Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Infrastructure And Operations topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Michiana council hears water-project, public-works and tree-board updates; reminds voters of Aug. 6 millage
Summary
Staff reported progress on a Creek water project, testing for PFAS and lead, public-works repairs and tree-board activities; council reminded residents about the Aug. 6 five-year millage renewal and discussed permitting needed to clear the Village-owned White Ditch.
Village staff and councilors provided operational updates and community reminders during the July 12, 2024 Michiana council meeting.
Public Works Superintendent Rick Reitz reported recent work including new turf on the bocce court, installation of sand boxes at Stop 37 to reduce drop hazards, planned pothole repairs, and upcoming lakefront weed trimming and removal of invasive saplings with inmate crews. Brian Cassidy said a title search for White Ditch indicated the Village owns the creek; Cassidy said clearing the creek would require a permit from EGLE (Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy).
On water operations, Mike Mumper said Merritt Engineering is finalizing plans for the Creek water project and expects to present final plans at the next Water Authority meeting. He said the pump for the pump house has not yet been replaced because the Village is assisting Grand Beach with water for its golf course and staff did not want to jeopardize pressure. Rick Reitz is performing required lead, copper and PFAS testing. Anne Heywood said a water contract was sent to Michigan City and the Village was awaiting a signed return; Mike Mumper scheduled a Water Authority meeting for Aug. 2 at 1:30 p.m. EST to review plans.
Nancy Thill reported Tree Board work: AEP will finish right-of-way trimming after Labor Day, software for the tree inventory is being refined, new trees in the park are fenced, and a day-camp fundraiser and Red Maple starter kits are being used to support tree care. She recommended pausing new memorial-tree requests while the board assesses needs; a Tree Board meeting is scheduled for Aug. 5 at 2:00 p.m. EST.
Council also reminded residents of the Aug. 6 election on a five-year operating millage that funds village operations; Tim McCarthy emphasized only Village voters can decide the renewal.
What happens next: Staff will continue engineering and testing work on the water project ahead of the Aug. 2 Water Authority meeting; the Tree Board and Public Works will advance trimming and tree-protection activities.
