual to install playground equipment as soon as the weather breaks.

Grant told the council that there will not be a block party this summer because of paving on Ind.-116. He said 4th of July fireworks have already been paid for and the display may go on, possibly located at a park.

Council President Aaron McClary announced that Serve Sunday on May 3 has been postponed and will be rescheduled. McClary said the community service project date may be moved to early fall.

Clerk-Treasurer Stephenie Hensley announced that the town’s May Cleanup Week will be from May 11 through May 15.

The next council meeting is set for Wednesday, May 20, at 7:30 p.m.