The board approved reimbursements for four people who have met the program requirements. They are John McGuire, 1407 H. Avenue, $300; Kim Boring, 2205 Cherrywood Avenue, $350; Emily Farris, 616 S. 11th Street, $500; and Rita Coffey, 2207 S. 14th Street, $500.

In May, the New Castle City Council earmarked $15,000 to pay for half the cost of a sidewalk repair or replacement, up to $500 per property owner every four years. The money comes from the city’s share of riverboat gambling money. An application for the program is available at City Hall, 227 N. Main Street.

The mayor said more than 20 people are signed up and there is a waiting list of at least 12 more. He encouraged anyone interested in financial assistance from the city who is considering sidewalk repair or replacement to sign up now.

“I’d like to see even more people on the waiting list,” York said. “That would give us a better indication of who is interested for next year so we’ll be able to better plan for those projects.”

The board also approved hiring a new full-time paramedic at New Castle’s Emergency Management Services office. On the recommendation of EMS Director Ron Burns, Craig Denney is the new employee. Burns said Denney has worked for the agency part-time for “quite a while.”

“He’s done a good a really good job and I think he’ll be a nice fit,” Burns said.

In a final matter, the board approved an amendment to the existing agreement for fire protection between the city and Henry Township. This matter involves the purchase of a “grass rig” fire truck purchased by the township, which will maintain ownership of the vehicle. The truck will be used by the New Castle Fire Department as needed throughout Henry Township.

The city is responsible for upkeep and maintenance as well as providing insurance.

NCFD Chief Mark Boatright reported the truck is housed at Station No. 2 and is almost ready to put into service.

“As soon as we put a radio in it we’re good to go,” Boatright said.