NEW PARIS — Council member Kim Fields was sworn into office during the New Paris Council meeting on Monday, Jan. 6.
Following, New Paris Chamber of Commerce President Becky Jordan presented information to council on the firework display the chamber is officially taking over for Natural Springs Resort, in honor of the Fourth of July. She asked permission for various street closings, but also discussed future plans for the celebration.
According to Jordan, the chamber intends to have a block party on July 3, in celebration of the Fourth of July. The fireworks will be set off in an open field on the other side of the cemetery. By The Lampost, they hope to have activities and even possibly a band. There is also a possibility of concessions.
Jordan asked for streets to be blocked from 10 a.m. until midnight. Mayor Kathy Smallwood noted, citizens will have to drive around to get home, but many people walk on South Washington Street anyway.
The chamber also intends to solicit for donations for 2021 fireworks during the celebration.
In other business:
•Troy Fisher spoke to council regarding his idea to have a triathlon run through the village, using Natural Springs Resort as the “base camp.” Fisher discussed his plans for the race and showed council the various websites and advertising plans they have for the race.
The Rocket Gauntlet Sprint Triathlon will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 6 a.m. until 12 p.m. The event will begin with a 700-yard swim in the lake at Natural Springs Resort. A 10-mile bike ride through town and outskirts of New Paris will follow. Finally, there will be a 5K run. According to Fisher, the course is designed for all, beginners included.
All participants must be 18 years of age the day of the event and must show a valid state issued ID. All participants must also sign a liability waiver.
Tickets for the event will be $25, but there are other packages available, including t-shirts. For additional questions on the event, contact Fisher at 765-967-0471.
•Police Chief Jeremy Schroeder shared his monthly and yearly safety report with council:
In December, the department handled 108 calls for service, made 18 reports, three arrests, issued 11 citations, and 40 warnings.
In 2019, the department handled 1,442 calls for service, made 200 reports, 30 arrests, issued 99 citations, and 363 warnings.
•Council scheduled a special meeting for Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m. in the village building to discuss park plans.
