Septic loan request moves forward

A county-financed septic system replacement loan fund in effect for almost two years may soon be funding its first system.

The program, which was allowed under a change in state law, helps property owners who can not obtain others means of financing to replacing failing septic systems.

Jay County Commissioners adopted a preliminary resolution today that moves forward a request by a rural Redkey couple to use the fund.

David and Marian Younger, who live about a mile north of Redkey on Ind. 1, are currently facing prosecution from the Jay County Health Department because of a failing septic system.

The Youngers first applied for the septic loan in 2003.

The adoption of the preliminary resolution today by the commissioners will allow the scheduling of a formal public hearing on the project, which was estimated by Jay County Engineer Dan Watson to cost about $11,000.

Estimates obtained from two contractors were for $11,800 and $9,500.

Under state law and the ordinance adopted by the commissioners in July of 2002, those using the loan program must re-pay the money at 10 percent simple interest over a 10-year period.

Commissioners Mike Leonhard, Gary Theurer and Milo Miller Jr. discussed the matter today with Mrs. Younger and Dave Houck, environmentalist/administor for the health department.

A hearing in the court case against the Youngers is scheduled for Friday. Houck said he would ask health department attorney Robert Clamme to request a continuance in the case since the septic loan process is moving forward.

Also this morning, while meeting as the county drainage board, the commissioners discussed a proposed extreme sports park with county surveyor Brad Daniels.

Several county-maintained tiles run through the Portland Industrial Park, which will be the site of the project being proposed by Glynn Barber.

Daniels was asked by the commissioners to maintain effective communication with Barber.[[In-content Ad]]