Merrillville RDC approves four economic development areas after advertised public hearings; some residents raise TIF concerns

The Town of Merrillville Redevelopment Commission on Jan. 28 unanimously approved four resolutions establishing separate economic development allocation areas (tax increment financing, or TIF, areas) following advertised public hearings.

The commission approved:

- Resolution 25-01, creating the Mississippi Crow Economic Development Area and approving an economic development plan for that area (vote: 3-0). - Resolution 25-02, creating the Liberty Estates West Economic Development Area and approving an economic development plan (vote: 3-0). - Resolution 25-03, creating the Broadway North Economic Development Area and approving an economic development plan for the north end of town (vote: 3-0). - Resolution 25-04, creating the Silos East Economic Development Area and approving an economic development plan for the Silos East area (vote: 4-0).

Each resolution was presented with confirmation that required public notices had been published and that town staff and advisers had prepared the materials.…