NEW BREMEN – A construction project to replace the collapsed pipe at Wierth Ditch advanced closer to reality with its first ordinance reading Monday night at the New Bremen Village Council.

Village Administrator Chris Dicke said the ditch project will involve the installation of 18-inch of drainage pipe from Plum Street to the southern boundary of town. Work will be done by the Auglaize County Engineer’s Department.

Dicke also reported that the Front/Eastmoor Street project will have an altered schedule for the Fourth of July weekend, with continued work on installing the sanitary sewer lines. Workers will be out full-time Monday, Thursday and Friday.

Dicke also noted the next Golden Triangle concert is coming up July 6 at 6:30 p.m. at the New Bremen Crown pavilion. The band Hang Time will play music from the 1990’s with influences from The Beatles, Ray Lamontagne, Stevie Wonder and Amy Winehouse

In his report to council, Mayor Jeff Pape said discussion is on going to form a baseball/softball committee which would be independent from village operations. He said other towns had made the move to private management of softball and baseball, with support coming from ticket sales. The village would still maintain the diamonds.

Pape also reminded every one that the July 26 Fishing Derby was coming up, with registration beginning at 6pm and the competition running from 7 to 8:30. Dennis Burnell said a pro from Brushpile Fishing would be on hand to give fishing tips.

Also having a second reading were ordinances to set up the application process for small cell installation in public space and to approve the $75,833 annual insurance renewal for the village’s property, vehicle, and equipment coverage.

Tabled were third readings of two ordinances allowing the village to enter into an annexation agreement with German Township for the proposed annexation of Lot 1 and 2 of Dicke Subdivision and 22.719 acres of land south of town.