06/17/2026
Next Meeting: June 30, 2026 @ 7:00 PM at St. Charles School, Peru
Nickel Plate Trail Minutes
May 2026
Attendees: Ted Cox; Steve Gough; Gloyd Johnson; David Cota; Joe Vernon; Navi Vernon; Dan McCarthy; Tim Finster; Terry Finster; Mike Kuepper; Dave Kota; Jeff Kassebaum; Dennis Grossnickle; Phil Hart; John Mercer, Terry Burkeybyle, Karen Burkebyle, Doug Martin, Bill Shewman, Bill Hanson, Dee Pfeiffer, John Pfeiffer, Chris Hedges, Greg Kuhlman, Dave Campbell, Jeff Fivecoate, Jean Holden, Jennifer Koon
The meeting began at 7:01 PM at St. Charles School in Peru. After introductions, Steve moved to accept the minutes. Jeff seconded the motion carried.
Dave summed up the Cassville Bridge project that is completed.
Jeff told about the rough pavement north of Miami. We’ve identified a ½ mile area that needs to be repaved. Jeff explained how we will try to raise 25K in addition to 15K that NPT has appropriated. It costs about $14 per foot to repave. The new website will be launched soon with an area to donate funds.
Steve presented the treasurer’s report and summarized the transactions for April. There was $250 in income, all from donations. Expenses were $3248.88; included in the expenses were gas, tractor maintenance, and fees. YTD income is $12,060.88; YTD expenses are $7,957.00 Steve explained the MAC trail financial status. Motion to except by Dave, 2nd Jeff.
Joe discussed the issue of signage in Peru. The costs were discussed but we don’t know the total costs yet.
Dan presented information on the new website. We are excited about launching the site in the very near future. He discussed many of the areas that are on the site. A question was asked whether the site will have information on events that take place in communities along the trail. The website has that capability and will look forward to input. Dan also talked about the “adopt a segment” part that we are excited about.
Tim Finster was recognized for getting intersections mowed. Tim discussed the importance of getting an earlier start on mowing to keep it looking nice.
Ted discussed getting a south trail crew for trail maintenance trained and started up. We hope to have a crew trained within the next couple of weeks.
Jeff discussed the need for clearing encroaching brush near the Kokomo parking area. Jeff has tried many ways to have Howard County help with this.
We are working on getting new signs between Bunker Hill and the new trail. It’s been reported that unauthorized vehicles are on the MAC trail.
Mike explained exactly what is being done in Bunker Hill with the trail extension.
Dave reported on the Mofield Memorial. It was approved by the board and will be placed at the Lovers Lane entrance.
Dave discussed creating a fundraising arm of the NPT. Every year, our needs become more intense.
We have many issues such as restrooms in Bunker Hill, camping areas, camping along the trail (which is not allowed currently)
There are no new updates on us helping with the creation of restrooms in Denver. It is not within our budget currently.
Steve discussed the mowing near the Redmond factory. He has mowed this area and stressed the importance of keeping it in shape. Steve also discussed the area near Wallick Rd and the problems in keeping this area mowed. Steve is requesting help with folks using string trimmers to help.
Navi discussed the need to have a document depository and how to go about it. She and Joe are working on this project. Navi also is handing out information packets to attendees.
Dan discussed the Rochester Music and Arts Festival on August 22, 2026. Bill Shewman is organizing a Paint out on the new trail in Rochester much like we did last year.
Navi discussed the projects that have been completed and projects that are in progress.
Mike discussed the opening of the MAC trail which runs from Bunker Hill to McGrawsville. Mike is looking for volunteers for some projects that need to be done in Bunker Hill. Get in touch with Mike or check out our website and page
Steve motioned to adjourn at 8:25 PM. Dave seconded, and the motion carried.
Respectfully,
Ted Cox
Next Meeting: June 30, 2026 @ 7:00 PM at St. Charles School, Peru
Question: What does a bicycle call its dad?
Answer: Pop-cycle
