At the January 21 meeting of the Bristol Town Council (BTC) town manager Bill Wuthrich reported that Bristol’s water supply was recently rated number two in quality for the state of Indiana by the Alliance of Indiana Rural Water (AIRW). Residents of Bristol, Wuthrich noted, should feel justly proud of this recognition.

The AIRW (website: www.inh2o.org) is an association of 650 Indiana water and wastewater systems and related professionals. It is a member of the National Rural Water Association (NRWA), the nation’s largest utility association, with more than 26,290 members.

Marshal Michael Swallow reported that in 2009 the Bristol Police Department saw an increase in total calls for service, but a decrease in the number of vehicle accidents and criminal cases. At his request, the BTC approved the purchase of a new Tahoe for $26,000.

Swallow introduced Lindsey Biller, 18, of Nappanee as the winner of the Russ Hohman Scholarship, which was established to assist students pursuing a career in law enforcement. Lindsey plans to study forensic science at Trine University in Angola, Indiana.

At the request of the Humane Society of Elkhart County, the BTC agreed to attempt to increase its financial support in 2010 for this agency, which has experienced a large increase in the number of animals dropped off at its site on CR 19.

Lynette Johnson was appointed by the BTC to fill the vacancy on the Bristol Park Board.

Glenn Duncan reported that the Elkhart County Plan Commission voted against the request of the BTC to change the zoning of the former Bristolpipe property from manufacturing to a business designation. This is only an advisory opinion, since the town council has the final authority in this matter. A public hearing on this matter will take place at the February 18 meeting of the BTC, at which time a decision can be made.

The current members of the Bristol economic redevelopment commission were approved for another term, and the current officers were reappointed.

The next meeting of the Bristol Town Council will be on Thursday, February 18, at 7:00 p.m. at the town hall.

UPDATE: Due to the expected larger audience, the town board meeting for Feb. 18 will be held at the Bristol Library at 7 PM.