Planning Commission - Regular Meeting

Helping with services that Garyville residents rely on every single day. And while you're learning, you're earning. This program is more than just a summer paycheck. This program is about building confidence, getting kids to exposure that they may have never got to before, and opening doors for different career paths for them. So whether it's communication, administrative, public service, or just various jobs throughout the city, this program is designed to help students take their next step forward. If you are a current sophomore or junior at Aguirre High School and live in Aguirre and you want a real work experience this summer, talk to your school's guidance counselor before May 19th to apply. Remember, your future starts with one opportunity.

Hey, what's up everyone? This is Mayor Eddie Melton and I'm here in City Hall and I wanted to drop a very quick message to let all of our small businesses know in the city of Gary that we've just recently launched our Lifeline Grant. This grant is going to help small businesses that have been struggling for quite some time. So I want to thank the Gary Common Council. I also want to thank the Hard Rock Casino. for matching these dollars. We're going to be giving up to $25,000 to our small businesses that are located in the city of Gary. So I want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity. The application process has already started and we're going to close it on June 1st, 2026. So again, encourage you all to participate. Look at this opportunity to help revitalize all of our small businesses. So again, if you have any questions, reach out to our economic development department, but go to www.gary.gov forward slash lifeline dash grant. Peace.

We'll be right back.

Need a midweek reset? Wind Down Wednesday is your time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the vibe. Experience live music, great food, and a smooth atmosphere right here in the city of Gary. Turn your Wednesday into a moment worth enjoying.

Gary's summer just got epic. Mayor Eddie D. Melton presents the Greater Gary Music Fest, hosted by Michael Epps. One night of music, vibes, and unforgettable energy. We're bringing a fire lineup you don't want to miss. Saturday, June 27th. Tickets coming soon. Mark your calendar and get ready for the hottest concert of the summer, right here in Gary.

Gary, this is your moment. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party is here. Saturday, August 29th through Sunday, August 30th from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. We're taking over Roosevelt High School, 730 West 25th Avenue, Gary, Indiana. Food trucks, live music, games, community. Two full days of energy, culture, and family fun. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party, only in Gary.

2300 Jackson Street.

City of Gary, this is Marcus. Yes, applications for Summer Youth Job Program are officially open. This program gives Gary High School students the opportunity to work inside real city departments, gain hands-on knowledge, and get paid while doing it. You get the chance to work alongside real city departments in public spaces and helping with services that Gary residents rely on every single day. And while you're learning, you're earning. This program is more than just a summer paycheck. This program is about building confidence getting kids to exposure that they may have never got to before, and opening doors for different career paths for them. So whether it's communication, administrative, public service, or just various jobs throughout the city, this program is designed to help students take their next step forward. If you are a current sophomore or junior at a Gary High School and live in Gary, and you want a real work experience this summer, talk to your school's guidance counselor before May 19th to apply. Remember, your future starts with one opportunity.

what's up everyone this is mayor eddie melton and i'm here in city hall and i wanted to drop a very quick message to let all of our small businesses know in the city of gary that we've just recently launched our lifeline grant this grant is going to help small businesses that have been struggling for quite some time so i want to thank the gary common council i also want to thank the hard rock casino for matching these dollars. We're going to be giving up to $25,000 to our small businesses that are located in the city of Gary. So I want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity. The application process has already started and we're going to close it on June 1st, 2026. So again, encourage you all to participate. Look at this opportunity to help revitalize all of our small businesses. So again, if you have any questions, reach out to our economic development department. but go to www.gary.gov forward slash lifeline dash grant. Peace.

We be feeling right.

Need a midweek reset? Wind Down Wednesday is your time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the vibe. Experience live music, great food, and a smooth atmosphere right here in the city of Gary. Turn your Wednesday into a moment worth enjoying.

Gary's summer just got epic. Mayor Eddie D. Melton presents the Greater Gary Music Fest, hosted by Michael Epps. One night of music, vibes, and unforgettable energy. We're bringing a fire lineup you don't want to miss. Saturday, June 27th. Tickets coming soon. Mark your calendar and get ready for the hottest concert of the summer, right here in Gary.

Gary, this is your moment. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party is here. Saturday, August 29th through Sunday, August 30th from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. We're taking over Roosevelt High School, 730 West 25th Avenue, Gary, Indiana. Food trucks, live music, games, community, two full days of energy, culture, and family fun. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party, only in Gary.

2300 Jackson Street.

City of Gary, this is Marcus. Yes, applications for Summer Youth Job Program are officially open. This program gives Gary High School students the opportunity to work inside real city departments, gain hands-on knowledge, and get paid while doing it. You get the chance to work alongside real city departments in public spaces and helping with services that Gary residents rely on every single day. And while you're learning, you're earning. This program is more than just a summer paycheck. This program is about building confidence, getting kids to exposure that they may have never got to before, and opening doors for different career paths for them. So whether it's communication, administrative, public service, or just various jobs throughout the city, this program is designed to help students take their next step forward. If you are a current sophomore or junior at a Gary High School and live in Gary, and you want a real work experience this summer, talk to your school's guidance house before May 19th to apply. Remember, your future starts with one opportunity.

Hey, what's up everyone? This is Mayor Eddie Melton and I'm here at City Hall and I wanted to drop a very quick message to let all of our small businesses know in the City of Gary that we've just recently launched our Lifeline Grant. This grant is going to help small businesses that have been struggling for quite some time. So I want to thank the Gary Common Council. I also want to thank the Hard Rock Casino. for matching these dollars. We're going to be giving up to $25,000 to our small businesses that are located in the city of Gary. So I want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity. The application process has already started and we're going to close it on June 1st, 2026. So again, encourage you all to participate. Look at this opportunity to help revitalize all of our small businesses. So again, if you have any questions, reach out to our economic development department, but go to www.gary.gov forward slash lifeline dash grant. Peace.

moment just a link family friends good vibes

Need a midweek reset? Wind Down Wednesday is your time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the vibe. Experience live music, great food, and a smooth atmosphere right here in the city of Gary. Turn your Wednesday into a moment worth enjoying.

Gary's summer just got epic. Mayor Eddie D. Melton presents the Greater Gary Music Fest, hosted by Michael Epps. One night of music, vibes, and unforgettable energy. We're bringing a fire lineup you don't want to miss. Saturday, June 27th. Tickets coming soon. Mark your calendar and get ready for the hottest concert of the summer, right here in Gary.

Gary, this is your moment. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party is here. Saturday, August 29th through Sunday, August 30th from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. We're taking over Roosevelt High School, 730 West 25th Avenue, Gary, Indiana. Food trucks, live music, games, community, two full days of energy, culture, and family fun. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party, only in Gary.

2300 Jackson Street.

City of Gary, this is Marcus. Yes, applications for Summer Youth Job Program are officially open. This program gives Gary High School students the opportunity to work inside real city departments, gain hands-on knowledge, and get paid while doing it. You get the chance to work alongside real city departments in public spaces and helping with services that Gary residents rely on every single day. And while you're learning, you're earning. This program is more than just a summer paycheck. This program is about building confidence, getting kids to exposure that they may have never got to before, and opening doors for different career paths for them. So whether it's communication, administrative, public service, or just various jobs throughout the city, this program is designed to help students take their next step forward. If you are a current sophomore or junior at a Gary High School and live in Gary, and you want a real work experience this summer, talk to your school's guidance house before May 19th to apply. Remember, your future starts with one opportunity.

what's up everyone this is mayor eddie melton and i'm here at city hall and i wanted to drop a very quick message to let all of our small businesses know in the city of gary that we've just recently launched our lifeline grant this grant is going to help small businesses that have been struggling for quite some time so i want to thank the gary common council i also want to thank the hard rock casino for matching these dollars. We're going to be giving up to $25,000 to our small businesses that are located in the city of Gary. So I want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity. The application process has already started and we're going to close it on June 1st, 2026. So again, encourage you all to participate. Look at this opportunity to help revitalize all of our small businesses. So again, if you have any questions, reach out to our economic development department, but go to www.gary.gov forward slash lifeline dash grant. Peace.

We'll be right back.

Need a midweek reset? Wind Down Wednesday is your time to relax, recharge, and enjoy the vibe. Experience live music, great food, and a smooth atmosphere right here in the city of Gary. Turn your Wednesday into a moment worth enjoying.

Gary's summer just got epic. Mayor Eddie D. Melton presents the Greater Gary Music Fest, hosted by Michael Epps. One night of music, vibes, and unforgettable energy. We're bringing a fire lineup you don't want to miss. Saturday, June 27th. Tickets coming soon. Mark your calendar and get ready for the hottest concert of the summer, right here in Gary.

Gary, this is your moment. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party is here. Saturday, August 29th through Sunday, August 30th from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. We're taking over Roosevelt High School, 730 West 25th Avenue, Gary, Indiana. Food trucks, live music, games, community. Two full days of energy, culture, and family fun. The 2300 Jackson Street Block Party, only in Gary.

2300 Jackson Street.

City of Gary, this is Marcus. Yes, applications for Summer Youth Job Program are officially open. This program gives Gary High School students the opportunity to work inside real city departments, gain hands-on knowledge, and get paid while doing it. You get the chance to work alongside real city departments in public spaces and helping with services that Gary residents rely on every single day. And while you're learning, you're earning. This program is more than just a summer paycheck. This program is about building confidence, getting kids to exposure that they may have never got to before, and opening doors for different career paths for them. So whether it's communication, administrative, public service, or just various jobs throughout the city, this program is designed to help students take their next step forward. If you are a current sophomore or junior at a Gary High School and live in Gary, and you want a real work experience this summer, talk to your school's guidance counselor before May 19th to apply. Remember, your future starts with one opportunity.

Hey, what's up everyone? This is Mayor Eddie Melton and I'm here in City Hall and I wanted to drop a very quick message to let all of our small businesses know in the City of Gary that we've just recently launched our Lifeline Grant. This grant is going to help small businesses that have been struggling for quite some time. So I want to thank the Gary Common Council. I also want to thank the Hard Rock Casino. for matching these dollars. We're going to be giving up to $25,000 to our small businesses that are located in the city of Gary. So I want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity. The application process has already started and we're going to close it on June 1st, 2026. So again, encourage you all to participate. Look at this opportunity to help revitalize all of our small businesses. So again, if you have any questions, reach out to our economic development department, but go to www.gary.gov forward slash lifeline dash grant. Peace.

Yeah.

Commission Thursday, May 21st, 2026 meeting. We have an agenda in front of us, fellow commissioners. We want to, I would like to propose that we change the order of the agenda. Number one, we'll be meeting call to order. Two is roll call. Three is approval of minutes. Number four will be planning and zoning department update. And then number five would be the public hearings. Do we need a motion for that? I so move.

Let's open and take a roll call to the status quo, and then we can move to the next one right after.

Okay. Then let's do roll call, please.

Okay. Alan Hero. Present. William Allen. Adam Hall. Here. Willie Miller.

Present.

Sherman Wilson. Bill Cook. Jeremiah King. Darren Washington. Present. Tom Serra.

Present.

Okay, so we'll show that we have five members present, which is a quorum to open business, and we can begin conducting business.

Thank you. All right, so I propose reordering and swapping number four and number five. Do I have a motion for that? So moved.

Second.

Thank you. Do we need a roll call or all in favor?

Aye. Any opposed?

Any opposed?

No.

Okay. So the next item is to approve the approval of minutes. Minutes are in front of us. Is there a motion to approve minutes from the March 19th, 2026 meeting?

I make a motion that we approve the minutes from that meeting date.

Second. Thank you. All right, any questions, corrections? If not, all in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Nope. Okay, motion carries. All right, we'll move on to the next item, which was originally number five. It's number four now, and it's the Planning and Zoning Department update. And the title or the topic is the community forum for June 4th, 2026 at 5.30 p.m. at the Railcats Stadium. Dr. Martin?

So as everyone who may have viewed the council meeting yesterday, we are happily happy to announce that our new code has been adopted by the board. And because of the new code, we are now shifting into a citywide rezone. What that means is We have to align the zoning with the new code so that development will be sufficient and successful and prosperous in our future. In order to do that, we must come together as a collective, as a family. One team, one city, one group. And in order to do that, we are going to have a public forum. It will be June 4th at the Railcat Stadium. You are all in this city invited those who are outside of the city, who does business within the city, are invited to come participate and rezone the city together. It will not just be a siloed effort by the city's departments, it will be a collective effort by the city as a whole. So we will come in and you will have the opportunity to tell us what's on the ground, what's in your neighborhood. What do you see that we don't see that we need to adjust so that as we move forward in our future, we will be successful and everybody will be on the same page and understand the rules and regulations that will govern the land of this city. In order for us to do that, we need you all. So we need the community to come out. Voice your opinion. Let us know what's there. Come talk about your neighborhood. Come discuss block clubs. Come find out information. that you will need to help you flourish. Come find out about Sanitary District. Come find out. All these individuals will be there for you to have that conversation with. So all the faces you're looking for will be in attendance because they too have to align with this new code that is only familiar to three, right? One, two, four, five, what's the number? Five! And because of that, this is not just the city constituents learning the code, it is the city departments and everyone learning this new code. Because the previous code will no longer exist. It will be fully eliminated in 90... August 1st. August 1st. So just prepare for that shift. Understand the growing pains. We're all not going to be in grants. If it was a perfect world, we would be. But that's impossible. None of us are perfect. So expect there to be issues, expect there to be a gap, but expect us to grow together because it's a gap that we're all going to have, except the five of us. So we just want you all to come out, enjoy. There will be refreshments, conversations, the maps, and everything will be out there. There is a draft of the map in the back of the room that you can grab, and it is online. that you can go and view. The code is online as well that you should review before attending the meeting, but we will have handouts and things that will help guide you and we will all be a part of this process too to help guide everyone. I think that it's important for us to share information to be transparent and to understand what is to come for our future. With that, I would like to open it up for any comments or questions from the audience. audience so that we can answer anything that they need right now.

Sure. We have a limited amount of time here for questions. So if anybody has questions, I will make one comment about this map. Staff worked very diligently on this. You can see all the different colors. This map is available online and you can actually zoom in on it and you can zoom and see your property and how it's zoned or your neighbor's property and how it's zoned. All right, so IT'S AN AMAZING PIECE OF WORK AND IT'S OUT THERE AT GARY.GOV UNDER PLANNING.

YES. AND ONCE IT IS APPROVED, IT WILL BE INTERACTIVE, A LOT MORE PHENOMENAL THAN THE EXISTING ONE. AND YOU WILL BE ABLE TO SUBMIT YOUR READDRESSING. IT WILL BE A LOT OF THINGS THAT'S GOING TO ROLL OUT. SO JUST COME OUT SO YOU CAN FIND OUT ABOUT IT.

ARE THERE ANY QUESTIONS?

Okay, that's all right.

Go ahead.

So, as you mentioned previously, there's layers to it. So, I just wanted to confirm. There may be some time before we can actually zoom down to see our actual properties, or is that feature available at this point?

No. So, it is a PDF. So, you know, of course, PDF, you can zoom in and out of. But because this has not been cleared and or passed through you all and it's still open for public and has not shifted to the next phase, it has to follow the same format as the plan and the code. So right now with the code closing, now the map is open and then by our next meeting, you will then vote. ON IT, ONCE IT GOES THROUGH THAT PROCESS AND THEY VOTE ON IT, ON IT, ONCE IT GOES THROUGH THAT PROCESS AND THEY VOTE ON IT, THEN IT WILL BE INTERACTIVE.

THEN IT WILL BE INTERACTIVE.

YES, BECAUSE WE CAN'T TAKE DOWN YES, BECAUSE WE CAN'T TAKE DOWN THE EXISTING BECAUSE UNTIL AUGUST THE EXISTING BECAUSE UNTIL AUGUST 1st, THE EXISTING, WE HAVE TO GO 1st, THE EXISTING, WE HAVE TO GO THROUGH A SHIFT. THROUGH A SHIFT. SO THIS IS KIND OF THE LEARNING SO THIS IS KIND OF THE LEARNING PERIOD OF THE COMMUNITY AND PERIOD OF THE COMMUNITY AND THE DEPARTMENT AND THE CITY THE DEPARTMENT AND THE CITY ITSELF TO GRADUALLY SHIFT

All right, I would like to make a note for the record that Jeremiah King, one of our commissioners, has joined us. So now there are six of us. All right. And then there were five. And we pride ourselves on ethics in this commission. We have one of our commissioners is in the area of the next commission. next item on our agenda. So he is asked to recuse himself. So he's going to recuse himself now. Thank you very much, Adam.

Thanks.

So the next item on the agenda is PC 2026-24. It's a rezone to M1. The address is 140 North Montgomery Street.

Gary?

That's the address.

Oh, it's a flat replat?

Okay, I'm sorry. So let me start over. This is PC 2026-04, which is a plat, re-plat. The address is 140 North Montgomery Street in Gary. Petitioner is Brotherhood Builders, LLC. And I'll turn it over to staff for description and recommendation.

Thank you. As stated by the Commissioner, this is a re-plat. It is... It is... Replat is the subdivision of a lot. So this petitioner is submitting to subdivide one lot into two lots, which has been addressed in two different addresses as we stand. The staff has reviewed and would like to give the petitioners the opportunity to come and speak on their project.

You have to balance yourself. Do you want to address the commissioners? And there also is a public in that camera right there. In the camera. This one?

Yeah.

Oh, you could stay right there. Please stay at the front. Oh, okay. You're good. All right, good afternoon, everybody. God bless you all. My name is Kenneth Townsend, born and raised in Gary. Excuse me for my lack of preparation. I came to the meeting last month. It was two people, so I was a bit unprepared for, I guess, the quantity that's here. But the intent of the project that we're doing is to build two single-family homes. So we've been converting the lot from one single-family to two single-family homes. As far as my experience, to be very honest, this is my first new construction home, but I've done about 140 projects throughout Northwest Indiana, and 130 of those, 120 are in Geary. And so my business is looking to expand into new construction, and we've done some flips over in Miller, and we're interested in doing new construction in the lot that we purchased. So that kind of sums up what we're looking to do for the property.

OK, thank you.

Thank you.

OK.

So staff has reviewed the submitted application materials. At the time of review, proof of publication was received the same day, which is today. And staff was not provided adequate time to fully review the submitted materials or to provide that information to the board. Additionally, during the site analysis, staff determined that the required public hearing sign was not posted on the subjected property, and that was by multiple staff members. Staff further identified parcel and address inconsistent as it associated with the county's record and prior subdivision. Based on available records, it appears to have been sub-divided by county. So due to those discrepancies, there needs to be a further investigation. Well, I wouldn't say investigation. There needs to be further understanding of where the parcel lies, whether it's sub-divided and the surveying, it is stamped. So we need more for us and Attorney Melinda to kind of look through to figure out. We recommend a continuance. But it is up to you all if you want to allow it to move forward. But as we stated, it appears to have been certified. Okay.

All right, and I'm going to just read your justification for continuance. It's proof of publication received the same day as review. Required public hearing sign was not posted on site during staff inspection. Parcel and addressing inconsistencies was identified. Prior subdivision activity requires additional verification, and the staff is unable to verify compliance status or make final determination at this time. Are there questions from any commissioners?

Yes, so from my understanding, I just want to confirm, it seems like there needs to be some straightened out. It's not terrible, but it's not accurate.

Because we're here to approve of the subdivide. But based upon records, the subdivide took place. So we need to see how far the process went. In doing so, they have been addressed. So each parcel has been given a different parcel number and a different address.

So you just need clarification before you can determine it? Yes.

But what paused it, it was done by the county. So we would have to, Attorney Molina would have to kind of have this conversation with the county. And it's on a broader scale. It's just not segue to the petitioner. But it is a continuing issue. But the most important piece for us is the publication and the signage. And moving to the next stage we actually go through Phase two is going through the actual Replay, right? So will we move past phase two, you know, so those type of things need to be discussed because at this point All right, we're gonna open this up for public comment, but before I do turning

Could you tell us what the petitioner would need to do before this, if we do a vote to continue?

So given the concern about the notice, and if we do vote to continue, I'd recommend that part of the motion be that the petitioner re-notice and that we confirm that his notice is compliant with the public notice requirements for a public hearing. Because people were hearing the notice, we believe everyone was notified. we can open the hearing and then we can continue this portion, the public portion, until the next meeting and just assure that his notices have indeed gone out to everybody. So anyone who speaks today will be recognized as part of that public hearing and then at the next meeting we'll finalize with the second portion of the public hearing. Okay. If the motion is made.

And we have the mail links. We got them today.

Okay.

And how about the sign?

But they needed to be here by the Last week, Thursday.

Okay. And what about signage? Does that have to be confirmed as well? Is that part of it or not?

Well, I think it's part of that then if we're doing the notice that the department should do the signage. Okay.

Very good. All right. Any other questions from commissioners?

I have a question. What is the timeline that you're looking at as far as everything before it comes back to the planning commission?

We're hoping to have it by the next meeting. It is contingent upon we meet every Tuesday. So within those meetings, we kind of have a piece by piece, get the conversation going. But it's a tough conversation to have. So I have to allow the attorneys to take care of that piece. So Attorney Molina.

But our requirements are that they're supposed to turn in notice that they're

We should be. Will we be okay by June 18th? Oh, yeah, we'll be ready by then. Okay, June 18th. Absolutely. Okay, we're going to open up for public comments now. Please go to the podium. State your name and address, please. And everyone gets limited to two minutes for public comment. So feel free to comment.

Anybody else lining up behind me?

My name is Russell Cundiff. I'm at 137 North Montgomery Street, Gary, Indiana. And my question, because it sounds like it's a done deal. I'm trying to figure that out. First of all, what is the minimum requirements for housing? I mean, I built on the corner 30 years ago, and it was 50 by 50. I thought you had to have that as a minimum for a lot. Does anybody have that information?

Yeah, we do, and you could talk to staff after the meeting, but these are for comments, Russ, so we're not going to answer questions during this public comment period.

What am I supposed to say then?

You can contact Dr. Martin or Corey Sharp after the meeting, and they'll provide that information to you.

So the purpose of the public portion...

And okay, my opinion is it's nuts Okay, that's not a question It's not Because I just don't understand it the primary purpose of two houses on a 63 foot lot. I Obviously, I'd like to question the developer. Why there, and what type of housing is it intended to be? It'll have to be something relatively small, but for what purpose?

And all comments should be directed to the board.

I understand that. Sorry, let me explain this. I spent eight years as the Planning Commissioner President. So I kind of know the process and whatever, but this is a little miscombobulated, and And it's hard to hear because, you know, you don't have any microphones or whatever. Please speak up because all of us, you know, don't have that young hearing. I'm an old guy. I need to, you know, hear what I'm saying. But I'm just totally mystified as to, you know, what the whole deal is and why. So excuse me.

Okay, thank you.

How are you all doing this afternoon? Great. Good. My name is Glenn Johnson. I'm a resident of the community and a neighbor to the properties at 131 Ash and 140 North Montgomery. And I'm here today to oppose the replat. And, you know, the homes in this neighborhood were built on larger lots. And that wasn't by accident. My family has lived there for 50 years. And it reflects the original vision of the community, you know, spaciousness, dignified housing that gives families room to breathe, room for children to play, and curb appeal that reflects pride of ownership. So dividing this parcel into two smaller lots fundamentally changes that. And it sets a precedent that opens the door to similar subdivisions, really across the neighborhood and the city. And once that character is gone, it's very difficult to get back. And so on behalf of myself and my neighbors, I asked the commission three questions. One, has a neighborhood compatibility study been conducted? Two, will the proposed structures meet the same setback and green space requirements as surrounding homes? And three, what is the impact on stormwater drainage and local utilities, the utility load? So, I guess that's my time.

No, actually that wasn't, I'm sorry.

Oh, that was, oh, okay, all right. You still have 43 seconds.

Oh, okay, all right. I'm on the school board. I hear those things, you know, I tell people to sit down. I respectfully urge the Commission to either deny the request or table it until proper neighborhood impact assessment is complete. Thank you.

Thank you.

Well, I definitely. Excuse me one second. I definitely. Can you state your name? My name is Martha Dunham. It's right across the street from me on the side of my property. I've been there 40-something years. My husband was preaching. Well, either way, I oppose this lot being split up and having little tiny houses there because they have to be small. I have side property. We try to keep our yards up. And when they dig and everything, I want them to tell, they better not mess up my foundation of my house with all that bulldozers because we've had that before in the neighborhood. And I had to get everything redone around my house. For one, I want to know, is it going to be a brick home? Are they going to be... Frame homes, are they going to look like the neighborhood homes? That's my concern. And I definitely don't want them shaking up the ground to the point where my house and my foundation is messed up on that corner that I live on. It's already a busy corner. That's where the bus stops. And people can, it's traffic all the time going through there. That's the main way most people get through Miller. And if it's going to be a house built, I don't know what type they're going to go flat. Because if they go high, you won't be able to look around. And as the traffic go through, and we don't want any accidents on that corner. We have children riding their bikes. We have people walking their dogs. It was one house sitting there at one time facing the crisis center. And it had side yard and a backyard. But two houses sitting there would be more like, and there's no disrespect to Aetna, Would it be down to an ethnicized house or smaller? And that's not the type of house I want in my neighborhood. And I am definitely opposing. Thank you.

Thank you so much.

Hello. I am Wanda Jackson. I reside at 7121 Ash Place. I'm about two doors down from where the replat will take place. I oppose the replat. There's something that I didn't understand that was explained that we have approved part two and phase one hasn't been approved. And so I don't even know if we're going to even end up getting to this part or has it already been approved that we can go forward or is there something that's going to cause a delay? I support residential development and growth, but not at the expense of health and the safety as far as the residents and the taxpayers are concerned. We're here because we desire to maintain the architecture integrity of our neighborhoods. Single family housing reduce nuisance, minimize traffic, pollution, and even the noise. And so single family housing can also decrease unwanted commercial activity in the neighborhood. The dual housing impacts the neighborhood character, definitely the parking and the infrastructure. And so there are parking, are there, will there be any parking violations, for example, failing to provide One off street space for additional dwelling unit. And is there a total lot coverage allowed, parking allowed? The density, as far as the density parking is concerned, there's a lot of parking and traffic currently at that corner already. And traffic safety is definitely an issue on that particular corner. As it was mentioned earlier, we have youth that catch the bus and other individuals that stand there to catch the bus. In the wintertime, there are cars that slide even from turning right there in that area. So it really needs to be considered. Thank you. Okay. It really needs to be considered. Thank you.

Okay, thank you.

Perfect timing.

Hi, everyone. My name is Sarah Mills, and I live right next to the lot. And I did not get any notifications whatsoever. So I did not know anything about the construction until my neighbor across the street informed me. And I said, well, I need to get here. to say that I strongly oppose it because I am going to be severely, and my property is going to be severely affected by all the construction, everything that everybody mentioned, that's going to follow my house. I'm concerned as well. foundation-wise, abestas-wise, the environment, parking, the congestion, the change, all of it. All what everybody said, I am even speaking louder on that because I will have my house, my property, would be directly affected by this. I hear that they're talking about a building two-story home in a residential area where most of the homes are single one floor. So now I'm going to have to be concerned about my privacy with having two homes facing, one facing me, the other one, and then the space. So I am strongly opposing this. Again, did not get a notice about any of this. So I don't know how they went about SENDING INFORMATION BECAUSE THERE WAS NOTHING IN MY MAILBOX, NOTHING IN MY E-MAIL, NOTHING SENT TO MY HOME WHATSOEVER. SO I AM OPPOSING FOR EVERYTHING THAT EVERYBODY SAYS, INCLUDING THE NOISE THAT I'M GOING TO BE SUBJECTED TO, YOU KNOW? SO... THANK YOU.

HI THERE. My name is Tyrone Hamilton. I live at 8014 Lakewood Avenue, which is not in the neighborhood, but I drive through that area every day. I'm not going to reiterate what the other people have said. I'm just going to ask a couple of, maybe I'll call them technical questions, to the board. I don't know what the purpose of the plan commission is here. Are they here to... APPROVE THAT PLAN, THEIR PLAN, THE CONTRACTOR'S PLAN, OR ARE THEY JUST HERE TO SAY IT MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS? MY THING IS THAT DOES IT MEET THE ZONING REQUIREMENTS OF THE CITY? THAT'S ONE. THE OTHER QUESTION WAS TO THE BOARD, DOES THE AUTHORITY TO REPLATT IT, YOU TALKED ABOUT THE COUNTER REPLATTING IT. Does the county have the authority to replant? I guess they do since you say it's already been done. My thing is I think that should be something that's taking place in the seat of Gary itself and not down in Crown Point. And what does the zoning department do? The zoning department approved their final layout in the final building of these two buildings. Thank you. Y'all have a great day.

Thank you. Have a great holiday.

Hi, my name is James Bullock. I own the property at 7130 East 1st Avenue. That lot would back up to my backyard. I agree with everything my neighbor said. I never even thought about the traffic part of it, but even if it was one home, it looks like that one, I do remember when that one home was there, it was positioned so I guess it wouldn't block the traffic coming off of Ash Place to Montgomery. So you could come off of Ash Place and see the traffic coming. So that needs to really be considered, even if it's one home put there, that one home should be positioned where it won't construct the traffic coming off of Ash Place. I'm definitely against two homes because they would have to be two small homes that wouldn't fit the integrity of the neighborhood. So that's about it. Thank you. Thank you.

All right, is there anyone else that would like to speak for or against 2026-04? Okay, we're going to leave the public comment portion of this open. if we elect to continue this, all right? So it's the staff recommendation to continue 2026-04. So before I do ask for a motion, I'm gonna ask one final time, are there any questions from the commissioners of the petitioner? And then Corey's got some comments.

I might have a couple questions for the petitioner. Mr. Townsend? Could you please come to the... Thank you. As you've heard, there's a lot of questions about what the property's going to be, the type of home, the construction, the setbacks, does it follow code, and all the things that are important to the neighborhood. It's only natural that people have fear when something in the neighborhood is going to change because we don't know what that change is going to mean to us personally. I've reviewed the letter that you proposed. It's a well thought out letter. It may be something that you might, if we continue this, which it sounds like we're going to do, maybe my thought might be that you read this letter of intent, maybe have some architectural design showing the type of home and how it's compliant with the current code and setbacks in building site, as well as timelines for construction and what a community might experience during the building of this, when it might start, when it might be projected to end, if it is in fact approved. I'm all about seeing growth in our communities and positive growth, and your letter seems to state that you're concerned about the community as well. So I would just make a recommendation that you bring some more information to the next meeting Well and making an informed decision based on known facts versus unknown and that's where the community seems to be right now and

I definitely appreciate that, and I definitely heard all you guys' comments. And if we decide that two houses doesn't make sense, I'm fine with one. Like I said, I'm from Gary, and I'm used to single-family homes that are pre-existing. I'm not, like, I love all you guys' comments. I'm fine with it. I love your suggestion. And so I will come home prepared next month and show you guys what we intend to build and more facts, and then we just go from there. And, you know, whatever works, makes sense for us in the community, I'm all for it.

I can talk to you after.

So you've got another question here.

So my comments were more over Senator Long, sort of what you just said, but also what the petitioner just agreed to, is based on what you heard today, what changes would you be willing to make or adjustments that you would be willing to make? And it sounds like you would be...

I kind of want to digest what was just said. I don't want to say right now we just did it five minutes ago, but I definitely think what Alan just referenced would be ideal as far as bringing in more information about it. And I think once we have that, I'm not saying I'm going to change any minds or hearts, but I could provide more information and then we can go from there. But I'm open to changes, but they just have to, you know, I understand they're coming from a perspective of being a resident in the neighborhood, which I am also, but obviously it's my business also. uh so i'm looking at it from both perspectives not in a humble way i should say but i am looking at it from you know the neighborhood but also uh we we we have plans and the cost of those and what we intend to do um if we have to transition to a single family home with just one residence then i'm open to that also so whatever avenue we led to that makes sense and it's safe for the community i'm open for it so i appreciate your your willingness to still build in the area to continue building here so i appreciate you on the part I appreciate it, man. Like I said, I hate to keep saying it, but I am from Gary, and I see other communities building and growing, and I've been doing, this is my eighth year doing the residences I've been doing with the rehabs, and I just see where Gary's going. I think it's time we have some new homes. So maybe it's not this cloud, or maybe it is. I don't know, but I'm looking forward to it, so I appreciate that.

Very good. Thank you. Thank you. We do have some explanation by staff. Corey, would you like to? Okay, well, I'm going to start, and then we can continue. This is important. It may address some of the questions that the residents have had.

I'll try to answer some questions that were posed. The staff, as we reviewed this project, this petition has actually been in front of us now for... Is it the fourth month? Yeah, fourth month, because when we originally received the petition, we needed more information. And we do review... the development standards of today's zoning code against every petition. So residential zoning districts have a minimum of 5,000 square feet. That's the minimum lot size. The minimum width is 59 feet. The minimum building coverage is 40%. The minimum front yard setback is 25 feet. And the minimum depth is 40 feet. The combined side yards are 12 feet total and a rear yard setback of 30 feet. Those setbacks can be adjusted if the building height is over 25 feet. If the building height is over 25 feet, then the setbacks grow. So if you have a six-foot setback and you have a 30-foot house, that means you now have to have like an eight-foot setback and you can have a 30-foot house. We did review these requirements against the petitioner's application. It was not, they had to make some changes. They did make those changes in the application process to align with this code. The purpose of this board is to make recommendations, to review the details, listen to our recommendations, and then finally, listen to the public and make recommendations to the city council. That is where the final decision is made. Two other points is in regards to Dr. Martin mentioning two applications, two PLATs. I'm a certified planner, and the PLAT process confuses me. I look at it consistently, so I have no doubt that it is confusing to everyone else. There is a plat that starts the process that establishes the legal boundaries of a property. Then there is a second plat application that comes after that is approved that shows where the building improvements are located on the site. So some of the questions were, what does the house look like? How tall is it? Don't see that at this phase right now. We're establishing the legal boundary of the application that Application process is laid out in state statute and the read about or the plan Commission is the governing body to establish property boundaries when we are subdividing or creating new boundaries The county in past practices has has subdivided land without going through this process, which is what has happened here. There is a state statute that allows the county to combine parcels and that they can do on their own, but they cannot subdivide parcels. So this is just when Dr. Martin was talking about the county and just some coordination that needs to happen with the county, that's the reason why is because the county managed a process that was used under a different state statute rather than this subdivision of lots. Which is why we need attorney Molina to work with the county to figure out next steps on that. And then the last question that was asked was related to stormwater. Every development has to go through a permade process. And the departments that look at Those permit process are the building department, where it looks at building codes, the stormwater, GSD, sanitary stormwater, the engineering department, which looks at the public right-of-ways, the sidewalks, the curves, the street, the driveway access points. All of that happens in permitting. So if I were to lay out the whole process, we start here, laying out the legal boundary Then we figure out where the house is placed on that property through the second PLAT process. And then they move into the actual building permits when they actually go through all of the other departments and meet those technical standard requirements. So I think that addresses the questions that I took on. Anything additional, Dr. Martin?

No, you covered a lot. of the basis, but just for clarification, our department is both planning and zoning. So we have to look at it from both perspectives, but we also have to take one hat off to look at it from the other perspective. It's hard, right, because right now we can only look at whether or not, as she stated, that it's a legal lot that can be separated based upon the design standards that exist, which we know are a little conflictual when it comes to development, historically, because it's a little outdated. However, we still have to align with the regulations that are in existence, because we can't move to a new code, because it just passed. And he's in this process before it. As far as him being reviewed in reference to what Ms. Sharp said as them coming to the permitting phase, This is how we recognize the situation. Because he started out four months ago with that process, going straight to the permitting. And we identified, well, it was a trigger to me. It was like, is this two houses? And then we had to have that conversation that you can't build two houses on one lot, et cetera. And that shifted him into this dynamic. So we are very attentive to the development that is coming in, as well as the character of this neighborhood. If he was not to... choose to align if he make it past this, he would then still be required to come to Board of Zoning Appeals and go through the same process again in order to shift from his developmental standards. And at that time, I looked deeply into the character, into the circulation, into the tone, and into the structures around it to make sure that the design and development that the proposed wants to do matches the neighborhood characteristics. That is what our land management plan forces us to do. So as we move forward, I just want everybody to understand we are diligently looking at those pieces. But for us, we have to take that hat off right now, and I have to be the planner.

OK. Thank you for that. All right.

Yes. To the young man, first of all, I want to thank you for your diligence in trying to bring housing to the area. I want to give you some advice. I'm Chairman of the Planning and Development for the City Council. And whatever happens in this phase is going to come before the Common Council. So what I would encourage you to do, especially to articulate to the people that surround you, you probably are going to want to invest in some type of PowerPoint presentation, some visual to show people what you're actually trying to do because from the comments of the people that came today, They don't really have a clue on what's going on. And so what you probably want to do, and it's just not to you, is for anybody that is looking at building housing anywhere in the city of Erie, the planning and zoning department has done an excellent job and the planning commission in bringing some structure. Because years ago, people just came to planning, development, and pretty much did what they wanted to do. But that day is pretty much over. Presenters or developers are going to have to go through this department of zoning and planning, showing the seriousness of how they want to invest in our community with visual opportunities to see. And that also opens that door of opportunity for the people that are going to be surrounding your potential area, that they have some kind of idea of what you're talking about erecting because right now nobody knows that so what I would suggest that you do is probably work on that work with the department on visuals because what's going to happen is that it's going to eventually come to the city council and I'm just preparing you because those same questions are going to be asked you're going to have an opportunity to provide your presentation and based on your presentation, and I just won't cut it based on how much opposition, hopefully with your presentation, you may be able to talk to the community. I don't know how that's going to work out, but I will tell you that residents have a lot of power when it comes to voicing their opinions on what they want to see happen in their community. So again, As our one commissioner told you, I'm thankful, we're thankful that you want to invest and come back to Gary, but we just want to make sure that you are aware that we want to take it to the next level to show visual, to work with the department, do everything that they're asking you to get done. So when you make that final presentation, it's really pretty much by the time you get to the city council, it's just rolling off in your tongue. And again, you're working with elected officials now that want to see visuals. Because when I'm sitting here listening to you and I'm looking at your presentation and then reading the letter, it sounds very good. But visual optics, I think, will be helpful, especially to the individuals who came out tonight in opposition, because I don't really think they know what you're trying to do. And so doing that will probably young man for coming in and wanting to invest in our community. I appreciate that. We all appreciate that. I totally agree. I appreciate that.

Can you come up to the podium?

It's a lack of information. Would I be able to use a TV for media? I'm definitely going to have something. I even heard that people thought it was going to be like a Train? A truck? A truck shop or something? Yeah, a towing service. Yeah, and so, yeah, there's all types of stuff out there. So that's on me, like I said. The last time I came to the meeting, I think because of the notification law, I was assuming it was a little bit smaller meeting and not me presenting. But I definitely, only not an excuse, and I definitely have more to present. going forward, not just for this meeting, but for the ones going forward. And so I appreciate you all to also meet you Adam for, you know, giving me that info.

Okay. Thank you. And thank you, Councilman. We appreciate your comments. All right. Having heard from the public, having heard from the commissioners, I am now looking for a motion to continue.

If we elect to do that. Make a motion that we do a continuum.

Wait, hold on.

Just to be clear, a motion for a continuum gives them the opportunity to make those adjustments and speak before us again, correct? Correct. That's correct. I just wanted to be clear.

Yes, and we'll leave the public portion open as well. Okay. But the continuance will also require a re-notice and confirm the notice requirements, okay? So now, Willie, if you want to say the motion.

Yeah. do a continuous of this here with a restart of the process. Okay. Second.

Thank you. Roll call, please.

Roll call . Yes.

Yes.

Yes. Yes.

Yes.

Yes. Yes. Yes. With a roll call of all yes, the motion has been received and passed. Okay.

So five to zero. Motion passes. Thank you, everyone. All right. We had our department update. So the next item here is adjournment. The next meeting, if anybody is interested in this, will be continued on June 18th, 2026, which is Thursday, and it will be in this room at 3.30 p.m. All right. All right. Motion to adjourn?

Second. Thank you, everyone.

city of gary this is marcus yes applications for summer youth job program are officially open this program gives gary high school students the opportunity to work inside real city departments gain hands-on knowledge and get paid while doing it you get the chance to work alongside real city departments in public spaces and helping with services that gary residents rely on every single day and while you're learning you're earning this program is more than just a summer paycheck this program is about building confidence getting kids to exposure that they may have never got to before, and opening doors for different career paths for them. So whether it's communication, administrative, public service, or just various jobs throughout the city, this program is designed to help students take their next step forward. If you are a current sophomore or junior at a Gary High School and live in Gary, and you want a real work experience this summer, talk to your school's guidance house before May 19th to apply. Remember, your future starts with one opportunity.

Hey, what's up everyone? This is Mayor Eddie Melton and I'm here at City Hall and I wanted to drop a very quick message to let all of our small businesses know in the city of Gary that we've just recently launched our Lifeline Grant. This grant is going to help small businesses that have been struggling for quite some time. So I want to thank the Gary Common Council. I also want to thank the Hard Rock Casino. for matching these dollars. We're going to be giving up to $25,000 to our small businesses that are located in the city of Gary. So I want to encourage everyone to take this opportunity. The application process has already started and we're going to close it on June 1st, 2026. So again, encourage you all to participate. Look at this opportunity to help revitalize all of our small businesses. So again, if you have any questions, reach out to our economic development department, but go to www.gary.gov forward slash lifeline dash grant. Peace.

Just a link. Family, friends, good vibes downtown.