Planning board appointments stir discussion over consent agenda use

WARSAW — Last week’s town board for the town of Warsaw addressed some key governance and procedural issues that sparked internal debate among commissioners and prompted critical public commentary.

A central point of contention was the approval process for the meeting agenda. Initially, a motion was made and seconded to approve the agenda as it was presented. However, questions arose regarding the procedural correctness, reflecting ongoing tensions between board members and town leadership.

Commissioner Ebony Wills-Wells proposed an addition to the agenda to receive updates about the waste treatment plant, she also made a motion to remove consent agenda Item #5 for the approval of planning board members to move it to the regular agenda for discussion, which failed due to the lack of a second.

The planning board appointments drew criticism for being approved without open discussion. While the consent agenda passed, the process illuminated confusion over when items should be separated for public deliberation.

“My concern is the protocol and the procedures of how as a board, how we are handling this.

items on the consent agenda,” said Wells, adding that a consent agenda is used for the board approval of matters that do not require individual consideration or discussion. “Any appointment to any board, whether it’s the planning board, the health board, or any board should have individual consideration as well as discussion of us as an entire board.”

The two appointees are Peggy Doeran and Sandra Hill. Wells expressed support for the individuals, but voiced concerns about the process itself, specifically that appointments were made through the consent agenda with no prior public or board discussion.

“I know one of the individuals, Ms. Sandra, I know her personally. I think she’ll be a phenomenal asset to our planning board and to help continue to grow the town of Warsaw. My concern is the protocol and the procedures of how as a board, how we are handling this items on the consent agenda,” she said. ”A consent agenda is used for the board approval of matters that do not require individual consideration or discussion.”

Mayor A.J. Connors responded to these concerns by affirming that the town followed proper procedures and that both appointees had submitted paperwork and met expectations. He defended the town’s compliance with state and county processes and assured that if something were amiss, external oversight would have flagged it. Finally, both Turner and the mayor hinted at potential closed sessions in the upcoming board meeting to address personnel.

Additional public frustration was voiced by a resident concerned about a months-long delay in ditch repairs. Turner, responded that supplies had been ordered and engineering coordination was underway, but no completion date could be confirmed at the time of the meeting.

While the board defended the procedural legitimacy of its actions, the strong public feedback suggested growing concern over how business is conducted and who gets a voice in that process.

Turner reminded the board and public of critical upcoming dates, including the May 1 budget meeting and the May 12 public hearing, she also reminded those in attendance that the National Day of Prayer will be on May 1 at Veterans Memorial Park under the trees, weather permitting. Also, on May 26 the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce will host the Memorial Day ceremony at 9 a.m. at Parks and Recreation on Memorial Drive.

The more contentious discussion centered around a state investigation into the town’s pretreatment program and wastewater treatment plant issues with Wells raising concerns about exclusion from a meeting involving engineering consultants and town officials. Turner clarified that the specific meeting in question was initiated by the engineers.

Turner reported that the town is actively complying with the state’s review process and submitting requested documents.

“They did give us a report on our pretreatment permit and stated that we are still in the review process and there were some more documents that they needed before they completely approved of our program. We have received part of that information and we have gotten that to them and our engineers are working on the other information that was requested. And we are continuing to monitor and surcharge our businesses that are in violation,” said Turner.

In other business the board:

• Parks and Recreation has been actively supporting youth and school outreach programs, including field trips for preschoolers and second graders, as well as a free golf program organized by a community volunteer. Although a larger multi-purpose field project is currently on hold due to pending land acquisition, temporary facilities are being set up to accommodate soccer and football practices. Organizers are preparing for a busy summer, offering programs such as basketball, soccer, cheerleading, and the introduction of flag football.

• The Police Department has reported a steady pace of operations, with both visible duties and less visible investigations into serious offenses. Chief Patrick Giddeons acknowledged the ongoing criticism of the department, some of which he considers unfair, but emphasized the dedication and unseen efforts of his officers. He also reminded the public to remain vigilant about scams, particularly those targeting seniors, and welcomed ongoing support and communication from residents.

“I hear comments sometimes, and they come from places that sometimes it’s a little bothersome, when it’s particularly from leadership positions, that question the legitimacy of some of these young men and women and the work they do. Please understand that these people are working really hard for all of you. You may not see it, but I want you to have some faith,” said Giddeons “There ain’t a long line of y’all waiting to do this job… If you want to take up arms with my brothers and sisters and do this dangerous job, I welcome it.”

• At DreamWorks, the town’s recreation and wellness facility, membership continues to grow, now totaling 829 members. A newly launched loyalty program has further encouraged member participation. The center is also supporting educational initiatives reinforcing its role as a hub for youth development and community wellness.