Board of Public Works & Safety

REGULAR ZOOM MEETING – May 3, 2021 The Board of Public Works, and Safety of the City of Michigan City, Indiana met in regular session on Monday morning, May 3, 2021, at the hour of 8:30 a.m., local time, hosted by “ZOOM” and streamed live on “My Michigan City” Facebook page. The meeting was called to order by President, Andrew White, who presided. Noted present: Andrew White, Mayor Duane Parry (2) Late: Virginia Keating (1). Vice-President Keating was late joining the meeting due to technical difficulties. A QUORUM WAS NOTED PRESENT. Also noted in attendance: Amber Lapaich, Corporate Counsel David Cooney, Chief of Operations, M.C.P.D. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division Skyler York, Planning Director Cranston Harris, Superintendent, Central Services Robin Tillman, Transit Director Yvonne Hoffmaster, City Controller Shong Smith, Director, M.C. Central Services Kaleb Goodwin, I.T. Webmaster Gale Neulieb, City Clerk Dawn Debald, Deputy Clerk APPROVAL OF MINUTES President White asked if there were any corrections to the minutes from the Regular “Zoom” Meeting of April 19, 2021. President White moved to approve the minutes of the Regular “Zoom” meeting of April 19, 2021; second by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, and Parry (2). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. AWARDING OF QUOTES – Michigan City Police Department – Lease of ten (10) 2021 Dodge Chargers- Police Pursuant Package – two (2) year lease David Cooney, Chief of Operations, M.C.P.D. addressed the Board stating Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink and himself reviewed the documents from Laporte Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and have agreed upon the terms. Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink addressed the Board stating they have reviewed the quote and recommends awarding LaPorte Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep; requesting approval of the two (2) year lease with LaPorte Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep in the amount of $90,000.00; also requesting approval of the draft proposed lease agreement; explaining we do not have the original at this time because we do not have the VIN numbers for the vehicles; anticipating receiving that at the time of delivery. President White made a motion to approve the lease between the City of Michigan City and LaPorte Chrysler, Inc.; a two (2) year lease in the amount of $90,000.00; and approval of the draft proposed lease agreement. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White and Parry (2). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. Vice-President Keating joined the meeting. APPROVAL OF APPLICATION – Samer Agemy, 305 Boyd Circle is requesting approval of the application he completed for a hearing-impaired sign near his home for his young sons safety Samer and Kim Agemy, 305 Boyd Circle addressed the Board explaining their request for a hearing- impaired sign. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division stated that a speed radar trailer was placed in the area last week to reduce speeds in anticipation of the signs being installed; recommending approval. President White made the motion to approve the application by Samer Agemy for a hearing- impaired sign near his residence at 305 Boyd Circle. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 2 The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. President White stated that Shong Smith, Director, M.C. Central Services was on the call and will look in to getting the sign posted at his earliest convenience. REQUEST FOR SIGNAGE- Carole Ziemke, 102 Rue du Lac W., representing Terre du Lac II HOA, is requesting a “no outlet” sign to be placed at the bottom of the road near Warren Road for safety reasons Carole Ziemke, 102 Rue du Lac W. addressed the Board advising they live in a cul-de-sac off of Warren Road and Washington Park Boulevard; explaining her concerns with the traffic using the road trying to get to Lake Shore Drive; stating there are small children in the neighborhood; asking for signage at the bottom of the road that would indicate there is no outlet. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board stating this is a “dead end”; advising in the summertime, tourist and out of towners get turned around in the area and can’t find their way out; explaining this will reduce unnecessary traffic; recommending approval. President White made the motion to approve the request by Carole Ziemke for the installation of a “no outlet” or “dead end” sign (depending on which sign the Street Department sees most applicable) to be placed at the bottom of the road near Warren Road for safety reasons. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE- Janet Bloch, Executive Director, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, is requesting street closure of Washington Street north of U.S. Highway 12 and Franklin Street from the crosswalk at Water Street to 2nd Street for the Lubeznik Art and Artisan Festival beginning at 8:00 a.m. on August 20, 2021 through 7:00 p.m. on August 22, 2021 Janet Bloch, Executive Director, Lubeznik Center for the Arts, addressed the Board stating this is the same request as previous years; it is for the safety of pedestrians, festival goers and artists; advising they will be using EMA volunteers to help with the event; recommending approval. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board stating that he is recommending approval of this request; advising the Lubeznik Center always makes a generous donation to the EMA group in exchange for their services. President White made the motion to approve the request by Janet Bloch, Lubeznik Center for the Arts; for street closure of Washington Street north of U.S. Highway 12 and Franklin Street from the crosswalk at Water Street to 2nd Street for the Lubeznik Art and Artisan Festival beginning at 8:00 a.m. on August 20, 2021 through 7:00 p.m. on August 22, 2021. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE – Eric Camel, St. Joseph Young Men’s Society is requesting street closure of Tillotson Street from Franklin to Washington Streets for their annual 2021 Summer Festival on June 25-27, 2021 from 12:00 p.m. – midnight Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board advising this is an annual event; recommending approval of this request. Mayor Parry made the motion to approve the request by Eric Camel for street closure of Tillotson Street from Franklin to Washington Streets for their annual 2021 Summer Festival on June 25-27, 2021 from 12:00 pm. – midnight. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. MODIFICATION TO CITY EASEMENT – Jessica Vazquez, 1203 Spring Street is requesting approval to build a handicap ramp on a City easement Jessica Vazquez, 1203 Spring Street and Chris Gondek, 825 W. 4th Street addressed the Board explaining the request; advising this will be a temporary structure with no footers being dug. Skyler York, Planning Director addressed the Board advising it is a wide right-of-way; stating he would need a survey done before he could make a decision to see exactly where the property lines are. Discussion ensued between Mayor Parry and Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink regarding this being City property is a “hold harmless agreement necessary to protect the City. Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink stated yes, we could enter into some type of written agreement where there is a “hold harmless” and indemnification. Mayor Parry stated in that case, he has no issue with the request. Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 3 Mr. York commented that as long as the ramp is temporary in nature it is fine. President White made the motion to approve a temporary handicap structure on a City easement subject to the execution of a “hold harmless” agreement between Ms. Vazquez and the City of Michigan City. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR SIGNAGE – Councilman Don Przybylinski, 215 Gardena Street is requesting signage to be placed at Ohio Street and Tilden Avenue at the C.O. tracks to warn the public of the rough crossing Councilman Don Przybylinski, 215 Gardena Street addressed the Board with his issues and concerns regarding the two (2) crossings; advising his request is for the safety of the residents of Michigan City. Discussion ensued between President White and Shong Smith, Director, M.C. Central Services regarding if the Railroad has any intentions of repairing the tracks anytime soon. President White advised that our main priority now is to warn the residents of the rough crossings. Mr. Smith stated he has made many phone calls and complaints to CSX over the past year; explaining they acknowledged there is a problem with the tracks, but did not give a specific time for when they will be repaired; advising he has no issues with the warning signs; there will need to be four (4) signs specially made; Tilden Avenue and Ohio Street run (north & south); advising these will be attached to the regular railroad signs; Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board stating the signs are desperately needed; suggesting that the signs are temporary until the tracks are fixed and then the signs can be removed; urging anyone that has damage to their vehicles to report it to the Railroad. Discussion further ensued between President White, Mayor Parry and Vice-President Keating regarding if the Mayor can make a phone call to CSX and get this issue taken care of sooner. Mayor Parry stated he will pursue this because the tracks need to be fixed. Ms. Keating asked that the Mayor’s communication is in writing that way it can be tracked. Discussion continued between Councilman Przybylinski, Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink and Mayor Parry regarding if the City can sue the railroad because of unsafe crossings and damage to vehicles. Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink stated if the City incurs damage itself, we could do that; advising the starting point is written communication from the Mayor to CSX explaining the gravity of the situation. Councilman Przybylinski asked Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink if she can research and see if CSX can be sued or the City can bring a lawsuit against them for having unsafe crossings. Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink stated she can look into it. Mayor Parry commented on the crossing that was fixed on Franklin Street a few years ago and why it took so long to replace it; advising the City picked up fifty (50) percent of the cost. President White made the motion to approve the request by Councilman Don Przybylinski for the installation of signage to read “rough crossing” at the railroad crossings at Ohio Street and Tilden Avenue. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. Discussion ensued between Clerk Neulieb and President White regarding placing the matter of the Mayor’s written communication (crossing improvements) being sent to CSX on the pending item/unfinished business list so we can follow it. Discussion continued between Councilman Przybylinski and Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink regarding legal action being taken against CSX for not maintaining their crossings. Councilman Przybylinski asked that this matter be placed on the pending items/unfinished business list. Counsel Lapaich- Stalbrink advised she is reluctant at this point in time to share any conclusions publicly. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2021- Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting parking lot closure on the north side of 8th Street between Franklin and Washington Street for a mural presentation on Friday, June 4, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association addressed the Board explaining his request; stating that the reveal for the mural will take place on Friday, June 4, 2021 as part of Mainstreet’s first Friday event. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division stated the request is just for use of the parking lot; advising 8th Street will not be closed. President White stated that we will need their Certificate of Insurance as soon as possible. Discussion ensued between City Clerk Neulieb, Mr. Pozos and Skyler York, Planning Director regarding this event taking place on Redevelopment’s property. Clerk Neulieb stated she will need an approval letter from the Redevelopment Commission. Mr. Pozos stated Michigan City Mainstreet Association is on the Planning Commission’s agenda for May 10, 2021. Mr. York advised that Redevelopment will also need a Certificate of Insurance. Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 4 President White made a motion to approve parking lot closure on the north side of 8th Street between Franklin and Washington Streets by Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association for a mural presentation on Friday, June 4, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.; subject to approval of the Redevelopment Commission and the receipt of their Certificate of Insurance no later than thirty (30) days prior to the event. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2021- Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting street closure on Franklin Street from 6th Street to 8th Street and 7th Street between Washington and Pine Streets on August 6, 2021 starting at 7:00 a.m. thru August 8, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. for the Taste of Michigan City; also requesting the closure of Washington Street from U.S. Highway 12 to 9th Street and Franklin Street from 10th Street to 4th Street and 9th Street from Washington to Pine Street for the Boat Parade on Saturday, August 7, 2021 Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association addressed the Board stating this is an annual event and the same request they have made over the last eight (8) years or so for the Taste of Michigan City; advising this would include the two (2) lots to the north and south of 7th Street west of Franklin Street; explaining they need the Redevelopment Commissions approval. Discussion ensued between Mayor Parry and Mr. Pozos regarding if he has interfaced this request with the LaPorte County Conventions and Visitors Bureau. Mr. Pozos responded, yes, he has. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board stating this is an annual event and he is recommending approval. Discussion ensued between President White and Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink regarding a question that was brought up regarding vendors at the Taste of Michigan City and if they have to be approved by the Board prior to the event. Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink stated no they do not; they have always been included in the event. Vice-President Keating made the motion to approve the request by Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association for street closure on Franklin Street from 6th Street to 8th Street and 7th Street between Washington and Pine Streets on August 6, 2021 starting at 7:00 a.m. thru August 8, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. for the Taste of Michigan City; also requesting the closure of Washington Street from U.S. Highway 12 to 9th Street and Franklin Street from 10th Street to 4th Street and 9th Street from Washington to Pine Street for the Boat Parade on Saturday, August 7, 2021; subject to the receipt of their Certificate of Insurance no later than thirty (30) days prior to the event. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2021 - Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting street closure on Franklin Street from 8th to 4th Street and 7th Street from Pine to Washington Street for the annual Flame & Flair Halloween Festival on Saturday, October 23, 2021 from 3:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m. Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association addressed the Board stating this is an annual event and the same request has been made over the last several years. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board recommending approval of the event. President White made the motion to approve the request by Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association for street closure on Franklin Street from 8th to 4th Street and 7th Street from Pine to Washington Street for the annual Flame & Flair Halloween Festival on Saturday, October 23, 2021 from 3:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m.; subject to the receipt of their Certificate of Insurance no later than thirty (30) days prior to the event. The motion was approved by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2022 Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting street closure at 7th Street from Pine to Washington and Franklin Street from 6th to 8th Street for the annual Shelf Ice Brewfest from Friday, February 18, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. thru Sunday, February 20, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2022 Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting street closure at Franklin Street from 10th to 4th Street; 4th Street from Pine to Washington Street; Washington Street northbound lane; and 10th Street from Franklin to Washington Street for the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade on Saturday, March 12, 2022 from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2022 Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting street closure on Franklin Street from 6th Street to 8th Street and 7th Street between Washington and Pine Streets on August 5, 2022 starting at 7:00 a.m. thru August 7, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. for the Taste of Michigan City; also requesting the closure of Washington Street from U.S. Highway 12 to 9th Street and Franklin Street from 10th Street to 4th Street and 9th Street from Washington to Pine Street for the Boat Parade on Saturday, August 6, 2022 Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 5 REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE 2022 Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting street closure on Franklin Street from 8th to 4th Street and 7th Street from Pine to Washington Street for the annual Flame & Flair Halloween Festival on Saturday, October 29, 2022 from 3:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m. REQUEST TO USE CITY PROPERTY 2022 Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association is requesting approval for the First Friday Art Walk Summer Series beginning May 6, 2022, June 3, 2022, July 1, 2022 and September 3, 2022 between 2:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.; requesting to use RDC’s (Redevelopment Commission) lot located on the northeast corner of 7th and Franklin Streets REQUEST TO USE WESTCOTT PARK 2022 – Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association, is requesting approval for the use of Westcott Park for the annual Swale Music Festival on Saturday, June 11, 2022 from 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Discussion ensued between President White, Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink regarding the 2022 event requests made by Arturo Pozos, Mainstreet Association and if there is a state statue on how far out events can be approved. Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink advised she doesn’t see next year being a problem, but it is the discretion of the Board if they want to approve events going into next year; stating the Board can “TABLE” the 2022 events and bring them back in January. Mayor Parry stated the 2022 events are too far out to be approved at this time; advising the only two (2) that he believes can be approved before 2022 are the Shelf Ice Brewfest and St. Patrick’s Day parade; commenting these two (2) items should be placed on the pending items/unfinished business list to be revisited the first meeting in December, which is December 6, 2021; stating the Mainstreet Association will not have to go through the process of re-applying. Mr. Pozos stated that they start planning the Shelf Ice Brewfest at the very latest in October; advising it takes a lot of time to plan this event. Abby May, Michigan City Mainstreet Association addressed the Board stating they submitted the requests last year and this year to limit the burden on the Clerk’s Office being they have so many events throughout the year; explaining it is also beneficial to Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division and the Police Department to have approval ahead of time so they can put approved events on their calendars and security can be put in place; explaining they do not provide Certificate of Insurance with their request because they don’t pay for their Insurance until it is closer to the event. President White asked the various departments their thoughts on getting requests approved ahead of time for events that are farther out. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division stated his thoughts and concerns with the 11th Street corridor that is going to be closed for construction because of the NICTD Double Track project; stating 8th Street is going to become a major east/west route through the City. President White stated that with the Mayor’s recommendation, the construction that will be going on with the NICTD Double Track project, the Covid-19 pandemic, he would like to keep the 2022 requests and add them to the pending items/unfinished business list so Mainstreet will not need to re-apply; advising he is hesitant to approve the requests that are more than 365 days out. Vice-President Keating stated the Board is not saying the events cannot take place, they are saying as far as the closures go, it is too far ahead for them to determine if they can approve the closures. Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink advised it will be best to put the Shelf Ice Brewfest and the St. Patrick’s Day parade on the pending items/unfinished business list for the first meeting in October 2021 versus December 2021 so that Mainstreet can plan accordingly. President White made the motion to place the requests by Arturo Pozos, Michigan City Mainstreet Association for the Shelf Ice Brewfest on February 20, 2022 and the St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 12, 2022 on the pending items/unfinished business list, to be revisited at the first meeting in October, which is October 4, 2021; and the remaining events which are the Taste of Michigan City, August 5-7, 2022; the annual Flame & Flair Halloween Festival on Saturday, October 29, 2022; First Friday Art Walk Summer Series, May 6, 2022, June 3, 2022, July 1, 2022 and September 3, 2022 and the Swale Park Music Festival that is being held on June 11, 2022 will be placed on the pending items/unfinished business list to be revisited at the first meeting in January 2022. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE – NIPSCO is requesting full and partial closures that will take place on 8th Street from Huron to east Michigan Boulevard; and along Spring Street from 7th to 11th Street; also closures of Pine, York and Washington Streets along 11th Street for the NIPSCO/NICTD Double Track project; project dates starting on April 19, 2021 thru May 28th, 2021 from 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Michelle Moorman-Applegate, Sargent & Lundy, and Jackie Thomas, NICTD, addressed the Board explaining their request; advising when the crews finish work they jump to the next location; stating they are trying to provide the City with information on a daily basis. Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 6 Discussion ensued between President White and Ms. Moorman-Applegate regarding if the projects are being done in chronological order (up to 80 projects that were sent to the City). Ms. Moorman-Applegate stated they will potentially skip around depending on the nature of the project and crew availability. President White stated the communication has gotten better since the last Board of Works meeting. Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division addressed the Board stating they have been receiving daily updates; advising that he asked the person in charge of making contact to the City to please contact the Fire Department and Emergency Management. Mayor Parry asked to be placed on the invite list for the coordination meetings that are being held by NICTD; explaining we need to keep the citizens of Michigan City informed of daily, and weekly street closures; advising he is trying to get the updates and closures placed on the City’s website; stating the Mayor’s Office will also be sending out press releases so citizens can plan their travel accordingly. President White strongly encouraged the communication from NICTD/NIPSCO to continue like it has because it is imperative from the Community’s perspective to keep the residents of Michigan City informed. President White made the motion to approve the request by NIPSCO for full and partial street closures that will take place on 8th Street from Huron to east Michigan Boulevard; and along Spring Street from 7th to 11th Street; also closures of Pine, York and Washington Streets along 11th Street for the NIPSCO/NICTD Double Track project; project dates starting on April 19, 2021 thru May 28th, 2021 from 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. RESOLUTION- APPROVING AND ACCEPTING THE CONVEYANCE OF “WATER TOWER PARK” FROM THE CITY OF MICHIGAN CITY REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION TO THE CITY OF MICHIGAN CITY, INDIANA FOR THE USE AND BENEFIT OF THE MICHIGAN CITY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink addressed the Board stating the Park Department is applying for a grant to “redo” Water Tower Place; advising the grant will be coming from CDBG funding; explaining the grant requires the Park Department to have ownership of the property which is the reason for the resolution; further stating the Park Department and Redevelopment Commission have both passed resolutions in support of the conveyance of the property to the Park Department so it will be legally held in the Park Departments name; further advising the grant is due on June 1, 2021. President White made the motion to accept the Resolution- APPROVING AND ACCEPTING THE CONVEYANCE OF “WATER TOWER PARK” FROM THE CITY OF MICHIGAN CITY REDEVELOPMENT COMMISSION TO THE CITY OF MICHIGAN CITY, INDIANA FOR THE USE AND BENEFIT OF THE MICHIGAN CITY PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. REQUEST FOR SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS – Robin Tillman, Transit Director is asking for approval to solicit RFP proposals for bus shelters Robin Tillman, Transit Director addressed the Board stating this is an opportunity for the City to provide bus shelters throughout the City on main thorough fairs; advising there will be no cost for construction or maintenance for the shelters which will benefit the City; explaining we have the opportunity to garner revenue from advertising. Skyler York, Planning Director addressed the Board stating the shelters could cut down time for the transit system; advising this is a win for the City and a good project. Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink stated the City is asking for proposals from vendors that are interested in providing the City with pre-fabricated shelters with the idea they will garner revenue from advertising; explaining the submission date is no later than June 1, 2021 with written inquires being submitted to Robin Tillman, Transit Director by May 21, 2021; advising after June 1, 2021; Ms. Tillman, Mr. York and herself will be reviewing any proposals that are received and sit down with the vendors and figure out which one best fits the City’s needs; advising the proposal will be award it sometime in July 2021. Discussion ensued between President White and Mr. York regarding if there are any businesses within Michigan City that have the capabilities to create these types of shelters. Mr. York stated he believes so within the City and region; advising they are looking at 12 shelters at this time and he sees this as a pilot, making sure it is going to function the way it should. Mr. York continued to explain once a vendor is selected, they will have to look at what is under the ground, how much space is needed for the shelter, etc. President White made the motion to approve the request by Robin Tillman, Transit Director to solicit RFP proposals for bus shelters. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry. Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 7 The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. Discussion ensued between President White and Robin Tillman, Transit Director regarding the Transit Department being notified of NICTD/NIPSCO street closures for the Double Track project as well as Police and Fire and Emergency Management. Ms. Tillman stated that NICTD promised they will not close Franklin and Washington Street at the same time; advising the transit buses have to be able to pass over 11th Street. President White advised that he will reach out to Ms. Moorman- Applegate and ask for written assurance that Franklin and Washington Streets will not be closed at the same time. SPECIAL PURCHASE- Cranston Harris, Superintendent, Central Services is requesting approval to lease a new copier for Central Services (Konica Minolta Bizhub C258) from Kemp’s Office City utilizing special purchase method I.C. 5-22-10-8 Cranston Harris, Superintendent, Central Services addressed the Board stating a new copier is needed in Central Services. Yvonne Hoffmaster, City Controller stated the funds are available. President White made the motion to approve the request by Cranston Harris to lease a new copier for Central Services (Konica Minolta Bizhub C258) from Kemp’s Office City utilizing special purchase method I.C. 5-22-10-8. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. CLAIMS AND PAYROLL Mayor Parry moved that the claims set forth in the Register of Claims (in possession of the City Controller) and appearing in the Register be severally allowed and ordered paid and proper warrants for payment thereof hereby ordered issued in the stated amounts to person(s) and/or firm(s) as set forth, and payrolls approved. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating and carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. CLAIMS DOCKET May 3, 2021 Municipal Claims $ 510,223.49 CDBG $ 518.70 Health Life $ 381,026.40 Workers Comp. $ 38,794.20 2011 Refund bonds sinking $ 242,001.86 2011 Refund bonds O & R $ 29, 890.53 Ohio Street Operating funds $ 1, 250.00 Total Claims - $ 1,203,705.18 Allowance of claims as set forth in the Register of Claims as follows: PAYROLL DOCKET April 23, 2021 City Payroll Total: $509,848.27 April 30, 2021 City Pension Total: $213,511.33 Mayor Parry made the motion to approve the payroll dockets for April 23, 2021 and April 30, 2021. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry and carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. UNFINISHED BUSINESS President White stated the first item on the pending items/unfinished business list is David Hartz, 160 Turner Court; requesting a stop sign at the end of his driveway on Turner Court; Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Division also recommended a “dead end” sign at the end of the hill on Turner Court Shong Smith, Director M.C. Central Services addressed the Board stating they installed the “dead end” sign at the base of the residence at 160 Turner Court; and a “no parking” sign at the top of the hill across from the driveway at 160 Turner Court; advising the work has been completed. President White made the motion to remove this item from the pending items/unfinished business list. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 8 The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. President White stated the next item on the pending items/unfinished business list is Cathi Rogers, Black Book Connections, 18735 Parkview Drive, New Buffalo, MI- requesting an open-air Farmer’s/Artisan market at the marina President White stated correspondence was received on April 26, 2021 from Ms. Rogers stating that she is withdrawing her request at this time. President White made a motion to remove this item from the pending items/unfinished business list. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. President White stated the next item on the pending item/unfinished business list is Paul Przybylinski, a concern over old hanging poles/wires that belong to NIPSCO or Comcast that need to be removed from City right-of-way President White asked if Mayor Parry had any new information regarding this matter. Mayor Parry stated that he spoke to someone at NIPSCO and was told the old redundant poles are on the schedule to be removed but he was not given an exact date of when this will be completed. President White stated that Jeff Wright, City Engineer has been in contact with Comcast and it seems they are making some progress. President White stated this item will stay on the pending items/unfinished business list until completed. President White state the last item on the pending items/unfinished business list is James Taylor, requesting roadway access on Huron Avenue and he would also like a street light installed President White stated the Clerk’s Office reached out to Mr. Taylor via a letter; at this point in time, he has not responded with the information he was to provide to various City departments; advising Mr. Taylor can re-apply at a later date if he wishes to do so. President White made a motion to remove this item from the pending items/unfinished business list. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. PUBLIC COMMENTS President White asked if there was anyone from the public who wished to speak. Councilman Don Przybylinski commented on the request he made regarding ADA crossings and stop lights; advising he asked for a report showing were we stand on this project; asking for an update. Discussion ensued between President White and Councilman Przybylinski regarding Jeff Wright, City Engineer receiving confirmation the ADA crossings and stop lights on Franklin Street and Michigan Boulevard have been tested and they are operational. Councilman Przybylinski stated that he wanted all of the ADA accessible crossings in Michigan City tested and audited. Discussion continued between Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink and President White regarding an email that Mr. Wright sent out with an attachment on April 28, 2021; Counsel Lapaich-Stalbrink advised the attachment is a laundry list of all locations and intersections with the ADA crossings and stop lights and a check list. President White stated he will forward the email to Councilman Przybylinski. Councilman Przybylinski further commenting on the redundant poles on Poplar Street; advising they have started to remove them. Yvonne Hoffmaster, City Controller addressed the Board stating she sent a contract to Kemp’s Office supply for a new printer in Controller’s Office; advising there is money available in the budget to cover the cost of the printer; asking for the Board to approve and sign the contract. Mayor Parry made the motion to approve the request by Yvonne Hoffmaster to purchase a new printer in the Controller’s Office. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Keating. The motion carried as follows: AYES: MEMBERS White, Keating and Parry (3). NAYS: (0). Motion Carries. Tommy Kulavik, 1316 Ohio Street addressed the Board commenting on graffiti within the City; encouraging residents that see graffiti to report it to the M.C.P.D.; advising there are bus stop and Regular Zoom Meeting – May 3, 2021 Page 9 no parking signs that are faded along Michigan Boulevard that need to be replaced; asking about an outdoor community swimming pool in Michigan City; commending the Sanitary District for an excellent job with spring clean-up; continuing to comment that it is college graduation season. Councilwoman Dalia Zygas commended Robin Tillman, Transit Director and Skyler York, Planning Director on the bus shelter program. Skyler York, Planning Director addressed the Board giving information that Nicole Barker, NICTD gave in regard to the NICTD Double Track project. BOARD COMMENTS President White asked if there are any Board comments; there was no response. ADJOURNMENT The presiding officer inquired whether there was anything else to be considered by the Board at this time and, there being none, asked for a motion to ADJOURN the meeting at approximately 10:27 a.m. President White made the motion to Adjourn. The motion was seconded by Vice- President Keating. _________________________________________ Gale A. Neulieb, City Clerk