Michigan Shores council adopts resolution to formalize process for accepting donated property

The Michigan Shores Town Council on June 9 adopted Resolution 2026-01, establishing a formal process for handling offers to donate property to the town. The measure passed by a unanimous voice vote.

Ralph Baughs read the resolution aloud at the meeting, telling members the draft "defines a formal process to evaluate and decide when to accept land from [town] property owners." The text, as read, requires the council to review donated properties at a council meeting and vote on whether to accept an offer. It directs staff to notify owners by certified letter if the council declines and to follow the appropriate LaPorte County steps if the town accepts a donation. The resolution includes a repeal clause for conflicting prior ordinances, a severability provision and an emergency‑enactment clause making the measure effective on passage.

Council members discussed the change briefly; one member asked whether the resolution was intended to place sole authority with the council, and other members noted the town has accepted donated lots in past years — chiefly to preserve green space — and that a clear process would help avoid inconsistent handling. Members agreed to circulate the revised clean copy and have signed copies distributed to the clerk once the numbering and edits were confirmed.

The motion to approve Resolution 2026-01 was moved and seconded during the meeting; the council indicated approval by voice with four members responding in the affirmative and the clerk confirmed the resolution had passed. The council directed that signed clean copies be prepared for the town record.

What happens next: the resolution includes an emergency clause and was declared effective on adoption; the council will file the signed copy with the town records and follow LaPorte County procedures on any future accepted donations.