Spencer Council moves forward on sewer improvements, property transfers

The Spencer Town Council met March 2 to address a heavy agenda focused primarily on municipal infrastructure and wastewater improvement projects.

The meeting, held at 90 N. West St., saw all board members present, including council president Jon Stantz, vice president Evan McKalip and member Ginger Kohr.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the town's ongoing wastewater system improvement initiatives. The council took several formal actions to advance these projects:

Labor standards: The board approved a labor standards contract presented by Southern Indiana Development Commission (SIDC) Executive Director Greg Jones related to the wastewater system improvements project. The motion passed with a 3-0 vote.

Engineering invoices: Two invoices from CEI regarding the wastewater improvements project, totaling $158,053.69, were approved for payment. The motion passed 3-0.

Legal and advisory services: The council approved a $16,000 invoice from Hickam & Lorenz for services related to the wastewater project and an engagement letter from Barnes & Thornburg for bond counsel services, which included a $47,500 invoice.

Municipal financial advisory: Engagement letters from LWG CPAs and Advisors for municipal advisory services and a rates study were also approved.

The council also addressed local land use and inter-agency transfers, including the following:

Trillium Woods: The council signed mylars for a property division for Trillium Woods, which had previously received approval from the Planning and Zoning Board.

Real estate transfer: The council passed Resolution 2026-03, authorizing the transfer of interests in real estate from the Town of Spencer to the Spencer Redevelopment Commission. This transfer, previously approved by the Redevelopment Commission on Feb. 25, passed the council with a 3-0 vote.

Resolution 2026-02: The council voted twice to consider and pass an amended and restated ordinance in a single meeting. Both procedural votes passed 3-0.

In departmental reports, Street Department Superintendent Tony Floyd received council approval for a $1,805.82 painting quote from Sealmaster.

Chief Terry Sips provided a report on the Spencer Police Department, and Evan McKalip provided an update for the Spencer Parks & Recreation Committee.

The sewer department, fire territory, planning and zoning and redevelopment commission had no items to report.