NWI Regional Development Authority legislation set for House action

The measure, sponsored by state Rep. Ed Soliday, R-Valparaiso, refocuses the RDA on major region transportation and infrastructure projects, along with implementation of the Marquette Plan for redevelopment of the Lake Michigan shoreline.

It also mandates RDA board members have five years of significant financial management experience, requires RDA projects be presented for review and comment by the State Budget Committee and obligates local communities to pay their RDA dues on time.

Committee Democrats proposed eliminating the board member experience requirement, with state Rep. Greg Porter, D-Indianapolis, suggesting it is discriminatory. Their amendment was defeated 12-7.

All representatives will have the opportunity to propose further changes, likely on Thursday. A House vote to send the measure to the Senate is expected early next week.