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http://thenewsdispatch.com/articles/2011/1...15173459493.txt

Redevelopment commissioners will receive stipends

By Tim Moran
Staff Writer
Published: Tuesday, October 18, 2011 5:09 PM CDT
MICHIGAN CITY — The Michigan City Redevelopment Commission voted unanimously to pay $150 a month to four commission members and $300 a month for the commission president effective next month.

Max Barrick, who began his duties as a commissioner in June, presented the idea to other members at their monthly meeting Monday night.

“There will be a significant amount of time and effort required of the commissioners over the next few years,” he said. “The numerous commission projects have and will necessitate in-depth project study and review, as well as planning and update meetings with the parties involved.”

Commissioner Lynne Kaser pointed out the commission may be the only city board not already compensated with a monthly stipend.

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The terms of all current commissioners will expire on Dec. 31, with the newly elected mayor and city council members appointing or re-appointing members in January.

The funds for the monthly compensation will not come from city funds, but from redevelopment commission funding, Barrick said in his motion to the board.

Commission Attorney Michael Bergerson recommended approving Barrick’s motion, citing “a lot of work done by the commission without public knowledge.”

Bergerson said the increased number of court appearances and negotiations with property owners warrant the stipend.

“They are certainly not being overpaid because of this,” he said.

In other business:

• The commission authorized Bergerson and City Planner John Pugh to enter into negotiations to purchase the property at 312 E. Sixth Street, one of two homes between Fifth and Sixth streets on the Trail Creek Corridor. Any purchase made should not exceed $70,000, Redevelopment Commission President Ken Behrendt said. Bergerson said once the purchase has been made, quotes will be taken for demolition of the structure less than 30 days after the current owner vacates.

• Bergerson also notified the commission that inspections of the Warren Building continue to be performed. A copy of the first set of environmental inspections have been provided to the seller and all inspections are expected to be completed in three weeks.