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Portage council approves parkland funds to complete Charters of Freedom installation

5083535 · June 26, 2025

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Summary

The council approved using parkland fees to cover a remaining roughly $14,912 shortfall to complete the Charters of Freedom installation at Riverside, with donations and in‑kind work already reducing the city's cost; the project aims for a Sept. 11 ceremony.

The Portage City Common Council voted to use parkland funds to complete the Charters of Freedom installation at Riverside, approving the use of parkland-fee dollars to cover an outstanding project shortfall.

Parks staff described a memorandum of understanding with Foundation Forward that will place reproductions of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights at the site. Parks staff said Foundation Forward supplies the stone reproductions but not the site work; the city must provide accessible concrete, electrical hookups, a flagpole and benches.

Parks staff summarized fundraising and in-kind support: a $10,000 monetary donation from Keller; Davis Construction removed the existing shelter at no cost; Tim McTier Construction and H & M Electric committed in-kind services to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Staff said the remaining out-of-pocket cost to complete the site is $14,912.45, which was recommended to be paid from the parkland-fee account. The parkland account balance shown to the council was $62,000.

Parks staff said the target date for a dedication ceremony is Sept. 11 and added that additional park improvements such as shade and restrooms are long-range needs not included in this initial build.

Council member Green asked whether construction had started; parks staff replied it had not and that a council approval would allow staff to green-light the contractor. In discussion about project origin, parks staff described earlier outreach and a multi-year process that involved a local resident and past park staff bringing Foundation Forward to Portage.

Action: Council member Paul moved to approve the use of parkland funds for the Charters of Freedom project; Council member Crowley seconded. The roll call included Schlinkert (Aye), Trantau (Abstain), Wetzel (Aye), Bernander (Aye), Crowley (Aye), Dunnehy (Aye), Green (Aye) and Paul (Aye). The motion passed with one abstention.

Staff will proceed with contracting and scheduling now that council has approved the use of parkland funds.