Troy Gano

The City Council meeting addressed various municipal matters, including the establishment of millage rates and adoption of the annual budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Key actions included approving utility rate updates, removing a planning commissioner for nonfeasance, appointing a new member to the Planning Commission, and forming a Joint Board of Review with the New Buffalo Township. Additionally, the council approved a hawking and peddling permit, a temporary rezoning request, several site plan approvals for commercial and residential projects, and the purchase of police department vehicles and a mobile command trailer. Finally, the council authorized contributions to the New Buffalo Area Recreation Authority grant project, awarded a contract for sewer cleaning and televising services, approved asphalt maintenance at Oselka Park, and supported a municipal allocation request for the Harbor Country Museum of History + Rail.

The board meeting agenda focused on new business items, specifically addressing a variance request for 109 N Barton and a conditional rezoning request for 107 N Whittaker St, both of which include scheduled public hearings.

The meeting focused on the call to order, the Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call procedures.

The board engaged in discussions regarding the review and potential revision of their bylaws, specifically considering the inclusion of indemnification and conflict-of-interest clauses, with a request for legal review by the City Attorney.

This document outlines the Comprehensive Asset Management Plan and Capital Improvement Plan for the City of New Buffalo, focusing on Roadway, Sanitary, Storm, and Water Utilities. The primary objective is to create a comprehensive, data-driven capital plan for 'dig-once' projects over the next 20 years. The plan details processes for asset inventory, condition assessment, criticality rating, and capital improvement planning, aiming to optimize millage utilization, improve budgeting, achieve construction efficiencies, and enhance transparency for residents.