The changes replace the insurance requirement with a $500 deposit and add language for event termination and renter responsibility for damages.

Michael Farmer, Town Manager, explained that requiring a certificate of insurance was cumbersome for renters and difficult to verify. He said the $500 deposit would adequately cover most issues. Town Attorney Darla Brown suggested adding language to paragraph 29, stating that disorderly, unsafe, or illegal behavior is grounds for immediate event termination without refund. She also suggested adding that police or fire personnel may terminate an event for disruptive behavior and that damages not covered by the deposit are the renter's responsibility. The council unanimously approved the Heritage Center rental agreement as amended, removing the certificate of liability insurance requirement and adding the suggested language.

Jeff Farmer, Wastewater Supervisor, proposed raising septic dumping rates from $4 to $6 per thousand gallons. He explained that the current rate does not cover the $6 per thousand gallons it costs to treat the wastewater. This increase would raise the cost for a 2,500-gallon truck from $10 to $15 and a 5,000-gallon truck from $25 to $30. Mr. Farmer also proposed raising the sludge disposal rate from $30 to $35. He noted that the $75,000 to $100,000 collected annually from dumping fees covers the town's sludge landfill tipping fees. The council decided to postpone a vote on the proposed rate changes until the next meeting to allow for public awareness.

Town Attorney Darla Brown informed the council about a necessary amendment to the sub-lease agreement for the new fire station construction. The original 99-year lease term was changed to 50 years, as advised by Rogers Group's council. William Ellis moved to approve the updated and amended lease from Rogers Group, the Township, and the Town of Ellettsville. The council unanimously approved the motion.

The council considered an agreement for phlebotomy services between the Bloomington Police Department (BPD) and the Ellettsville Police Department (EPD). Town Attorney Darla Brown clarified that two council members could vote on this non-ordinance item. She noted that the agreement needed amendments, including removing paragraph 2 regarding command structure and correcting a spelling error in "Ellettsville." Pamela Samples moved to accept the Phlebotomy MOU as amended. The council approved the motion with Scott Oldham abstaining.

Kip Headdy, DPW Director, announced the purchase of a 2025 Ford Ranger crew cab XL for the Fleet Manager. He explained that the vehicle, costing under $50,000, would allow the Fleet Manager to run parts efficiently. Three quotes were obtained, with Capitol City Ford in Indianapolis providing the lowest bid. Michael Farmer, Town Manager, added that having a dedicated vehicle would improve the Fleet Manager's ability to perform duties without needing to borrow other trucks.

Town Manager Michael Farmer stated that the mass gathering permit process had been discussed at a supervisor meeting. Town Attorney Darla Brown clarified that the town ordinance requires town employees to review applications, which then come before the council for a vote within 30 days. She noted that blocking roads for events can be approved by Fire and Police without council approval.

Michael Farmer, Town Manager, announced that reorganization meetings would be held every Wednesday until a plan is finalized. He encouraged residents to attend these meetings to learn about the proposed merger of Richland Township and the Town of Ellettsville. He also noted that a Fire Territory hearing would follow the reorganization meeting at 7:00 p.m.

Fire Chief Kevin Patton reported that the Fire Department won the recent Battle of the Badges basketball game against Seven Oaks Classical School. All proceeds from the event went to Pantry 279.