Under the bright lights of the Merrillville Town Council chamber, a proposal for a new car wash sparked lively discussion among council members on April 8, 2025. The meeting centered around a special exception request from Family Express, seeking approval to add a car wash to an existing convenience store and fueling station located on a 2.61-acre site in a community commercial zoning district.

Peter Andreu, Vice President of Development for Family Express, presented the plan, emphasizing the car wash's potential to enhance customer convenience without compromising public health or safety. He assured the council that the facility would utilize environmentally safe detergents and meet all necessary building and utility requirements. The proposed car wash is designed to operate from 5 AM to 10 PM, featuring a self-service system that would not require additional staff beyond the existing store employees.

Council members expressed curiosity about the car wash's operations, including its pricing structure. Andreu explained that basic washes would start around $7, with options for monthly subscriptions ranging from $25 to $40, depending on the level of service. The council was particularly interested in the car wash's water efficiency, noting that the new system would use significantly less water than older models.

As the discussion progressed, council members reflected on the site's history, recalling that it previously housed a McDonald's and a Valero gas station. Concerns about traffic flow were addressed, with members noting that the area had previously managed drive-through traffic without significant issues.

After a brief deliberation, the council unanimously approved the special exception, welcoming the new car wash to Merrillville. With this decision, residents can look forward to a convenient new service that promises to keep their vehicles clean while contributing to the community's amenities. As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was one of optimism, with council members joking about the prospect of many clean cars on the streets of Merrillville.