Portage, Indiana Development News
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COP City Council Mtg 07-07-26
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Portage City Council Approves 2026 Salary Ordinance and Discusses Budgetary Impacts of Police Contract
The council approved the adoption of Ordinance 2610, which establishes salaries and compensation for appointed city employees and officers for 2026. The ordinance adjusts salaries for police and fire departments based on collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) that were passed. The financial implications were discussed, with Clerk Treasurer Liz Modesto confirming the city has the funds for the current year through a combination of carried-over funds and a tax anticipation warrant. However, she cautioned that the budget will be tight, especially if unexpected expenses arise, and that future years will require careful planning and potential cuts. The police union contract, which includes raises, was also passed, with discussions confirming the city can afford the immediate costs but emphasizing the need for careful budgeting for subsequent years.
Portage City Council Reviews Technology Campus Zoning Ordinance, Considers Amendments
The council discussed and held a first reading of Ordinance 2609, which amends the city's zoning ordinance related to technology campuses. Mayor Bont explained that this ordinance aims to create a new zoning code specifically for data centers, redefining and reorganizing where they can be built, as current codes allow them under warehouse definitions. The plan commission had previously voted unanimously for a favorable review. Councilwoman Weidenbach proposed several amendments to the ordinance, including lowering the allowable decibel level, requiring written emissions procurement plans with third-party monitoring, increasing setback requirements for hyperscale facilities, and including cost recovery agreements for health-related issues and ensuring developer promises are written into contracts.
Portage Chiefs Discuss Flock Camera Use, Storm Response, and Public Safety Needs
The council received updates from the Police and Fire Chiefs regarding departmental activities and concerns. Police Chief Candiano addressed questions about the use of Flock cameras, clarifying policies on data privacy, preventing misuse, and their effectiveness in solving crimes. He noted that while Flock provides leads, independent verification is required, and the city only utilizes specific features due to budget constraints. Fire Chief Crayle reported an increase in call volume, detailing the significant undertaking of responding to a major storm on June 11th, and thanking department heads for their cleanup efforts. Both chiefs highlighted the importance of technology and adequate funding for public safety operations.
Portage City Council Adopts Ordinance Formalizing Financial Policies and Procedures
The council discussed and adopted Resolution 2612, which codifies internal city financial policies and procedures into an ordinance. Clerk Treasurer Liz Modesto explained that this resolution addresses seven findings of non-compliance from a previous state board of accounts audit, establishing standard operating procedures and internal controls. These corrective action plans (CAPs) were approved by the state board of accounts and align with best practices. The adoption of these procedures ensures accountability across various city departments, including the clerk treasurer's office, regarding financial management.
Portage City Council Approves Bonds for Simon Southeast and Southwest Projects
The City Council passed two ordinances (2611 and 2612) authorizing the issuance of economic development revenue bonds for the Simon Southeast and Simon Southwest projects, respectively. These bonds are part of the economic development agreement established in the previous month to facilitate the funding of these developments, which include retail targets like Target and BJ's. The council voted to suspend the rules to allow for immediate passage of these ordinances so that the bonds could close later in the month.
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