Keith E. Messer

The meeting addressed the approval of claims totaling $387,074.03. A significant discussion focused on the North Vernon Airport, including providing an update on a recently completed fuel farm project and securing reimbursement of approximately $239,000 from the Excess Liability Trust Fund for that project. The primary agenda item concerned the replacement of the airport's aging Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS), necessitating a short-term note of up to $236,000 (not to exceed $250,000 appropriation) to cover costs until federal grant funds are received around September/October. The board ultimately approved this arrangement with a vote of three to one. Subsequent discussion involved the potential purchase and appraisal of an unowned aircraft hanger at the airport. Another major topic involved the Northern City Parks, specifically the replacement of the 2 to 5-year-old playground structure due to safety and relocation concerns, with a request for the board to match $137,500 secured from grants to cover half of the estimated $275,000 project cost, which was approved despite some concerns about long-term budgeting clarity. Finally, the council discussed the third phase of a disc golf course enhancement project, requesting authorization to award a contract for fairway creation and clearing during the winter months.

Key discussions during the meeting centered on project prioritization for the current year, considering reduced funding compared to the previous year. Topics included the status of ordered dugout benches, which were confirmed to be in transit, and the need to prioritize capital projects, noting that security cameras represented a significant portion of the improvement budget. The board also addressed organizational structure within the maintenance department, including the start date of a new lead and personnel adjustments, such as elevating a staff member's responsibilities and adjusting hours for other employees. Further agenda items involved the adoption of a formal volunteer background check and conduct policy, the status of youth golf club procurement (exploring donation and modification of existing clubs as cost-saving measures), and updates on upcoming events like the Easter Egg Hunt. Old business included follow-up on vendor menus, and a discussion on improving the process for reviewing claims and budget updates prior to meetings.

The joint meeting addressed end-of-year business. Key discussions included the approval of the 2026 Board of Works meeting dates and the payment of Estimate Number Two for the CCMG project, totaling approximately $640,000, with project completion expected in the spring. A recap of 2025 park programs and events was presented, highlighting a 41% increase in programs offered and over 400 participants in free programs funded by a grant ending in June 2026. The council approved Additional Appropriation Resolution 724-2025 for utility expenses, citing increased chemical costs. Other business involved approving the donation of a generator from the former firehouse to the Vernon Fire Department, noting that the recipient would cover moving costs, and discussing the future demolition of the old police station building to create parking, pending final confirmation and bid preparation. Financial matters included approving payroll and several claims dockets, notably fund transfers from utility to improvement funds.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the approval of minutes from the January 12th and January 26th meetings. A significant portion of the discussion involved an officer award presentation recognizing Officer Graham Heleer for securing grants and vital equipment, and his efforts leading the drug task force resulting in numerous arrests and narcotics removal. The council addressed a request from Indiana Landmarks regarding a financial commitment for the North Burn property (504 West End Avenue), where Landmarks sought forgiveness on part of a $50,000 commitment due to their investment expenses. The council ultimately tabled the decision pending further information on Landmarks' final total costs. Furthermore, the council awarded the 2026-1 CCMG contract to Able Contracting City for $1,239,900. An announcement was made regarding the complete closure of the State Road 73 railroad overpass in June 2026 for deck resurfacing. The council also discussed, but did not finalize, reducing the speed limit near Al Pass Middle School, considering new crosswalk installations and existing traffic patterns.

Discussions included an individual addressing issues related to unpermitted interior structures, offering to pay fines and rectify permit issues. The Council reviewed a recommendation from the area plan commission regarding this situation, ultimately voting to deny support for the recommendation. Several resolutions were addressed, including the adoption of Resolution 720-2025 regarding joining the name of medical trust, Resolution 721-2025 for an additional appropriation for police salaries, and Resolution 722-2025 concerning appropriation transfers between departments. Resolution 723-2025 dealt with refinancing documentation for a solar loan that required re-amortization due to an error in the original documents. Furthermore, the Council authorized the City Clerk to sign a contract for a new cloud software system (BSNA), which will merge utilities and clerk functions. Quotes for subsurface drainage work at the golf driving range were presented for advisement, and department heads provided updates, including progress on a design release for a new building project.