Article is from the November issue of the WRite Stuff

It is autumn but feels like winter. The last week of October we experienced rain, sleet, high winds and snow. Leaves have turned colors and are dropping at a rapid pace. Still, the weather conditions did not diminish the spirit and support for the Veterans Day Ceremony sponsored by the Whiting Lions Club at the Forsythe Park War Memorial. Many thanks to the Whiting Lions Club and all the contributors, sponsors, volunteers, and in-kind support provided by local vendors and the Hammond Port Authority. A special thank-you goes to Andy Dybel for coordinating the event. He does such a good job it almost seems to run itself - a true indicator of Andy’s skills as a planner, coordinator and emcee.

Although the weather was wintry and wet, we had over 100 trick-or-treaters at our house on Halloween. I stopped by the “Trunk or Treat” events sponsored by St. Casimir and Hermits, which were very successful and continue to grow every year. Hermits also had a hayride and spook trail, which were big hits.

In other news, the 2020 Hammond City Budget was passed recently by a vote of 8 in favor, 1 opposed. Once again, I was the lone “no” vote. I oppose district gaming dollars leaving the districts. The Developmental Agreement between the city and the casino indicates each district’s portion of gaming revenue ($3,500,000) be used in the district for infrastructure. The budget that was passed keeps $1,750,000 in each of the 6 districts. $350,000 goes to the RDA (Regional Development Authority) per state mandate. The balance - $1,400,000 - is being used for other purposes as determined by the administration. This practice has been occurring for the better part of the past 10 years. It is a special hardship for the 1st District, which has the most miles of roads and underground sewer, sanitary and water lines, not to mention some of the oldest infrastructure in the city.

Due to this situation, I will recommend that the Hammond City Council hire an outside attorney to determine whether we are operating in accordance with the developmental agreement. I also believe an outside consultant hired by the council would be helpful in determining how the dollars leaving the districts are spent.

Other news: The circus is coming to the Hammond Civic Center on November 29 and 30 and December 1st. Call 853-6378 for details. The Hammond Holiday Parade is scheduled for Saturday December 7 at 10a.m. Call 853-6378 or visit gohammond.com. Remember to visit the Senior Center at Pulaski Park. It is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays 9a.m. to 3p.m. Enjoy a cup of coffee, cards, light exercise, puzzles, movies, occasional guest speakers, and more. Thank you to all the volunteers that provide a warm, welcoming touch to the Senior Center.

Have a bountiful Thanksgiving holiday.