Porter County's environmental health director told the board that upcoming state code changes will treat dry wells as failing septic systems and that property-specific septic solutions will be required, complicating the applicant's ability to get approvals for a greatly expanded footprint.

Dr. Julia Peller told the council volunteers collected more than 50,000 pieces of plastic at Marquette Park and urged municipal steps — signage, refill stations, local ordinances — but noted a 2016 Indiana law (House Bill 1053) limits municipal bans on single-use plastics.

Staff reported that work on the Waverly Road bridge has started, the RDC's maximum contribution is $669,000, and an October 31 completion date is targeted; commissioners said trail coordination will accompany the bridge project.

The planning commission opened a public hearing on a draft rental ordinance that would register and inspect rental housing (including short‑term rentals). Residents and property‑managers urged clearer fee language, narrower inspection triggers and protections for dune/native vegetation; the commission continued the hearing to Aug. 19.

The Porter Planning Commission opened a public hearing on the proposed Goat Farm planning‑unit development, heard extensive public comment on traffic, utilities and density, and voted to continue the hearing to Aug. 19 to allow the commission and technical review staff time to study updated plans and TAC recommendations.

The council approved a low bid from Woodruff to install chopper pumps at the North Bailey lift station, authorized staff to solicit quotes for a 50-series mini excavator (and explore trailer and attachment costs), and received updates on completed paving and potential federal funding for sewer projects.