EDWARDSBURG — The Village of Edwardsburg is nearing the implementation of its new iron filtration plant. 

Richard Low of the Department of Public Works reported to the Edwardsburg Village Council at their regular monthly meeting on Monday at the Edwardsburg Village Hall. Low stated that the regulatory approval letter was written and only in need of signatures from officials at the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy in order to close the approval loop on the long awaited project to assist in removing rust from the water of residents.

He outlined the plans once the approval process is complete, which include operation of the plant in order to reveal and address any initial problems before completing the first system flush. Low noted that he hoped to have the flush complete before the beginning of leaf season, when village staff are busy vacuuming the autumn tree drops. Members of the council expressed relief at the near completion of the project.

Low also reported that village staff recently completed the painting of stripes on roads and were working on a list of areas in need of patching, as well as a list of trees in need of maintenance by contractors in the next year so that the council could budget for them. He also reported that signs marking the property lines of private citizens adjacent to public areas in Gunn Park would be installed this week.

The council also clarified language from the August meeting regarding the adoption of price increases for trash removal. The council had previously decided to maintain services with 

Borden Waste-Away Service. Discussion of a change had arisen due to price increases from Borden, but trustees had elected to stay with the service after comparing it with other options. Though the decision had been made during the August meeting, the council brought it back to discussion to clarify the price increase for the record. Rates will increase for residents by one dollar each year for three years, which covers the difference paid by the village to Borden.

The Cemetery Board reported on several projects, including the planned installation of benches. Two benches had already been funded by donations, with the board hoping to install two more. They noted they were accepting donations from anyone wishing to contribute to the project. Benches available include those with a backrest, at the cost of $529, and those without, at the cost of $289. Plaques honoring the donors will be included. The board is looking ahead at a possible future installation of a columbarium, a structure for storing and displaying urns containing cremated remains.

The Library Board reported that the foundation had been poured and underground utility work had begun on the new library construction project located on US12. Though they are facing some supply delays, they hope to have the project complete some time in the summer of 2025. The library is currently accepting naming donations for the project. They recently received a donation of $65,000 to go toward a children’s area. There was discussion around citizen and council concerns about the safety of the left turn out of the property, particularly during busy times at the schools across the street.

Official hours were established for Halloween trick or treating on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The next Edwardsburg Village Council meeting will take place on Monday, Oct. 21 at 7 p.m. in the Edwardsburg Village Hall.