Gary Mayor Eddie Melton updated residents on redevelopment projects, city services, and his administration’s stance on recent immigration enforcement actions during a packed community forum Tuesday night at Indiana University Northwest.
The event came near the end of Melton’s second full year in office and provided updates on some major city initiatives, including the Genesis Center, the proposed Lake County Convention Center, and public safety.
Melton said the Genesis Center remains one of the city’s top community concerns, with repairs estimated at about $15 million. He said the city has received several redevelopment proposals and is reviewing them based on financial strength and long-term sustainability. A design team from the University of Notre Dame is also helping the city plan potential housing around the site.
Melton also said the proposed $100 million Lake County Convention Center project is moving forward through partnerships with the Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, and the Lake County Council.
Funding will come from state support, casino tax revenue, and city matches. A recent $15 million state grant includes $5 million for the convention center and $5 million for upgrades at the Hudson & Campbell Center.
As U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids continued in neighboring Hammond and East Chicago, and tensions rose in Chicago after tear gas was deployed on the city’s East Side on Tuesday, Melton and Gary Police Chief Derrick Cannon made clear where they stand on the issue.
“We know what’s going on in Chicago. We know what’s going on in Hammond and East Chicago, and a glimpse of it in Gary as it relates to [ICE],” Melton said. “I want to be very clear where I stand on this issue. I do not support what has been sanctioned by the White House.”
Cannon pointed to the rule of jurisdiction, clarifying the department’s limits of authority.
“We don’t have the authority to enforce immigration,” Cannon said. “But we do have the authority to keep you guys safe and to keep you informed. So as these things develop, we want to make sure that we provide information to you so you can know what your rights are … so you can know what path to take.”
Gary Fire Chief Larry Tillman highlighted improvements within his department, noting faster response times and upgraded equipment.
According to Tillman, response times are down 11% for EMS and 5.5% for the fire department. The city currently operates six engines, two trucks, and six ambulances. Tillman did note, however, that since more than 30 retirements are expected by 2029, the fire department is looking to hire new personnel.
“We will train you from no certifications all the way up to be able to be out on the street, so come out and apply for the Gary Fire Department,” he said. Applications for the Gary Fire Department are open through Nov. 14 and are available at City Hall.
After the hearing from city officials, residents met with various city departments stationed outside the auditorium to discuss specific needs and to ask questions.
Melton said he wanted residents to have immediate access to city services and department. He also stayed after the event to speak one-on-one with residents about their concerns.
Gary resident Dale Pugh said he was pleased by the turnout.
“It’s beautiful to come get information about your city,” Pugh told Capital B Gary. “This is where you come, you come to the meetings and forums so you can know what’s going on.”
Indiana University Northwest Chancellor Arrick Jackson, who welcomed attendees earlier in the evening, said he was thrilled to see Bergland Auditorium filled to capacity with involved residents.
“I majored in political science, so … whenever I get to see the community interact in the political process and be involved and engaged and excited about it.”
