NEWS & EVENTS

New feature during Notre Dame football game spotlights the City’s collaboration with the University’s School of Architecture.

GARY, Ind. – A nationwide audience caught a glimpse of the future of Gary, Indiana this weekend, as the city was the focal point of the latest installment in the University of Notre Dame’s “What Would You Fight For?” series.

The segment, which aired during the broadcast of the Notre Dame football game, is titled Fighting for Community Regeneration. It chronicles the dynamic partnership between the City of Gary and Notre Dame’s Housing and Community Regeneration Initiative (HCR). The commercial moves beyond the city’s industrial past to showcase a new era of development focused on revitalizing the downtown Broadway corridor and stabilizing local neighborhoods.

Unlike traditional master plans that are often developed in isolation, this collaboration functions as an immersive "think-and-do tank." Faculty and students from the School of Architecture spent significant time on the ground in Gary, working side-by-side with city officials and residents to design practical, actionable solutions for zoning, historic preservation, and blight reduction.

Mayor Eddie Melton, who appears in the segment, noted that the project represents a critical turning point for the community.

“This is our moment to truly transform and turn the story around,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “I tell folks all the time: This is going to be the greatest comeback story in American urban history.”

A key focus of the feature is the extensive community engagement process. Christopher Harris, the City’s Executive Director of Redevelopment and a fourth-generation resident, worked closely with the university team to ensure the proposals honored the lived experiences of Gary citizens. The commercial details how the design team held lengthy listening sessions, allowing residents to voice their frustrations and aspirations before any drawings were made.

“When our final recommendations were shared with the public, there was a resounding round of applause because there was a moment where we felt like we got it right,” said Harris. “The Notre Dame School of Architecture was able to listen in a way that the community felt their voices were heard.”

The broadcast highlights the resilience of the community and the Melton administration’s commitment to building a safe, thriving environment. By leveraging this academic partnership, the city aims to implement high standards for urban design that will encourage new investment and restore a sense of place for residents.

To watch the full segment and read more about the partnership, visit the Notre Dame What Would You Fight For? website.

About the City of Gary

The City of Gary, Indiana, is located 30 miles from downtown Chicago on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Home to a rich cultural history and the Indiana Dunes National Park, the city is currently undergoing a historic revitalization under the leadership of Mayor Eddie Melton, focusing on economic development, community safety, and infrastructure improvement.

Media Contact:

Steve Segura,  
Chief Communications Officer  
ofc: 219-293-0101
cell:219-670-8072
em:Stsegura@gary.gov Headline  

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GARY, IND. – The City of Gary announced that the Gary Sanitary District (GSD) will officially take over residential solid waste collection services, effective January 1, 2026. This shift from Republic Services is part of a broader effort to provide residents with more predictable collection costs, maintain stable household rates, and improve service quality and response times amid rising private service rates.

The transition is designed to be seamless for residents. All collection schedules will remain the same, and each household will receive a new black collection can. Residents should note the following key service details:

• Collection Cost: Collection will cost residents $24.15 a month.  

• No Service Interruption: The current collection schedule will remain the same.  

• Collection Cans: GSD will only collect garbage from GSD-issued cans. Each household will receive one can, with the option to add a second for $10 per month plus a one-time $25 delivery fee. To purchase a second can, call GSD customer service at 219-944-1211.

• Bulk Item Pickup: One Large item curbside pickup is offered during the first week of each month. Residents with a valid Gary ID may also drop off large items at 3600 W. 3rd Avenue once per month. (Please note electronics such as TVs, appliances, and similar items are not accepted and must be taken to the E-Waste Program at 900 Madison St., Gary, IN 46402.)

• Can Responsibility: Residents are responsible for their issued cans. GSD is not liable for stolen cans; replacement requires payment. The city encourages residents to label or mark their cans with their address to protect them.

• Old Cans: Existing cans will be collected during the last pickup of the year.

• New Can Delivery: New cans will arrive and will be set in the front of your property in December.

“This is a new chapter for the City of Gary—one where we take charge of our essential services to directly benefit our residents,” said Mayor Eddie Melton. “By bringing trash collection in-house, we are insulating families from unpredictable future rate hikes, ensuring rates remain stable. This is more than a service change; it’s a commitment to local control and local investment.”

To facilitate the transition, the City of Gary has made significant investments:

• New Equipment: A fleet of brand-new (10), modern collection trucks have been purchased.

• Local Jobs: Fourteen (14) new drivers have been hired and are currently undergoing specialized training to join the Gary Sanitary District team.
  

"The investment in new vehicles and the creation of new, local jobs underscores our dedication to improving infrastructure and employment within our city," added Ragen Hatcher, GSD Director. "We are ready to provide the professional, accountable, and reliable service that every Gary resident deserves."

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After last night’s significant rain event, the City of Gary, along with our partners, is working around the clock to address flooding, fallen trees, and downed power lines.

The Gary Sanitary District (GSD) has received 102 calls regarding basement backups and localized flooding. To respond efficiently, crews have adjusted to 12-hour shifts and are actively monitoring the sewer lines. Residents are reminded that the system can only manage a certain volume of water at a time, and water levels must recede before it can fully drain.

For fallen trees, call  the City of Gary at (219) 881-1311 or visit gary.gov/311For downed power lines, call NIPSCO at (800) 464-7726To report flooding, the Gary Sanitary District at (219) 944-1211 ext. 1600

We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our residents as city crews continue working tirelessly to ensure safety and restore normal conditions.

GARY, IN – Mayor Eddie Melton today issued a statement to the residents of Gary, Indiana, following reports of increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in surrounding communities. The Mayor urged all residents to remain calm, prioritize safety, and be informed of their rights.

"The presence of federal ICE agents in our region is unsettling and causes significant concern within our community," Mayor Melton stated. "I want to be unequivocally clear: my administration does not support the efforts or condone the actions of ICE raids that target our friends, family, and neighbors because of their race and ethnicity."

Mayor Melton acknowledged the limitations of the local police department: "While the Gary Police Department cannot legally interfere with the operations of a federal agency, our commitment remains to the safety and civil rights of every person who calls Gary home. Our police officers are here to protect all residents and enforce local laws, and they will continue to serve our community with dignity and respect for all people."

Mayor Melton invoked the city’s deep history as a bastion for civil rights. "Gary is a city built on the foundation of the fight for human dignity and civil rights.”

Guidelines for Resident Safety

Here is the following guidance for residents:

• Prioritize Safety: Remain calm and do not engage in confrontation. Your personal safety is the most important thing.

• Know Your Rights: Everyone in the United States, regardless of immigration status, has rights under the Constitution. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney.

• Do Not Open the Door: Unless agents show you, a warrant signed by a judge with your name and address, you are not required to open your door to federal agents.

• Seek Legal Aid: If you or someone you know is detained, please reach out immediately to local legal aid and advocacy organizations for assistance.

"We are an inclusive city, and we stand in solidarity with our diverse communities," Mayor Melton concluded. "Our strength lies in our unity and our unwavering commitment to justice. Please look out for one another and let us continue to work together to ensure Gary remains a safe and dignified home for all."

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Contact:

Steve Segura, Chief Communications Officer

City of Gary

stsegura@gary.gov

(219) 806-6489

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Students will receive free giveaways, haircuts, immunizations, and more.

Gary, IND. - Gary, IND. – The City of Gary and First Lady Crystal Melton invites Lake County residents to attend the second annual Back-to-School Fest on Saturday, August 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Gary RailCats Stadium.

“I am proud to host our second annual Back to School Fest,” said First Lady Crystal Melton. “This event reflects our continued commitment to supporting students and families throughout the City of Gary. By providing essential resources and services, we want to ensure that every child is equipped to start the school year with confidence and success.”

The Back-to-School Fest aims to equip students for the upcoming school year by offering a diverse range of free services and resources. Highlights include:

• FREE Haircuts: Students will receive free haircuts. Parental consent is required, and students’ hair must be clean for this service.

• FREE Barber/Stylist Vouchers: Students can receive vouchers for a free haircut or basic styling from participating local barbers and stylists.  

• FREE Immunizations: Parents or guardians will be able to bring their children’s current immunization records (if accessible) for on-site immunizations.

• FREE Giveaways: Students will receive backpacks, school supplies, sneakers gift cards and more. Early arrival is strongly encouraged.

• FREE Food: Food vouchers will be given out for food trucks outside of the stadium.  

• FREE Resources: Parents and guardians will be able to participate in voter registration, explore after school programs, and participate in special raffles.

• FREE Fun: Students will be able to participate in nail painting, face painting, and listen to music presented by DJ All Owt.

• FREE Transportation: The Gary Public Transportation Corporation (GPTC) will offer free rides to the stadium for students and their parents/guardians attending the Back-to-School Fest from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

The City of Gary’s Back-to-School Fest is made possible by the generous support of these sponsors:

• Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

• Comcast

• Gary Sanitary District  

• Purdue University Northwest

• Puma

• Gary Public Transportation Corporation

• Northwest Indiana Health Disparities Council

• DJ All Owt

• Unlimited University Tax Preparation School  

Early arrival is highly encouraged to ensure entry and participation. All resources, including school supplies, will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

Please note: Students must be present and accompanied by a parent or legal guardian to receive supplies. A valid Lake County ID is required.

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GARY, Ind. — September 30, 2025 — Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana will host a special presentation on Tuesday, September 30 at 11:00 a.m. CST, as Jamie Harris, Vice President of Security and Transportation, presents an oversized check to the Gary Police Department’s K9 Unit.

The event will also mark the official introduction of Phouka (Badge #K13), the newest K9 officer for the department. Phouka is certified in patrol, detection, and officer protection, with specialized training in explosives and firearm detection. Phouka will be joined by his partner, Corporal Anne Malinoff, a six-year veteran of the Gary Police Department, who also brings extensive experience as both a prior law enforcement officer and current military service member.

Gary Mayor Eddie Melton and Derrick Cannon, Sr., Chief of Police for the City of Gary, will accept the check on behalf of the K9 unit. Additional members of the Gary Police K9 team will also be in attendance to welcome their newest officer.

Event Schedule:

• 11:00 a.m. — Welcome remarks by Jamie Harris, Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
• 11:05 a.m. — Remarks by Mayor Eddie Melton, City of Gary
• 11:10 a.m. — Remarks by Chief Derrick Cannon, City of Gary Police Department
• 11:15 a.m. — Check presentation
• 11:20 a.m. — Photo opportunities and media interviews

Location:
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
In front of the Guitar Marquee
5400 West 29th Ave., Gary, IN

Background on Phouka:
Phouka and Corporal Malinoff graduated from the International Police Working Dog Association in July 2025. Their specialized skills in explosives and firearm detection will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Gary Police Department’s already distinguished K9 unit.

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About Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana’s $300 million casino and entertainment destination officially opened to the public on May 14, 2021. The 200,000-square-foot complex features over 1,700 slots and 80 table games, five food venues—including the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, Council Oak Steaks and Seafood, YOUYU Noodle Bar, Fresh Harvest, and Constant Grind Coffee Shop—plus a retail shop and the 1,894-seat Hard Rock Live performance venue.

For more information, please call 219-228-2383 or visit www.hardrockcasinonorthernindiana.com.

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GARY, Ind. — Following weeks of intense media speculation and legislative momentum in Indianapolis, the City of Gary is officially unveiling its comprehensive proposal to host the Chicago Bears. While reports have correctly assumed that Gary is aggressively pursuing the franchise, today’s announcement confirms that a detailed strategic plan is already in place—one that offers the McCaskey family, Kevin Warren and the Bears organization the strongest business case in the history of the franchise.

This is not a new conversation, but a reaffirmation of a partnership that began in 1994, now backed by a fundamentally different economic reality.

The Business Case: The introduction of Senate Bill 27 in the Indiana General Assembly changes the landscape of Indiana’s bid. This legislation, which establishes the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority, provides a financial framework that Illinois simply cannot match. The proposed structure creates a pathway for the team to control its own destiny without the prohibitive tax burdens and stalled infrastructure talks currently seen in Illinois.

“Back in 1994, the Chicago Bears saw potential in Gary, and we have never forgotten that vote of confidence,” stated Mayor Eddie Melton. “Thirty years later, Gary is even better positioned. Gary’s proposal gives the Bears the tax certainty and stability that the organization says is key to success”.

The Mayor added: “A move to Gary isn’t just about a building; it’s about building a dynasty. There’s a reason we call this region Chicagoland. Gary is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago—closer than Arlington Heights—minutes from the Gary Chicago International Airport and uniquely positioned with waterfront views straight to Chicago’s skyline. No other location offers this combination of proximity, identity alignment, and iconic visual connection to Chicago”. Unlike Arlington Heights, we have support of local, county and state leaders.”

A "Natural Habitat" for the Bears To support this vision, Gary has identified three (3) "Plug-and-Play" sites that are ready for immediate development by the new Stadium Authority:

• Gary West End Entertainment District: Adjacent to Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana, the state’s highest-grossing gaming location, offering immediate synergy with a proven entertainment hub.
• Buffington Harbor: A premier waterfront opportunity with established infrastructure and quick access to multiple modes of transportation.
• Miller Beach: A unique footprint adjacent to miles of sandy beaches and the Indiana Dunes National Park (3 million annual visitors), offering a stadium experience unlike any other in the NFL.

Ready for the Speed of Business “The media has asked if Gary is serious. Our answer is in the legislation and on the map,” added Councilwoman Linda Barnes-Caldwell, Gary Common Council President. “We are not just offering land; we are offering a partner who moves at the speed of business. With the backing of the Statehouse and the specific tools provided by Senate Bill 27, we are ready to break ground while others are still breaking promises.” As Kevin Warren stated, “we cannot wait any longer. We need clarity, urgency, and a committed path forward.” Gary delivers the path.

Gary is just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago—closer than Arlington Heights—and offers the logistical backbone of the South Shore Commuter Rail Line, I-90/I-80, Gary Public Transit (GPTC), and the Gary Chicago International Airport. We are Chicagoland’s backyard, and we are ready to offer the Bears a home for the next 100 years.

Learn more about Gary’s Proposal to Bring the Bears to Indiana:

‍https://bearstadiumdistrict.com/

Download: City of Gary Chicago Bears Stadium Proposal

About the City of Gary

The City of Gary, Indiana, is dedicated to revitalizing its neighborhoods and building a foundation for economic growth. Led by Mayor Eddie D. Melton, the city is focused on leveraging regional partnerships to drive sustainable, equitable growth. For more information, please visit www.gary.gov.

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Media Contact:

Steve Segura Chief Communications Officer

Ofc: 219-293-0101 | Cell: 219-670-8072

Em: Stsegura@gary.gov

www.gary.gov

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Gary, IND. The City of Gary and Mayor Eddie Melton invite members of the media to a special community celebration on October 13, 2025, as the City of Gary officially renames Grant Street to Richard Gordon Hatcher Blvd in honor of late Mayor Richard Gordon Hatcher, a trailblazing leader and the first African American mayor of Gary.

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Master of Ceremony Markael Watkins

Rev. John Jackson

Eddie Melton, Mayor, City of Gary

Ragen Hatcher, Rachelle, Ruthellyn  and Renee Hatcher

Mark Spencer

Carole McCrady

Reverend John Jackson

Indiana State Rep. Charlie Brown

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Event Details:

When: October 13, 2025

Time:  11: 00 AM

Location: 25^th and Grant, next to St. Timothy Church

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GARY, IN – The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Gary and northwest Indiana from noon today through 7 PM Monday, with heat index values exceeding 100°F.

These conditions are especially dangerous for children, elderly residents, and those without proper cooling.

The City of Gary has opened its cooling center to the public. The center is free and offers air conditioning, restrooms, and a safe place to cool down.

Location: Monroe Smith Center, 4101 Washington Street
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Contact: Ms. Gloria Spears at (219) 501-8766

The center will continue to open during the summer whenever the temperature or heat index rises above 89°F.

How to Stay Safe:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day
• Stay indoors during peak heat hours
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Limit outdoor activities to early morning or evening
• Check on elderly neighbors, relatives, and pets

Signs of Heat Illness:

Watch for excessive sweating, weakness, nausea, headaches, dizziness, or confusion. If symptoms occur, move to a cool place immediately. ‍

If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.

For more weather updates, visit https://www.weather.gov/lot/

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Gary, IN – On Friday, May 2, 2025, Mayor Eddie Melton proudly presented the key to the City of Gary to Dr. Bernice A. King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, and Chief Executive Officer of The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center).

From 1959-1966, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. visited the City of Gary three times. He spoke at St. John Baptist Church with his former classmate Julius James, at Gary’s Memorial Auditorium, and at the City-Wide Freedom Rally in 1962.  In 1959, during his first trip, he received the key to the city from Mayor Chacharis. Mayor Melton highlighted the importance of the King family’s ties to Gary in his speech.

“I am deeply honored to welcome Dr. Bernice King and present her with the Key to the City of Gary,” said Mayor Melton. “Through her leadership and unwavering commitment to nonviolent social change, Dr. King continues to carry forward her father’s powerful legacy. Today, we proudly celebrate the enduring bond between our city and the King family.”

Dr. Bernice King spoke about the Kingian philosophy of nonviolence and its model for social action. She also spoke about the legacy left by her father, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

"Everywhere I go, I am honored as well as humbled to carry that legacy. I get asked that question quite often... what is your legacy? I'm thinking, do you not realize that I inherited a legacy? It's not something that I can lay aside and forget about. It has to be championed; and it has to be carried."

She spoke about her work as CEO of The King Center, which has been instrumental in promoting nonviolence, social equity, and civic responsibility on a global scale, as well as the importance of doing both hard work of organizing and the “heart work.”

"We want to change the world, but we don't want to immerse ourselves in what is required to change the world," said Dr. Bernice King. "Nonviolence is first transformative for the self... so if you believe that it doesn't work, it means that you didn't allow it to work on you first. Because it was never designed to first change the other person, it was designed to change you."

Also in attendance at City Hall was Indiana State Senator Mark Spencer, who joined the ceremony and presented Dr. King with a formal resolution from his Senate office. The resolution honored Dr. King for her lifelong dedication to civil rights, her passionate advocacy for justice and civility, and her ongoing efforts to uphold and advance the legacy of the King family.

“Dr. Bernice King embodies the enduring spirit of her parents’ legacy,” said Senator Spencer. “Her tireless work to advance justice, equity, and nonviolence has made her a legend in the civil rights community. It is my privilege today to stand next to her in fellowship and present a resolution honoring her impact on justice, peace, and humanity.”

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Media Contact:

Erika Blackwell, Chief Communications Officer, City of Gary
eblackwell@gary.gov  | (219) 806-6489

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Credit: Photograph courtesy of the Calumet Regional Archives, Indiana University Northwest.