NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION FULL COMMISSION/EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING

Thursday, October 17, 2019, 9:00 A.M.

NIRPC Lake Michigan Room, 6100 Southport Road, Portage, IN Annotated Agenda

6100 Southport Road

Portage, Indiana 46368

(219) 763-6060

www.nirpc.org

1.0 Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance – Karen Freeman-Wilson, Acting Chair

2.0 Roll Call – Candice Eklund

3.0 Public Comment

Members of the audience who have signed up to comment on agenda items will be recognized by the Chair. Time is limited to 3 minutes per commenter. Commenters must indicate on the sign-in sheet prior to the start of the meeting.

4.0 New Appointments to the Commission – Attorney Dave Hollenbeck

5.0 Approval of the Minutes of the September 19, 2019 Full Commission Board Meeting (pp. 1-3)

ACTION REQUESTED: Approval

6.0 Report of the Acting Chair – Karen Freeman-Wilson

7.0 Report of the Executive Director – Ty Warner

1. Finance & Personnel Committee – Justin Kiel

2. Preliminary CY 2020 Budget (pp. 7-15)

   ACTION REQUESTED: Recommendation

3. Budget Amendment (p. 16)

   ACTION REQUESTED: Recommendation

4. Procurement Recommendations (pp. 17-19)

   ACTION REQUESTED: Approval

5. NIRPC Resolution #19-28: Extending Policies for meetings of the Commission (p. 20)

ACTION REQUESTED: Approval

9.0 Environmental Management Policy Committee – Kathy Luther

1. Technical Planning Committee – Kevin Breitzke

2. Public Comment Report on the FY 2020-2024 Transportation Improvement Program Amendment #2 (pp. 24-25)

3. Resolution 19-26, FY 2020-2024 Transportation Improvement Program Amendment #2 (pp. (26-55)

ACTION REQUESTED: Approval

11.0 INDOT, Matt Deitchley, La Porte District Deputy Commissioner

12.0 Other Business

13.0 Announcements

1. Adjournment

   
   

   The Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission (NIRPC) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, parental status, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program.

   NIRPC Full Commission Meeting 6100 Southport Road, Portage, IN September 19, 2019

   Minutes

   
   

   Call to Order – Chairperson Diane Noll called the meeting to order at 9:04 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

   
   

   A moment of silence was observed for Mary Thorne. Mary was an Administrative Assistant with NIRPC for over 13 years.

   
   

   Roll call was taken by Candice Eklund.

   
   

   Commissioners present included Diane Noll, Jeanette Bapst, Geof Benson, Kevin Breitzke, Charlie Brown, Joshleen Denham, Bill Emerson, Don Ensign, Will Farrellbegg, Richard Hardaway, Jack Jeralds, Justin Kiel, Mark Krentz, Andrew Kyres, Tom McDermott, Sheila Matias, Lori Mercer, Edward Morales, Carolyn Saxton, Tom Schmitt, Dave Shafer, Gene Simmons, Brian Snedecor, Greg Stinson, Gerald Swets, Sharon Szwedo, James Ton, George Topoll and Mary Brown.

   
   

   Commissioners absent included Kyle Allen, Sr., Christopher Allen, David Anderson, John Cannon, Robert Carnahan, Anthony Copeland, Michael Griffin, Tony Hendricks, Tim Jones, Jane Jordan, Steve Kramer, Jeff Larson, Nick Meyer, Matt Murphy, Jean Poulard, Mark Ritter, Michael Rosenbaum, Rick Ryfa, Ed Soliday, and Joe Stahura.

   
   

   Guests present included Matt Deitchley, Jessica Miller, Tim Werner, Deb Backhus, Lauren Varga, David Wright and John Wotkan.

   
   

   Staff present included Ty Warner, Kathy Luther, Mitch Barloga, Peter Kimball, Kevin Polette, Dominique Edwards, Scott Weber, Candice Eklund, and attorney Dave Hollenbeck.

   
   

   New appointments – Dave Hollenbeck announced the appointments to the Commission of Mary Brown (City of Gary) and Gerald Swets (Town of St. John).

   
   

   Minutes – The minutes of the August 15, 2019 Executive Board meeting were approved on a motion by Charlie Brown and a second by Geof Benson.

   
   

   Report of the Chair – Diane Noll

   Diane Noll turned the report over to Geof Benson for an announcement from NIRPC. Mr. Benson congratulated NIRPC on receiving approval for the Economic Development District Designation for Lake, LaPorte, and Porter Counties from the Economic Development Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Ty Warner, Geof Benson, Justin Kiel, and Dave Shafer were privileged to meet with the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Economic Development of the EDA at the National Association of Regional Councils conference in Omaha this year. The opportunity to make the connection and explain the value of the designation is a prime value from NIRPC’s participation in this national organization.

   
   

   Ty Warner thanked the many individuals who worked on the Economic Development Designation (EDD) documentation over the last 12 years. Mr. Warner stated former Commissioner Roosevelt Allen, who was a champion of this initiative, sadly passed away before seeing this designation. He also acknowledge the NWI Forum as being a partner in creating the original nonprofit board to support this initiative in the early days, and for identifying EDD designation as a specific goal within the Ignite the Region economic transformation initiative. Part of the reason for the length of time necessary to obtain the EDD approval was modifying the application to be solely vested in NIRPC and not the

   separate nonprofit board, which had been created to respond to rules for EDD board composition that had changed since the non-profit was created. Warner reiterated to the Commission the purpose of NIRPC as stated in its state enabling statute, which is to develop “planning and programming processes for transportation, environment, and economic development.” While NIRPC’s role in transportation and environment has been clear, NIRPC has primarily been involved in economic development through indirect planning activities and partnerships. The EDD Designation now gives a defined role for NIRPC in economic development and affords greater opportunities for additional funding to the communities that currently don’t have access without the EDD eligibility. Updates will be provided as the program is developed and administered.

   
   

   Report of the Executive Director – Ty Warner

   Ty Warner introduced Kevin Polette, NIRPC’s new Technical Assistant and James Gross, NIRPC’s new intern. Mr. Warner thanked the Shirley Heinz Land Trust for maintaining and mowing the prairie grass around NIRPC’s building. He also announced the Drive Electric event being sponsored by South Shore Clean Cities in NIRPC’s parking lot following today’s meeting, and encouraged the group to stop by after the meeting.

   
   

   Finance & Personnel Committee – Justin Kiel

   Justin Kiel stated Amendment #2, the proposed 2019 Budget Amendment, comes with a favorable recommendation from the F & P Committee. Kathy Luther provided details on the three revised additions to the budget, resulting in $210,690 in new revenue. On motion by James Ton and second by Greg Stinson, the Full Commission approved the adoption of Budget Amendment #2.

   
   

   Legislative Committee – Ty Warner

   Ty Warner thanked the Commissioners for their attendance at the meeting and for achieving a full quorum.

   
   

   Warner presented Resolution 19-27 and noted it was a re-iteration of Resolution 19-06, which had already been approved at the Executive Board meeting on February 21, 2019 to support an increase to NIRPC’s per capita rate. With the adoption of Resolution 19-06, Resolution 19-27 is not technically necessary but expresses the urgency of the appropriation increase, given the new Economic Development District Designation, which will require local match to administer. The current allocation of $0.70 per capita is based on the last decennial census and is used to match NIRPC’s operating costs as an MPO to receive federal funding. The additional benefit of the $0.70 per capita is that these funds are unrestricted and unconstrained funds, as opposed to the federal funds received. The per capita has not changed since it was adopted in 1992 and has not kept pace with inflation, which currently translates to $0.96 per capita using the current value of 2003 dollars to be conservative.

   The current appropriations awarded to NIRPC, based on the $0.70 per capita is $540,000 yearly and the increase to $0.96 per capita would increase the yearly appropriations by $200,000. The additional funding would provide more programs and assistance desired by the communities, including the administration of the EDD. The 2020 budget for NIRPC is currently being drafted and will be very constrained under the current per capita amount. NIRPC needs a sponsor to move this request to the 2020 legislative session, and adopting the resolution will confirm the Commission's intent to move this forward this session.

   
   

   Brian Snedecor clarified that the increase in Resolution 19-27 would not affect the counties’ budgets until FY 2021.

   
   

   Tom McDermott stated Lake County is already facing tax caps, and though he is supportive of NIRPC’s work, he would throw in a dissenting vote regarding the increase of $120,000 for Lake County.

   The Commissioners discussed and agreed the proposed increase should be addressed with the Chairman of each County Council due to budgets impacted and that a sponsor would be sought to advance the new per capita appropriation for the 2020 legislative session.

   
   

   On motion by Geof Benson and second by Don Ensign, the Full Commission approved Resolution 19- 27, with all in favor except for Tom McDermott and Bill Emerson.

   
   

   Environmental Management Policy Committee – Jan Bapst

   Jan Bapst reported the Calumet Heritage Area presented their events calendar at the last EMPC meeting. The calendar enables groups to search on various environmental and industrial events in the region. NIRPC also has a link to the calendar on their website.

   
   

   Vehicle emission testing requirements in NWI were also discussed at the EMPC meeting. Concerns regarding the ongoing requirements to have vehicles emission tested were discussed due to the EPA changing their status from moderate to severe in their evaluation process. Some of the factors could be how the transportation component rating can be looked at within IDEM, unsafe chemical releases in the region by ArcelorMittal last month, and if chemicals released exceeded the limited amount, resulting in the fish kill. The main concern from the disaster is how it was communicated to the public officials and the general public. Kathy Luther is working with IDEM and the EPA to schedule a workshop with public officials.

   
   

   Indiana Department of Transportation – Matt Deitchley

   Since the departure of Rick Powers, Matt Deitchley confirmed he is the acting Deputy Commissioner for the time being. Mr. Deitchley reassured the relationship with NIRPC will not change. Mr.

   Deitchley introduced Jessica Miller, the Capital Program Management Director with INDOT, who will be present at NIRPC. INDOT will be completing projects for the season, preparing for the winter and hiring seasonal snow plow drivers.

   
   

   Other Business –

   Kevin Breitzke reminded the group of the 21-day public comment period on the draft amendment to the 2020-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) ending September 25, 2019. The TPC Continuous Improvement working group is staying on schedule and has a target date of November to finalize the improved NOFA process for 2020.

   
   

   Tom McDermott noted the Rail Crossings Task Force will meet October 1, 2019. The Task Force was formed when the Indiana Supreme Court ruled local municipalities could no longer issue tickets to trains sitting on the tracks longer than 10 minutes. A Bill was created at the state level but did not receive a hearing. This may be the final meeting of the Task Force as data is being collected on the crossings.

   
   

   Dave Shafer discussed the relocation project of railroad tracks onto 45th Avenue in Munster while the underpass is being excavated. The cut over of the tracks will occur on October 8and 10.

   
   

   Adjournment-

   Hearing no other business, Diane Noll adjourned the meeting at 10:11 a.m. The Full Commission/Executive Board will meet on October 17, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. at NIRPC.

   
   

   A digital MP3 of this meeting is filed. Contact nirpc@nirpc.org should you wish to receive a copy of it. Barring technical issues, the livestream video recording of this meeting is available on NIRPC’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/NIRPCPlanning.

   NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION FINANCE AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

   August 15, 2019

   NIRPC Dune Room, Portage, Indiana

   
   

   Members Present Staff and Others Present

   Justin Kiel - Chair David Hollenbeck

   Diane Noll Kathy Luther

   George Topoll Talaya Jones

   Jeannette Bapst Jamie Stewart

   Bob Carnahan Meredith Stilwell

   Karen Freeman-Wilson Ty Warner

   Dave Shafer Jane Jordan

   Mike Rosenbaum

   
   

   Call to Order

   Justin Kiel called the meeting to order at 8:05 am with the Pledge of Allegiance.

   
   

   Approval of Minutes

   The minutes of the July 18, 2019 meeting were approved as presented on motion by Bob Carnahan and second by Dave Shafer.

   
   

   Review of Financial Status – July 2019

   Talaya Jones presented the July 2019 bank reconciliations for the NIRPC general account and the Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) account. The general account beginning balance was $1,387,717.51 and ending balance was $1,069,338.53. The RLF account beginning balance was $153,437.84. $5,820.71 was received in payments and the ending balance was $159,271.84.

   
   

   Talaya presented the financial status report for July 2019. Total Salaries are under budget due to vacant positions. The departmental category is overall currently under budget, but the transportation communications line is over budget due to training of the GIS employee. The environmental programs department is currently under budget as there are upcoming programs which will utilize the funds. Several Contractual category line items are currently under budget, but will be spent down as invoices are received for projects currently underway and for upcoming projects. There have not been enough invoices from the Dunes Center to spend the Alternative Fuel line item down. All categories were under budget year to date through July 2019, with the exception of Maintenance, which was $80 over. Total expenditures were $164,672 under budget. Bob Carnahan questioned if enough had been built into the budget to cover audit expenses and it was explained that, while the bill might be slightly more than the budgeted amount, the difference will be within a reasonable amount.

   
   

   Talaya presented the year to date July 2019 budget vs. actual revenue chart. The federal agencies line is under budget due to the moving of an employee from federal billing to state. The state agencies line is currently under budget as PMTF funds will be received soon as pass-through for subrecipients. The interest income line item is also under budget as a revolving loan is not being collected on.

   Approval of Claims Register – July 2019

   Talaya presented the July 2019 claims register to the Committee for approval. As there were no questions, on motion by Bob Carnahan and second by Karen Freeman-Wilson, the Committee approved the claims register.

   
   

   LaPorte Transporte Capital Lease Agreement

   Kathy Luther presented the LaPorte Transporte Capital Lease Agreement. The first step is to change the agreement to allow for sale of buses to LaPorte Transporte. Section 5 of the agreement captures the change. “Bargain price” as noted in the agreement is not explicitly defined. Proceeds for sales will go into local match if less than $5000 and sale happens after useful life of the buses. It was also stated that after a sale, regulations concerning usage are no longer in place and the NIRPC logo will be removed. Upon motion by Mike Rosenbaum and second by George Topoll, the Committee moved to approve the lease agreement.

   
   

   Procurement Recommendation - #19-19

   Kathy Luther presented procurement recommendation #19-19 for the City of Valparaiso’s TOD ground improvements project. 80% will be funded by the Federal Transit Administration and Valparaiso will provide the remaining 20%. Motion made by Mike Rosenbaum and second by Dave Shafer to recommend the procurement up to $125,000 to the Commission.

   
   

   Kankakee River Basin and Yellow River Basin Development Commission (KRBYRBDC)

   Talaya Jones presented the new agreement for the KRBYRBDC. The KRBYRBDC is to reimburse NIRPC more each month, as the amount was adjusted to increase the base number of hours accounting staff will be dedicated to the Commission. The staffing level will increase to 50% of a full-time employee from August 1 through December 31, 2019, then reduce to 25% for the full year of 2020. The additional time is to accommodate the set-up of Quickbooks and a chart of accounts for the Commission’s use. The question was asked if the State Board of Accounts would approve of the software. Talaya stated that they would not recommend or approve the use of any software.Motion was made by Karen Freeman-Wilson to approve the agreement and second by Bob Carnahan.

   
   

   Budget Amendment

   Talaya Jones presented the proposed 2019 budget amendment and stated that the changes of additional revenue in the departmental and contractual line items were due to new grants being awarded. $2000 was also proposed to be moved from organizational development to audit and accounting to ensure the upcoming invoice from the State Board of Accounts would be covered. The auditor brought in to audit federal grants costs $675 per day if directly auditing federal grants, and $175 if not directly auditing them.

   
   

   Per Dave Hollenbeck, the agenda should be changed to state that a recommendation to bring it before the full commission is being sought rather than a request to approve. If recommendation is granted, then a request to bring it before the full commission has to be received before it can be presented and approved. On motion by Karen Freeman-Wilson and second by Mike Rosenbaum, recommendation was granted.

   
   

   Other Business

   Talaya Jones stated the State Board of Accounts audit has concluded. There were three findings. The first is a SEFA section 2 issue, with an overstatement of $1M. It was due to the pass through of grants being placed under State awards rather than Federal. Going forward, reconciliation of revenue will be more robust to recognize if the issue were to occur and take the necessary steps to correct it.

   There were also two section 3 findings, one of which was on period of performance where the activity dates on two invoices were before the PL dates, and the other was that the quarterly FTA reports did not have a second approval.

   
   

   Ty Warner stated the exit meeting with the State Board of Accounts is scheduled to immediately follow the Commission meeting, and all present are welcome to attend.

   
   

   Adjournment

   There being no further business the meeting adjourned at 8:41 a.m.

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   10/18/2019

   
   

   

   FY 2020 BUDGET ATTACHMENT A

   
   

   

   NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

   

   

   

   2020 GENERAL .FllND,A.PPR OI•R L.<\.Tl Q NS J!.t.=:.-.D= G=.E_T, _

   
   

   

   
   

   PERSONNEL - SALARIES	1,477,572
   PERSONNEL - FRINGE BENEFITS	598,186
   OCCUPANCY	280,297
   EQUIPMENT SERVICE/MAINTENANCE	78,840
   DEPARTMENTAL	196,750
   CONTRACTUAL	774,465
   CAPITAL OUTLAYS - Equipment & Furniture	100,000
   TOTAL FUND BUDGET	3,506,111

   
   

   

   
   

   

   ATTACHMENT B NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   CAPITAL OUTLAYS -TRANSIT EQUIPMENT

   
   

   TOTAL FUND BUDGET

   2,440,988

   
   

   

   

   2,440,988

   
   

   

   ATTACHMENT C

   
   

   

   

   

   

   NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 2020 TJk\ o · '.JNG P,RO J C TS _FUND J PPRO.PRI AT ONS BU

   
   

   OTHER SERVICES AND CHARGES

   
   

   TOTAL FUND BUDGET

   4,485,932

   
   

   

   

   4,485,932

   
   

   ATTACHMENT D

   
   

   NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION

   
   

   

   
   

   OTHER SERVICES AND CHARGES

   
   

   TOTAL FUND BUDGET

   85,000

   
   

   

   85,000

   
   

   

   

   
   

   f '' l

   f '' l

   NIRPC F 2020 l;ludget

   Attachment A

   
   

   
   

   	FY 2019 Budget	FY 2020 Budget	Change%
   REVENUES
   COUNTY APPROPRIATIONS	540,271	540,271
   FEDERAL AGENCIES	590,958	939,119
   STATE AGENCIES	1 ,874,833	1,8 86,847
   LOCAL AGENCIES	II L358	44.694
   NON-GOVERNMENTAL	78,838	85,318
   ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
   INTEREST INCOME	9,862	9,862
   TOTAL REVENUES	3,206,120	3,506,III	9%
   EXPENDITURES
   SALARY	1,450,597	1,477,572	2%
   FRINGE BENEFITS
   FICA CONTRIBUTIONS	110,635	113,034
   WORKERS COMPENSATION	5,500	7,000
   UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION	2,000	2,000
   PERF CONTRIBUTIONS	180,435	187,152
   HEALTH INSURANCE	275,000	220,000	-25%
   LIFE & DISABILITY INSURANCE	24,000	24,000
   ICMA CONTRIBUTIONS	21,868	25,000
   STAFF DEVELOPMENT	20,000	20,000
   	639,438	598,186	-7%
   OCCUPANCY
   OFFICE LEASE	220,879	225,500	2%
   PROPERTY INSURANCE	6,500	6,500
   BUILDING MAINTENANCE	18,720	18,540
   UTILITIES	28,890	29,757
   	274,989	280,297	2%
   EQUIPMENT SERVICE/MAINTENANCE
   COPIER LEASING/MAINTENANCE	19,400	19,400
   COMPUTER SERVICE	25,000	40,440
   TELEPHONE & INTERNET SERVICE / MAIN.	22,248	18,000
   OTHER EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE	2,000	1,000
   	68,648	78,840
   DEPARTMENTAL
   COMMISSION/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR	41,500	4I,500
   PLANNING	60,000	60,000
   SUBGRANTEE MANAGEMENT	10,000	15,000
   ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS	55,000	28,650
   PARTNER AGENCIES	1,000	1,000
   ALLOCATED FUNCTIONS	28,000	28,000
   ENVIRONMENTAL PROMOTIONS	7,000	15,600
   GENERAL USE SUPPLIES	5,478	7,000
   	207,978	196,750	-6%
   CONTRACTUAL
   LEGAL SERVICES	20,500	19,800
   AUDIT & ACCOUNTING	18,000	22,000
   LA PORTE RLF SERVICES	2,000	2,000
   TRANSIT OVERSIGHT	11,86 5	11 ,30 0	5%
   ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRACTS	218,603	529,374
   ALTERNATIVE FUEL	40,000	70,991
   BOARD DEVELOPMENT	2,000	2,000
   ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT		70,000
   ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT	10,000	2,000
   E-TIP	45,000	45,000
   	500,268	774,465	35%
   FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT	64,200	100,000	36%
   TOTAL EXPENSES	3,206,ll9	3,506,I II	9%
   FUND BALANCE - ENDING	0	0
   			9

   	FY 2019 Budget	FY 2020 Budget	Change%
   REVENUES
   COUNTY APPROPRIATIONS	540,271	540,271
   FEDERAL AGENCIES	590,958	939,119
   STATE AGENCIES	1 ,874,833	1,8 86,847
   LOCAL AGENCIES	II L358	44.694
   NON-GOVERNMENTAL	78,838	85,318
   ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
   INTEREST INCOME	9,862	9,862
   TOTAL REVENUES	3,206,120	3,506,III	9%
   EXPENDITURES
   SALARY	1,450,597	1,477,572	2%
   FRINGE BENEFITS
   FICA CONTRIBUTIONS	110,635	113,034
   WORKERS COMPENSATION	5,500	7,000
   UNEMPLOYMENT COMPENSATION	2,000	2,000
   PERF CONTRIBUTIONS	180,435	187,152
   HEALTH INSURANCE	275,000	220,000	-25%
   LIFE & DISABILITY INSURANCE	24,000	24,000
   ICMA CONTRIBUTIONS	21,868	25,000
   STAFF DEVELOPMENT	20,000	20,000
   	639,438	598,186	-7%
   OCCUPANCY
   OFFICE LEASE	220,879	225,500	2%
   PROPERTY INSURANCE	6,500	6,500
   BUILDING MAINTENANCE	18,720	18,540
   UTILITIES	28,890	29,757
   	274,989	280,297	2%
   EQUIPMENT SERVICE/MAINTENANCE
   COPIER LEASING/MAINTENANCE	19,400	19,400
   COMPUTER SERVICE	25,000	40,440
   TELEPHONE & INTERNET SERVICE / MAIN.	22,248	18,000
   OTHER EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE	2,000	1,000
   	68,648	78,840
   DEPARTMENTAL
   COMMISSION/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR	41,500	4I,500
   PLANNING	60,000	60,000
   SUBGRANTEE MANAGEMENT	10,000	15,000
   ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAMS	55,000	28,650
   PARTNER AGENCIES	1,000	1,000
   ALLOCATED FUNCTIONS	28,000	28,000
   ENVIRONMENTAL PROMOTIONS	7,000	15,600
   GENERAL USE SUPPLIES	5,478	7,000
   	207,978	196,750	-6%
   CONTRACTUAL
   LEGAL SERVICES	20,500	19,800
   AUDIT & ACCOUNTING	18,000	22,000
   LA PORTE RLF SERVICES	2,000	2,000
   TRANSIT OVERSIGHT	11,86 5	11 ,30 0	5%
   ENVIRONMENTAL CONTRACTS	218,603	529,374
   ALTERNATIVE FUEL	40,000	70,991
   BOARD DEVELOPMENT	2,000	2,000
   ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT		70,000
   ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT	10,000	2,000
   E-TIP	45,000	45,000
   	500,268	774,465	35%
   FURNITURE & EQUIPMENT	64,200	100,000	36%
   TOTAL EXPENSES	3,206,ll9	3,506,I II	9%
   FUND BALANCE - ENDING	0	0
   			9

   

   Attachment A page 2

   

   
   

   COUNTY APPROPRIATIONS LAKE COUNTY	347,204
   PORTER COUNTY	115,040
   LA PORTE COUNTY	78,027
   TOTAL FEDERAL AGENCIES	540,271
   FTA OVERSIGHT	261,620
   FTA PLANNING	20,000
   FTA CAPITAL	80,000
   USDA FOREST SVC	76,810
   EPA URBAN WATERS	23,839
   CAWS PARTNERSHIP OPERATION (ACCRCC)	83,910
   BROWNFIELD GRANT	284,240
   HOBART ZONING PROJECT	11,000
   EDD	70,000
   CAWSGLC	27,700
   TOTAL STATE AGENCIES	939,119
   INDOT PL 2019	765,001
   INDOT PL 2020	826,117
   STBG	36,000
   CMAQ 2019	188,739
   CMAQ-FUEL	70,991
   TOTAL	1,886,847
   LOCAL AGENCIES CITY of PORTAGE	1,800
   KRBC	36,144
   PARTNERS for CLEAN AIR	6,000
   FORUM	750
   TOTAL NON-GOVERNMENTAL	44,694
   CALUMET LAND CONSERVATION PARTN.	81,480
   ROOM RENTAL INCOME	1,838
   SHARED ETHICS ADVISORY COMMISSION	2,000
   TOTAL	85,318
   INTEREST INCOME BANK INTEREST INCOME	3,000
   RLF INTEREST INCOME	6,862
   TOTAL FY 2019 REVENUE	3,506,111

   COUNTY APPROPRIATIONS LAKE COUNTY	347,204
   PORTER COUNTY	115,040
   LA PORTE COUNTY	78,027
   TOTAL FEDERAL AGENCIES	540,271
   FTA OVERSIGHT	261,620
   FTA PLANNING	20,000
   FTA CAPITAL	80,000
   USDA FOREST SVC	76,810
   EPA URBAN WATERS	23,839
   CAWS PARTNERSHIP OPERATION (ACCRCC)	83,910
   BROWNFIELD GRANT	284,240
   HOBART ZONING PROJECT	11,000
   EDD	70,000
   CAWSGLC	27,700
   TOTAL STATE AGENCIES	939,119
   INDOT PL 2019	765,001
   INDOT PL 2020	826,117
   STBG	36,000
   CMAQ 2019	188,739
   CMAQ-FUEL	70,991
   TOTAL	1,886,847
   LOCAL AGENCIES CITY of PORTAGE	1,800
   KRBC	36,144
   PARTNERS for CLEAN AIR	6,000
   FORUM	750
   TOTAL NON-GOVERNMENTAL	44,694
   CALUMET LAND CONSERVATION PARTN.	81,480
   ROOM RENTAL INCOME	1,838
   SHARED ETHICS ADVISORY COMMISSION	2,000
   TOTAL	85,318
   INTEREST INCOME BANK INTEREST INCOME	3,000
   RLF INTEREST INCOME	6,862
   TOTAL FY 2019 REVENUE	3,506,111

   

   
   

   

   
   

   						Attachment B
   	Grant	Federal		Req. Match		Total
   Architectual Services	XOl2	16,000		4,000		20,000
   Ticket Kiosks and On-Board fare boxes	X012	48,000		12,000		60,000
   Security Cameras	X667	16 ,32 0		4,080		20,400
   Vehicles (2)	X667	110,500		19,500		130,000
   Security Camera & Lighting	2016-033	100,000		25,000		125,000
   TOD Ground Improvements	2016-033	100,000		25,000		125,000
   Support Vehicle	2016-033	28,000		7,000		35,000
   Computers/Sound System	2016-033	25,082		6,271		31,353
   Replacement Vehicles /Bus (2)	2017-027	646,000		114,000		760,000
   Support Vehicle	2017-028	44,000		11,000		55,000
   Rehab/Renovate - Admin Facility	2017-028	19,200		4,800		24,000
   Replace 3 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	276,000		69,000		345,000
   Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	176,000		44,000		220,000
   Replace I Communter Vehicle	2018-026	637,500		155,000		792,500
   Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	131,198		33,152		164,350
   Replace 1 Revenue Vehicle	2018-026	56,400		14,100		70,500
   Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	126,283		32,285		158,568
   Replace 2 Communter Vehicle	2018-026	646,000		170,000		816,000
   TOTAL		3,202,483		750,187		3,952,671
   Contingency
   TOTAL BUDGET						3,952,671

   						Attachment B
   	Grant	Federal		Req. Match		Total
   Architectual Services	XOl2	16,000		4,000		20,000
   Ticket Kiosks and On-Board fare boxes	X012	48,000		12,000		60,000
   Security Cameras	X667	16 ,32 0		4,080		20,400
   Vehicles (2)	X667	110,500		19,500		130,000
   Security Camera & Lighting	2016-033	100,000		25,000		125,000
   TOD Ground Improvements	2016-033	100,000		25,000		125,000
   Support Vehicle	2016-033	28,000		7,000		35,000
   Computers/Sound System	2016-033	25,082		6,271		31,353
   Replacement Vehicles /Bus (2)	2017-027	646,000		114,000		760,000
   Support Vehicle	2017-028	44,000		11,000		55,000
   Rehab/Renovate - Admin Facility	2017-028	19,200		4,800		24,000
   Replace 3 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	276,000		69,000		345,000
   Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	176,000		44,000		220,000
   Replace I Communter Vehicle	2018-026	637,500		155,000		792,500
   Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	131,198		33,152		164,350
   Replace 1 Revenue Vehicle	2018-026	56,400		14,100		70,500
   Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	2018-026	126,283		32,285		158,568
   Replace 2 Communter Vehicle	2018-026	646,000		170,000		816,000
   TOTAL		3,202,483		750,187		3,952,671
   Contingency
   TOTAL BUDGET						3,952,671

   **

   
   

   

   
   

   ** new projects for 2020 not included

   
   

   

   

   
   

   , ,, )l' .,. ,,. '

   Attachment B

   ",, i

   , CY 20 20 T1tANSIT Af '.J.: . P. O.JEC_TS FOND

   '

   '

   "'

   ,. ,, "

   fi fp					Fnnri
   LaPorte	2019	Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	$ 176,000		$ 35,200	$ 140,800
   NIRPC	2019	Replace Staff Computers	$ 100,000		$ 20,000	$ 80,000
   SLCCS	2019	Replace 4 Communter		$ 366,105	$ 73,221	$ 292,884
   		Vehicle
   VALPO	2019	Replace ChicaGO Dash	$ 796,875		$ 159,375	$ 637,500
   PCACS	2019	Route Match	$ 14,000		$ 2,800	$ 11,200
   SLCCS	2019	Route Match	$ 29,483		$ 5,897	$ 23,586
   North Township	2019	Route Match	$ 14,500		$ 2,900	$ 11,600
   PCACS	2019	Replace 2 Vehicle	$ 210,000		$ 42,000	$ 168,000
   OE	2019	Replace 2 Vehicles	$ 198,000		$ 39,600	$ 158,400
   PCACS	2019	Replace 1 Vehicle	$ 127,000		$ 25,400	$ 101 ,600
   North Township	2019	Replace 1 Vehicle	$ 74,025		$ 14,805	$ 59,220
   EC	2019	Replace 1 Vehicle	$ 60,000		$ 12,000	$ 48,000
   VALPO	2019	Replace Bus Stop Signs	$ 150,000		$ 30,000	$ 120 ,000
   VALPO	2019	Transit Improvements	$ 125,000		$ 25,000	$ 100,000

   fi fp					Fnnri
   LaPorte	2019	Replace 2 Revenue Vehicles	$ 176,000		$ 35,200	$ 140,800
   NIRPC	2019	Replace Staff Computers	$ 100,000		$ 20,000	$ 80,000
   SLCCS	2019	Replace 4 Communter		$ 366,105	$ 73,221	$ 292,884
   		Vehicle
   VALPO	2019	Replace ChicaGO Dash	$ 796,875		$ 159,375	$ 637,500
   PCACS	2019	Route Match	$ 14,000		$ 2,800	$ 11,200
   SLCCS	2019	Route Match	$ 29,483		$ 5,897	$ 23,586
   North Township	2019	Route Match	$ 14,500		$ 2,900	$ 11,600
   PCACS	2019	Replace 2 Vehicle	$ 210,000		$ 42,000	$ 168,000
   OE	2019	Replace 2 Vehicles	$ 198,000		$ 39,600	$ 158,400
   PCACS	2019	Replace 1 Vehicle	$ 127,000		$ 25,400	$ 101 ,600
   North Township	2019	Replace 1 Vehicle	$ 74,025		$ 14,805	$ 59,220
   EC	2019	Replace 1 Vehicle	$ 60,000		$ 12,000	$ 48,000
   VALPO	2019	Replace Bus Stop Signs	$ 150,000		$ 30,000	$ 120 ,000
   VALPO	2019	Transit Improvements	$ 125,000		$ 25,000	$ 100,000

   Subrecipent Grant Project Letting Total Non-Federal Federal Funds

   
   

   

   

   TOTAL BUDGET $ 2,440,988 $ 1,952,790

   Attachment C

   

   CY 2020 TRANSIT OPERATING PROJECTS FUND

   
   

   	Federal	Req. Match	Total
   City of East Chicago Preventative Maintenance	217,064	43,413	260,477
   Complementary Paratransit	300,000	60,000	360,000
   Operating Assistance	218,184	186 ,43 7	404,621

   
   

   City of LaPorte

   Operating Assistance 265,000 238,190 503,190

   
   

   City of Valparaiso

   Preventative Maintenance	28,000	7,000	35,000
   Operating Assistance	190,000	190,000	380,000

   Preventative Maintenance	28,000	7,000	35,000
   Operating Assistance	190,000	190,000	380,000

   Capital Cost of Contracting 764,584 185,000 949,584 North Township

   
   

   Opportunity Enterprises

   Preventative Maintenance 111,545 26,486 138,031

   
   

   Porter County Community Services

   Preventative Maintenance	139,200	34,800	174,000
   Operating Assistance	75,000	75,000	150,000

   
   

   Southlake Community Services
   Preventative Maintenance	92,000	23,000	115,000
   Operating Assistance	194,960	194,960	389,920

   
   

   

   PMTF Funds (NT,SLCS,PCCS, OE & CV)

   Public Mass Transportation Fund 529,213 529,213

   
   

   TOTAL 3,124,750 1,264,286 4,389,036

   

   Attachment D

   
   

   
   

   

   

   CY 2020 LAPORTE COUNTY R,EV OLV G LOAN FUND

   
   

   		2019 Budget		2020 Budget
   New Loans		85,000		85,000
   	TOTAL	85,000		85,000
   	TOTAL BUDGET			85,000

   
   

   

   
   

   
   

   

   
   

   

   
   

   Per RLF Management Plan 50% of interest can be used for Administrative Cost

   REVENUES

   RLF INTEREST INCOME

   
   

   4,862

   CLOSING CHARGES

   TOTAL REVENUES EXPENDITURES

   SALARY

   FRINGE BENEFITS ALLOC INDIRECT COST ALLOC

   
   

   DEPARTMENTAL COMMUNICATION GENERAL USE SUPPLIES

   
   

   CONTRACTUAL

   LA PORTE RLF SERVICES

   
   

   TOTAL EXPENSES

   
   

   FUND BALANCE - ENDING

   2,000

   6,862

   
   

   1,600

   1,392

   1,392

   4,384

   
   

   478

   478

   
   

   2,000

   2,000

   
   

   6,862

   
   

   (0)

   
   

   

   PROPOSED 2019 BUDGET AMENDMENT

   To Transfer within Contractual category amount of $6,000

   
   

   
   

   Purpose:

   FROM: Organizational Development

   TO: Audit and Accounting

   
   

   

   Transferring funds from Environmentl line item to Audit and Accounting to cover a Temp for KRBC Quickbooks startup.

   
   

   CATEGORY DETAILED BUDGET LINE

   Original Addition Amended

   
   

   CONTRACTUAL CONTRACTUAL

   Expense: Expense:

   Audit and Accounting Environmental Projects

   20,000 405,311

   CONTRACTUAL CONTRACTUAL

   Expense: Expense:

   Audit and Accounting Environmental Projects

   20,000 405,311

   6,000 26,000

   
   

   (6,000) 399,311

   

   Procurement Recommendations October 17, 2019

   
   

   Four (6) Replacement Vehicles – Procurement #19-24

   • Purchase of:

     • Four (4) vehicle replacements for Lake County Community Services

     • Two (2) vehicle replacements for LaPorte TransPorte

   • Vehicles being replaced will have met their useful life of 4 years or 100,000 miles at the time of delivery.

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 029 and local share coming from the above listed agencies.

   • Recommendation to approve purchase of replacement vehicles not to exceed

     $433,684.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     One (1) Expansion Vehicle – Procurement #18-09

   • Purchase of:

     • One (1) expansion vehicle (motorcoach) for City of Valparaiso ChicaGo Dash

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 029 and local share coming from the above listed agency.

   • Recommendation to approve purchase of an expansion vehicle not to exceed

     $637,500.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     TOD - Construct Enhanced ADA Access – Procurement #19-25

   • This is for a single project for the City of Valparaiso’s associated transit improvements at their transit-oriented development in downtown Valparaiso.

   • The footprint of the affected building will not be altered. All work performed will be interior.

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 029 and local share coming from the above listed agency.

   • Recommendation to approve construction of enhanced ADA access not to exceed $220,000.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     • Replacement office computer equipment for North Township Dial-A-

       Ride

     • Replacement office computer equipment for Opportunity Enterprises

     • Replacement office computer equipment for NIRPC

     • Replacement route scheduling tablets and vehicle securement devices for North Township Dial-A-Ride

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 029 and local share coming from the above listed agencies.

   • Recommendation to approve acquisition of miscellaneous support equipment not to exceed $91,600.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     Four (4) Replacement Vehicles – Procurement #19-27

   • Purchase of:

     • Two (2) vehicle replacements for Opportunity Enterprises

     • Two (2) vehicle replacements for Porter County Aging Community Services

   • Vehicles being replaced will have met their useful life of 4 years or 100,000 miles at the time of delivery.

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration Funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 030 and local share coming from the above listed agencies.

   • Recommendation to approve purchase of replacement vehicles not to exceed

     $260,000.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     Four (4) Replacement Vehicles – Procurement #19-28

   • Purchase of:

     • One (1) vehicle replacements for North Township Dial-A-Ride

     • Three (3) vehicle replacements for Porter County Aging Community Services

   • Vehicles being replaced will have met their useful life of 4 years or 100,000 miles at the time of delivery.

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration Funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 030 and local share coming from the above listed agencies.

   • Recommendation to approve purchase of replacement vehicles not to exceed

     $227,200.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     • Replacement office computer equipment for Lake County Community Services

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration Funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 030 and local share coming from the above listed agency.

   • Recommendation to approve acquisition of miscellaneous support equipment not to exceed $4,800.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     Acquire Signage– Procurement #19-30

   • Purchase of:

     • Replacement bus stop signs for the City of Valparaiso for V-Line services

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration Funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 030 and local share coming from the above listed agency.

   • Recommendation to approve acquisition of signage not to exceed

     $120,000.00 in federal funds.

     
     

     TOD - Construct Landscaping/Scenic Beautification – Procurement #19-31

   • This is for a single project for the City of Valparaiso’s associated transit improvements at their transit-oriented development in downtown Valparaiso.

   • This will include landscaping improvements around the existing parking lot.

   • Paid with Federal Transit Administration funds (80%) out of grant IN-2019- 030 and local share coming from the above listed agency.

   • Recommendation to approve construction of enhanced ADA access not to exceed $100,000.00 in federal funds.

RESOLUTION 19-28

6100 Southport Road

Portage, Indiana 46368

(219) 763-6060

www.nirpc.org

A RESOLUTION OF THE NORTHWESTERN INDIANA REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION EXTENDING POLICIES FOR MEETINGS OF THE COMMISSION

WHEREAS, the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission (Commission) had previously adopted Resolution 14-01 to establish certain policies for Commission meetings; and

WHEREAS, such policies were and are necessary to ensure that Commission business may be conducted in a peaceful, orderly, and efficient manner, and so as to assure the safety of those attending Commission meetings; and

WHEREAS, the Commission holds various meetings throughout the region in the interests of engaging the public in its activities, as outlined in the Commission’s adopted Public Participation Plan (“Engage NWI”); and

WHEREAS, the Commission wishes to ensure that such policies extend to all public meetings of the Commission to ensure orderly conduct of its business, to provide a safe environment for those attending its meetings, and to encourage constructive contribution by meeting participants;

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the policies regarding conduct at meetings of the Commission established in Resolution 14-01 apply to all the Commission’s meetings, regardless of location or purpose; namely, no shouting, name calling, or vulgarity will be permitted, and respect must be shown by all parties.

Duly adopted by the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission this 17th day of October 2019.

Chair

ATTEST:

Secretary

Technical Planning Committee

NIRPC Lake Michigan Room, Portage, IN August 13, 2019

Minutes

Kevin Breitzke called the meeting to order at 10:05 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and self-introductions. Kevin Breitzke reminded the Committee members to complete the meeting participation form in the lobby and expressed his gratitude to those who had already done so. Committee members present were Kevin Breitzke, Will Farrellbegg, Dean Button, Frank Rivera, Kay Nelson, Kelly Wenger, Tyler Kent, David Wright, and Julie Ritzler.

Others present were Michael Jabo, Jake Dammarell, Claudia Taylor, Jeff Huet, Kathryn Vallis, Doug Ferguson, Nick Bellar, Tom Vander Woude, Terry Martin, and Lauri Keagle.

Staff present were Trey Wadsworth, Peter Kimball, Charles Bradsky, James Winters, Scott Weber, Gabrielle Biciunas, Kevin Corrigan, Eman Ibrahim, and Candice Eklund

There were no requests for public comment.

The minutes of the May 14, 2019 minutes were approved on motion by Will Farrellbegg and second by Dean Button.

Peter Kimball presented on the Designation of the Critical Urban Freight Corridor (CUFC) project. The Critical Urban and Rural Freight Corridors (CURFCs) are important freight corridors that provide critical connectivity to the National Highway Freight Network (NHFN). Peter discussed the designation requirements for both the CUFCs and the CRFCs, stating the minimum eligibility requirement is to match at least one of the criteria. The state of Indiana has been allotted 97.13 miles of designated Urban Freight Corridor and 194.25 miles of Rural Freight Corridor. Dean Button questioned if this project could be the first of additional designations. Kevin Breitzke stated future projects could be addressed for evaluation by NIRPC staff and Peter informed the Committee that a task force for this initiative is being formed. On motion by Kay Nelson and second by Will Farrellbegg, the Technical Planning Committee voted to recommend Resolution 19-23, designating Willowcreek Road/Crisman Road as a Critical Urban Freight Corridor from U.S. Highway 20 to the entrance ramp of the Indiana Toll Road.

Mitch Barloga announced that $25 million will be available for the second round of the Next Level Trail program. The second application cycle will run from October 1 to November 1, 2019. The funding focus is divided between two funding categories. The Regionally Significant category has a maximum request of $5 million and a minimum request of $250,000, and the Locally Significant category has a maximum request of $2 million and a minimum request of

$200,000. For additional information, contact Mitch at mbarloga@nirpc.org or 219-763-6060.

Trey Wadsworth gave an update on the public comment report for the Public Participation Plan (PPP). The Engage NWI Plan for the new PPP was released for a 45-day public comment period on June 21, 2019. Input from the U.S. Department of Transportation, INDOT, the Outreach Committee and the peer exchange hosted at NIRPC in June, were all used to develop the plan. David Wright asked if the federal agencies had been involved in the Engage NWI process. Trey confirmed they were active partners and participated throughout the process.

Four of the seven public comments received were in clear support of the PPP, two comments contained ideas and one was for a topic NIRPC does not have any involvement in and could not authorize the funding for. A total of four meetings were held in Hammond, Gary, Valparaiso and

Michigan City. On a motion by Will Farrellbegg and second by Kay Nelson, the Technical Planning Committee voted to recommend the adoption of Resolution 19-24, the Engage NWI Public Participation Plan, to the Commission at the meeting scheduled on September 19, 2019.

Charles Bradsky reported there were no public comments received on the Amendment for the FY 2018-2021 and FY 2020-2024 TIP during the 30-day period beginning June 27, 2019.

Charles noted that NIRPC has not received final approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for the FY 2020-2024 TIP. NIRPC will be amending both amendments and will operate under the FY 2018-2021 until the next TIP is approved. Amendment 23, for FY 2018-2021, and Amendment 1, for FY 2020-2024, will operate the same until the federal partners approve the TIP. On motion by Kay Nelson and second by Dean Button, the Technical Planning Committee voted to recommend Resolution 19-22, Amending the FY 2018-2021 (Amendment 23) and FY 2020-2024 (Amendment 1) Transportation Improvement Programs for Lake, Porter and LaPorte Counties, Indiana.

Charles Bradsky provided an update on the monthly ad-hoc meetings for the TIP Continuous Improvement Committee. The four main topics the committee will be discussing are to define deficiencies from the prior NOFA, correct past errors, assemble 2020 NOFA questions, guidelines and rules, and test the process before going live. They will also address and incorporate transformative projects into the next NOFA, which are projects that need to be phased and are typically greater than $10 million. Recommendations from the Ad-Hoc Committee meetings will be made to the TPC Committee. Communities can appeal the recommendations at any point in the process.

• Kathy Luther said there were two environmental workshops in lieu of the monthly meetings. One for the shoreline public access rights and one for the DNR Coastal program grant workshop. The next EMPC meeting is scheduled for September 19, 2019.

• Mitch Barloga said the Next Level Trails applications will begin October 1, 2019. The next TPC meeting will be hosting a Trails Town workshop.

• James Winters said the 2019 FTA grants were submitted and passed the initial review. Rules on public agency safety plans have been finalized and will be emailed to the transit operators.

• Eman Ibrahim said a Sensible Tools workshop will be held in February 2020.

• Scott Weber said he was working on the UPWP tasks that related directly to the 2050 plan, the Surface Transportation Committee, and the CUFC. A working group task force is being formed and will meet on 8/27/19 at 11:00 a.m.

• Charles Bradsky said the Transportation Resource & Oversight Committees will meet on August 27th. Local Quarterly meetings were completed in August with several projects being identified as high risk. These projects will be discussed at the next meeting.

• The Outreach Committee’s main task was to adopt the Public Participation Plan.

Doug Ferguson reported on the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) five year program of projects that is out for public comment period for the use of STP shared funds for transportation alternative program funds. CMAP is sponsoring a series of events called Small Plans, Big Ideas, trying to link some of the local leaders with the concepts of the plan. The initiatives for CMAP are on their website at: https://cmap.ihmc.us/.

Lauri Keagle reported the South Shore Clean Cities (SSCC) will host a National Drive Electric event in conjunction with the next NIRPC Commission meeting on September 19, 2019. The event will be held in NIRPC’s parking lot. Carl Lisek, Executive Director with SSCC, will be back on the air with the Lake Shore Public Radio program every Wednesday, beginning

September 4, 2019. This initiative is funded in part by the contract with NIRPC. Laurie also reported the Partners for Clean Air Northwest Indiana has 325 followers on their Facebook page. When they reach 500 followers, a lucky follower will win a new bike. Lauri encouraged the group to follow their Facebook page if they haven’t already done so. Through the contract with NIRPC, a LinkedIn page has also been launched.

The next meeting of the Technical Planning Committee will be held on September 10, 2019 at 10:00 a.m.

Hearing no other business, Kevin Breitzke adjourned the meeting at 10:55 a.m.

October 1, 2019

6100 Southport Road

Portage, Indiana 46368

(219) 763-6060

www.nirpc.org

Public Comment Report

Amendment #2 to the 2020-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission

October 17, 2019

Amendment #2 of the 2020-2024 Transportation Improvement Program was released for a 21-day public comment period which began on September 4, 2019 and ended September 25, 2019. The amendments were made available at www.nirpc.org . One comment was received during the comment period on the proposed amendment.

The writer, Mr. Nicholas Vasil; wrote: Hi,

I would like to know why the municipalities of Griffith, Highland, Dyer and Schererville don't provide intra- and intercity public bus transportation between and among these towns in northwest Indiana? Many working and traveling people in these communities don't have privately owned vehicles to connect to their destinations and have to rely on Uber or Lyft to transport them from place to place in the northwest region of the Indiana. Car dealerships abound in these areas, but there is no alternative to what was described above. Air pollution would be greatly reduced if we would relieve the congestion on highway U.S. 30 and Indianapolis Blvd. Thank you.

NIRPC staff responded on September 30 via email to Mr. Vasil. The comment is not considered significant and no modification to the amendment is necessary. Staff response is shown here:

Mr. Vasil,

First, we would like to thank you for your comment.

Currently, there is a moderate amount of fixed-route inter-city bus service in some of the communities you mentioned. The Gary Public Transit Corporation’s (GPTC) “Lakeshore South” bus route (R4), provides some connections between Hammond, Highland, and Munster. An individual using the Lakeshore South bus can transfer to other buses within the GPTC system for connections to East Chicago, Gary, and other cities within the GPTC network. For more information on this route, please visit the following link:

www.gptcbus.com/routes-fares/

However, for the most part, you are correct. There are few fixed-route inter-city bus routes in Northwestern Indiana.

In order to fund new or existing public transit, the decision often starts at the municipal level of government. The federal government provides a significant amount of funding annually for urban public transportation systems in Northwestern Indiana. Roughly, $12 million dollars annually comes to Northwestern Indiana through the “Urbanized Area Formula Grants” program from the Federal Transit Administration. However, in order to use these funds, the federal government requires a financial commitment from a participating organization. This can be a non-profit, a university, or a business; but when considering urban bus systems, most of the time the commitment comes from a municipality. A municipality can provide up to 20% of a project’s cost for capital projects, so the federal government can provide 80% of funding. Or for operating costs, the municipality and federal government can split the costs 50/50.

To answer your question:”Why the municipalities of Griffith, Highland, Dyer and Schererville don't provide intra- and intercity public bus transportation between and among these towns in northwest Indiana?” The answer is that in order to start any type of bus system, these communities would first have to indicate that they want service. Usually this is done by creating a plan to create new services, or to partner with existing providers, like GPTC; then to provide financial support. As of today, only the municipalities of Gary, Hammond, and Merrillville offer financial support to GPTC to support bus service and the City of East Chicago contributes to its own bus service. None of the communities you mentioned have committed to supporting any kind of transit service through a transit development plan or through contracting an established transit operator.

If an expansion of bus service is important to you, reaching out to municipal leaders can be helpful in supporting local transit.

If you have any other questions please feel free to contact either of the following people at NIRPC:

James Winters Transit Planner jwinters@nirpc.org

Charles Bradsky

Transportation Projects Manager cbradsky@nirpc.org

NIRPC did not receive any technical comments from the IGC.