Despite a 120-day moratorium still being in affect on the proposed Ontwa Township Wastewater Treatment Plant, the debate goes on.

The board attempted to take several actions on the plant, but it was pointed out that they could not take action until the moratorium expires in September.

One of the actions the board tried to take was to extend the moratorium another 120 days at the request of the newly formed sewer board.

The wastewater board wants more time to try and figure out how to stop the current problems with the system and stop the fines being levied regularly by the Elkhart Board of Public Works.

Members also want more time to try and gather all the facts on whether or not it would be in the township’s best interest to build its own facility.

Even paying some of the township’s bills became an issue as some of the payments concerned work being done on the project.

While Ontwa Township had stopped taking any action on the project, the Cass County Commissioners continued to move foward with it, as did Wightman & Associates.

The board decided that it would take up this matter again at its next meeting Sept. 8 after the moratorium had expired.

At that time, if the board decides to extend the period for another 120 days, it would also send letters to Wightman & Associates and the commissioners asking them to discontinue work on the project.

That decision sparked controversy, too, as it was questioned just what the board could legally do to get both parties to stop working on the project if they decide on the extension.

Nearly two hours and 15 minutes into the meeting, the board finally got around to accomplishing a pair of new business items.

The board unanimously approved the second and final steps on the Millianigan PUD/site condo project.

The board also approved using purchasing orders for any amount over petty cash and set spending limits.