February 2020
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
  • State of the City Address
  • Sensory Kits for First Responders
  • Roundabout Engineering Funded
  • Census Outreach
  • 2020 Neighborhood Workshops
  • Oeding Recognized
  • Coffee with a Cop March 4
  • Council Corner
  • Calendar and Helpful Links
Mayor Murphy Presents State of the City Address
On January 28, Mayor Murphy gave his first State of the City Address at Valpo Chamber's Annual Meeting. Murphy highlighted the administration's success over the past year and introduced members of the City's leadership team. Additionally, Murphy thanked former-Mayor Costas for his leadership and vision over the past 16 years. View the State of the City transcript .
Sensory Kits for First Responders
The Valparaiso Police and Fire Departments will have a new tool on board emergency vehicles as they've added sensory kits to assist those with autism in emergency situations. Beginning early in March, 60 sensory kits will be distributed between the VPD and VFD. The kits include noise-reducing earmuffs, stress balls, a dry erase board and handheld fidget toys, designed to block out noise, keep hands busy and assist in communicating with first responders. The kits will be assembled by volunteers from Valparaiso's Rotary Satellite Club . Learn more.
Funds Secured for Roundabout Engineering at Campbell-Lincolnway
The City is making progress on its vision for a roundabout at the intersection of Campbell and Lincolnway. The City has been awarded a federal grant from the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission (NIRPC) to complete the engineering of the roundabout which will be designed to include a future railroad underpass on Campbell to connect to the ANCO redevelopment site. The cost to engineer the project is $550,000 with $110,000 coming from the Redevelopment Commission as the local match. Note that more funds will need to be secured before any construction will begin at this intersection.
Get Counted in the 2020 Census
The U.S. Census is a count of all people in the United States that happens once every 10 years. The information collected helps determine how money is allocated to local communities for things like roads, emergency services, youth programs and more. Beginning in March 2020, households will receive a unique identification number in the mail which will allow you to submit your responses online or over the phone. The Census is secure and will not ask you for personal or financial information. Be sure to get counted this spring! Check out this quick video or visit 2020census.gov to learn more. Help spread the word in your neighborhood or business by sharing our Census one-pager .
2020 Neighborhood Workshops Underway
The Community Engagement Department brought together 37 residents from 15 neighborhoods at its Neighborhood Workshop on February 4. Participants were able to learn more about the City's economic development efforts, hear neighborhood grant success stories and connect with other neighborhood leaders. Check out the Workshop Summary for more details. Many thanks to all presenters and participants for sharing your time. View the full 2020 Workshop Calendar and save the date for our next Workshop on April 28.
Bill Oeding Recognized as Distinguished Hoosier
Our City Administrator Bill Oeding has been recognized by Governor Eric Holcomb with a Distinguished Hoosier award for his significant contributions to the community. The award was presented to Oeding on February 17 at City Hall among friends and colleagues. This award is one of the highest given by the State of Indiana to recognize residents' service to their communities. Oeding has served as City Administrator since 2009 and his career has included leadership roles with the Parks and Public Works Departments, the Valpo Chamber, Porter County Tourism, and many volunteer roles among nonprofit and faith-based organizations. Learn more.
Join VPD for Coffee with a Cop March 4
The Valparaiso Police Department and members of the Porter County Substance Abuse Council invite you to attend Coffee with a Cop on Wednesday, March 4. Come enjoy conversation with officers and a free coffee or fountain drink from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the McDonalds at 2002 Calumet Ave.

Have you seen the VPD's latest video starring our favorite Police Chief, Jeff Balon? Watch it now to learn more about the department and its passion for serving the Valparaiso community.
Council Corner
Council Corner provides a sample of updates from City Council and Board and Commission meetings in a quick, easy to read format. Please note that full agendas and minutes can be found by visiting our website . If you have additional questions or comments give us a call.
  • The Town and Gown Committee discussed city transit, leadership transitions and how to better engage students through City services and events. Our Town and Gown Committee has come together for 50 years to discuss shared interests among City and Valparaiso University leadership. Pictured right or above is VU President Heckler, Mayor Murphy and VU students Annika Brown, Craig Behnke and Elizabeth Palmer.
  • The City Council approved an appropriation of funds for the Valparaiso Police Department to purchase two electric bicycles, a motorcycle lease and outreach materials aimed at drug and alcohol prevention.
  • The Plan Commission approved a minor subdivision at 1 Valley Drive.
  • The Board of Zoning Appeals approved 3 variances.
Calendar & Quick Links
Check our calendar regularly to stay up to date on public meetings. Agendas and minutes can be found on our website by selecting the board or commission that you are most interested in under the “City Government” tab. Upcoming meetings of note include:



 Quick Links: