By DANIEL PRZYBYLA, LaPorte Herald-Argus Staff Writer
LAPORTE — Officials in LaPorte County aren’t sure they want to “pay to play” to become part of a new economic development partnership in northwest Indiana.
The Northwest Indiana Regional Development Authority was established Sept. 1. The alliance, formed through state legislation, consists right now of Lake and Porter counties, as well as the cities of East Chicago, Gary and Hammond. It was formed to enhance economic growth in that area.
The partnership’s focus is on expanding the Gary Airport, expanding the South Shore Railroad, establishing a bus service in Lake County, and reclaiming more of the Lake Michigan shoreline for public access. No money has been spent so far and no projects have been approved.
The idea behind the partnership is helping to leverage state and federal dollars to improve northwest Indiana’s economy. Getting projects done will require local matches, which is why each year the communities are required to contribute $3.5 million to the organization.
LaPorte, Michigan City and LaPorte County officials are considering whether they want to join the group.
LaPorte County Commission President Marlow Harmon questioned whether the benefits at this point outweigh the costs. He doesn’t like the fact that all of LaPorte County is expected to give $3.5 million to the group, but would not have a seat on the board.
“We don’t want to contribute $3.5 million and be just donors and not partners. If there is no key benefit for LaPorte County being in it, we would be hesitant to join,” Harmon said.
However, regional development authority Executive Director Tim Sanders said LaPorte County would likely have a seat on the board if state lawmakers pass new legislation.
LaPorte Mayor Leigh Morris said prudent judgment should be exercised when deciding if LaPorte County should join.
“It offers potential for future economic development in the area. (But) is it a certainty LaPorte will be in it? I don’t think so,” Morris said.
John Clark, chairman of the regional development authority, said LaPorte County didn’t seem interested in joining at first. “Lake and Porter counties had done much of the heavy lifting to where it is today,” he said. “LaPorte County wasn’t as engaged or supportive as the other two.”
Clark supports LaPorte County becoming a member and indicated that such a move would help it in the long run.
“I think the fundamental question is do you act better alone or in a group where money is pooled together and you coordinate colossal projects?” he said.