Versailles repeals rental registration ordinance
The Versailles Town Council unanimously repealed the town’s rental registration ordinance during its regular meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8.
Council President Roxanne Meyer requested that the agenda be reordered so the ordinance could be discussed early in the meeting. Council unanimously approved the change before repealing the ordinance under suspension of the rules, also by unanimous votes.
The ordinance, adopted in June, would have required rental properties within town limits to be registered and inspected. It had drawn concerns from local landlords and residents regarding its requirements.
Director of Community Development Holly Wehr also provided an update on efforts concerning Versailles State Park Lake. Wehr said she attended the August town hall on the lake’s future and, during a recent meeting in Madison, secured a January meeting with the governor.
Council also conducted a public hearing on the town’s proposed 2027 budget. An overview was presented, but no public comments were received. The hearing closed at 7:03 p.m.
Town attorney Lynn Fledderman reported that the town received a response of no recommendation from the county regarding an update to the zoning ordinance. Council scheduled a public hearing on the update for 7 p.m. Sept. 29.
Mr. Sran of Nobel LLC Properties provided an update on work at the company’s building on Horton Drive. He estimated it will be another 30 to 45 days before any units are suitable for renters and said he will return next month with another update.
Meyer reported that town representatives were scheduled to meet with the engineering team Sept. 9 to discuss water and sewer projects. A wastewater agreement with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources remains pending while reports are requested and provided to DNR representatives.
Clerk-Treasurer Sarah Bauman presented a proposal from New Focus HR to update the town’s employee handbook and bring it into compliance. Council unanimously approved the proposal.
Council also unanimously selected Meyer to represent the town on the EMA Advisory Council and signed the Ripley County Economic Development Interlocal Agreement.
Meyer, Wehr and Bauman recently met with Matt Scheidler of Scheidler Web Solutions to discuss updating the town’s website. Council requested additional information about how the update would be funded.
Steve Buffington received approval to use First North and Main streets Oct. 10. Council also unanimously authorized the Beautiful Feet 5K to use town streets for its annual event Oct. 24.
Jim Busteed requested that the SIRPC sign be moved to improve its visibility. Council referred him to the county, noting that he may need to contact the state.
Council member Josh Combs continues seeking people interested in joining the park board.
Meyer also discussed the Tyson Fund’s impact on Versailles, including its support of town projects. She invited the public to attend a Tyson Fund meeting at 7 p.m. Sept. 14 at Tyson Methodist Church.
The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
