Huntingburg Utilities Begin Winter Preparations

Winter preparations and ongoing infrastructure improvements were among the topics discussed at this week’s Huntingburg Utility Service Board meeting. 

In his report, Energy Superintendent John Reutepohler said that the Gas Department anticipates a full transition from the AMR system to be complete by next month. Valve inspections are being completed ahead of the winter weather, and crews will be in yards and easements to survey mains and services. This is expected to take several weeks. Leak surveys will also be going out on the website. 

The Electric Department is clearing tree lines, also in preparation for the winter. An old nonfunctional siren by Freedom Bank will be removed, and has been replaced by newer sirens. The primary wire on 3rd Street has been replaced, exchanging two blocks of copper wire with a more durable aluminum. There have been some problems in that area since the copper lines are prone to breakage and are not as safe to handle. Reutepohler said there is better connectivity with aluminum, and copper wiring has not been regularly used for this purpose since the 1950s. The wiring that was replaced is estimated to have been installed about 100 years ago. 
 
Water Superintendent Jerry Austin reported some general maintenance, including the replacement of 2 valve boxes and water main repairs during hydrant flushing. Residents are encouraged to be sure their current cell phone is on file, so they can be contacted immediately regarding any unusual water usage that might suggest water leaks. At the North Side Fire Department, a flush hydrant was installed on the back of the fire house so they can perform hose testing and fill trucks without blocking traffic. 

In other business, Mayor Neil Elkins said that the 4 th Street renewal project required an amendment to the contract with VS Engineering to oversee the bidding process for the construction of the street. The board approved the amendment as presented. Clerk-Treasurer Thomas Dippel presented the 2027 Salary Ordinance for consideration, with a 3.5% increase approved by the board. The 2027 Elected Officers Salary Ordinance was then presented to the board, and was also approved with a 3.5% increase.  

For more information on these and other updates, visit www.huntingburg-in.gov


- By Drew Hasselbring