The Porter Town
Council awarded its contract for 2018 Community Crossing paving projects at
its meeting Tuesday night.
Building
Commissioner Michael Barry reported that Rieth-Riley Construction came in
with the lowest bid for the 2018 paving projects at $543,615.50. After help
from the Community Crossing grant funds, the Town’s contribution is
$135,903.88.
Police Department
Police Chief Jamie
Spanier sought the Council’s approval to purchase encryption software to
secure the Internet traffic coming into and originating from the Police
Department. Spanier said the move brings Porter into compliance with federal
standards, but also saves some money because they can share one of the
components with Portage. The Council approved the request for $5,825.28.
Spanier also
received approval to purchase two trucks and a Dodge Durango from Connors
Dodge. Spanier solicited quotes from three dealers, but said Connors offered
the best trade in value and price on the vehicles themselves. The Department
had allotted $120,000 for the three new vehicles and came in under budget at
$99,092.05.
Park Department
Park Director Brian
M. Bugajski reported that Porter was awarded 21 trees from the Northwest
Indiana Regional Planning Commission’s spring planting program. The trees
will go up around the Town Hall, Police Department, Fire Station, and at
Hawthorne Park. “They’re good looking trees, all native species,” he said.
Bugajski also made
a reminder of the Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 24. The Easter
bunny will be there, and more than 5,000 eggs will be up for grabs. There
will be a designated search area for children with special needs. Parents of
special needs participants are encouraged to contact the Park Department at
(219) 983-1042 to discuss their child’s accommodations.
Other Business
Public Works
Supervisor Brenda Brueckheimer said her department will host a roadway
cleanup from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday April 14. Anyone wishing to
volunteer to help can call Public Works at (219) 926-4212.
Barry presented
quotes for a new vehicle to replace his Dodge Charger with a 2018 Jeep
Renegade. Grieger’s Motors came in with the low quote of $14,413 with trade
in value. The Council approved the purchase.