Article by Emily Wang, White River Now
During the July 9 Batesville City Council meeting, special presentations were given to officers while city officials discussed ongoing public works projects and expenses.
Police Department Report
Batesville City Police Chief John Scarbrough reported on the department’s recent activities, noting calls for service increased by 50, with eight more accidents and 12 more incident reports than the previous month. Scarbrough attributed much of the increase to the officers’ proactive work, praising their dedication and hard work.
“I couldn’t be more proud of them,” he said.
Scarbrough mentioned a pending equipment upgrade, noting that by the end of the month, the vehicles should be fully equipped. The department also completed a master gardening project under budget.
Scarbrough highlighted a list of officers seeking additional training, emphasizing the importance of investing in both the officers and the community.
Pictured above (from left): Elumbaugh, Scarbrough, Ring
In two special presentations, Scarbrough and Batesville Mayor Rick Elumbaugh presented Sergeant Larry Ring with a service award after the Rotary Club of Batesville nominated him as a role model of the year.
Pictured above (from left): Elumbaugh, Scarbrough, Grace, Rowe
And Officer Hutton Grace and Officer David Rowe received life-saving awards for performing CPR on a man who choked while going through the drive-through at the Batesville Burger King, saving his life.
City Engineer’s Report
City Engineer Damon Johnson mentioned ongoing efforts to maintain the current water plant, noting the need to spend money on necessary parts while preparation for the new water plant is underway.
Johnson said the city experienced minimal issues from recent flash floods. Temporary measures are in place for a compromised utility pole at St. Louis and Harrison Streets, and a quote for a new pole is pending.
Johnson also discussed the Main Street project, expressing hope that the first several blocks would come together quickly.
Fire Department Report
Batesville Fire Chief Mark McCollum reported a busy period for the department, including 248 hours of training, 189 commercial inspections, and 38 runs, 20 of which were rescue missions and seven were fires. He praised his team for their hard work and dedication.
Chief McCollum shared a story about his team’s response to an elderly man who fell at a local restaurant. While some were sitting inside, they saw the 90-year-old man fall in the parking lot and rushed to help him.
Mayor’s Comments and Announcements
Elumbaugh announced upcoming expenditures from the permanent maintenance fund, including the purchase of a third recumbent bike, due to their high demand at the Batesville Community Center, for $6,310.
He also discussed selling Fire Engine 1 to the Cord department for $100,000 and proposed allowing police officers to take vehicles home within a 15-mile radius. There was a debate about setting a mileage reimbursement rate, with suggestions ranging from a flat rate to tying it to the IRS rate. Ultimately, a proposal was made to use half of the IRS rate for mileage above the 15-mile allowance, to be reviewed annually.
Other Business
After an executive session, Robb Roberts nominated Pete Roulier to fill a vacant seat on the Historic District Commission, which was approved. In other business, a resolution to execute certain documents was approved, as was the abandonment of Sherill Lane. A public hearing was held on the abandonment of a street, which saw no objections, followed by an ordinance approving the partial abandonment of Industrial Drive.
The next city council meeting is scheduled for July 23.
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