Parks board tables Michigan City Area Schools' request to place 'Little Wolves' yard signs in parks

The Michigan City Parks and Recreation Board on June 18 tabled a request from Michigan City Area Schools to place yard signs around Washington Park advertising the Wolves Early Learning Center preschool program.

A school representative asked permission to place yard signs in high‑traffic park locations to boost enrollment amid state funding cuts; the presenter said signs were updated this year to indicate enrollment for both 3‑ and 4‑year‑olds. "We're starting year 3 of our program…we're facing major funding cuts from the state. And with that being said, now more than ever, it's critical that we're boosting enrollment," the school presenter said.

Board members expressed concern about opening Washington Park to advertising because the city has previously denied similar requests and lacks a uniform policy for banner and yard signage at the beach. One board member suggested tabling the request to develop a specific policy that would specify permitted locations, sizes and durations for signs. During the vote to table, a board member who is a Michigan City Area Schools employee abstained and stated a conflict of interest.

The board said it would discuss signage locations, sizes and limits before the next meeting and provide a workshop or meeting to resolve policy details. The presenter confirmed school operations begin in August and asked that discussions occur before the next board meeting.