Government Operations committee advances bill approving Gary charter changes to broaden signatories and raise reserve cap

The Government Operations committee on May 15 voted to report H 902, a bill that approves two charter amendments affecting the city of Gary: one change broadens which officials may sign for the sale or lease of city real or personal property, and the other raises the cap on funds a city may retain from 5% to 10% of its general fund.

Michael Luton, a representative who testified to the committee, said voters at the town meeting had approved the changes and explained the history behind the retained-funds provision. "This way, we just have more of a buffer," Luton said, arguing a larger reserve helped localities bridge costs during emergencies such as floods.

The chair told the committee the town-meeting vote totals reported to the committee: the signatory provision passed 522 to 293 (about 64% in favor), and the retained-funds provision passed 618 to 174 (about 78% in favor). The chair said the town meeting was held in mid-May.

A committee member praised the measure as a useful model for other municipalities and urged consideration of broader enabling language to simplify the process for towns that want the same flexibility. "I wish more towns were doing this," a committee member said, noting the provision's practical benefit during flooding.

Committee business then moved to a formal motion: a committee member offered to report the bill and the panel proceeded to a roll-call vote. Senators Clarkson, Morley, Wachowski, White and Gallimore were recorded as voting yes; the motion to report H 902 passed.

Committee members discussed next steps and scheduling as the bill moves toward the floor. One member noted timing constraints for next-week floor business and the need to place the bill on the notice calendar.

The committee will return after its brief recess to take up another agenda item.