REGULAR MEETING March 15, 2016 The Common Council of the City of Michigan City, Indiana, met in Regular session on Tuesday evening, March 15, 2016 at the hour of 6:30 p.m., local time in the Common Council Chambers, located in the lower level of the City Hall Building, 100 East Michigan Boulevard, Michigan City, Indiana. The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Council President Bietry. Roll call was authorized and the following were noted present and/or absent. PRESENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS Tim Bietry, Pat Boy, Sharon Carnes, Bryant Dabney, Ron Hamilton, Don Przybylinski, Chris Schwanke, Candice Silvas and Allan Whitlow (9). ABSENT: None (0). A QUORUM WAS NOTED PRESENT. ALSO PRESENT: Jim Meyer Council Attorney, Gale Neulieb City Clerk and Kim Sliwa Deputy Clerk. APPROVAL OF MINUTES President Bietry inquired whether there were any corrections, deletions, or additions to the minutes of the Regular Meeting of March 1, 2016. Councilman Przybylinski made a motion to approve the Regular meeting minutes held on March 1, 2016; second by Councilman Whitlow. The minutes were approved as printed. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES Councilwoman Boy presented the following Finance Committee meeting minutes: Minutes of Council Finance Committee Meeting for 5:30 pm on March 15, 2016. The meeting was called to order at 5:30 pm in the Council study to receive information on the proposed ordinance: APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION IN THE BUDGET OF THE RIVERBOAT FUND TO PROVIDE FUNDING TO THE MICHIGAN CITY PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE FURNITURE FOR THE NORTH POINTE PAVILION. Committee members Carnes, Przybylinski, and chair Boy were present, as were Council members Bietry and Dabney. Others present were Chris Chatfield (Park Board); Shannon Eason and Jeremy Kienitz (Park Dept.); Rich Murphy and Yvonne Hoffmaster (Controller s office); Craig Phillips (City Planner); Jessica O Brien (News Dispatch); and Dennis Boy (public). Discussion: The question of where the furniture will be stored in the winter months was answered by Kienitz. Most will be stored indoors, in either the maintenance building or the amphitheater garage. Some will remain outdoors with covers for protection. Regarding public use, both Kienitz and Chatfield stressed that if the facility would ever be rented, it would always have one level open to the public. In response to Przybylinski s concerns, Chatfield stated that the Park Board knew ahead of time that the furniture could not be included in the Redevelopment funding. Phillips then stated that he has consulted with the Redevelopment Commission president and both Attorney Rompola and Sirinek agreed that financing the furniture was a gray area that, while not absolutely illegal, could open the RDC to a black mark on an audit by the State Board of Accounts, and also expose the RDC members to personal liability.
Page 2 March 15, 2015 Member Przybylinski made a motion, second by Carnes, to recommend this ordinance. With unanimous vote, the ordinance will be forwarded to the Council with a positive recommendation. With no other matter to discuss, meeting adjourned at 5:45 pm. Submitted by committee chair, Pat Boy Councilwoman Boy presented the following Finance Committee Report: The Finance Committee met at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 to discuss claims from March 9, 2016 as follows: Boyd Development #0417 1. $435.80 to Haas & Associates, LLC for Cheney Run FIS Review 2. $1,020.00 to Global Engineering & Land Surveying for the Village Green project paving and fallen trees Riverboat #9000 1. $1,220.88 to CDW Government Inc. IT Improvement Project - MCPD 2. $15.00 to Corporate Payment Systems Title 2015 Mack Tandem Axle 3. $17,158.70 to American Structurepoint - New MCPD Station 4. $23,466.25 to Global Engineering & Land Surveying 2016 sidewalk/paving & signs 5. $6,003.75 to Haas & Associates LLC 2015 paving/sidewalk program 6. $3,849.93 to Verizon Wireless Preapproved tablets for Fire Dept. software Claims were from Riverboat Fund #9000 in the amount of $51,714.51, and from Boyd Development Fund #0417 in the amount of $1,455.80 for total claims of $53,170.31. Members present were Sharon Carnes, Don Przybylinski and chair Pat Boy. Also present were City Controller Rich Murphy, Deputy Controller Yvonne Hoffmaster, Council President Tim Bietry, Councilman Dabney and public Dennis Boy. ***The controllers asked for an amendment to the claims in the amount of $3,849.93 for a preapproved Riverboat expenditure for tablets for the Fire Department that were billed on the city s Verizon Wireless account (which is considered utilities ). They explained that the bill is due 10 days before the next regular finance committee claims meeting, and the penalty for late payment is 10% of the total bill of more than $5,000.00. A motion was made by Przybylinski, second by Carnes, to add the Riverboat expenditure portion of the Verizon bill to the claims for approval to avoid the penalty. Upon a unanimous vote, the amount was added to the claims. Carnes made a motion to recommend approval of claims. Przybylinski seconded. With unanimous approval, the claims will be forwarded to the council with a positive recommendation. With no other matters to discuss, the second committee meeting adjourned at approximately 6:15pm. Submitted by committee chair, Pat Boy. REPORTS OF SPECIAL OR SELECT COMMITTEES There were no reports of Special or Select Committees. REPORTS of OTHER CITY OFFICERS and DEPARTMENTS Erika Hanner, Lubeznik Center presented the Lubeznik Center for the Art s - Lubeznik Art and Artisan Festival. Discussion ensued between Councilwoman Boy and Ms. Hanner regarding the weekend of the boat show and their weekend event. President Bietry commented on the event being refreshed, and looking forward to this year s new event. Further discussion ensued between Councilwoman Boy and Ms. Hanner regarding parking for the event and shuttle service.
Page 3 March 15, 2015 Discussion continued between President Bietry and Ms. Hanner regarding additional funding for the event. CLAIM DOCKETS Discussion ensued between Councilmembers and Attorney Meyer regarding amending the claims docket for the addition of the cost for the tablets for the Fire Department. Councilwoman Boy made the motion to amend the claims docket to include the Verizon Wireless for payment of the tablets for the Fire Department to avoid any penalty; second by Councilman Przybylinski. President Bietry stated there is a motion to amend by Councilwoman Boy, second by Councilman Przybylinski; asking all in favor to signify by saying AYE ; none opposed, and the motion was amended. President Bietry stated the Claims for Fund #9000 Riverboat was $51,714.51 and $1,455.80 claims for Fund #0417 Boyd Development. President Bietry asked if there were any comments and hearing none, a motion was made by Councilwoman Boy, second by Councilman Przybylinski and was approved. Motion carried 9-0. PETITIONS There were no petitions. COMMUNICATIONS Correspondence received in the City Clerk s Office on March 10, 2016 from Clarence Hulse, Executive Director, Michigan City Economic Development Corporation RESOLUTIONS The Clerk read the following proposed resolution by title only, MICHIGAN CITY COMMON COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 4643 RECOGNIZING THE ESSENTIAL ROLE OF WOMEN IN HISTORY DURING WOMEN S HISTORY MONTH WHEREAS, 88 percent of women in the United States between the ages of 25 and 29 have obtained high school diplomas and 31 percent of that same population have earned bachelor's degrees, outpacing men in the same age group, yet according to the American Association of University Women (AAUW), Hoosier women make only 75% of what their male counterparts make for the same work, a pay gap worse for women in Indiana than in 40 other states; and WHEREAS, even with the tremendous gains for women during the past 20 years, they remain vastly underrepresented worldwide in national and local legislatures, accounting on average for less than 10 percent of the seats in legislatures in most countries, and in no developing region do women hold more than 8 percent of legislative positions; and
Page 4 March 15, 2015 WHEREAS, while the 19th Amendment had passed Congress on June 4, 1919 and been ratified on August 18, 1920, a US Supreme Court decision on a Maryland case was needed to ensure that women could vote, and 94 years ago, on February 27, 1922, the US Supreme Court upheld the 19th Amendment, which guaranteed the right to vote could not be denied based on sex, and Leser v. Garnett ensured that no matter what any state constitution said, women could vote; and WHEREAS, American women have been doctors, inventors, teachers, judges, legislators, and leaders in securing their own rights of suffrage and equal opportunity, but also in the abolitionist movement, the emancipation movement, the industrial labor movement, the civil rights movement, and other movements especially the peace movement which are helping to create a fairer and more just society for all; and WHEREAS, the Michigan City Commission for Women maintains a social media site, and posts, daily, information about the contributions of women in history; and WHEREAS, a few of the many notable women and firsts include: Carrie Chapman Catt, served as president of the National American Woman Suffrage Association (NAWSA) 1900-1904, and again from 1915 through the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment in 1920; Alice Paul, who broke away from the NAWSA and founded the National Woman's Party (NWP) in 1917, organized the first picket of the White House in January 1917, where suffragists with banners stood at the gates on and off throughout the year; and Harriet Colfax, the lighthouse keeper in Michigan City, served from her appointment in 1861 until her retirement at age 80 in 1904. During those 43 years, the light never failed once. Dr. Mae Jemison, first African American woman in space, worked as the Area Peace Corps Medical Officer, managing the health care system for Sierra Leone and Liberia in West Africa. She was selected by NASA for the astronaut program, and in 1992, was selected as the science mission specialist for an eight-day mission on board the Endeavour, logging over 190 hours in space; and Mattie Sue McMillan-Dunlap was born in 1910. She was a long time resident of Michigan City and LaPorte County, helping to found the LaPorte County NAACP in 1958. Dorothy Jurney, born in Michigan City in 1909, began her career at the Michigan City News and was women s editor at the Miami Herald, Detroit Free Press, and Philadelphia Inquirer. She shifted the focus of women s pages from society news to serious issues such as the women s movement, female political candidates, and women in the workplace. State Senator Anita Bowser was born in 1920. Bowser s many accomplishments include being the first woman to act as House Speaker (Deputy Speaker Pro Tempore) in the history of the State. She was also a founding member, and the first female teacher at Purdue University North Central. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of Michigan City, Indiana recognizes the achievements of these and many other remarkable, tenacious women who have led the way for others, and: (1) we celebrate all that women do and have done in their struggles for equality; (2) we recognize and honor the women in the United States and in other countries who have fought and continue to struggle for gender equality and women's rights; (3) we thank the members of the Michigan City Commission for Women for all their efforts in support of women; (4) in conjunction with the Michigan City Commission for Women, we hereby recognize that March 8, 2016 was the 104th International Women s Day in Michigan City, Indiana; and (5) We proclaim and celebrate the month of March, 2016 as Women s History Month. This Resolution shall be effective upon passage by the Common Council and approval by the Mayor. Introduced by: /s/ Patricia Boy, Member
Page 5 March 15, 2015 Introduced by: /s/ Sharon Carnes, Member Introduced by: /s/ Candice Silvas, Member Councilwoman Boy read the Resolution in its entirety. Councilwoman Boy made a motion to approve the Resolution; second by Councilwoman Carnes. President Bietry asked if there were any other comments from the Council and hearing none, the resolution was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Boy, Dabney, Carnes, Hamilton, Przybylinski, Schwanke, Silvas, Whitlow and Bietry (9). NAYS: None (0). ORDINANCE The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on first reading by title only, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 4343 COMMONLY KNOWN AS THE 2016 SALARY ORDINANCE Introduced by: Sharon Carnes Councilwoman Carnes explained this is just reinstating a full-time position of the City Hall Custodian, as the previous full-time person will not be returning to work. President Bietry stated he would be referring this Ordinance to the Finance Committee for their review and recommendation. President Bietry asked if there were any other comments or questions by the general public or Council and hearing none, the proposed ordinance was held over on second reading at the April 5, 2016 Council meeting. The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on first reading by title only, AMENDING CERTAIN SECTIONS IN CHAPTER 38 OF THE MICHIGAN CITY MUNICIPAL CODE ENTITLED REVOLVING LOAN FUND Introduced by: Don Przybylinski Al Whitlow Pat Boy Councilman Przybylinski explained the amendments are to strengthen the Revolving Loan program and clear up some language on exactly which way the program is directed; advising that Mr. Clarence Hulse of the Michigan City Economic Development Corporation was present this evening to answer any questions. Discussion ensued between Councilman Dabney and Mr. Hulse regarding the amounts of funding available. Mr. Hulse explained that most of the requests he is getting is for over $50,000.00; and that he is trying to figure out how to serve that market; stating there is a group out of Chicago called Oxion and they do serve larger amounts, and hopes to work with them soon. President Bietry advised they are looking at some further amendments to this ordinance; further stating he would be referring this Ordinance to the Finance Committee for their review and recommendation.
Page 6 March 15, 2015 President Bietry asked if there were any other comments or questions by the general public or Council and hearing none, the proposed ordinance was held over on second reading at the April 5, 2016 Council meeting. The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on first reading by title only, APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION IN THE BUDGET OF THE BOYD DEVELOPMENT FUND TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR THE REVOLVING LOAN FUND Introduced by: Don Przybylinski Al Whitlow Pat Boy (DECREASE Body Development Fund #0417 Unappropriated balance $ 500,000.00 INCREASE ACCOUNT # 0417 0000 04 443.005 Other Projects $ 500,000.00) Councilman Przybylinski advised that Mr. Hulse would be giving input on the reason that we need to add an additional $500,000.00 or to re-load the fund; and give history of the Revolving Loan program; and the successes that it s had since its inception. Mr. Clarence Hulse, Michigan City Economic Development Corporation, addressed the Council advising this program was developed by the City Council in 2009/2010; and the history is - a company was going to leave Michigan City and needed some help and the Council at that point decided to help; and this fund was established to help small business in Michigan City; further explaining his involvement with the program. Councilman Przybylinski advised this program is very successful and has added jobs in the Michigan City area; commending Mr. Hulse for his involvement in this program. Councilwoman Boy stated it was important to note that first the interested company must apply with the State; it s not something they can come to us for first. President Bietry stated he would be referring this Ordinance to the Finance Committee for their review and recommendation. President Bietry asked if there were any other comments or questions by the general public or Council and hearing none, the proposed ordinance was held over on second reading at the April 5, 2016 Council meeting. The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on second reading by title only, APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION IN THE BUDGET OF THE RIVERBOAT FUND TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR A JUDGEMENT Introduced by: Chris Schwanke Don Przybylinski Pat Boy (DECREASE Riverboat Fund #9000 Unappropriated balance $ 311,365.57 INCREASE ACCOUNT # 9000 0000 01 411.016 Overtime $ 142,176.85 INCREASE ACCOUNT # 9000 0000 01 413.001 Employers Share FICA $ 2,011.87 INCREASE ACCOUNT #9000 0000 03 430.011 $ 142,176.85 Contractual Services INCREASE ACCOUNT # 9000 0000 03 431.001 $ 25,000.00 Attorney Fees) President Bietry advised this is an ordinance that requires a Formal Public Hearing; stating he was opening the Formal Public Hearing; repeating three (3) times, is there anyone from the public who wishes to comment on this ordinance this evening? There was no response. Councilwoman Boy addressed the Council requesting second and third reading this evening.
Page 7 March 15, 2015 President Bietry asked if there were any objections to third reading this evening. Councilwoman Boy explained the Attorney has to get paperwork ready and she can t do that until this has been passed/approved. President Bietry explained there are additional sign-offs that are required on this judgement and the Attorney can t secure those until the monies for the judgement has been secured. Discussion ensued between Councilmembers Schwanke, Boy and Bietry regarding additional meetings that may have taken place where other members of the Council were not informed/aware of; and that the information was just received after the Finance Committee this evening from the City Controller. Councilman Schwanke objected to third reading. President Bietry asked if there were any other comments or questions by the general public or Council and hearing none, the proposed ordinance was held over on third reading at the April 5, 2016 Council meeting. The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on second reading by title only, APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION IN THE BUDGET OF THE RIVERBOAT FUND TO PROVIDE FUNDING TO THE MICHIGAN CITY PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE FURNITURE FOR THE NORTH POINTE PAVILION Introduced by: Bryant Dabney (DECREASE Riverboat Fund # 9000 Unappropriated balance $ 150,000.00 INCREASE ACCOUNT # 9000 0000 04 443.007 Park Improvement $150,000.00) President Bietry advised this is an ordinance that requires a Formal Public Hearing; stating he was opening the Formal Public Hearing; repeating three (3) times, is there anyone from the public who wishes to comment on this ordinance this evening? Jeremy Kienitz, Park Superintendent, addressed the Council thanking the Finance Committee and Council for their continued support; reaffirming the Finance Committee s recommendation for approval of this additional appropriation; that the new North Pointe Pavilion is a public facility; and if there are any concerns that need to be addressed he is available to discuss them. Discussion ensued between Councilman Dabney and Mr. Kienitz regarding the operation of the new North Pointe Pavilion and how rental of the facility will affect the public s use. Mr. Kienitz reiterated that there will always be at least one floor available for public use at all times. Councilman Dabney asked for second and third reading of this ordinance this evening. President Bietry advised he could move the ordinance to third reading; asking if there was any objection to having third reading this evening; further stating the Council has been advised of the time-line for ordering the furniture and delivery for this season. President Bietry asked if there was any objection to third reading this evening. There was no response; asking the Clerk to read the ordinance on third reading. The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on third reading by title only, MICHIGAN CITY COMMON COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO. 4374 APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION IN THE BUDGET OF THE
Page 8 March 15, 2015 RIVERBOAT FUND TO PROVIDE FUNDING TO THE MICHIGAN CITY PARK & RECREATION DEPARTMENT TO PURCHASE FURNITURE FOR THE NORTH POINTE PAVILION WHEREAS, it has been demonstrated to the Common Council of the City of Michigan City that it is necessary to appropriate more money than was appropriated in the 2016 Annual Budget to provide funding to the Michigan City Park & Recreation Department to purchase furniture for the North Pointe Pavilion; and WHEREAS, the City Controller has determined that sufficient unappropriated funds are available in the Riverboat Fund #9000 to be appropriated for that purpose. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Common Council of the City of Michigan City, LaPorte County, Indiana, that for the expenses of the City the following additional sums of money are hereby appropriated out of the fund named and for the purpose specified above, subject to the laws governing the same: AMOUNT AMOUNT REQUESTED APPROPRIATED DECREASE Riverboat Fund # 9000 Unappropriated balance $ 150,000.00 INCREASE ACCOUNT # 9000 0000 04 443.007 Park Improvement $150,000.00 TOTAL FOR FUND $ 150,000.00 This Ordinance to be effective upon passage by the Council, approval by the Mayor, any necessary publication, and any necessary approval by the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance. INTRODUCED BY: /s/ Bryant Dabney, Member Councilman Przybylinski made a motion to approve the Ordinance; second by Councilwoman Boy and Councilman Schwanke. President Bietry asked if there were any other comments from the Council and hearing none, the ordinance was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Dabney, Carnes, Hamilton, Przybylinski, Schwanke, Silvas, Whitlow, Bietry and Boy (9). NAYS: None (0). President Bietry stated the Ordinance is approved, and will be forwarded to the Mayor. The Clerk read the following proposed ordinance on third reading by title only, MICHIGAN CITY COMMON COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO. 4375 APPROVING ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION IN THE BUDGET OF THE BOYD DEVELOPMENT FUND TO ASSIST THE MICHIGAN CITY AREA SCHOOL CORPORATION IN UPDATING ITS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EQUIPMENT, PROGRAMS, AND INFRASTRUCTURE WHEREAS, the Mayor, Common Council, and other City officials have been advised by representatives of the Michigan City School Corporation (School) that the School s IT equipment and programming available for use by its students and teachers are obsolete; and
Page 9 March 15, 2015 WHEREAS, the School has also advised that the teachers are not adequately trained in the use of the School s IT equipment and programs so as to be able to properly and effectively use them to improve the education of its students and maximize their opportunity to succeed in their pursuit of a higher education and their chosen careers; and WHERAS, School administrators have also advised that the School does not have the funding needed to correct these deficiencies which are preventing the School from being able to provide Michigan City s children with an education comparable that received by students in other school systems in Indiana and an additional $500,000 is needed by the School through 2016 to address those IT related deficiencies; and WHEREAS, since Michigan City s children are its most important resource and asset and since the adequacy of their education in the use of up-to-date information technology will have a profound effect on their ability to succeed in obtaining an excellent education and, after completing their education, on their ability to obtain well compensated employment, it should be the City s highest priority to insure that up-to-date information technology is readily available for our children at School; and WHEREAS, an available well-educated workforce, including proficiency in the efficient and effective use of up-to-date information technology, is necessary to attract and support any substantial and long term economic development in the City in the 21 st Century; and WHEREAS, the City has substantial available funds in both the Riverboat Fund and Boyd Development Fund that can and should be made available to the School to allow the School to obtain and use up-to-date information technology in educating the children of Michigan City; and WHEREAS, it has been demonstrated to the Common Council of the City of Michigan City that it is necessary to appropriate more money than was appropriated in the 2016 Annual Budget to provide funding to assist the Michigan City Area School Corporation in updating its information technology equipment, programs, training, and infrastructure; and WHEREAS, the City Controller has determined that sufficient unappropriated funds are available in the Boyd Development Fund #0417 to be appropriated for that purpose. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Common Council of the City of Michigan City, LaPorte County, Indiana, that for the expenses of the City the following additional sums of money are hereby appropriated out of the fund named and for the purpose specified above, subject to the laws governing the same: 1. $500,000 is approved to be paid from the Boyd Development Fund to the Michigan City School Corporation for the sole purpose of purchasing, installing, and distributing up-to-date information technology equipment, programs, and infrastructure, purchasing any necessary licenses; and providing appropriate training to the School s teachers and administrators. 2. A condition of the payment of the money to the School is that the Michigan City School Corporation agrees in a written grant agreement with the Michigan City Board of Public Works and Safety that said funds will only be used for the sole purpose of purchasing, installing, and distributing up-to-date information technology equipment, programs, and infrastructure; purchasing any necessary licenses for the School s students, teachers, and administrators; and the training needed to make full use of the new IT equipment and infrastructure. The grant Agreement shall also provide that the School will, within sixty (60) days after any of the funds are spent, provide a detailed, itemized written report to the Mayor and the Council demonstrating that the funds were spent for the purposes for which they were paid to the School and that any funds not so spent shall be returned to the City and deposited to the Fund from which they were appropriated. 3. For the purpose of accomplishing the above, the following additional appropriation is hereby approved: AMOUNT AMOUNT REQUESTED APPROPRIATED DECREASE Body Development Fund #0417
Page 10 March 15, 2015 Unappropriated balance $ 500,000.00 INCREASE ACCOUNT #0417 0000 04 444.005 Other Machinery & Equipment $ 500,000.00 TOTAL FOR FUND $ 500,000.00 This Ordinance to be effective upon passage by the Council, approval by the Mayor, any necessary publication, and any necessary approval by the Indiana Department of Local Government Finance. INTRODUCED BY: /s/ Chris Schwanke, Member /s/ Ron Hamilton, Member /s/ Don Przybylinski, Member /s/ Candice Silvas, Member /s/ Pat Boy, Member Councilman Schwanke thanked Councilmen Hamilton and Przybylinski for working so diligently with him on putting this together, and Councilwoman Silvas and Boy for joining forces to get this sponsored; and thanked the School System for working with them, and Mr. McQuire; commenting on the article that was published in the News Dispatch; that he is proud to be working with the school system on this very important project for the children of Michigan City; further expressing his views; encouraging his fellow Councilmembers to vote to approve this additional appropriation; advising Mr. McQuire was present here this evening to answer any questions. Councilman Przybylinski thanked Kevin McQuire for the fantastic tour he gave to Councilman Whitlow and himself; advising the fantastic work the Michigan City Area Schools is doing with their information technology; explaining the history of how this ordinance came about; thanking his fellow Councilmembers for their support; further expressing his views. President Bietry advised there was a Formal Public held on this ordinance at the March 1, 2016 meeting; asking if there was anyone from the public who wished to address the ordinance this evening. There was no response. President Bietry stated this was a very important get for the school system; congratulating them and giving kudos to the school system for having Mr. McQuire; expressing his views on technology in the school system. Councilwoman Boy made a motion to approve the Ordinance; second by Councilwoman Carnes and Councilman Schwanke. President Bietry asked if there were any other comments from the Council and hearing none, the ordinance was adopted by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Carnes, Hamilton, Przybylinski, Schwanke, Silvas, Whitlow, Bietry, Boy and Dabney (9). NAYS: None (0). President Bietry stated the Ordinance is approved, and will be forwarded to the Mayor.
Page 11 March 15, 2015 UNFINISHED BUSINESS President Bietry advised Mayor Meer is requesting advice and consent of the members of the regarding his re-appointment of Mr. Sam Ferguson on the Port Authority Commission. Mr. Ferguson s term will begin April 14, 2016 and expire on April 14, 2020. Councilman Whitlow made a motion to approve advice and consent for the reappointment Mr. Sam Ferguson to the Port Authority Commission; second by Councilwoman Boy. President Bietry congratulated Mr. Ferguson on his reappointment for another term on the Port Authority Commission. President Bietry advised the Common Council has one (1) appointment to the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation (term expiring April 15, 2016); incumbent: Mr. Ron Miller; asking if there were any other nominations. Councilwoman Boy nominated Mr. Miller; there were no other nominations. Discussion ensued between Councilmembers regarding having the vote this evening as there were no other nominations. President Bietry asked if everyone was in favor of Mr. Ron Miller as the one (1) appointment to the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation; all Councilmembers signified by saying AYE ; none opposed. President Bietry congratulated Mr. Miller on his reappointment to the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation. Councilman Schwanke thanked Mr. Miller for his service; knowing that Mr. Miller is excited/enthused about the commission which speaks volume for the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation to have him serve on this. President Bietry concurred on this; thanking Mr. Miller for his service. Councilman Whitlow advised to the members of the Community Enrichment Corporation that the Council did receive their invitation to attend their annual awards ceremony; explaining the Council does have another engagement that evening. NEW BUSINESS Approval of the Council - President Bietry advised they have been trying to dispose of this item of business for quite some time; stating there is one thing that he would like to add to approval of the Council; that on the agenda is Chris Schwanke for ALCO and Tim Bietry for Economic Development Corporation; and that Pat Boy has been elected by the Revolving Loan Committee of the Redevelopment Commission; advising all three (3) of these people have been elected by the respective Boards they serve on; further explaining they can approve these by acclamation, as they do not need to elect them because they have already been elected, they would just affirm by our acclamation that they will continue to serve in that capacity; requesting a motion approval of the Council for Chris Schwanke-ALCO, Tim Bietry-Economic Development Corporation and Pat Boy-Revolving Loan Committee; asking Attorney Meyer if that would be appropriate. Discussion ensued between Attorney Meyer and President Bietry regarding the three (3) members being elected by the respective commissions and the ordinances not requiring appointment by the Council; and an elected vs an appointed member.
Page 12 March 15, 2015 Nominations/Vote President Bietry advised these were in a separate category; these are Councilmembers who are voting members of commissions that have not been elected by that commission, but who in the past were appointed by the President, and were this year as well, but since they are voting members need to be elected; advising this would be: Chris Schwanke-Animal Control Board, Tim Bietry-Social Status of African American Males, Ron Hamilton-NITCD Management Oversight Group, Pat Boy- Public Art Committee and Tree Board; asking if there were any other nominations for any of these. Councilman Whitlow asked if they should be voted on separately or as a group. President Bietry stated Mr. Schwanke was nominated for the Animal Control Board; asking if there were any other nominations for that position. There was no response. President Bietry asked all those in favor to signify by saying AYE ; all responded AYE ; any opposed, there was no response. President Bietry stated that he serves on the Social Status of African American Males Commission; asking if there were any other nominations for that position. There was no response. President Bietry asked all those in favor to signify by saying AYE ; all responded AYE ; any opposed, there was no response. President Bietry stated Mr. Hamilton serves as NICTD Management Oversight Group; asking if there were any other nominations for that position. There was no response. President Bietry asked all those in favor to signify by saying AYE ; all responded AYE ; any opposed, there was no response. President Bietry stated Ms. Boy serves on the Public Art Committee and Tree Board; asking if there were any other nominations for that position. There was no response. President Bietry asked all those in favor to signify by saying AYE ; all responded AYE ; any opposed, there was no response. President Bietry advised that Mayor Meer is requesting the advice and consent of the members of the regarding his appointment of Mrs. Jessica Rosier as member of the Michigan City Public Art Committee. (term will begin immediately and expire on March 9, 2019.); further advising the Council will vote on this at their April 5, 2016 meeting. Councilwoman Boy stated that because the Council changed the ordinance for the Tree Board, because the City no longer has a Vector Control Officer; explaining that was one (1) of the positions; advising the positon is now to be filled/nominated by a person from a neighborhood association; further stating that on February 4, 2016 they received a nomination from the Elston Grove Neighborhood Association nominating Laura Henderson to be a member of the Tree Board. Mrs. Laura Henderson addressed the Council thanking Councilwoman Boy and the Elston Grove Neighborhood Association for recommending her for this position. Mrs. Henderson advised she is a recent graduate of the LaPorte Master Gardeners and a resident of Elston Grove; further stating if she is appointed to the Tree Board she will be an advocate for the trees and for the benefits they provide to the citizens of Michigan City. President Bietry advised the Council was in possession of the Board and Commission Form filled out by Mrs. Henderson and the recommendation letter from Mr. Luchtman of the Elston Grove Neighborhood Association. Councilwoman Boy stated that before February she had asked for nominations and there have been no others received. President Bietry asked if there were any objections to voting on Mrs. Laura Henderson to the Tree Board this evening. There were no objections.
Page 13 March 15, 2015 Councilwoman Boy moved to appoint Mrs. Laura Henderson to the Tree Board; second by Councilman Dabney and Przybylinski; all those in favor signified by saying AYE ; those opposed, there was no response. President Bietry congratulated Mrs. Henderson on her appoint to the Michigan City Tree Board; thanking her for her service. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Ron Miller, 3033 Woodrow Avenue, addressed the Council thanking them for their support on his re-appointment to the Michigan City Community Enrichment Corporation; advising he would be emceeing the Awards Dinner tomorrow night; further advising of the corporations deeds and involvement with the community; the process used for the Grant cycle; and that they will be reviewing their by-laws. COMMENTS FROM THE COUNCIL Councilman Schwanke advised the Boys & Girls Club recently re-located from the old IBEW Center on 8 th Street to Elston High School on Detroit Street; expressing his views on this worthwhile organization. Councilman Whitlow commented on the Boys & Girls Club and the life-skills that are learned there as well as tutoring programs; the great relationship they still have with the Michigan City Area Schools; expressing his views on this worthwhile organization. Councilwoman Boy congratulated the Boys & Girls Club on their new location; further advising in addition to Women s History Month, she has another group she needs to recognize today; reading the following: today is National Agriculture Day. Indiana Agriculture, By the Numbers: Indiana agriculture contributes an estimated $31 billion towards Indiana gross domestic product. Last year, the total value of agricultural products sold was $11.2 billion. In 2015, 14.7 million acres of farmland were cultivated by Indiana s farming operations. Indiana agricultural industries combine to employ more than 107,500 direct workers. There were 57,700 farming operations in Indiana in 2015. The average size of an Indiana farm is 255 acres. 83 percent of Indiana land is in farms, forests and woodland. (USDA NASS and Indiana Business Research Center, Kelley School of Business, Indiana University) State rankings: Indiana ranks 1 st in commercial duck production, wood office furniture and kitchen cabinet manufacturing. Indiana ranks 2 nd in popcorn production, tomatoes (for processing), ice cream production, total eggs produced and cropland planted with a cover crop. Indiana ranks 3 rd in egg layers inventory, soybeans, spearmint and fresh market cantaloupe. Indiana ranks 4 th in turkeys raised and peppermint. Indiana ranks 5 th in corn (for grain), fresh market watermelon and snap beans (for processing). (USDA NASS) And 98 percent of Indiana farms are family-owned. Where would we be without them. Thank you! President Bietry commented on the School System getting much needed money for their information technology; North Pointe Pavilion received funding for the purchase of furniture; ArtSpace and the 22 people who will be moving into the ArtSpace lofts by the end of March, with another 11 moving in in April, and by the end of May all 44 apartments will be filled; further commenting on ArtSpace. ADJOURNMENT A motion by Councilman Przybylinski, supported by Councilwoman Boy and there being no further business to transact, President Bietry declared the meeting ADJOURNED (approximately 7:46 p.m.) Gale A. Neulieb, City Clerk