LOWELL | It looks as if this south Lake County community will be the first to pilot a mobile Clean Air Car Check unit.
The Town Council unanimously agreed Tuesday to make the south municipal parking lot available for the unit once monthly.
Jennifer Kharchaff, public information manager for Clear Air Car Check, said the decision to pilot such a program grew out of a brainstorming session focused on making the emission inspections simpler for Lake and Porter County residents.
"Lowell was underserved. ... We've been trying to find ways to make it more convenient. ... This will save time and gas for Lowell citizens," Kharchaf said.
There will be a $15 fee, however, Kharchaf said.
The mobile unit will be equipped to handle vehicles from 1996 and newer.
Lowell was eligible for the pilot since it is at least 15 miles from a permanent Clear Air Car Check facility. Kharchaf said they are in talks with St. John officials as well.
When Councilman Robert Philpot, R-2nd, asked what volume is anticipated, Kharchaf said, "We've never had a mobile testing unit like this before, so we don't know."
Likewise, Kharchaf said the hours and monthly schedule are yet to be determined.
The council also appropriated $204,000 from gambling revenue after a public hearing drew objections. The money will be used to pay the town's 20 percent share of an Indiana Department of Transportation grant. It will go for curbs.
Also, the council approved a grievance procedure in connection with the Americans with Disability Act for those employees and residents who feel they've been discriminated against due to a disability. Lowell Town Administrator Sue Peterson will be the ADA coordinator.
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