PORTER -- Residents can comment Tuesday on the Town of Porter's proposed 30-percent increase in sanitary-sewer rates. A public hearing is slated after roll call immediately at the start of the 7 p.m. meeting at the town hall, 303 Franklin St.

A public hearing on Porter's proposed 2009 budget also takes place at the start of the meeting.

A second additional 30-percent sewer increase tentatively is planned for 2009 as well. The Town Council has said it has little option but to raise rates by a total 60 percent on the recommendation of a financial consultant for two reasons.

Chesterton, which processes Porter's sewage, is set to act tonight on a rate increase of its own that will be passed along to Porter, and Porter plans to issue a $4 million revenue-bond sale next year to finance a mandated upgrade of its long-neglected sewer collection system and lift stations as required under an agreement with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.

During Tuesday's meeting the council could take action on the first 30-percent rate increase by adoption of an enabling ordinance on the agenda. Also listed is a truck route ordinance that would restrict large trucks from using designated east/west streets in Porter's downtown.

Reports from department heads will be given, and the public may comment on other matters not listed on the agenda.

The Porter Redevelopment Commission scheduled for Tuesday has been canceled due to lack of business, but it has set a public hearing for Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. regarding land acquisition for the often-delayed $1.9 million Porter Brickyard hike/bike trail. Only 0.51 of an acre of permanent commercial right-of-way at U.S. 20 and Howe Road is required as well as a 0.31 of an acre easement along Beam Street at Yost School.

Information about the trail and maps are available at the town hall.

Posted 8/25/2008