Heather McCarthy

The meeting included the election of officers for the year, with current officers retained. Key actions involved the approval of Resolution No. 2026-01, a Declaratory Resolution Establishing the I-65 and 37th Avenue Economic Development Area, which involves the creation of a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district. The Commission also approved Resolution No. 2026-02 and a corresponding Quitclaim Deed related to an intergovernmental agreement with the Hobart Sanitary District facilitating a land swap involving Hobart Owner, LLC, which was finalized by accepting a Deed of Dedication from the same entity. Furthermore, the Commission addressed the 2026 Education and Workforce Training Grant Applications, awarding $4,000 to Merrillville High School's Construction Program and $26,000 to Hobart High School's Radio and Television Program. A subcommittee nomination for the Brickie Bowl project was noted, and an update was provided on the Greenwood Terrace property acquisition status, noting the completion of environmental and title due diligence.

The meeting agenda was approved as amended to include emails from Chief Lopez and Private Mark Reid. Correspondence involved discussion regarding a resolution requiring officers to meet rank qualifications by January 5, 2027, referencing department policy and commission rules (SOP 101.14). A request was addressed to establish a new Engineer list, resulting in the scheduling of an exam for February 20, 2026. Old business included a commissioner presenting a mental aptitude test. New business involved a commissioner being sworn into a new term and the subsequent selection of Commissioner Pouch as the commission chairperson.

The meeting agenda for the City of Hobart Board of Zoning Appeals included the election of officers and the acceptance of the agenda. Old Business consisted of a request for a Tabled Developmental Standards Variance concerning an existing front yard fence, and a Public Hearing request for a Use Variance to allow a food truck operation exceeding the permitted duration. New Business included a Public Hearing request for a Developmental Standards Variance regarding a property encroachment from a required distance from residential property.

The meeting included discussions on the director's report, upcoming events such as the 5K Run for Your Life Race and the annual City Tree Lighting, and a mini holiday market. Updates were provided on the pool lights and the potential installation of LED lights and cameras at the new Dog Park. Reports were given from the Plan Commission, Common Council, and School Board. New business included discussions on current fees for 2026 and a uniform and apparel policy. The board decided to keep the current rate for now until they can provide renters with more value for their money. The uniform and apparel policy was approved.

The meeting included the election of RDC officers, with Kelly Clemens as Vice President and Mark Kara as Secretary. There was consideration and possible action on the Greenwood Terrace Purchase Agreement, which was approved contingent on acceptance of the formal purchase agreement. An update was given on the Route 6 TIF District by MCR Partners. The commission discussed and considered a General Service Agreement with Abonmarche, which was approved contingent on legal review. An extension for the Workforce and Education Grant deadline was approved. Project updates were provided by the City Engineer, and staff reported on the Brickie Bowl BOT redevelopment project, the defunct Tsunami development, ribbon cuttings, Patriot Park, Hickory Hollow subdivision, and NIPSCO drone marketing.