Michigan City Tree Board July 1, 2026

The Michigan City Tree Board held its meeting on July 1, 2026, focusing primarily on tree care, grant management, and budget considerations related to urban forestry. Key procurement-related discussions included the management of grant funds for tree planting and removal, the hiring of contractors for watering and stump removal, and the exploration of a 50/50 matching grant for invasive species removal and replacement. The board discussed the need for a dedicated city budget line item for ongoing tree care and maintenance, including pruning and removal, to supplement grant funding. They agreed to investigate existing city ordinances to determine how to embed language supporting such a budget line item. A motion was passed to have board members work together on this ordinance review. Additionally, reimbursement for office supplies was approved, and the board reviewed the status of various grants and community engagement efforts. No new formal fundraising committee was established, with the group opting to address funding opportunities on a case-by-case basis.