HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-13-14 Public Works and Property VacationPUBLIC WORKS & PROPERTY VACTION JANUARY 13, 2014 4:20 P.M.
Committee Members Present: Henry Davis, Tim Scott, Dr. Fred Ferlic, Valerie Schey
Citizen Members Present: Vacant
Other Council Present: Dr. David Varner, Karen White, Derek Dieter, Gavin Ferlic,
Oliver Davis
Others Present: Cheryl Greene, John Murphy, Kathryn Roos, Brian Pawlowski,
Cristal Brisco, Murray Miller, Jim Gardner, Lyn Coyne, Ken Bairel
Agenda: Bill 79 -13 Vacate — Portion of Hildreth St.
Bill 77 -13 Responsible Bidder
Two bills were scheduled for review by the Public Works & Property Vacation Committee chaired by
Henry Davis.
The first bill 79 -13 was a petition sponsored by Indiana University of South Bend (IUSB) to vacate a
portion of Hildreth Street. This would allow IUSB to consolidate, unite and beautify its local campus.
The site plan provided is attached.
Representing Indiana University was Lyn Coyne from Indiana University Bloomington, and Ken Bairel,
the Community Relations person from IUSB. Mr. Coyne briefly described the campus master plan. Kim
Bairel noted that the Board of Public Works (BPW) reviewed the proposal at their September meeting
giving it a favorable nod.
Valerie Schey who represents this area spoke in support of the vacation. On her motion seconded by Dr.
Fred Ferlic, the bill was sent to full Council favorably.
The second bill 77 -13 would establish responsible bidder requirements for Public Works projects. Henry
Davis, primary author of the bill, made a brief presentation. He explained the bill, mirroring one from
LaPorte County, could create incentives to use local contractors and local labor when contracting for
publicly funded work.
Jim Gardner representing the local building trade unions said he supports the bill, but asked it be
continued for further tweaking. Murray Miller, another union official agreed.
Henry Davis who himself was to ask for a continuance for further refinement took this opportunity to
express some concerns. Henry objected to a meeting held last Thursday, January 9th between Valerie
Schey, the Mayor and Union leaders at which time compromises affecting the bill were drafted. Henry
said the meeting violated the state's sunshine status and was held without his knowledge. Henry then
asked the bill be continued indefinitely.
Valerie Schey moved for the indefinite continuance. Dr. Ferlic seconded and the motion was supported
by all.
Henry adjourned the meeting at 4:34 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Henry Davis Jr., Chairperson
Public Works & Property Vacation