Michigan City Sanitary Board June 24, 2026

The Michigan City Sanitary Board held a meeting on June 24, 2026, focusing extensively on procurement and budget matters related to sanitary and stormwater infrastructure. Key procurement actions included the approval of emergency repair payments totaling approximately $590,770, and the award of a $94,403 contract to Pro Pump Inc. for refurbishment of an influent pump, funded from the equipment replacement fund. The board also approved a $270,000 fund transfer to cover unanticipated plant repairs and IT software enhancements. Additionally, formal appropriations totaling $309,000 were approved for previously authorized transformer and skate improvements. The board discussed ongoing capital improvement projects such as the Michigan City Annex Area Sewer Extension and the Lake Avenue Highway 12 Lift Station Sewer Relief Project, with updates on progress and budgeting. A draft ordinance proposing rate and fee increases, including a 14.5% surcharge for customers outside city limits, was reviewed with a public hearing scheduled for July 9, 2026. The board also approved a new bad debt policy allowing write-offs up to $200 and authorized new staff positions to support operational efficiency. Discussions included policy considerations to temporarily hold new sewer extensions outside municipal limits pending community agreements and rate adjustments. Finally, the board addressed implementation of a $50 fee for special refuse pickups to cover disposal and operational costs, emphasizing public education and enforcement efforts to improve city cleanliness.