Michigan City Sustainability Commission November 12, 2026

The Michigan City Sustainability Commission met November 12, 2026, and unanimously approved the October minutes. No contracts, vendor selections, bids, or spending motions were approved. Procurement-related updates included the city’s consideration of compressed natural gas for additional fleet vehicles and transit buses in response to high diesel costs; repair needs for the solar panels at the police station and senior center, with companies to be sought; and an electric-vehicle project on hold while the commission explores grants, including through Drive Clean Indiana. The commission also discussed pursuing an IDEM recycling grant with the LaPorte County Solid Waste District and possible Michigan City Economic Development Corporation neighborhood-grant support for native-plant workshops. The city reported spending more than $500,000 annually on landfill costs, and members discussed coordinating recycling collection and transport at city events. No grant awards or procurement decisions were reported.

Other updates included the Clean Communities Program’s goal of moving Michigan City from bronze to silver, with a commission member volunteering as an initial liaison and follow-up planned on eligible projects and reporting requirements. A trail spur connecting the 11th Street train station to City Hall, including native plants and a planned bike path, was described as expected to break ground next year; no project cost or contractor was identified. The commission also received updates on green burials, solar outreach, and sustainability initiatives. The meeting identified potential future funding and purchasing activity but no completed procurement actions.