Council waives up to $15,490 in permit fees for St. Stanislaus Church repairs

The Michigan City Common Council voted Tuesday to waive building permit and inspection fees for St. Stanislaus Catholic Church’s phase 1 tower repairs, approving a waiver not to exceed $15,490.

"This resolution is for St. Stan's Church," said the sponsor during introduction. Camille Higdon, representing Saint Stanislaus Catholic Church, told the council the parish has been ‘‘an integral part of Michigan City since 1891’’ and described a two‑phase $3,000,000 capital campaign. Higdon said phase 1 will address repair of 16 columns and tuckpointing of twin bell towers at a projected cost of $1,450,000.

The city clerk detailed the requested waiver: the building permit fee of $14,490 plus inspections not expected to exceed $1,000 for an anticipated total waiver amount not to exceed $15,490. Council members asked whether a second phase would return for additional waivers; church representatives said phase 2 estimates are not yet finalized and would likely come next year.

Several residents spoke during the public comment period in support of preserving the church. Councilman Prince Belinski announced an abstention from the vote because he serves on the church board. After motions and a roll call, the clerk announced the result: "We have 5 in favor, 1 abstained, and 1 not in favor." The resolution therefore passed.

Council members who voted against the waiver cited the city's uncertain fiscal position and potential for creating a precedent; proponents emphasized the church’s historical and community role and economic impact cited in a study submitted to the council. The action waives only the city permit and inspection fees for phase 1; no additional municipal funding or ongoing subsidy was authorized at the meeting.