BERNE — The Berne City Council moved through a full agenda this week, approving several tax abatement renewals, hearing economic updates from major employers, and addressing a public safety concern near the fire station.
The meeting opened with routine approvals of minutes and claims before shifting to annual CF‑1 reviews.
EP Graphics Reports Slower Year but Signs of Rebound
Representatives from EP Graphics told council members that sales dipped last year due to tariff uncertainty and nationwide postal delays that disrupted catalog mailing schedules. “They cut back on the number of catalogues they printed,” one representative explained, noting that many customers hesitated to print when shipping timelines became unpredictable.
Despite the slowdown, the company said activity has picked up in recent weeks and optimism is returning. EP Graphics mailed an estimated 125 million pieces last year and remains one of the busiest mailers in Indiana. The council unanimously found the company in substantial compliance.
Poseidon Barge Sees Strong Demand, Workforce Growth
Poseidon Barge reported a strong 2025, driven by infrastructure projects across North America. Barges built in Berne are currently in use from Alaska to Mexico.
The company’s workforce has grown from 96 to 111 employees, with wages rising and new skill‑based pay incentives added. Poseidon continues to donate scrap metal to local schools for welding programs and is investing heavily in new fall‑protection systems.
Council members praised the company’s willingness to hire from the Crossroads community program and approved abatements for both Poseidon LLC and MAPCO Leasing LLC.
FCC Pursues New Product Line, Requests New Abatement
FCC (Adams) requested a new tax abatement tied to roughly $1.7 million in equipment investments. The project includes a new cooling‑water jacket product line and a 1650‑ton die‑cast machine that would allow the company to pursue larger casting contracts.
FCC reported that while some long‑running Ford programs are ending, 10‑speed transmission business is increasing, and new work is coming in. The Berne facility currently employs 470 people.
The council approved the declaratory resolution, with final confirmation expected after RDC and Board of Works review.
No‑Parking Zone Proposed Near Fire Station
The Berne Fire Department requested a no‑parking zone near its mailbox on Parkway Street after vehicles parked on both sides of the road during high‑school baseball games made it difficult for fire trucks to exit.
“When there’s vehicles parked on the north side and the south side… it makes it pretty tight,” the chief said.
The council agreed to move forward with drafting an ordinance.