Muncie Board of Public Works approves $701,066.84 in claims, OKs July 4 street closure and internship agreement

MUNCIE — The Muncie Board of Public Works and Safety on May 20 approved claims totaling $701,066.84, granted a street closure for a July 4 event, and authorized an internship agreement with the Boys & Girls Club of Muncie.

Deputy Controller Matt Waggly presented the register of claims and highlighted several items, including $7,415 to Smith Family Services for mowing, $2,916.66 to Arnold Law Office for city council services, $16,004.94 to Hoosier Fire Equipment for turnout gear for three recruits and $24,340.14 to Spear Corporation for parts and labor related to pump rebuilding. “I highlighted a few claims,” Waggly said while summarizing the register. Board member Wiesley moved approval of the claims and the board approved them by voice vote.

The board granted a street closure request from Game Changers to close North Street from Mulberry to Walnut from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on July 4 for festivities tied to the American Legion’s 250th anniversary. Leanne Barton of Game Changers described the group as “a riding club” that raises funds for community benefits, noting recent fundraising efforts for local families. The board voted to approve the closure.

The board also approved a teen internship and sports programming agreement with the Boys & Girls Club of Muncie. Mark White, program director filling in for Carl, said the organization has hired leads and interviewed interns and that funds would be routed through Thryv for payroll. Board members queried whether the Boys & Girls Club would be running programs or only serving as a fiscal agent; White said the club would handle funds and Thryv would handle payments to interns. A board member who identified herself as a member of the Boys & Girls Club board abstained from the vote; the measure passed by voice vote.

In procurement business, the board opened three bids for demolition of a structure at 719 West Charles: Sam’s Shroyer Solutions at $72,850; J.A. Schroyer Group at $84,430; and Yarbrough Companies at $72,300. The bids were entered into the record for staff to review and bring back for consideration.

With no further business, the chair adjourned the meeting.