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I was recently informed by the state comptroller's office about HB1448. I was shocked to learn that this language was inserted into a bill nearly 6 years ago and that it would have such a dramatic impact on the City of Gary. During that time as State Senator, I don't recall this language ever going through the proper committee process or being negotiated in during the conference committee timeframe.
As mayor, I have made tremendous progress during my first year to move the City of Gary forward, from allocating funding towards building infrastructure and laying the foundation to grow quality housing and being fiscally responsible with our resources. This would be a tremendous setback and undermine the hard work and collaboration that we saw last year between the City of Gary and the State of Indiana.
It is totally unrealistic that, according to this language, the city should have to pay anything in 2025. I worked closely with my administration and the Gary Common Council to pass a 2025 budget crafted to address the needs of Gary citizens. For this bill to be brought up at the last minute to address this egregious oversight is unjust.
So much growth has occurred in the gaming landscape over the past 6 years that has contributed to the revenues of communities in Northwest Indiana. Gary should not be held accountable for decisions and investments made by multiple entities in both Indiana and Illinois.
It is my intention to collaborate with all stakeholders as we work towards a realistic solution that will not impact the City of Gary's fiscal standing this year and allows our city to function within the law.
Mayor Eddie Melton
City of Gary
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