Gary council approves updates to city municipal code

The Gary Common Council has approved significant updates to the city's municipal code, consolidating chapters related to zoning and planning into a new Unified Development Ordinance. This new ordinance, which goes into effect on August 1, combines existing regulations concerning the Gary/Chicago International Airport, condominiums, and general city planning.

Corrie Sharp, the city's director of zoning, and Tom Cera, president of the Gary Plan Commission, presented the changes. Sharp stated the new code aims to enhance development standards by including previously unaddressed aspects like lighting, landscape, and parking. Cera noted the Plan Commission had conducted multiple public hearings and provided a favorable recommendation for the changes.

While discussing the updates, Councilwoman Lori Latham brought up public opposition to certain aspects, specifically concerns about lot splitting in neighborhoods. Sharp clarified that the new code would establish stricter development standards, including minimum lot width and house sizes, which would differ from previous regulations.

Council Vice President Darren Washington also highlighted the critical need for Gary to address data center development. Referencing similar discussions in nearby communities like Portage, Washington urged collaborative efforts among the common council, the Mayor's administration, and the planning commission to establish clear guidelines for any potential data center projects within the city.