Board of Works (6-3-26)

The City of Gary Board of Public Works and Safety held a meeting on June 3, 2026, where several procurement and contracting matters were addressed. The board approved multiple claims and payroll ratifications totaling over $2.3 million. They reviewed bids for qualified inspection services related to lead-based paint and environmental assessments, with further evaluation pending. A $400,000 forgivable loan agreement was approved with Habitat for Humanity Northwest Indiana for the construction of four single-family homes. The board also approved a contract with Midwestern Electric for street light repairs on Virginia Street, not to exceed $113,082.50, and rescinded a contract with Express Lawn Care and Snow Removal due to capacity issues, reallocating the work to Rough Hands Landscaping with a contract not to exceed $20,673.49. Additionally, a $120,000 professional legal services contract was approved with Tolbert & Tolbert LLC. A $268,500 contract was approved with the Center of Workforce Innovation to manage the city's summer youth employment program, providing work experience for Gary high school students. The board also approved a $25,444.49 purchase of temporary fencing from Sunoco Safety Marketplace for public works projects. Discussions included moving the city's vehicle auction to an online format and ensuring formal certification for youth internship participants. Overall, the meeting focused heavily on contract approvals, vendor selections, and budget allocations for city services and community development projects.