Drainage board moves to advertise proposed assessment increase for Kaufman Drain

The Kosciusko County Drainage Board voted to advertise a proposed change to assessment rates for the Kaufman Drain after hearing a presentation on watershed needs and fund shortfalls.

Chair (S1) told the board the Kaufman Drain watershed stretches from near Silver Lake into Palestine Lake and is more than 13 miles long. He said recent projects and a 2024 deep-brushing effort have depleted the fund and left multiple areas needing routine maintenance and tile work. "If I can collect about $35,000 a year... I think I can accomplish all the projects that need to be done over a 2 to 3 year period," the chair said.

Staff member Amy (S5) reported the proposed Kaufman watershed acreage at 7,279.45 acres — a 239-acre increase — and said current collections are roughly $22,000 per year with nearly $3,000 in debt. Board members debated proposed scenarios, including a $3.50-per-acre rate with minimums in the $30–$35 range; members discussed minimizing increases on small parcels in Claypool.

Committee member (S4) moved to advertise a proposed rate schedule that would raise assessment revenue (members discussed a $3.50/acre option and higher minimums). The motion was seconded and the board approved proceeding with an advertised notice to affected property owners by voice vote.

The advertised rate proposal will generate a public notice and allow property owners to review specifics and attend a public meeting where final adoption would be decided. The board said the additional revenue is intended to fund a multi-year maintenance program and tile replacements identified for the watershed.