Board of Public Works & Safety

REGULAR ZOOM MEETING – April 18, 2022 The Board of Public Works and Safety of the City of Michigan City, Indiana, met in REGULAR SESSION on Monday morning, April 18, 2022, at the hour of 8:30 a.m., hosted by “Hybird/Zoom” and streaming live on “My Michigan City” Facebook page. The meeting was called to order by President, Virginia Keating, who presided. Noted present in person: Virginia Keating, Michael Vinson, and Mayor Parry (3), Absent: None (0). A QUORUM WAS NOTED PRESENT. Also noted in attendance: Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel Kaleb Goodwin I.T. Webmaster Brad Minnick, City Engineer Lt. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic Shong Smith, Director M.C. Central Services Terry Greetham, Special Event Director Andrew White, Alco TV Skyler York, Planning Director Marty Corley, Assistant Chief Councilman Paul Przybylinski Christine Vanderborg, Code Enforcement Gale Neulieb, City Clerk Stacy Dudley, Deputy Clerk APPROVAL OF MINUTES Vice-President Vinson moved to approve the minutes of the Regular “Hybird/Zoom” meeting of April 04, 2022; seconded by Mayor Parry. The minutes were approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Request to Solicit Surplus Bids - 2022 Sale of Surplus Vehicles (Rolling Stock-Transit Buses) 2013 Freightliner- Legacy #40 2013 Freightliner- Legacy #42 2013 Freightliner- Legacy #44 2015 Freightliner- Legacy #4 8 2015 Freightliner- Legacy #50 President Keating asked if there was anyone that wanted to address the Board on this matter. Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel addressed the Board stating that Robin Tillman, Transit Director sent an email stating that she would not be here today; Ms. Tillman resubmitted the bids and added an additional bus to the list that has exceeded its useful life; All bids will be due by May 16th, 2022. President Keating asked if there was any comment from the Public and hearing none asked if there were any Board questions or comments, there was no response. Vice-President Vinson made the motion to approve the request to solicit bids. The motion was seconded by Mayor Parry and carried as follows: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Request to Solicit Bids - Marty Corley, MCPD Asst. Chief of Operations is requesting to solicit bids for a three-year lease program for eleven (11) Dodge Durango ’s police pursuit packages and one (1) Dodge Ram 1500-police pursuit package Marty Corley, MCPD Assistant Chief of Operations addressed the Board stating that he is here to request to solicit bids for a three-year lease program for eleven (11) Dodge Durango’s and one (1) Dodge Ram 1500 and that they have the money in the budget, and it has been approved. Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel addressed the Board stating that bids will be due by our May 16th, 2022, meeting. President Keating asked if there was any comment from the Public, there was no response. Vice-President Vinson addressed Assistant Chief Corley asking if the Durango’s are upscale compared to the Ford Explorers. Marty Corley, MCPD Assistant Chief of Operations answered Vice-President Vinson stating that yes, the Durango’s offer a better lease program that helps us with our maintenance and budget with the option to purchase; further explaining the difference between the Ford and Dodge. Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 2 Mayor Parry stated that the City is running about $500,000.00 a year purchasing new police vehicles, so when he came into office, they found a deficit of $3.4 million and started looking for cost cutting measures. Vice-President Vinson made the motion to approve the solicit of bids for a three-year lease program for eleven (11) Dodge Durango’s police pursuit packages and one (1) Dodge Ram 1500-police pursuit package; seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion was approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Food Vendor Renewal License Request - Ron Landtro op, “A Slice of Heaven ” 425 Ogden Avenue is requesting to renew his food vendor license that will be located in the parking lot of Brandt ’s Old Fashion Feed Store U.S. Hwy 12 Ron Landtroop, 425 Ogden Avenue addressed the Board stating that he has been at this location for four (4) years now and asking to renew his license. President Keating asked Mr. Landtroop what his hours of operations are. Ron Landtroop answered by stating that he will be open at 8:00 p.m. until sundown. President Keating asked if there were any Board questions or comments. Mayor Parry thanked Mr. Landtroop for getting his request in early this year because in the past he was delayed. Vice-President Vinson made the motion to approve the request to renew “A Slice of Heaven” vendor license that will be located in the parking lot of Brandt’s Old Fashion Feed Store U.S. Hwy 12; seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion was approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . FARMER’S MARKET AGREEMENT - Terry Greetham, Special Event Director is requesting approval of the 2022 Farmer ’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and Tress Bien CBD Inc. Terry Greetham, Events Director addressed the Board stating that this is a returning vendor, and we are happy to welcome them back. President Keating asked if there was any comment from the Public and hearing none asked if there were any Board questions or comments, there was no response. Vice-President Vinson made the motion to approve the 2022 Farmer’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and Tress Bien CBD Inc.; seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion was approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Mayor Parry addressed Mr. Greetham to tell him that he did an outstanding job with the Easter Egg Hunt last Sunday. Terry Greetham stated that it was a team effort with the MCPD and Park Department making him just a small part of a big team that did a great job. FARMER’S MARKET AGREEMENT - Terry Greetham, Special Event Director is requesting approval of the 2022 Farmer ’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and Green Trails Flower Farm, LLC. Terry Greetham, Events Director addressed the Board stating that this is another returning vendor, and we are happy to welcome them back. President Keating asked if there were any public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any Board comments, there was no response. Vice-President Vinson made the motion to approve the 2022 Farmer’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and Green Trails Flower Farm, LLC.; seconded by Mayor Parry and were approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . FARMER ’S MARKET AGREEMENT - Terry Greetham, Special Event Director is requesting approval of the 2022 Farmer ’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and Sarah Tristano d/b/a JuJu ’s Aguas Frescas Terry Greetham, Events Director addressed the Board stating that this is another returning vendor, and we are happy to welcome them back. President Keating asked if there were any public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any Board comments, there was no response. Mayor Parry made the motion to approve the 2022 Farmer’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and Sarah Tristano d/b/a JuJu’s Aguas Frescas.; seconded by Vice-President Vinson and were approved by the following vote: AYES: Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 3 Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . FARMER ’S MARKET AGREEMENT - Terry Greetham, Special Event Director is requesting approval of the 2022 Farmer ’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and PEO Sisterhood Terry Greetham, Events Director addressed the Board stating that this vendor is only for one day during the season and they do a bake sale to raise money for their organization; another returning vendor that we are happy to welcome them back. President Keating asked if there were any public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any Board comments, there was no response. Vice-President Vinson made the motion to approve the 2022 Farmer’s Market agreement between the City of Michigan City, Indiana, and PEO Sisterhood; seconded by Mayor Parry and were approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT - An agreement between the Board of Public Works and Safety and General Insurance Services for their Sponsorship at the “Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival ” held on June 3 – 5, 2022 at Washington Park (Sponsorship Gold - $5,000) Terry Greetham, Events Director addressed the Board stating that he is extremely excited that General Insurance has come on board as a “gold” sponsorship, so now we only have two (2) more spots to fill. President Keating asked if there were any public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any Board comments, there was no response. Vice-President Vinson approved the motion to approve General Insurance Services for their Sponsorship at the “Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival” held on June 3 – 5, 2022 at Washington Park (Sponsorship Gold - $5,000) seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion was approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vice-President Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: NONE (0). Motion Carries . AGREEMENT FOR 2022 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES - An Agreement between the Michigan City Board of Public Works and Safety and Serviscape, LLC to provide landscaping services namely for Wabash Street, Franklin Square to South Franklin Street (will not exceed $203,932.35) President Keating asked if there was any present that would like to address this matter. Councilman Paul Przybylinski, 1716 Washington Street, addressed the Board asking who Is going to repair the waterlines in the sprinkler systems, the agreement does not talk about who is responsible for getting the water to the area or who is repairing them. Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel addressed the Board stating that the agreement is for the cutting of the grass and weeds along Franklin and Wabash Street; as Councilman Przybylinski indicated there are some areas that need repair; Servicescape has identified areas of repair, but that will require a contractor and getting estimates. President Keating asked if there was any comment from the Public and hearing none asked if there were any Board questions or comments. Mayor Parry addressed the Board giving Councilman Paul Przybylinski further information about the damage to the underground irrigation system and the extent of the damage along with the cost of repairs. Vice-President Vinson asked the Board if any Department Heads have looked at using funding and doing the landscaping work in-house. Further discussion ensued between Mayor Parry, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, and Vice- President Vinson regarding doing the landscaping in-house and if the City has the man power to do so. Mayor Parry made the motion to approve Serviscape, LLC to provide landscaping services namely for Wabash Street, Franklin Square to South Franklin Street (will not exceed $203,932.35); seconded by Vice-President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vice- President Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: NONE (0). Motion Carries . STREET CLOSURE REQUEST - Janet Bloch, Director of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts, is requesting the usage of the north end area of “You Are Beautiful ” site and the street closure at the intersection of Washington Street, north of U.S. Highway 12; Franklin Street from the crosswalk at Water Street headed south around the curve to 2nd Street; and traffic both ways between Franklin Street and Shoreline Brewery driveway for the Arts Festival August 19, 2022, 8:00 a.m. until August 21, 2022, 7:00 p.m. Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 4 Janet Bloch, Director of the Lubeznik Center for the Arts, addressed the Board stating that this is the same request as the last two (2) years and that she went before the Redevelopment Commission last week receiving their approval to use the “You Are Beautiful” site. President Keating asked Lt. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic if this is the same layout as their last event. Lt. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic answered by stating that yes this is the same layout as last year and that the street closure does not cost the City anything because of the EMA volunteers. President Keating asked if there was any comment from the Public and hearing none asked if there were any Board questions or comments. Mayor Parry asked how this event impacts Shorelines business over those three (3) days. Janet Bloch answered Mayor Parry by stating that Shoreline is a partner and that their driveway won’t be blocked; this is our 40th Anniversary and will have beer and wine, so we were hoping to have you guys be our guest or star bartenders. Mayor Parry made the motion to approve the usage of the north end area of “You Are Beautiful” site and the street closure at the intersection of Washington Street, north of U.S. Highway 12; Franklin Street from the crosswalk at Water Street headed south around the curve to 2nd Street; and traffic both ways between Franklin Street and Shoreline Brewery driveway for the Arts Festival August 19, 2022, 8:00 a.m. until August 21, 2022, 7:00 p.m.; seconded by Vice-President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vice-President Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: NONE (0). Motion Carries . REQUEST TO RETIRE POLE/ AERIAL SERVICE - Brad Minnick, Primera Engineers, Ltd. is requesting the retirement of un-metered connection to a traffic pole at the northwest corner of Pine Street and 10th Street and existing aerial service for the Double Track Project Brad Minnick, Primera Engineers, addressed the Board stating that this is just another batch of retirements for the NICTD Double Track Project. President Keating asked if there was any comment from the Public and hearing none asked if there were any Board questions or comments. Vice-President Vinson made a motion to approve the retirement of un-metered connection to a traffic pole at the northwest corner of Pine Street and 10th Street and existing aerial service for the Double Track Project; Mayor Parry seconded the motion by the following vote: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . STREET CLOSURE REQUEST- Jeremy Rossi, Uptown Social is requesting a street closure starting at First Presbyterian church on 9th and Pine Streets; then heading South on Pine to Washington Park and return on the same route for their 2nd Annual Uptown Social 5K on July 28, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Jeremy Rossi, Chief Operating Officer at Uptown Social, addressed the Board stating that this is their 2nd Annual 5K walk and run that is family friendly, there has been a slight change in the route starting at 9th Street at Oriental Pearl and after talking to Captain Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic he stated that we do not need Pine Street closed because the bike lane can be used instead with “No Parking” signs in those parking spots; further explaining the route for the event. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic stated that the bike lane and parking areas will be used for the racers and Mr. Rossi is working on getting permission from MCPD. Jeremy Rossi stated that he has a meeting with Ed Shinn, Park Director on Wednesday. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic stated that they recommend approval. President Keating asked if there were any comments from the public, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any comments from the Board. Vice President Vinson asked how the runners will be crossing US 12. Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic answered that there will be EMA volunteers helping at the runners cross. Mayor Parry made a motion to approve the street closure starting at First Presbyterian church on 9th and Pine Streets; then heading South on Pine to Washington Park and return on the same route for their 2nd Annual Uptown Social 5K on July 28, 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Vice President Vinson seconded the motion by the following vote: Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 5 AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . CONTRACT APPROVAL - A Contract between the City of Michigan City Board of Works and Safety and the MCPD Fraternal Order of Police Dunes Lodge #75 for 2022- 2024 Union Contract Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel addressed the Board stating that the Common Council recently approved this contract at the Labor Relations Committee spent a considerable amount of time negotiating with the FOP; further explaining the highlights of the contract. President Keating asked if this is a two (2) year contract. Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink answered President Keating stating no it is a three (3) year contract. President Keating asked if there were any comments from the public. Councilman Paul Przybylinski, 1716 Washington Street, addressed the Board stating that he is a member of the Labor Relations Committee; further explaining how the committee spent a considerable amount of time on this contract reviewing other contracts from different communities to negotiate a very good contract for the Police and for the City of Michigan City. Further conversation ensued between Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink and Councilman Paul Przybylinski regarding longevity. Vice President Vinson showed appreciation to the Labor Relations Committee for the time that as put in negotiating contracts. Councilman Paul Przybylinski stated that it was himself, Councilman Don Przybylinski, Brian Dabney, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Yvonne Hoffmaster, and Andrea Smith President Keating asked if there were any Board comments, there was no response. Vice President Vinson made a motion to approve the MCPD Fraternal Order of Police Dunes Lodge #75 for 2022-2024 Union Contract; Mayor Parry seconded the motion by the following vote: The request was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . ACQUISITION REQUEST OF CITY OWNED PROPERTY - Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District (NICTD) is requesting to purchase City property for the purposes of the Double Track NWI Project (10th Street Parcel ID 46-01-31-238-032.000-022 and Parcel ID 46-01-31-238-044.000-022 for $5,500.00 NOTE: This request was TABLED at the April 4, 2022, Board of Public Works and Safety Meeting until the April 18, 2022, BOW meeting Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel addressed the Board stating that this was tabled from last week’s meeting because Sanitary advised that they needed an easement; NICTD and Sanitary District are in the process of putting the easement together, and if there is no objection from Mr. Connor Nolan could the Board table this matter for one more meeting so that the easement can be put in place. Attorney Connor Nolan addressed the Board stating that they will not be able to execute the easement until after the conveyance to NICTD; further explaining the last remaining item for the easement legal description is the parcel plat and that the Sanitary District has approved for the south ten (10) feet of the smaller parcel in the south twenty-five (25) of the larger parcels that they can access the storm sewer that is currently existing there. Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink, Corporate Counsel asked Attorney Nolan if he feels that this matter needs to be tabled until next meeting or can the Board approve this matter subject to the easement. Attorney Connor Nolan agreed with Corporate Counsel’s proposal for the Board to approve this matter subject to the easement from NICTD back to the Sanitary District as a condition of the approval. Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink stated that she knows the legal description and the survey is being drafted. President Keating asked if there were any comments from the public, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any board comments, there was no response. Mayor Parry made a motion to approve the purchase City property for the purposes of the Double Track NWI Project (10th Street Parcel ID 46-01-31-238-032.000-022 and Parcel ID 46-01-31-238-044.000-022 for $5,500.00 pending the approval of the easement details; seconded by Vice President Vinson. The request was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 6 PAYROLL DOCKET April 08, 2022 City Payroll $ 596,908.87 Mayor Parry made a motion to approve the city payroll dockets for April 08, 2022. The motion was seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . CLAIMS DOCKET April 18, 2022 MUNICIPAL $ 954,313.47 CDBG $ 46,639.71 HEALTH & LIFE INS. FUND $ 115,859.14 WORKERS COMP TRUST $ 44,840.62 CEMETERY MDSE & COMM CUST $ 5,734.55 Total Claims - $ 1,164,387.49 Mayor Parry made a motion to approve the claims docket for April 18, 2022. The motion was seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . UNFINISHED BUSINESS President Keating stated the first item on the pending items/unfinished business list is Donovan Garletts, 207 Fogarty Street is requesting to purchase city owned property between Fogarty and Blaine adjacent to Lake Avenue Parcel # 46-01-21-361-005.000- 022. President Keating stated that this was tabled from our last meeting for the reason that it needed some review by our legal department. Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink stated that her and Skylar York, Director of Planning discussed this matter and at this time would ask that the Board deny the request; further explaining why the request has been denied. Skylar York, Director of Planning addressed the Board further explaining the reason for the denial. Donovan Garletts, 207 Fogarty Street addressed the Board stating that he lives two (2) houses down from this parcel and appreciate the time spent on this matter and understands the mission of the City; further explaining that his plan for the parcel is to build three or four (3 or 4) high-quality single-family homes. President Keating asked if there were any board comments, there was no response. Vice President Vinson made a motion to deny the request to purchase city owned property between Fogarty and Blaine adjacent to Lake Avenue Parcel # 46-01-21-361-005.000-022; Mayor Parry seconded the motion by the following vote: The request was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members, Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . President Keating stated the next item on the pending items/unfinished business is Tera Ramirez, 703 Nahas Street, is requesting to purchase the property owned by the City of Michigan City located next to their property Parcel # 46-01-22-426-002.000-022 Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink addressed the Board stating that this is the same explanation as provided for Mr. Garletts and ask for this matter to be denied at this time. President Keating asked if there are public comments. Norman Ramirez, 703 Nahas Street, stated that over the last ten (10) years he has had issues with people leaving trash or driving through that lot and even leaving their vehicles overnight leaving us his family to go over there and pick up bottles, tires, fish heads, and cans; further explaining that since they have been taking care of that parcel for the last ten (10) years that they should just buy this property. Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 7 President Keating asked if there is Board comments. Mayor Parry stated that he had a short discussion before the meeting and explained to Mr. Ramirez that this will be denied right now, but that part of spring cleaning our people can take a look to see what can be done to clean up that property; we have ordinances for littering that we can post to indicate that there are fines for littering that area. Skylar York, Planning Director, stated that Brad Minnick, City Engineer decided that they will go look at that dead end street to see if they can come up with an idea and bring it back to the Board. Vice President Vinson asked if blockades could be put up to alleviate some of the through traffic. Mayor Parry made a motion to deny the request to purchase the property owned by the City of Michigan City located next to their property Parcel # 46-01-22-426-002.000-022. The motion was seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . President Keating stated the next item on the pending items/unfinished business is Nicole Barker representing NICTD is requesting that Buffalo, Manhattan, and Elston (one-way) Streets be temporarily redesigned to be two-way streets, between 10th and 11th Street and between 11th Street and William Street for Manhattan and Buffalo Street; and between 11th and Green Street for Elston Street starting 7:00 a.m. April 6, 2022, thru November 15, 2022. President Keating stated that she believes that we approved everything except Elston Street at the last meeting. Nicole Barker, NICTD, stated that Brad Minnick is here to speak on their behalf. Brad Minnick, Primera Engineering stated that he took another look at Elston Street, it is 32 feet as the exhibit shows so it is adequate for the construction project and to make Elston Street 2-Ways as requested. President Keating asked if there were any comments from the public, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any board comments. Councilman Paul Przybylinski, 1716 Washington Street, addressed the Board stating that he is glad that a representative that represents NICTD; further explaining why he feels that the Board should not have to do anything at this time when no work is being done to 11th Street to the west and residents could still be functioning on the southside of 11th Street where it is just closed off and should be opened; this matter should be tabled and the Board should ask NICTD to reopen the southside ofth11th Street; the Board should be aware that NICTD is dragging trash down the middle of 11 Street with no safety for people at the intersections and they hold up traffic. Kevin Kegebein, NICTD addressed the Board stating that they have not been able to grind anymore of the street because when the closure was initially made, we got requested to immediately open up Buffalo, Elston, and Manhattan Streets and without those being closed that is why NICTD has not milled, further explain what the next steps are once those streets are opened as requested. Brad Minnick stated that this is an incremental process this request is for the next phase and continue the progress. President Keating asked if there were any board comments. Mayor Parry stated that he had a discussion after the last meeting with Mr. Minnick explaining that he measured the streets at 32 feet and with two (2) cars parked on each side you can get by even though it is tight, I suggest parking on only one side of the street and is there a plan when we close the streets to regulate traffic. Further discussion ensued between Mayor Parry and Brad Minnick about the use of the streets and the signage that needs to be part of the plan. Mayor Parry made a motion to approve Elston to become a two-way street; seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . President Keating stated the next item up on the pending items/ unfinished business is Tommy Kulavik, 1316 Ohio Street is requesting a “4-Way Stop ” at the intersection of Ohio and William Street. President Keating stated that at our last meeting a motion was made to approve additional signage underneath the stop sign that read “Cross Traffic Does Not Stop”; what is the status. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic stated that he had spoken to Shong Smith, Street Director and he confirmed that this is completed and can be taken off of the pending items list; this is not on the agenda for today but Annemarie Bunton, can be taken off of the pending items list since the crosswalk has been painted at the high school for students’ safety. Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 8 Tommy Kulavik addressed the Board to ask if the traffic patterns really changed and they put the signage up under the “Stop” signs. Mayor Parry made a motion to remove this from the pending items list, seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . President Keating stated that in addition to Mr. Kulavik’s matter that Ms. Bunton’s matter regarding the crosswalk at the high school needs a motion to remove from the pending items list. Vice President Vinson. made a motion to remove this from the pending items list, seconded by Mayor Parry; The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . President Keating stated the next item up on the pending items/unfinished business is Carrie McGinty, 225 Charles Street, is requesting to purchase the property owned by the City of Michigan City located behind their property at 932 W. 6th Street Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink addressed the Board stating that the Board has already approved this, and the problem is that we are trying to locate the legal description and Sue Downs, Building Commissioner is working on the real estate; further explaining the last deed that was recorded did not have a legal description. President Keating stated that this will remain on the pending items list. President Keating stated the next item up on the pending items/unfinished business is Mason Reffett, NW Indiana Lawn Care, d/b/a Weed Man Lawn Care addressed the Board requesting a vendor/peddler license to go door to door President Keating asked if the updated Certificate of Insurance has been received. Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink addressed the Board stating that the certificate of insurance was submitted to me a minute before the last meeting and after th further review there are problems with the insurance; we notified the company on April 5 by virtue of an email with what needs to be amended, with no response. Mayor Parry made a motion to keep the request on the pending items list until next meeting, this was seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . President Keating stated that this conclud es the pending items/unfinished business list . PUBLIC COMMENTS Terry Greetham, Director of Special Events addressed the Board apologizing for bringing this matter so late before the Board, but there was a lack of communication between him and the Mayor’s office; further explaining the details of the contract and that the money comes from the Mayor’s budget and that there are some concerns but we need to move ahead so that Pyrotechnio Fireworks can place the order for the fireworks. Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink stated that this is a time sensitive matter and recommend that the Board approves this matter subject to Counsel changes to insurance and receipt of the certificate of insurance; further explaining why she needs to make sure that the insurance is in place. President Keating asked what the cost will be for the fireworks. Terry Greetham stated that they will cost for one year will be $36,500 or a two-year deal would be $33,000 for 2022 and $33,600 for 2023. President Keating asked for public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked for Board comments. Mayor Parry asked if the new owner of Pyrotechnio has no issues standing behind a previous commitment. Terry Greetham answered that Mr. he does not. Vice President Vinson made a motion to approve the two-year contract between the City of Michigan City and Pyro Technique Fireworks Incorporated for July 4th, 2022, at 9:00 p.m., pending the insurance; this was seconded by Mayor Parry. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 9 Terry Greetham, Director of Special Events, requesting approval of a two-year contract between the City of Michigan City and Mrs. Crawford ’s Cruising Kitchen as a vendor for the Singing Sands Festival, June 3 rd-5 th, 2022 Terry Greetham, Director of Special Events addressed the Board stating that this was on the agenda for today and it had to be pulled at the last minute; further explaining that due to the high cost in insurance many vendors are struggling to balance cost of insurance, the $400.00 fee we are charging to become a vendor at the event, and the insurance cost for the arts and crafts merchants, asking that the food vendor cost be $200.00 instead of the $400.00. President Keating asked if there were any public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any Board comments. Vice President Vinson asked if the problem was the cost of the insurance or that our coverage demands are too high and should we look at reducing those. Terry Greetham explained that the feedback from the vendors is that our requirements are higher than many other places and we need to see if there can be any changes made to this policy; further explaining how some vendors might have to pull out due to cost of insurance. Further discussion ensued between Vice President Vinson and Terry Greetham regarding the insurance costs for vendors. Corporate Counsel, Amber Lapaich-Stalbrink stated that it is not her goal to randomly make life difficult; explaining what the procedure is with protecting the City and we pay a considerable amount for liability insurance. Further discussion ensued regarding the costs for insurance and hopefully everyone can work together to come up with a different process. Mayor Parry made a motion to approve Mrs. Crawford’s Curising Kitchen as a vendor for the Singing Sands Festival, June 3rd-5th, 2022 in the amount of $200.00, this was seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries. President Keating asked if there were any further public comments, there was no response. President Keating asked if there were any further board comments, there was no response. BOARD COMMENT Vice President Vinson addressed the Board with anticipating issues and problems that he has seen around the City and all of the events that will be starting this summer, plus the beachfront opening up at Washington Park area we anticipate several visitors and Franklin Street Bridge which is the primary access to Washington Park and further explaining that if that bridge goes down how would the City detour around the City. President Keating stated that this should be placed on our pending items list. Mayor Parry stated that this is something that needs to be discussed with the County because legally the bridge is the County’s responsibility. Vice President Vinson stated that with the summer season approaching the City doesn’t want anyone put into danger or confused with detours. Further discussion ensued between Vise President Vinson and Mayor Parry regarding detours and the responsibility of the Franklin Street Bridge. President Keating asked if there were any further public comments, there was no response. Councilman Paul Przybylinski, 1716 Washington Street, addressed the Board stating that first you are talking about the one-way street, but then you are talking about the bridge and who is responsible and also addressing another way to alleviate traffic, is signage the alternative; the County has a bridge fund and have known for the last fifteen (15) years that it needs repairs. Jeff Loniewski, M.C.P.D. Traffic stated he spoke to Mr. Minnick and Mr. York, and we looked at creating one-way streets in this area; he believes that the neighbors and businesses should be spoken to that use these streets and asked for this to be placed on the pending items list. Terry Greetham addressed the Board stating that another thing that should be kept in mind is to keep add him to any conversations that involve this matter as we move forward due to the boat races and how this event would be affected if the bridge is closed. Regular Zoom Meeting – April 18, 2022 Page 10 Mayor Parry made a motion to keep the request on the pending items list until June 6, 2022, meeting, this was seconded by Vice President Vinson. The motion was approved by the following votes: AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members; Parry, Vinson, and Keating (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries . Councilman Paul Przybylinski, 1716 Washington Street, addressed the Board about the utility poles that he addressed about a year ago and wanted to know what happened. Mayor Parry stated that himself and Jeff Wright, City Engineer at the time was handling this matter and had conversations with NIPSCO that we wanted them down as they got the other services disconnected. Further discussion ensued between Mayor Parry and Councilman Paul Przybylinski, regarding the poles and getting into contact with NIPSCO or State Representative. Councilman Paul Przybylinski addressed the bid that was sent out for the police cars and that it should be open to all vendors. Mayor Parry stated that he has no problem with bids going out to all dealerships that offer leasing. Further discussion ensued between Mayor Parry and Councilman Paul Przybylinski about leasing dealerships in our area. President Keating asked if there were any further public comments. Vice President Vinson stated that he shared the same thoughts as Councilman Przybylinski and wondered why the request was for a specific brand and he interviewed some police officers asking them their preference which is the one that was requested, and we want our officers to be comfortable in the equipment that they like. Further discussion ensued between Vice President Vinson and Councilman Przybylinski regarding the police vehicles and getting our monies worth. 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 10:08 a.m. Mayor Parry made the motion to Adjourn. The motion was seconded by Vice-President Vinson. AYES: Board of Public Works and Safety members Keating, Vinson, and Parry (3). NAYS: None (0). Motion Carries. _________________________________________ Gale A. Neulieb, City Clerk