Michigan City Parks & Recreation Board August 5, 2026

The Michigan City Parks & Recreation Board held a meeting on August 5, 2026, where several procurement and contracting matters were addressed. The board approved the employee handbook consolidating city department policies, including revisions to sick leave payout upon retirement. A significant agenda item was the award of a $3,647,500 base bid contract to Gary Up Construction for the Feder's Alley playground project, with discussion on budget shortfalls and fundraising efforts to cover $612,000 needed to complete all project alternates. The board also approved the construction agreement and a local hiring agreement requiring at least 50% of hourly workers to be Michigan City residents. Additional procurement actions included approval of a $2,000 elevator phone service contract with Otis, and various donations and expenditures related to youth baseball sponsorships and zoo projects. The board reviewed and approved claims dockets, payroll, and zoo endowment invoices. Policy decisions included changes to splash pad hours and approval of accessibility compliance for federal grant requirements. Public comments highlighted maintenance and signage needs in city parks. Overall, the meeting focused on advancing capital improvement projects, contract awards, and budget oversight for city recreational facilities.