Town of Chesterton

The council meeting involved a public complaint regarding the management of the town's official Facebook page. A resident expressed concerns over a specific post about Juneteenth, arguing that the graphic used, which referenced active political figures, was partisan rather than neutral. The resident also criticized the tone of staff and council member responses to public comments on the page. The Council President addressed the concerns, clarifying the intent behind the social media post and the subsequent comments, emphasizing that the town aims to recognize federal holidays while maintaining an open dialogue.

The board discussed departmental activity reports and updates regarding the status of probationary officers and recent emergency hiring. The board approved the removal of three supervisors from probationary promotion status. In new business, the commissioners approved a parade permit for the annual Three20 Recovery ride. The chief provided an update on e-bike usage and a presentation prepared for the Town Council. Additionally, the board approved a request for the immediate promotion of a probationary officer to Master Patrol based on previous years of service, including the award of associated vacation time.

The council meeting covered various administrative and departmental updates. Discussions included public concerns regarding the town's social media management, the ceremonial swearing-in of a new police officer and a firefighter, and reports on town infrastructure projects, including drainage, paving, and park improvements. The council also approved a banner request for the 320 Recovery event, adopted a resolution regarding the reclassification of expenses and transfer of surplus funds, and discussed an upcoming RFP for the Downtown Arts and Cultural Trail project. Additionally, the council noted successful grant applications for zoning ordinance updates and ongoing infrastructure project developments.

The board reviewed financial reports, including the transfer of Park Bond proceeds, and approved claims. Updates were provided on various park projects, such as the renovation of the west ballfields, court resurfacing, and the progress of trail and utility improvements, with the board approving two change orders for the trail project. Additionally, the board approved several revisions to the 5 Year Parks Master Plan, a General Services Agreement with V3 Companies, recreation service agreements for umpires, and multiple special use permits. The board also accepted a donation from the Chesterton Porter Rotary Club for bandstand renovations and received reports on the seasonal operation of park facilities and potential future drainage improvements for soccer fields.

The council discussed recent power outages within the electric transmission system and evaluated potential causes, including reports of fallen trees. Additionally, the Utility Superintendent provided a report regarding the impact of heavy rainfall on the storage basin and sewer systems, which necessitated an overflow into the Little Calumet River.