Financial Crisis Prompts Water Shut-off at Mobile Home Park in Wabash County Town

The town of Laketon in Wabash County, Indiana, is facing severe financial challenges and has resorted to drastic measures to address its mounting liabilities. The town council has made the difficult decision to cut off water service to a local mobile home park, citing significant financial losses.

Background of the Financial Crisis

Laketon, a small community with approximately 2,000 residents, has been grappling with a financial crisis for several years. The town has faced declining tax revenues, increased operating costs, and a substantial deficit in its water utility fund.

According to town officials, the water utility has been operating at a significant loss due to aging infrastructure, high maintenance costs, and low water usage. The town has attempted to address the issue by raising water rates, but this has not been sufficient to offset the losses.

Water Shut-off Decision

As a last resort to alleviate the financial burden, the town council voted to cut off water service to the Heritage Hills Mobile Home Park. The park, which houses approximately 150 residents, is located on the outskirts of town.

The decision was made after the park's owner, Heritage Hills MHC LLC, failed to pay past-due water bills. The town claims that the park owes over $60,000 in unpaid water charges.

Impact on Residents

The water shut-off has had a significant impact on the residents of Heritage Hills Mobile Home Park. Many residents are elderly or disabled and rely on the water supply for essential needs such as drinking, cooking, and bathing.

Some residents have been forced to leave their homes and seek alternative accommodations. Others have resorted to using bottled water or hauling water from nearby sources.

Community Response

The decision to cut off water service has sparked outrage and concern within the Laketon community. Residents and local organizations have expressed their sympathy for the park's residents and have criticized the town's actions.

Local churches, charities, and volunteers have stepped up to provide assistance to the affected residents, distributing water, food, and other necessities.

Alternatives and Solutions

The town council is aware of the hardship that the water shut-off has caused and is exploring alternative solutions. The town has applied for state and federal grants to help cover the costs of upgrading the water infrastructure.

One potential solution involves the creation of a regional water authority with neighboring communities to share the costs of water treatment and distribution.

Continuing Financial Challenges

While the water shut-off at Heritage Hills Mobile Home Park is an extreme measure, it underscores the ongoing financial challenges faced by Laketon. The town council is tasked with finding sustainable solutions to address the town's budget deficit and prevent similar crises in the future.

Residents and local organizations are hopeful that the town will find a way to balance its budget without resorting to further drastic measures that impact the well-being of its citizens.